16 Oct 2024
I decided to book a private transfer because I wanted my first experience in Tahiti to be peaceful and worry free. Two planes came in at the same time and it took us over an hour to go through customs. We were greeted by the driver with "what? Were you in the back of the plane. I've been waiting her for an hour and a half for you!" Yes, I was in the back, customs was awful and now you are not making me feel better. So, I say, I need to go exchange my money. The currency exchange at the airport is only open in the morning for the incoming flights and gives you the best rate. He says, " I don't have time. Everyone takes American." So I did not exchange, this was not the happy helpful peaceful experience that I had paid for. Not to mention, the Taxi is right there, small airport easy to find a Taxi lined up at the Taxi sign. I can not control the timing of the flight, and he should know that customs can take time. It was out of my control. Many places will take American, including many of the major hotels will exchange for you, for a fee. Because we did not exchange at the airport we spent an additional $300-$400 in just fees for exchanging our currency. I wish I had insisted on exchanging at the airport. This was not the experience I was paying for. The most expensive Taxi ride ever!