Considering a French Polynesia vacation? As you start your research, you’re likely to hear a few rumors about this paradisiacal destination – too far, too expensive and so forth. Here we dispel five common myths about French Polynesia so you can get on with your vacation planning:

It’s Too Far Away 

Think of it this way. You can spend eight hours in front of your computer at home, or you can fly for eight hours from Los Angeles and end up in paradise! That’s it. Just one 9-to-5 workday and you’ll be blissfully far removed from emails, Zoom calls and Google calendars.

French Polynesia is halfway between California and Australia. Sure, that’s far. But what’s too far when we’re talking about white-sand beaches, swaying palms, turquoise waters full of vividly hued fish, massages on the beach … the end destination is more than worth it, we promise. 

Mixing Up Tahiti and Bora Bora 

We know how it is … it all looks like paradise, so what’s in a name? However, it’s important in your vacation planning and expectations to know the difference. French Polynesia comprises 118 islands, of which Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea are the most popular and well known. When coming from the United States, you’ll first fly to Faa’a International Airport (PPT) in Tahiti, where you’ll clear customs. If you’re headed on to Bora Bora, it’s a 45-minute flight from Tahiti. In short, Tahiti has more hustle and bustle and its beaches aren’t quite as well known as those on Bora Bora. Bora Bora is a bit more high-end and has great shopping, nightlife, outdoor activities on land and at sea. 

You Can Ferry Between the French Polynesian Islands 

This is actually only possible between a few islands, including Tahiti and Moorea and Rangiroa and Taha’a. If you are planning more extensive island hopping, plan on short plane hops through Air Tahiti. If you have the time and flexibility, it’s fun to see what the other islands have to offer, but none require more than a day or two to experience. 

Every Room Is an Overwater Villa

While you should certainly look into staying in an iconic, thatched-roof overwater bungalow if that’s what your heart is set on, there are many other accommodations styles throughout French Polynesia. Traditional hotels, garden bungalows and private homes for rent are just some of the options available to you. If an overwater bungalow for 10 days isn’t in your vacation budget, consider splitting your time between a couple of different accommodations. You’ll experience the best of both worlds – the opportunity to have your breakfast delivered by canoe and the relaxing sounds of the jungle as you fall asleep at night. 

French Polynesia Is Super Expensive 

Fret not … while paradise brims with uber-luxe resorts and hideaways, there are plenty of moderate options available as well. And, like we mentioned above, it’s always an option to mix and match where and in what comfort you stay. Stay at a boutique resort for a week, where you can relax in a private garden bungalow with plunge pool, then move on to an overwater bungalow for another few days. Your Lisell Travel advisor can make an itinerary that works for you and your list of wants and needs. Pick and choose what your priorities are, whether it’s having a peaceful, quiet, adults-only beach to hang out on for hours each day, or whether your accommodations are simply a place to rest your weary head after a day of snorkeling and island adventures. Prioritize and there’s no reason why French Polynesia should break the bank.

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