French Polynesia
About French Polynesia
| Currency | CFP franc (XPF) |
| Language | French; Polynesian |
| Capital | Papeete |
The Overseas Lands of French Polynesia are located in the Pacific Ocean between Australia and South America. It is a group of five archipelagoes, with Tahiti being the most well-known island. The population is about 280,000 people. As a French overseas territory, the French president is chief of state and is represented by a high commissioner. The president of French Polynesia is the head of government.
The French annexed various Polynesian islands during the 19th century and later formed the French colony of Oceania. In 1946, the islands became a French overseas territory, and subsequently, the country has moved toward obtaining autonomy. In 2004, French Polynesia acquired the status of “overseas country,” and today eventual independence is important on the political agenda.
France conducted atomic testing on the atolls between 1966 and 1996. In 1995, the nuclear testing resulted in violent protests in Papeete and widespread international demonstrations. The nuclear test site was dismantled in 1998.
Tourism is well developed in French Polynesia. The islands offer volcanic mountains, beaches and lagoons, sailing, snorkeling, and diving. Tahiti and Bora Bora are well-known destinations.
Recommended Vaccinations For French Polynesia
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B Vaccine
There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
Hepatitis A Vaccine
There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.
For Some Travellers
Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) Vaccine
A dose of Measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine is recommended for infants aged 6 to 11 months.
Rabies Vaccine
The rabies vaccination is recommended for those travellers whose activities or work may bring them into contact with bats.
Typhoid Fever Vaccine
There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Yellow Fever Vaccine
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Recommended Medications For French Polynesia
There are no recommendations for French Polynesia at this time.
Diseases To Be Aware of for French Polynesia
For Most Travellers
Hepatitis B
There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in French Polynesia.
Chikungunya Fever
Chikungunya fever has occurred in this country.
Hepatitis A
There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in French Polynesia through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.
Dengue Fever
Outbreaks of dengue fever may occur.
For Some Travellers
Tuberculosis
Travellers to this country are at risk for tuberculosis if visiting sick friends or family, working in the healthcare field, or having close prolonged contact with a sick person.
Hanta Virus
There is a risk of acquiring Hantavirus in this country through the consumption of food and water contaminated by an infected rodent or through rodent bites.
Measles
There is a risk of acquiring Measles in this country.
Zika Fever
Zika virus can occur in this country.
Rabies
The risk of acquiring Rabies is low. French Polynesia is free of dog rabies. However, it may be present in bats. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) may be at risk.
Typhoid Fever
Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in French Polynesia, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.
Yellow Fever
There is no risk of yellow fever transmission in this country. However, a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers over 1 year of age arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission and for travellers having transited more than 12 hours through an airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission.
Safety & Security in French Polynesia
Personal Safety
The crime rate is low in French Polynesia, and most travellers have no trouble. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing or other theft, can occur. With respect to your personal safety, be cautious and always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight.
Exercise caution when driving as rural roads may be poorly maintained and unpaved. Avoid driving after dark.
Exercise extreme caution when participating in outdoor adventure activities as safety standards may not be adequate.
Although same-sex sexual activity and marriage are both legal under French law, social attitudes may be intolerant of same-sex relations.
Due to its location, French Polynesia is at risk for earthquakes and resulting tsunamis. Cyclone season is from November to April. Flooding, landslides, major damage to infrastructure, and disruption to travel plans may result. Be aware of the evacuation routes and act in accordance with the region’s evacuation plan.
Political Unrest
Demonstrations may occur with little or no warning. Avoid any protests, political gatherings or marches. Follow the advice of local authorities.
