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Few scams

Polynesia

Tourist scams in French Polynesia

French Polynesia has a low risk of tourist crime overall, and Tahiti has one of the lowest crime rates in France and its territories. Pickpocketing and purse snatching still occur. Keep your belongings secure, and check exchange rates and fees before changing money.
  1. 1 TheftOccasionalPickpocketingSomeone steals money or valuables from your pocket or bag without you noticing.Tahiti 2Read
  2. 2 TheftOccasionalPurse snatchingSomeone grabs your purse or bag and takes it.Tahiti 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • TahitiPickpocketing and purse snatching occur despite the island's low crime rate. No specific streets or venues are identified.

Habits that keep you safe

Your belongings

  • Keep bags closed and valuables out of sight.
  • Keep your phone and wallet in secure pockets.
  • Separate your spare cash and cards from your everyday wallet.
  • Keep a secure copy of your passport details.

Money

  • Pay in CFP francs when possible so you can compare prices clearly.
  • Ask for the exchange rate, commission and final amount before changing money.
  • Compare the total amount you receive. A lower commission can come with a worse exchange rate.
  • If a taxi driver or souvenir seller accepts US dollars, agree on the conversion before paying.
  • Plan your cash needs before visiting islands without banking facilities.

Cards and ATMs

  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere other than your wallet.
  • Enable payment alerts so you can spot unexpected charges.
  • Check the amount before approving a card payment.
  • Shield your PIN when entering it.

What travellers say about French Polynesia

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Are tourist scams common in French Polynesia?

The overall risk is low. Tahiti has a low crime rate, but pickpocketing and purse snatching occur.

Where should I be most careful with my belongings?

The theft warning applies to Tahiti. No specific streets, markets or transport stops are identified.

How can I reduce the risk of pickpocketing?

Close your bag, keep it in front of you, and keep your phone and wallet out of back pockets. Carry only what you need.

What should I do if someone grabs my bag?

Do not fight over it or chase the thief. Get somewhere safe, freeze stolen cards and report the theft.

Are currency exchange fees a scam?

A commission is a normal exchange cost. Compare both the fee and the exchange rate, and ask how many francs you will receive before handing over money.

Can I pay taxi drivers or souvenir sellers in US dollars?

Many accept US dollars. Check the conversion and agree on the final price before paying.

Will I find banking facilities on every island?

No. Some atolls and islands in the Austral and Gambier groups have no banking facilities. Plan your cash needs before travelling there.

Who should I report a theft to?

Report it to the Gendarmerie. Give the time, place and details, and ask for a written report or reference number.

What should I do if my card or passport is stolen?

Freeze a stolen card and contact its issuer immediately. For a stolen passport, contact your embassy or consulate. Report the theft and keep the report for your insurer.

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