Why Tahiti is a paradise for your LGBT+ clients

Are same-sex weddings legal in Tahiti?

Same-sex weddings are legal on all 118 islands of Tahiti. As an overseas territory of France, there are no laws against same-sex activity, relationships or identities. In order to be legally married in Tahiti, couples need to complete eight documents and send them to French Polynesia at least 45 days prior to the wedding date. These include a certified copy of each future spouse’s birth certificate; an apostille authenticating the copy of the birth certificate; a marriage of foreign citizens application; a letter to the mayor of the commune in which the marriage is to take place; the certificate of non-marital status; each of the future spouse’s passports; and proof of residency.

Any tips for LGBT+ friendly honeymoons?

Couples can find sweeping white beaches lined with palms, fresh cuisine and a romantic atmosphere in the islands of Tahiti. There is no better place to celebrate marriage than in the islands where romance and culture are abundant, setting the ideal backdrop for a love-filled getaway. Get lost in the white-sand beaches and turquoise waters of Bora Bora and Taha’a. Stay at luxury resorts, home to coral reefs teeming with marine life, and stunning coves waiting to be explored. Couples can make the most of activities including snorkelling, scuba diving and deep-sea fishing, and enjoy picture-perfect sunsets from an overwater bungalow by night. For a more remote honeymoon setting, couples can stay in a Tahitian guesthouse (tahititourisme.uk) managed by a local family, offering a deeper connection with the local people and islands. This differs from a traditional hotel stay as owners or on-site managers can assist with excursions, such as pearl diving, snorkelling and hiking, providing a personal and interactive approach to a honeymoon itinerary.

How can visitors discover Tahitian culture?

Exciting performances of authentic Tahitian dance are offered at almost every resort. For a deeper immersion, Tahiti is home to one of the oldest festivals in the world, the Heiva i Tahiti, where communities representing different archipelagos come together in Papeete for a calendar of activities. Originally created in 1881, this important cultural event features craft exhibitions, artisan how-to presentations and artists adorned with vibrant costumes both singing and dancing. This year, the festival will run from 6 to 22 July, and visitors are encouraged to join in with events, shows, rituals and contests.