French Polynesia Currency Basics and Beyond

French Polynesia is a popular tourist destination, and understanding the local currency is essential for a smooth trip. The official currency of French Polynesia is the Pacific Franc (XPF).

You can exchange your money for Pacific Francs at most banks and currency exchange offices in French Polynesia. The exchange rate is usually favorable, but it's always a good idea to check the current rate before exchanging your money.

Many businesses in French Polynesia, including restaurants and shops, accept credit cards, but it's still a good idea to have some local cash on hand. This will come in handy when visiting local markets or trying street food.

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French Polynesia's currency is the Pacific Franc, but it's pegged to the Euro, which means its value is tied to the Euro's value.

The Pacific Franc is subdivided into 100 centimes, but centimes are no longer used in circulation.

You can exchange your money for Pacific Francs at banks, currency exchange offices, or some hotels in French Polynesia.

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Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas, but cash is still the preferred method of payment in many local businesses.

The Pacific Franc is not a widely traded currency, so you may need to exchange your money before arriving in French Polynesia or use an ATM to withdraw local currency.

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The exchange rate in French Polynesia is fixed, with 100XPF (Pacific Franc) equivalent to 0.838 Euros. This rate is widely accepted and used by major credit cards.

You can exchange your money at the airport, where two foreign exchange offices are open for international arrivals and departures. The exchange office at Tahiti-Faa'a International Airport is a convenient option.

The Pacific Franc has a fixed exchange rate with the Euro, with 1000 CFP equaling 8.38 Euros. This stability makes it a reliable currency to use in French Polynesia.

To give you a better idea of the exchange rates, here's a breakdown of the Pacific Franc's value against other major currencies:

Keep in mind that exchange rates can fluctuate, so it's always a good idea to check the current rate before making a transaction.

In major cities like Pape'ete, there are several banks that will exchange money for you on weekdays. However, the rates may not be as good as those offered at the airport.

It's worth noting that some islands and atolls in French Polynesia may not have money exchange facilities, so it's best to get cash before venturing into remote areas.

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In Tahiti, locals use the CFP Franc, which has the international code XPF and the symbol ₣.

The CFP Franc has 7 coin denominations: 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100.

Some businesses, particularly those near the cruise ship terminal, will accept Australian Dollars in Tahiti.

However, it's better to have CFP francs on hand to avoid paying a less favorable rate due to conversion costs.

Places like Pape'ete and Punaauia have facilities for money exchanges, but it's best to get cash before venturing into remote territory.

You can change currency when you arrive, but be prepared for limited options in more remote areas.

The cost and availability of the French Polynesian currency, the Pacific Franc, can be a bit tricky to navigate.

The Pacific Franc is pegged to the Euro, which means the exchange rate is fixed at 119.3315 Pacific Francs per Euro.

You can exchange your money for Pacific Francs at banks, currency exchange offices, or some hotels in French Polynesia, but be aware that rates may not be favorable.

In some tourist areas, you may also be able to use credit cards or ATMs to withdraw Pacific Francs, but be prepared for potential fees and high exchange rates.

ATMs are readily available in Tahitian banks, but some are only accessible during the bank's opening hours.

You can also find ATMs at the Fa'a international airport, thanks to BNC and BCI ATMs.

Some ATMs might not offer the best value, even when they're open 24/7.

To minimize fees, try to withdraw just the right amount of money you'll need for your trip.

Don't forget to let your bank know you're travelling, or they might freeze your card if they detect a foreign transaction.

The cost of living in The Islands of Tahiti is relatively high, especially when it comes to food. A baguette costs around 60 F.CFP.

Fresh produce is also quite pricey, with a bunch of 4 pineapples costing 700 F.CFP. Bananas by the pound will set you back around 220 F.CFP.

If you're looking to dine out, be prepared to pay at least 1,000 F.CFP for a dish of the day at a snackbar, and 2,000 F.CFP at a restaurant. Local beer in shops costs around 200 F.CFP.

Here's a rough breakdown of some everyday expenses in The Islands of Tahiti:

Fresh seafood is a big part of the local diet, but it comes with a hefty price tag - fresh white tuna by the pound costs at least 1,500 F.CFP, while fresh red tuna costs at least 2,000 F.CFP.

The Pacific Franc has a rich history dating back to its creation on December 25, 1945 by General de Gaulle.

Before the Pacific Franc, the dollar was widely used in the Pacific during the Second World War.

The Pacific Franc was created to give the territories their own currency, as they had a real need for one.

In the 19th century, the creation of protectorates in the Pacific led to economic upheavals, including the start of employment, import/export trade, and the creation of companies.

The franc became the official currency, but banknotes were insufficient, forcing people to use foreign currencies like the dollar, Chilean piastre, and Peruvian piastre.

The use of barter and private currencies was common during the Second World War, as monetary supplies were suspended.

In 1942, American troops landed in Bora Bora, and the US dollar was widely used until they left in 1944.

The Pacific Franc has a set exchange rate with the Euro, where 1000 CFP equals 8.38 Euros.