Living in Tahiti: Testimonials and advice
Testimonials
Tahiti, this magnificent paradise island in French Polynesia is attracting more and more people who dream of living on the shores of the Pacific Ocean with turquoise and transparent waters. To help you get an idea of what it’s really like to live in Tahiti, we’ve collected testimonials from people who currently live there or have lived there.
- Marie, French expat: “I have been living in Tahiti for 3 years now and I love life here. The pace is slower, the people are very welcoming and warm, there are lots of outdoor activities and what I like the most, it’s the proximity of nature and the ocean.”
- Matthew, teacher: “I have been teaching in a public school in Tahiti for 2 years and I was pleasantly surprised by the education system. The students are very interested and involved and there is great cultural diversity in the class.”
- Sara, painter: “I came to Tahiti 6 months ago for an artistic residency and I fell in love with the island. I love the natural beauty, the vibrant colors, the spectacular sunsets, all of this inspires me enormously.”
Advice
If you’re considering living in Tahiti, here are some helpful tips to help you settle into this remote South Pacific island.
- Learn French: Tahiti is part of French Polynesia, so French is the official language. Although many people speak English, it is important to know how to speak French to communicate effectively with locals and to find work.
- Search for urban areas: Tahiti is the most developed and urbanized island of French Polynesia. If you want to live in an urban area, then the city of Papeete is the best choice. Here you will find shops, restaurants, health facilities and a public transport network.
- Choose a school for your children: If you have children, it is important to choose a good school. French Polynesia has a mixed education system, with public and private schools. In Tahiti, there are several French schools that offer education in French and English.
- Adapt to the local culture: Polynesian culture is rich and unique. Learn local customs, respect traditions and participate in festivals and events to better understand life in Tahiti.
- Stock up: Basics such as food, clothing, and household products are generally more expensive in Tahiti due to its isolated geographic location. It is therefore advisable to stock up before your arrival.
- Make sure you have a stable source of income: Although the cost of living in Tahiti can be high, most jobs pay wages comparable to those in the rest of developed countries. However, it can be difficult to find a job in Tahiti, especially if you don’t speak French.
The way of life in Tahiti
Tahiti offers a unique way of life. Living on this island means being surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, beautiful waterfalls, and tropical and exotic landscapes that will make you dream.
You can spend your days enjoying outdoor activities, such as surfing, diving and hiking, or simply relaxing on the sandy beaches. Gastronomy is also a strong point of Tahiti, influenced by French and Polynesian cuisine. It is easy to find fresh local produce such as seafood, tropical fruits and fish.
The cost of living in Tahiti is quite high, but there are options for all budgets. If you’re looking to save money, you can live in a house outside of urban areas or even cook at home rather than eat out.
School system in Tahiti
The school system in French Polynesia is highly developed and offers a number of options for children of different ages. Education is compulsory for children between the ages of 6 and 16. The education system is mixed and includes public schools and private schools. Public schools are funded by the government and teach mainly in French. Private schools are often religious schools and teach mainly in English.
There are several French schools in Tahiti that offer instruction in both French and English. Most schools register in September for the January intake. The cost of schools is generally cheaper than in France, but it varies depending on the quality of the school and its location.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to get around in Tahiti?
Tahiti has a public transport network that is relatively reliable and inexpensive. There are also taxis, car rental companies and airport shuttles, as well as water taxis to move between the islands.
Is the cost of living high in Tahiti?
Yes, the cost of living in Tahiti can be high due to its isolated location. However, there are options for all budgets, so it is possible to live in Tahiti without spending too much money.
Are there any security issues in Tahiti?
Tahiti is considered a relatively safe destination, but like any large city, there are risks of petty infractions like pickpocketing. It is important to take the necessary precautionary measures to avoid security problems.
Conclusion
Living in Tahiti is a unique and amazing experience that offers an enchanting tropical lifestyle in a stunning location. With useful advice, it is possible to adapt well to this Polynesian culture so rich, to take full advantage of it.
The testimonies of people who have already lived or who currently live there, show that life in Tahiti is magnificent and very enviable. Giving yourself the chance to live there would be a smart lifestyle choice for people looking for a long-term adventure in an exotic location.