DISCOVER
About Taniti
Taniti is a small, tropical island in the Pacific. While the island has an area of less than 500 square miles, the terrain is varied and includes both sandy and rocky beaches, a small but safe harbor, lush tropical rainforests, and a mountainous interior that includes a small, active volcano. Taniti has an indigenous population of about 20,000. Until a recent increase in tourism, most the Tanitian economy was dominated by fishing or agriculture.
Language
Many younger Tanitians speak fluent English. Very little English is spoken in rural areas, especially by the older residents.
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There is one hospital and several clinics. The hospital has many multilingual employees.
Safety
Violent crime is very rare on Taniti, but as tourism increases, there are more reports of pickpocketing and other petty crimes.
Currency
Taniti uses the U.S. dollar as its currency, but many businesses will also accept euros and yen. Several banks facilitate currency exchange, and many businesses accept major credit cards.
Power
Power outlets are 120 volts (the same as in the United States).
Food
Restaurants: Taniti currently has 10 restaurants: five serve mostly local fish and rice, three serve American-style meals, and two serve Pan-Asian cuisine.
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Grocery Stores: Taniti has two supermarkets, two smaller grocery stores, and one convenience store that is open 24 hours a day.
Alcohol
Alcohol is not allowed to be served or sold between the hours of midnight and 9:00 a.m.
The drinking age on Taniti is 18 and the drinking age is not strictly enforced.
Transportation
Transportation: Almost all visitors arrive to Taniti by air, though some arrive on a small cruise ship that docks in Yellow Leaf Bay for one night per week. Taniti is served by a small airport that can accommodate small jets and propeller planes. Taniti is in the process of expanding the airport so larger jets will be able to land on the island within the next few years.
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Ground Transportation: Public buses serve Taniti City and run from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. every day. Private buses serve the rest of the island. Taxis are available in Taniti City, and rental cars can be rented from a local rental agency near the airport. Bikes and helmets are available to rent from several vendors (helmets are required by law). Taniti City is fairly flat and very walkable. Many tourists stay in the area surrounding Merriton Landing: this area is easy to explore on foot.
