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Bora-Bora, French Polynesia
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French Polynesia Travel Notes

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French Polynesia, with its crystalline waters, lush greenery, and vibrant culture, welcomes travellers seeking beauty and serenity in the South Pacific Ocean.

About French Polynesia

French Polynesia offers visitors a diverse range of marine life, cultural experiences, exquisite dining, shopping, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.

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Mapping French Polynesia

Map of French Polynesia

Map of French Polynesia

French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France, is made up of several small groups of islands in a wide area of the eastern South Pacific.

Tahiti is the main French Polynesian island.

Around French Polynesia

The five archipelagos that make up French Polynesia.

The Society Islands (Windward and Leeward Islands); The Tuamotu Archipelago; The Gambier Islands; The Austral Islands; and The Marquesas Islands.

The most popular islands in French Polynesian are Bora Bora, Tahiti, Moorea, Huahine, Rangiroa, Taha'a, Raiatea, Tikehau, Fakarav, and Maupiti.

French Polynesia Overview

An overseas collectivity of France, French Polynesia is composed of 118 islands and atolls; spread out over an area of more than 4,000 kilometres, in the South Pacific Ocean.

Capital City

The capital city of French Polynesia is Papeete, which is located on the island of Tahiti.

Map of Papeete
Map of Papeete.

Economy

French Polynesia is famous for its black pearl industry, which produces some of the finest pearls in the world.

Tourism is also a major industry in French Polynesia, with visitors drawn to the islands to engage in activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking.

Language

The official languages of French Polynesia are French and Tahitian, although French is more commonly spoken.

Tahitian language and culture are actively promoted in schools and cultural institutions.

Natural Beauty

French Polynesia is known for its stunning natural beauty, including its crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and lush green mountains.

Population

French Polynesia has a population of around 280,000 people, and the official languages are French and Tahitian.

The territory has a semi-autonomous status within the French Republic and elects its own parliament, government, and president.

Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia, renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including lush mountainous landscapes, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and pristine white sandy beaches.

The people of Tahiti are known for their warmth and hospitality.

Culture

Tahiti has a rich Polynesian culture that is celebrated through dance, music, and art.

Traditional Tahitian dance, known as 'Ori Tahiti', is characterised by rhythmic hip movements and colourful costumes.

The music typically features ukuleles, drums, and nasal singing.

Geography

Tahiti is part of the Society Islands archipelago and consists of two main volcanic mountain ranges, Tahiti Nui (Big Tahiti) and Tahiti Iti (Small Tahiti).

The island is surrounded by a barrier reef, creating calm lagoons ideal for swimming and snorkelling.

History

Tahiti's history is marked by its colonisation by Europeans, particularly the French, who annexed the island in the 19th century

Prior to European contact, Tahiti was inhabited by Polynesians who arrived around 2,000 years ago.

The island played a significant role in the exploration and colonisation of the South Pacific.

Tourism

Tourism is a major industry in Tahiti, with visitors drawn to its picturesque landscapes, luxury resorts, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as snorkelling, diving, hiking, and surfing.

The island is a popular destination for honeymooners and couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Transportation

Tahiti is served by Faa'a International Airport, located near the capital city of Papeete.

The airport is a major hub for international flights to and from French Polynesia.

Additionally, inter-island ferries and domestic flights connect Tahiti with other islands in the archipelago.

Visiting French Polynesia

French Polynesia is a beautiful and exotic destination that offers visitors a chance to experience a blend of French and Polynesian cultures in a stunning natural setting.

Discover Moorea

Moorea is a beautiful island located near Tahiti, known for its stunning scenery and natural beauty.

You can go on a hiking tour to explore the lush valleys and mountain peaks or enjoy a lagoon tour to see the colorful marine life.

Experience Traditional Culture

French Polynesia has a rich cultural heritage, and you can experience traditional dance performances, music, and arts and crafts.

You can also visit ancient archaeological sites and learn about the history of the islands.

Explore Tahiti

Tahiti is the largest island in French Polynesia and is home to the capital city of Papeete.

The island is known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and rich cultural heritage.

You can visit the Museum of Tahiti and her Islands, go shopping at the Papeete Market, or enjoy a traditional dance performance.

French Polynesian Cuisine

French Polynesian cuisine is a unique blend of French, Polynesian, and Asian influences, with a focus on seafood and tropical fruits.

You can try local delicacies, such as poisson cru (raw fish marinated in lime juice and coconut milk) and breadfruit.

Visit Bora Bora

Bora Bora is one of the most famous and stunning islands in French Polynesia, with its crystal clear waters and beautiful coral reefs.

You can enjoy water sports, such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing, or simply relax on the beaches.

Getting to French Polynesia

Faa'a International Airport

To get to French Polynesia, you can fly into Faa'a International Airport in Papeete, which is served by several international airlines.

Once there, you can travel between the islands by ferry or plane.

French Polynesia Attractions

Attractions include Paofai Church, Matavai, a trip across the Sea of Moons to the sister island of Moorea, Papenoo Beach and Tefa Aurumai, and the Gauguin Museum.

In Paul Gauguin's Footsteps

In June 1891, at the age of 43, Paul Gauguin went to Papeete in search of the roots of 'primitive' art.

The Museum Gauguin tells the painter's tormented life story and shows the present locations of his works throughout the world.

Where to Stay in Papeete

Intercontinental Resort Tahiti

Intercontinental Resort Tahiti

Intercontinental Resort Tahiti: Pointe Tahiti, Faaa.

With its verdant gardens, natural aquarium and glorious views of the volcanic peaks of Moorea island, this oceanfront luxury resort is a South Pacific paradise.

Located six miles from Papeete the InterContinental Resort Tahiti has a private sand beach and lagoon and outdoor swimming pool.

Royal Tahitien Hotel

Royal Tahitien Hotel

Royal Tahitien Hotel: Pirae-Tahiti.

Located 3km from Papeete, the Hotel is situated in spacious gardens along the lovely lagoon facing the Island of Moorea. For the sports lover, masks, snorkels, flippers, and canoes are free of charge.

The hotel restaurant Le Royal Tahitien offers a unique panoramic view of the volcanic black sand beach and a little pass where local fishermen come and go for fishing.

Hotels in Papeete.

Bora Bora

Bora Bora is located about 230 kilometres north-west of Papeete.

The two towering peaks of sheer black rock that dominate the centre of the island contrast exquisitely with the assortment of blue waters that meet your eyes.

Vaitape is on the west of the island, opposite the main channel into the lagoon.

French Polynesia Excursions

Clipperton Island

Clipperton Island, an uninhabited atoll off the south coast of Mexico, is also part of the French Polynesian territory.

Tahiti Travel Guides

Moon Tahiti & French Polynesia (Travel Guide) Lonely Planet Tahiti & French Polynesia (Travel Guide)

Tahiti and French Polynesia - Tahiti Maps.

Whether you're hiking through dense forests, diving deep among coral reefs, or just kicking back on the beach, indulge in island life with Moon Tahiti & French Polynesia.

Weather in The Pacific:
Local weather forecasts for destinations around the Pacific region.

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