There used to be a direct route from NYC to PPT a few years ago but costs were too high for Air Tahiti Nui to sustain that route when not enough people would use it. Now it would be so nice to have it back, so here are the best options.
Since two years ago the Airline FRENCH BEE beat the odds and brought serious competition to airfares going to Tahiti from SFO (San Francisco). This is now my route when I decide to go refresh in Tahiti. I opt to fly from JFK to SFO via French Bee or American Airlines. So if you're going to Tahiti from New York, it's usually cheaper to book separate tickets from JFK or nearby airports (like EWR) to SFO or to LAX.
- IF you opt for the via SFO route, then book your next flight on French Bee or American Airlines. French Bee is usually cheaper.
- IF you go the via-LAX-route, then you have more options but the best flight for your money is definitely Air Tahiti Nui and the service reflects the warmth of the people of the islands. They do an amazing job at making you feel like you're already there.
Here's a sneak peak at the vibes on Air Tahiti Nui - its safety video says it all!
Either route, make sure you have your passport, that your booked your ticket under the exact same name that is on your passport, pack some sunscreen, some mosquito repellent, and be prepare to exchange your dollars at the airport - it is best to exchange your dollars there. Or I know a handful of people that will be happy to do a private exchange at the even rate of $1 for XFP100 - that's a pretty good exchange deal too!
For more info on how to be prepared and what to explore in Tahiti the Board of Tourism way, click here.
If you would like to have a less touristy experience and be more with the locals, then just email me here or WhatsApp me.
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Now here is some music for you - Live performance of Tahitian in New York (in my honor), adaptation of Englishman in New York (Sting), by Teiva LC (Tahitian Celebrity, Singer Songwriter, Entrepreneur) at the Intercontinental Tahiti Resort.
Follow Teiva LC on Facebook and IG for his performances in Tahiti. You can catch him perform at different venues on weekends and it's worth the chase. You're in for a delightful treat. For more on Teiva LC, go to my entry which features my interview with him here.