Hire car in Papeete

We are a family if five wanted to do our own thing in Papeete is hiring a car a good idea, we want to look around but not do the expensive shore tours? Any advice would be great.

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Renting a car is a great choice. I have done this a few times. Not cheap though. Traffic in downtown Papeete can get crazy. Some of the best places to see however I think you will need a 4 X 4. I have used Avis

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How long will you be there? Also, can you drive a standard manual transmission with clutch?

Automatics are readily available. I would not recommend anyone try the cross-island road in any vehicle. 4-wheel drives are not easy to come by and I know that major rental companies forbid people to take that road.

Automatics are readily available. I would not recommend anyone try the cross-island road in any vehicle. 4-wheel drives are not easy to come by and I know that major rental companies forbid people to take that road.

Most are not automatic and they are much more expensive to rent. Likewise a five passenger car is more expensive.

Does a US drivers license work in Papeete or do you need an international license?

Does a US drivers license work in Papeete or do you need an international license?

No need for an international licence for Canadians or (presumably) Americans, at least in 2011.

John

US license just fine. I rent a car all the time when I go to Moorea

twin123185 -

Which do you suggest, Hilton Moorea or Sofitel for overall property, scenery/sunsets, quality/friendly service, in a premium OWB?

We're reserved at the Hilton but just wondering if that's the best choice or if Sofitel may be better.

We're going pre-cruise for R&R and scenic beauty more than being super busy with lots of activities every day.

Oh no I will not answer this!!! Well maybe I will.....

I have not stayed at either just visited.

I prefer the views and water at the Sofitel. Most people that I know that have stayed on Moorea love the Hilton and they do have a great crepe restaurant. Emdee had a day room at the Sofitel on our recent cruise and she said it was great. I have always stayed at the IC but if I were to pick a place for next time I would choose the Sofitel simply for the water and views. Don't know what the costs are. Either choice you will have an awesome stay.

Sunsets - better chance at Hilton.

Scenery - either. Sofitel though has an awesome view of Tahiti

Definitely rent a car one day

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Thanks! Renting a car for a day is definitely on the plan. Do you recommend Albert's or someone else?

I actually like Avis better. I have used both. The Avis cars were cleaner and newer. Don't know the cost difference anymore. I can get you the email address later today. If you can drive a stick you can save a few $$$ also.

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Thanks. And I can drive a stick. I had a 5-speed 2-seater sports car for 17 years. And I miss the little babe...

sandrine@avispacificar.pf

It's $20 - $30 less for a stick I think. They pick you up at the dock and bring you to the IC.

That's Moorea. Not sure where the Papeete pick up is

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With Avis on Tahiti, you can pick up at the downtown location and drop at the airport, or vice versa. They charge about $20 extra for the one way drop fee. This works really well when you are coming off the ferry/cruise and have the day to spend before catching the late night flight home.

I prefer to make my reservation on the Avis.com web site. If you use the Avis pacificar website, they require prepayment of the rental.

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