No issues elsewhere, but in Iceland, both ATMs and stores keep rejecting my card. Anyone know if this is common? Any banks that actually work?
Moorea is stunning but not card-friendly. ATMs on the island sometimes reject foreign cards or simply don’t work. Visa seemed to have higher success rates than Mastercard. Most beach bars, local stores, and even car rentals asked for cash. To be safe, budget 12,000-14,000 XPF per day for food, scooters, and tours. Bring cash from Papeete before the ferry. Having extra cash on hand is the only way to avoid stress on Moorea.
When visiting Moorea, I found ATMs quite unreliable. My Mastercard was rejected at the first two machines, then finally accepted at Banque Socredo. Shops outside resort areas rarely accept cards. Cash is absolutely necessary for snacks, transport, and small excursions. If you’re budgeting, expect to spend 10,000-15,000 XPF daily. Withdraw more than you think you’ll need before leaving Tahiti. Relying solely on a card in Moorea can really spoil your trip.
Moorea can be tough for card usage. Only a handful of ATMs exist, and they sometimes run out of cash. My Revolut card was declined, but a standard Visa worked after several tries. Most tour companies and dive shops prefer cash, though large hotels take credit. Plan a budget of 12,000 XPF per day if doing tours and eating at mid-range restaurants. Always withdraw extra in Papeete on Tahiti, because ATMs on Moorea aren’t reliable.
In Moorea, ATMs are limited and often reject foreign cards. My Mastercard failed twice, but my Visa worked at Banque de Polynésie in Maharepa. Stores in small villages and local fruit stands only take cash, while bigger resorts accept cards. Withdraw cash in Tahiti before ferrying over. Budget around 10,000-15,000 XPF daily for meals, scooters, and excursions like snorkeling. Don’t risk depending on cards on the island; cash is essential.