Tipping in French Polynesia: The French Polynesia Tipping Guide

Tipping in French Polynesia isn’t customary, but there are still times to tip. This French Polynesia tipping guide will help you know when/how much to tip for great service.

Tipping in French Polynesia

Tipping in French Polynesia isn’t a standard practice as it isn’t typically part of the culture. Hotels and restaurants may include a service charge in the final bill, especially in Tahiti and its islands, so tipping isn’t required or expected. This, however, doesn’t mean tipping is taboo, as it’s still a good way to show appreciation for a job well done. The amount to tip is up to you, but it should be reflective of the service you’ve received.

Though tipping might not be a standard practice, it is considerate to leave a little extra for great service. This French Polynesia tipping guide will help you navigate when/where to tip.

French Polynesia Tipping Guide

Restaurant Server: Since many restaurants include a service charge in the final bill, tipping isn’t obligatory and is not expected by servers. Exceptional service, however, may deserve more than is included and is up to you how much to leave.

Bartender: There’s no obligation to tip at a bar, but rounding up is a nice way to show appreciation for great service.

Tour Guides: It isn’t obligatory to tip, but you may want to leave a little extra for an informative and fun tour.

Taxis: A tip isn’t required, but a little extra for help with luggage is always appreciated.

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Doorman: Hotels may include a service charge in the final bill, so a tip isn’t necessarily required. It is up to you if exceptional service deserves a little extra.

Bellhop: Hotels may include a service charge in the final bill, so a tip isn’t necessarily required. It is up to you if exceptional service, such as delivering your luggage to your room, deserves a little extra.

Housecleaning: Hotels may include a service charge in the final bill, so a tip isn’t necessarily required. It is up to you if exceptional service, such as ensuring a squeaky-clean stay, deserves a little extra.

Concierge: Hotels may include a service charge in the final bill, so a tip isn’t necessarily required. It is up to you if exceptional service deserves a little extra. 

Stylist: It isn’t obligatory to tip, but leave a little extra for a fantastic new look.

Spa Service Provider: Tipping is not obligatory, but you can leave extra for exceptional service.

• More from SmarterTravel:

• Tipping: The Ultimate Guide to Tipping for Travelers
• Does the Hotel Maid Look Through Your Stuff?
• Hotel Tipping—Do You or Don’t You?

Information provided by Tahiti Tourisme.