French Polynesia
map & advice

candid Polynesia tips

 

Map

Many of the Polynesia medal winners are in French Polynesia, a territory of France. My map locates the five island groups - and the islands that either won a medal or made my honorable mention list.

French Polynesia advice

Which Hillman Wonders
should I visit?

The five Hillman Wonder medals in French Polynesia have diverse offerings. Which is best for you? Here are two questions that will help you make the right choice.

Do you desire a
well-developed
tourism infrastructure?
If  you want, for example, upscale resorts, lively clubs, trendy water-sports, then click these links to learn about these wonders:

Bora Bora
Moorea

Do you crave a
laid-back, less touristy,
more adventurous
French Polynesia?
Then click these links:

Fatu Hiva
Nuku Hiva
Ua Pou

What about Tahiti?

Although it's French Polynesia's most world famous island, it is hardly its best. Tahiti earns my honorable mention only because of some of its Polynesian cultural performances are exhilarating. If none meet your interests or schedule, I suggest you do not stay overnight, unless air or cruise connections make it necessary.

Yes, Tahiti has a few luxury resorts, but you will likely experience a more moving Polynesian experience staying at their counterparts on Moorea, Bora Bora, and other islands.

More info on
French Polynesia

Fame

It is the best known and most visited of the Polynesian areas.

Size

French Polynesia has over 100 islands in five major island groups (archipelagoes) scattered over an area as large as Western Europe.

Government

Most government functions are controlled locally, but France maintains control in areas like defense and foreign affairs.

Flags

You may see two flags in French Polynesia. In most cases, the one of the left is raised. On official events, the French tri-color is usually hoisted. Sometimes, both fly together.

Language

Most residents speak both official languages, French and Polynesian (the latter has dialects). English is widely understood in tourism-related dealings.

Romantic

If you took a worldwide survey asking "Which is the most romantic tropical island paradise?", the foremost answer would likely be French Polynesia.

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