Senior travel: Papeete
An easier pace for an older traveller: how many stops fit in a day, which places are step-free, and what the guide says about getting around, medicines and stairs.
Was this useful?
Pace for a day
About 4 stops a day. 5 h out − 45 min rest, divided by an average visit of 32 min (from this city’s guide) + 30 min to move.
Places, easiest access first
- Bougainville parkStep-free: yes · about 30 minNone.
- Paofai gardensStep-free: yes · about 45 minNone on the main path.
- Papeete town hallStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 20 minA few steps at the door.
- Notre-Dame CathedralStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 25 minA few steps at the door.
- Paofai temple (Protestant church)Step-free: partial (check before you go) · about 25 minA few steps.
- Papeete marketStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 45 minA stairway to the upper floor.
Getting around in Papeete
Papeete is hard going on wheels. Pavements are narrow and broken in places, kerbs are high, and many older buildings have steps.
- Pavements:
- Uneven and interrupted by parked cars; the waterfront promenade is the smoothest.
- Transport:
- Le Truck buses are not step-free; taxis and hotel cars are the practical choice.
- Ferries:
- Fast ferries have ramps but narrow aisles; ask the operator before you book (check).
Medicines and health on the ground
- Travel insurance · before flying: Medical evacuation from atolls to Tahiti, or Tahiti to New Zealand or France, costs a fortune; check cover for diving.
- Sun:
- Strong UV all year; hat, shade and reef-safe sunscreen.
- Mosquitoes:
- Dengue occurs (mostly in the wet season); use repellent.
- Water:
- Tap water in the centre is generally treated; ask your hotel, and use bottled water on the outer islands.
- Food:
- Raw fish is safe at busy stalls with fast turnover; skip it if it has sat in the sun.
- Heat:
- Drink water regularly and rest indoors at midday.
More: how much medicine to pack, medicine times across time zones.
Ask your insurer
Age limits and prices differ by policy and the guides do not hold them, so put these to the insurer before you buy.
- What is the oldest age the policy covers, at purchase and on the last day of the trip?
- Does the price or the cover change after a certain age?
- Are existing conditions covered, and what must be declared?
- Does the cover include medical evacuation and trip interruption?
Not medical advice. This page does not know anyone’s health. Ask a doctor before the trip, and carry a list of medicines and conditions.