Overview of French Polynesia’s attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community

French Polynesia, made up of 118 islands in the South Pacific, has a reputation for being a tropical paradise and a popular tourist destination. However, when it comes to attitudes towards the LGBTQ+ community, the islands have had a mixed history. While homosexuality has been legal in French Polynesia since 1985, the islands were under French colonial rule for many years, and traditional conservative values still hold sway in some areas. However, in recent years, there has been a shift towards greater acceptance of the LGBTQ+ community, with many businesses catering to LGBTQ+ tourists and a growing number of events and festivals celebrating LGBTQ+ culture.

Legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in French Polynesia

French Polynesia, as an overseas collectivity of France, follows the laws of France, which includes the legal protection for LGBTQ+ individuals. In 2013, France passed the “Marriage for All” law, allowing same-sex couples to marry and adopt children, and French Polynesia has followed suit. Discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation is also prohibited by law in French Polynesia, and hate crimes against LGBTQ+ individuals are taken seriously by local authorities.

Gay-friendly accommodations and resorts in French Polynesia

French Polynesia offers a wide range of accommodations for LGBTQ+ travelers, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses. Many hotels and resorts have adopted a gay-friendly policy, and some even specifically market themselves to the LGBTQ+ community. For example, the InterContinental Tahiti Resort and Spa in Papeete has a dedicated website page for LGBTQ+ travelers, offering information on local events and activities, and the Manava Suite Resort Tahiti in Moorea has a special package for LGBTQ+ couples.

LGBTQ+ events and festivals in French Polynesia

French Polynesia has a growing number of events and festivals celebrating LGBTQ+ culture. The biggest event is the annual Tahiti Pride, which takes place in June and features a parade, live music, and a beach party. Other events include the Faa’a International LGBT Film Festival in Papeete, which screens films from around the world, and the annual Miss and Mister Gay Tahiti pageant. Additionally, many of the islands host their own smaller events and parties throughout the year.

LGBTQ+ nightlife in French Polynesia

French Polynesia’s nightlife scene is relatively small, but there are a few gay-friendly bars and clubs on the islands. Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, has the most options for LGBTQ+ nightlife, with bars such as Le Ti and Le Ti St. James catering to the LGBTQ+ community. Other islands like Moorea and Bora Bora also have some gay-friendly bars and clubs. While the nightlife scene may not be as vibrant as some other destinations, the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere of French Polynesia makes it a great place to socialize and make new friends.

LGBTQ+ travel tips for visiting French Polynesia

• Be respectful of local customs and traditional values. While French Polynesia is becoming more accepting of the LGBTQ+ community, some areas may still be conservative.
• Research the laws and local attitudes towards LGBTQ+ individuals before traveling. French Polynesia follows the laws of France, and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals is illegal, but attitudes may vary depending on the island or community.
• Look for gay-friendly accommodations and businesses. Many hotels and resorts have adopted a gay-friendly policy, and some even specifically market themselves to the LGBTQ+ community.
• Be aware of the weather. French Polynesia is tropical, and the heat and humidity can be intense. Be sure to pack sunscreen and stay hydrated.

• Check out LGBTQ+ events and festivals. French Polynesia has a growing number of events and festivals celebrating LGBTQ+ culture, such as Tahiti Pride and the Faa’a International LGBT Film Festival.
• Be aware of the language barrier. French is the official language of French Polynesia, and while English is spoken in tourist areas, it may be helpful to know some basic French phrases.
• Respect privacy. Public displays of affection, particularly between same-sex couples, may not be as accepted as in other destinations.
• Be prepared for a more laid-back pace of life. French Polynesia is known for its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere, so be prepared to take things slow and enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

In conclusion, French Polynesia is a beautiful destination that is becoming more and more gay-friendly. While some traditional values may still prevail, the islands are more accepting and welcoming of the LGBTQ+ community, and the country offers a wide range of gay-friendly accommodations, events, and festivals. With the legal protections, and the natural beauty of the islands, French Polynesia is a great destination for gay travelers looking for a tropical paradise.