Tahiti

Department of Tourism Website:  www.tahiti-tourisme.com
Image:  Photos courtesy of Tahiti Tourism:  http//www.Tahiti-Tourisme.com

The 118 tropical Islands of Tahiti cover over two million square miles of the South Pacific Ocean
and are spread over five great archipelagos. The three archipelagos most  popular with visitors are Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora, Huahine, Raiatea and Taha'a; The Tuamotu Atolls or "Tahiti's Strand of Pearls", include the atolls of Rangiroa, Manihi, Tikehau, and Fakarava; and the Marquesas, or "The Mysterious Islands." 

Many dream of getting legally married in Tahiti, but it is important to know that there is a 30 day residency requirement, making it a less practical option.  However, it IS possible to have a Tahitian marriage ceremony that is not legally binding, and the color and pageantry is extraordinary (see marriage requirements). 

Quick Facts

• Passport:  Yes
• Currency: French Pacific Franc
• Language:  English, Tahitian
• Time Zone:  GMT-10
• Airport:  The Tahiti Faa'a Airport on the island of Tahiti is the one and only international airport servicing this area.
• Weather:   The average yearly air and water temperature is 80°F.  Summer is from November through April, when the climate is slightly warmer and more humid. Winter is from May through October, when the climate is slightly cooler and dryer.

Marriage Requirements

Tahiti has a 30 day residency requirement, so this is one place that a having a legally binding marriage ceremony is challenging.  Many couples elect to have a ceremony at home and then go to Tahiti for a blessing ceremony.   
In a traditional Tahitian ceremony, the couple are dressed in bright pareu, flowers, and shells. The groom is transported to a beachside setting in a canoe and the bride is carried on a rattan throne. A Tahitian priest performs the ceremony with dancers and musicians in the background.  Then the priest gives the couple new Tahitian names.