festivites
Here are some of the major festivities and holidays celebrated in French Polynesia:
1. Heiva: This is a month-long celebration that takes place in July on the islands of Tahiti and Moorea. It includes traditional dance, music, sports, and cultural exhibitions showcasing the richness of Polynesian culture.
2. Bastille Day: Celebrated on 14th July like in France, this day marks the anniversary of the fall of the Bastille and the beginning of the French Revolution. It is a public holiday in French Polynesia and is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and other festive events.
3. All Saints' Day: Observed on 1st November, this is a religious holiday in French Polynesia when families gather to pay respects to their deceased loved ones. They visit cemeteries to clean and decorate graves and offer flowers, candles, and food as offerings.
4. Christmas: Just like in many other parts of the world, Christmas is a major celebration in French Polynesia, with decorations, lights, and festive markets being set up around the islands. Church services are also held, and families come together for large meals and gift-giving.
5. Easter: This is another important Christian holiday celebrated in French Polynesia, featuring church services, feasting, and egg hunts.
Overall, these festivities reflect the blend of French and Polynesian cultures that make up the unique identity of French Polynesia.
seasons
French Polynesia has two main tourist seasons:
1. High Season (November to April): This is the peak season, with warm temperatures, clear skies, and low humidity. Prices are usually higher during this period, and many hotels and tours book up quickly. Recommendations: Book accommodations and activities in advance, expect crowds, and be prepared for higher prices.
2. Low Season (May to October): This period experiences cooler temperatures and higher chances of rain, but it also offers some unique opportunities like whale watching. Prices are generally lower during this period, and there are fewer crowds. Recommendations: Take advantage of lower prices, be prepared for possible rainy weather, and check for discounts on tours and accommodations.
visa
Citizens of certain countries may require a visa to visit French Polynesia, while others do not. Here are some special VISA rules and their associated costs for citizens of a few countries:
1. United States: US citizens do not need a visa to enter French Polynesia if they are staying for less than 90 days. However, they do need a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
2. Canada: Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter French Polynesia if they are staying for less than 90 days. However, they do need a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
3. Australia: Australian citizens do not need a visa to enter French Polynesia if they are staying for less than 90 days. However, they do need a valid passport and proof of onward travel.
4. China: Chinese citizens need a visa to enter French Polynesia. The cost of a tourist visa is around 60 euros (70 USD) per person.
It's important to note that these rules are subject to change, and it's always best to check with the French embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information on visa requirements and costs.
souvenirs
1. Black pearl jewelry - Prices vary depending on the quality and size of the pearls. A single pearl pendant can cost around 100-200 USD, while a full strand necklace can range from 500 USD up to several thousand. You can buy them in specialty stores or at the markets in Papeete, such as Marché de Papeete.
2. Tifaifai quilts - These are hand-stitched quilts that feature intricate designs and bright colors. The price ranges from 50-200 USD depending on size and complexity. You can find them at local craft markets or shops, like Galerie Winkler in Papeete.
3. Monoi oil - This is a traditional Tahitian oil made from coconut oil and the Tiare flower. It's often used for moisturizing skin and hair. The price varies depending on the brand and size, but a 4 oz bottle can cost around 10-15 USD. You can buy them at pharmacies, souvenir shops, or markets.
4. Pareos - These are colorful and lightweight fabric wraps that can be worn as skirts, dresses, or shawls. The price varies depending on the quality and design, but they typically range from 10-50 USD. You can find them in most markets and souvenir shops.
5. Wood carvings - These are handmade sculptures and figurines made from local wood such as mahogany and rosewood. The prices vary depending on the size and intricacy of the carving, but a small figurine can cost around 20-30 USD. You can buy them at local markets or at the Robert Wan Pearl Museum in Papeete.
Note that these prices are only estimates and may vary depending on where you buy them and the specific products.
If you have 1 week
Thank you for letting me suggest a one week itinerary for you in French Polynesia! Here are some must-see places and activities that I recommend:
Day 1: Explore Tahiti - Start your trip by exploring the capital of French Polynesia, Tahiti. Visit the Papeete Market to experience local culture and purchase souvenirs. Then, head to the Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands to learn about the history and culture of Polynesia.
Day 2: Hike to Fautaua Waterfall - Take a guided hike to Fautaua Waterfall, located in the lush valley of Papenoo. The trail will take you through stunning tropical forests and culminate in a breathtaking view of the waterfall cascading down 985 feet.
Day 3: Snorkel in Moorea - Take a ferry to the island of Moorea, where you can enjoy some of the best snorkeling in the world. Swim among colorful fish, coral reefs, and possibly even dolphins or sea turtles.
Day 4: Visit Bora Bora - Take a short flight to Bora Bora, often considered one of the most beautiful islands in the world. Relax on the beach, go paddleboarding or kayaking, or indulge in a spa treatment at one of the luxurious resorts.
Day 5: Shark and Ray Snorkeling - Experience the thrill of swimming with blacktip sharks and rays in the crystal-clear waters of Bora Bora's lagoon. Don't worry, these docile creatures pose no danger and it's an incredible opportunity to see them up close.
Day 6: Sunset Dinner Cruise - End your trip on a high note with a romantic sunset dinner cruise around Bora Bora. Enjoy delicious Polynesian cuisine while taking in the stunning views of the sunset over the lagoon.
Day 7: Departure - Sadly, it's time to say goodbye to French Polynesia. Depart from Bora Bora with memories that will last a lifetime.
I hope you enjoy your one week itinerary in French Polynesia!
If you have 2 weeks
Thank you for letting me plan your itinerary. Here are some suggestions for a two-week trip:
1. Bora Bora - Bora Bora is a must-see destination in French Polynesia. You can explore the crystal-clear waters, go diving or snorkeling, and relax on its stunning beaches.
2. Moorea - Moorea is another beautiful island that should be on your itinerary. Go kayaking, hiking, or take a 4WD tour of the island's rugged interior.
3. Tahiti - As the largest island in French Polynesia, Tahiti offers plenty to see and do. Visit the Museum of Tahiti and the Islands for a glimpse into the region's history and culture or head to Papeete Market, where you can find local crafts, souvenirs, and fresh produce.
4. Rangiroa - Known for its incredible lagoon, Rangiroa is the second-largest atoll in the world. It's a great spot for diving, fishing, and snorkeling.
5. Fakarava - Fakarava is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a prime location for scuba diving. You can also take a guided tour of the island's pink sand beaches and coconut plantations.
6. Tikehau - Tikehau is another idyllic atoll with white sand beaches and turquoise lagoons. Take a boat tour of the island, go snorkeling, or just relax on the beach.
7. Huahine - Huahine is a quiet and peaceful island with a relaxed atmosphere. Explore the island's ancient temples and marae, go fishing, or take a scenic drive around the island.
8. Maupiti - Maupiti is a small island that's off the beaten path. You can hike to the top of Mount Teurafaatiu for stunning views, go swimming in the lagoon, or just take it easy on one of the island's quiet beaches.
Why you should visit these places? French Polynesia is home to some of the most beautiful islands and atolls in the world. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and stunning beaches, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you're into water sports like snorkeling and diving or prefer to relax on the beach, there's something for everyone in French Polynesia. Additionally, by visiting these places, you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region, sample local cuisine, and meet friendly locals. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
Culture
All the indigenous languages of French Polynesia are Polynesian. French Polynesia has been linguistically diverse since ancient times, with each community having its own local speech variety. These dialects can be grouped into seven languages on the basis of mutual intelligibility: Tahitian, Tuamotuan, Rapa, Austral, North Marquesan, South Marquesan, and Mangarevan. Some of these, especially Tuamotuan, are really dialect continua formed by a patchwork of different dialects. The distinction between languages and dialects is notoriously difficult to establish, and so some authors may view two varieties as dialects of the same language, while others may view them as distinct languages. In this way, North and South Marquesan are often grouped together as a single Marquesan language, and Rapa is often viewed as part of Austral subfamily. At the same time, Ra'ivavae is often viewed as distinct from them.
French is the sole official language of French Polynesia. An organic law of 12 April 1996 states that "French is the official language, Tahitian and other Polynesian languages can be used." At the 2017 census, among the population whose age was 15 and older, 73.9% of people reported that the language they spoke the most at home was French (up from 68.6% at the 2007 census), 20.2% reported that the language they spoke the most at home was Tahitian (down from 24.3% at the 2007 census), 2.6% reported Marquesan and 0.2% the related Mangareva language (same percentages for both at the 2007 census), 1.2% reported any of the Austral languages (down from 1.3% at the 2007 census), 1.0% reported Tuamotuan (down from 1.5% at the 2007 census), 0.6% reported a Chinese dialect (41% of which was Hakka) (down from 1.0% at the 2007 census), and 0.4% another language (more than half of which was English) (down from 0.5% at the 2007 census).
At the same census, 95.2% of people whose age was 15 or older reported that they could speak, read and write French (up from 94.7% at the 2007 census), whereas only 1.3% reported that they had no knowledge of French (down from 2.0% at the 2007 census). 86.5% of people whose age was 15 or older reported that they had some form of knowledge of at least one Polynesian language (up from 86.4% at the 2007 census but down from 87.8% at the 2012 census), whereas 13.5% reported that they had no knowledge of any of the Polynesian languages (down from 13.6% at the 2007 census but up from 12.2% at the 2012 census).
French Polynesia appeared in the world music scene in 1992, recorded by French musicologist Pascal Nabet-Meyer with the release of The Tahitian Choir's recordings of unaccompanied vocal Christian music called himene tārava. This form of singing is common in French Polynesia and the Cook Islands, and is notable for a unique drop in pitch at the end of the phrases, a characteristic formed by several different voices, accompanied by a steady grunting of staccato, nonlexical syllables.
Christianity is the main religion of the islands. A majority of 54% belongs to various Protestant churches, especially the Maohi Protestant Church, which is the largest and accounts for more than 50% of the population. It traces its origins to Pōmare II, the king of Tahiti, who converted from traditional beliefs to the Reformed tradition brought to the islands by the London Missionary Society.
Latin Rite Catholics constitute a large minority of 38.3% of the population (2019) which has its own ecclesiastical province, comprising the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Papeete and its only suffragan, the Diocese of Taiohae. The number and proportion of Catholics has increased significantly since 1950, when they represented 21.6% of the total population.
Data from 1991 revealed that Catholics were in the majority in the Tuamotu Islands, Gambier Islands and the Marquesas Islands, while Protestants formed the majority in the Austral Islands and several of the Society Islands such as Tahiti. This diversity is due to the fact that Protestant missionaries (from England and the United States) first came to one group of islands, and after French colonisation the Catholic Church spread to several more scattered islands, but also to the main island of Tahiti.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had 28,147 members. Community of Christ, another denomination within the Latter-Day Saint tradition, claimed 9,256 total French Polynesian members as of 2018 including Mareva Arnaud Tchong who serves in the church's governing Council of Twelve Apostles. There were about 3,000 Jehovah's Witnesses in Tahiti, and an estimated 500 Muslims in French Polynesia.
Due to the island location and the fact that the French Polynesia produce a significant array of fruits and vegetables, natural local produce, especially coconut, features in many of the dishes of the islands as does fresh seafood. foods like Faraoa 'ipo, Poisson cru and Rēti'a.
The sport of football in the island of Tahiti is run by the Fédération Tahitienne de Football.
The Polynesian traditional sport va'a is practiced in all the islands. French Polynesia hosts the an international race between Tahiti, Huahine and Bora Bora.
French Polynesia is famous for its reef break waves. Teahupo'o is probably the most renowned, regularly ranked in the best waves of the world. This site hosts the annual Billabong Pro Tahiti surf competition, the 7th stop of the World Championship Tour, and is scheduled to host the surfing events of the 2024 Summer Olympics.
There are many spots to practice kitesurfing in French Polynesia, with Tahiti, Moorea, Bora-Bora, Maupiti and Raivavae being among the most iconic.
French Polynesia is internationally known for diving. Each archipelago offers opportunities for divers. Rangiroa and Fakarava in the Tuamotu islands are the most famous spots in the area.
Rugby is also popular in French Polynesia, specifically Rugby union.
Television channels with local programming include Polynésie la 1ère (established in 1965) and Tahiti Nui Television (established in 2000). Channels from metropolitan France are also available.
Religion
Christianity is the main religion of the islands. A majority of 54% belongs to various Protestant churches, especially the Maohi Protestant Church, which is the largest and accounts for more than 50% of the population. It traces its origins to Pōmare II, the king of Tahiti, who converted from traditional beliefs to the Reformed tradition brought to the islands by the London Missionary Society.
Latin Rite Catholics constitute a large minority of 38.3% of the population (2019) which has its own ecclesiastical province, comprising the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Papeete and its only suffragan, the Diocese of Taiohae. The number and proportion of Catholics has increased significantly since 1950, when they represented 21.6% of the total population.
Data from 1991 revealed that Catholics were in the majority in the Tuamotu Islands, Gambier Islands and the Marquesas Islands, while Protestants formed the majority in the Austral Islands and several of the Society Islands such as Tahiti. This diversity is due to the fact that Protestant missionaries (from England and the United States) first came to one group of islands, and after French colonisation the Catholic Church spread to several more scattered islands, but also to the main island of Tahiti.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints had 28,147 members. Community of Christ, another denomination within the Latter-Day Saint tradition, claimed 9,256 total French Polynesian members as of 2018 including Mareva Arnaud Tchong who serves in the church's governing Council of Twelve Apostles. There were about 3,000 Jehovah's Witnesses in Tahiti, and an estimated 500 Muslims in French Polynesia.
Demographics
Total population was 278,786 according to the August 18, 2022 census, 68.7% of whom lived on the island of Tahiti alone. The urban area of Papeete, the capital city, has 136,771 inhabitants (2017 census).
At the 2017 census, 89.0% of people living in French Polynesia had been born there (up from 87.3% in 2007); 8.1% had been born in Metropolitan France (down from 9.3% in 2007); 1.2% were born elsewhere in overseas France (down from 1.4% in 2007); and 1.7% were from foreign countries (down from 2.0% in 2007). The population of natives of Metropolitan France living in French Polynesia has declined in relative terms since the 1980s, but in absolute terms their population peaked at the 2007 census, when 24,265 lived in French Polynesia (not counting their children born there). With the local economic crisis, their population declined to 22,278 at the 2012 census, and 22,387 at the 2017 census.
At the 1988 census, the last census which asked questions regarding ethnicity, 66.5% of people were ethnically unmixed Polynesians, 7.1% were ethnically Polynesians with light European and/or East Asian mixing, 11.9% were Europeans (mostly French), 9.3% were people of mixed European and Polynesian descent, the so-called Demis (literally meaning "Half"), and 4.7% were East Asians (mainly Chinese).
Chinese, Demis, and the white populace are essentially concentrated on the island of Tahiti, particularly in the urban area of Papeete, where their share of the population is thus much greater than in French Polynesia overall. Despite a long history of ethnic mixing, ethnic tensions have been growing in recent years, with politicians using a xenophobic discourse and fanning the flame of nationalism.
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