French Polynesia is a group of islands located in the South Pacific, and is an overseas collectivity of France. The history of French Polynesia is closely tied to that of France, as it was first discovered by the French navigator, Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, in 1768. The islands were later named after him. In the 19th century, French Polynesia became a popular destination for European travelers, and it was later used as a stopover point for ships traveling between Europe and Asia.
Geography and climate
The geography of French Polynesia is diverse, with five archipelagos and 118 islands spread over an area of 4 million square kilometers. The climate is tropical, with warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. The islands are known for their beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and lush vegetation. The most famous of the islands is Tahiti, which is the largest and most populous of the islands. Other notable islands include Bora Bora, Moorea, and Raiatea.
Culture and lifestyle
The culture of French Polynesia is a blend of traditional Polynesian customs and practices and the influence of French culture. The people of French Polynesia are known for their warm and friendly nature, and they are proud of their rich cultural heritage. Traditional Polynesian practices, such as tattooing and traditional dancing, are still widely practiced on the islands. The French influence is also evident in the food, architecture, and language of French Polynesia. French is the official language of the islands, and it is widely spoken alongside Polynesian languages.
Economy
The economy of French Polynesia is heavily dependent on tourism, which is the main source of income for the islands. Agriculture and fishing are also important industries, with the islands producing a variety of crops, including pineapples, coconuts, and vanilla. The French government provides substantial financial aid to French Polynesia, which helps to support the economy and infrastructure of the islands. However, the economy of French Polynesia has been hit hard by the recent global economic downturn, and the islands are facing significant economic challenges in the years to come.
Influence of 
French culture in French Polynesia
The French influence is also evident in the culture and architecture of French Polynesia. The islands are home to many historical landmarks and monuments that reflect the French colonial period, including the famous “Pointe Venus” lighthouse, which was built by the French explorer, Captain Cook, in 1777. French architecture can also be seen in the many beautiful colonial-style buildings found on the islands, many of which have been restored and turned into museums and cultural centers. The French influence is also evident in the cuisine of French Polynesia, which is a blend of traditional Polynesian dishes and French-style cooking.
Preservation of French Polynesia’s natural environment
In terms of the preservation of French Polynesia’s natural environment, the islands are known for their diverse array of marine life and coral reefs. Efforts have been made to protect these fragile ecosystems, such as the creation of marine protected areas and the implementation of sustainable fishing practices. However, the islands are also facing environmental challenges, such as pollution and overfishing, which threaten the health of their coral reefs and marine life.
Our Top FAQ's
French colonization had a significant impact on the culture and traditions of the people of French Polynesia. The French brought new technologies, religion and introduced new social customs which affected the traditional practices of the Polynesian people.
Tourism is the main source of income for French Polynesia, but the economy has been hit hard by the recent global economic downturn. The islands are also facing significant economic challenges, such as high unemployment and a lack of diversification in the economy.
French culture has a strong influence on the architecture, food, and language of French Polynesia. French architectural styles can be seen in many of the island’s buildings, and French cuisine has been incorporated into the traditional Polynesian diet. French is the official language of the islands, and it is widely spoken alongside Polynesian languages.
- What steps are being taken to protect the natural environment of French Polynesia and its marine life?
Efforts are being made to protect the natural environment of French Polynesia and its marine life, such as the creation of marine protected areas, implementing sustainable fishing practices, and promoting eco-tourism. However, the islands also face environmental challenges, such as pollution and overfishing, which threaten the health of their coral reefs and marine life.