Newsgroups: wstd.travel.advisories
From:
[email protected] (Charlie Smith)
Subject: *NEW* TRAVEL INFORMATION -- Tahiti
Organization: The World @ Software Tool & Die
Distribution: wstd
Date: Tue, 26 Jan 1993 18:28:15 GMT
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - French Polynesia (Tahiti)
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French Polynesia (Tahiti) - Consular Information Sheet
January 25, 1992
Embassy and Consulate Locations: There is no U.S. embassy or
consulate on Tahiti nor on any of the other French Polynesian
islands. U.S. citizens seeking assistance can contact the U.S.
Embassy in Suva, Fiji, which is located at 31 Loftus Street or P.O.
Box 218, Suva, Fiji; telephone (679) 314-466.
Country Description: French Polynesia is a French overseas
territory located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It is made up
of several groups of tropical islands, the largest and most
populated of which is Tahiti. French Polynesia's only international
airport is located on Tahiti. Small commuter airplanes are the most
widely-used type of transportation in the far-flung territory.
French Polynesia has a moderately-developed economy which is
dependent on heavily-taxed imported goods, tourism and the financial
assistance of mainland France. Tourist facilities are available on
the major islands.
Entry Requirements: Passports but no visas are required for U.S.
citizen tourists and business travelers arriving with return tickets
and staying 30 days or less. U.S. citizens contemplating longer
stays or planning to work or study in French Polynesia require both
passports and visas. For more information about entry requirements,
travelers can contact the French Embassy at 4101 Reservoir Road
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007, telephone (202) 944-6000.
Medical facilities: Medical treatment is generally good on the
major islands but is limited in areas that are more remote or less
populated. Emergency patients and those with serious illnesses are
often referred for treatment to facilities on Tahiti. In Papeete,
the capital of Tahiti, there are two major hospitals as well as
several private clinics that provide 24-hour medical service.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services provided to patients who are not local residents. U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid overseas and health care, like
most goods and services available in French Polynesia, is costly.
Supplemental medical insurance which specifically covers overseas
treatment has proved useful. Further information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's International
Travelers hotline, telephone (404) 332-4559.
Information on Crime: Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse
snatching, occurs. Useful information on safeguarding valuables and
protecting personal security is available in the Department of State
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad." It can be obtained from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties: Penalties for possession, use and sale of illegal
drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and
fines.
Registration: U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Suva, Fiji, can obtain updated information on travel and security in
Tahiti and the other islands of French Polynesia.
No. 93-033
