From 76702.1202@CompuServe.COM Sun Jan 31 23:57:22 1993 Newsgroups: wstd.travel.advisories From: 76702.1202@CompuServe.COM (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) ============================================================ 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