Added: 06/16/2006 |
Why prefer French Polynesia travel to numerous South Pacific destinationsThe best thing about French Polynesia travel is that you have a great choice. Hundred and eoghteen islands, with the best known island Tahiti, cover a huge area of the southeastern Pacific Ocean. The islands are divided into five archipelagos, namely the volcanic Society Islands (Tahiti is among them), the Tuamotu Archipelago, the Gambier Islands, the Marquesas Islands, and the coral Tubuai Islands (Austral Islands). Choose any destination you like.
All islands are known for their spectacular beauty. The French Polynesia travel will transport you to the world of amazing turquoise lagoons, an abundance of flowering plants, gorgeous mountains and cascading waterfalls. The activities include adventure tours, helicopter excursions, horseback riding, tennis, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing , surfing , wind surfing , deep sea fishing , and water skiing to name but a few.
Nature is not alone in drawing visitors to the area. Another aspect that attracts many travelers to French Polynesia is its art and culture. France established its protectorate in the region in the late 19th century and traditional Polynesian culture has remained untouched by the French influence. Spectacular street performances, picturesque carnivals, dancing and music relive the streets of major cities almost each month.
French Polynesia is known for rich traditions of epic poetry and oratory (Tahiti), ingenious achievements in sculpture, decorative arts, and particularly in tattoo art, that has made Tahiti famous worldwide.
The climate is sunny and pleasant throughout the year, with an average temperature of 26 C. However, it is recommended to visit the islands in the period from June through October, when the temperature is cooler than during the rest of the year.
Tourism is the most important sector of the economy, and tourist services as well as the French Polynesia hotels meet high world standards. Transportation and communication systems are also equal to international. Several international airlines operate flights to Tahiti; French Polynesia travel from island to island is easy by plane or boat.
The bus service, called Le Truck, has a very developed network throughout the islands. Certainly, more populated islands, such as Tahiti, Morea and Bora Bora offer most sufficient services. Le Truck, a kind of a truck converted into bus, with open windows and benches on each side of a vehicle, is often offered for scenic tours around the region.
Passport and visa requirements for French Polynesia travel are rather mild. French citizens can visit French Polynesia without a passport; Western European and Scandinavian citizens can stay up to three months without a visa. Citizens of the US, Canada, New Zealand, Japan and Singapore are permitted to stay up to one month without a visa. Other visitors must receive a visa to enter the country.
Importantly, health conditions are good and continue improving. Medical facilities and services are equipped and professionally staffed for most needs. However, high quality is parallel to high price and, totally, French Polynesia travel can be twice expensive than other South Pacific destinations. But it is still cheap if compared, for instance, to European travel. Budget accommodation ranges from thirty to hundred dollars, moderate - hundred-hundred and sixty dollars, upscale - hundred and sicty dollars and upwards.
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