French-Polynesia

FRENCH-POLYNESIA

Information about travelling to French-Polynesia

French-Polynesia is located in Oceania, archipelagoes in the South Pacific Ocean about half way between South America and Australia

Facts about French-Polynesia
Population283,019 (July 2008 est.)
CapitalPapeete
Time zoneUTC-10 (5 hours behind Washington, DC during Standard Time)
Location Oceania, archipelagoes in the South Pacific Ocean about half way between South America and Australia

General info about French-Polynesia
The French annexed various Polynesian island groups during the 19th century. In September 1995, France stirred up widespread protests by resuming nuclear testing on the Mururoa atoll after a three-year moratorium. The tests were suspended in January 1996. In recent years, French Polynesia's autonomy has been considerably expanded.
Languages spoken
French 61.1% (official), Polynesian 31.4% (official), Asian languages 1.2%, other 0.3%, unspecified 6% (2002 census)
Ethnic division
Polynesian 78%, Chinese 12%, local French 6%, metropolitan French 4%
HIV/AIDS prevalence rate
NA
Climate
tropical, but moderate
Resources
timber, fish, cobalt, hydropower
Economy
Since 1962, when France stationed military personnel in the region, French Polynesia has changed from a subsistence agricultural economy to one in which a high proportion of the work force is either employed by the military or supports the tourist industry. With the halt of French nuclear testing in 1996, the military contribution to the economy fell sharply. Tourism accounts for about one-fourth of GDP and is a primary source of hard currency earnings. Other sources of income are pearl farming and deep-sea commercial fishing. The small manufacturing sector primarily processes agricultural products. The territory benefits substantially from development agreements with France aimed principally at creating new businesses and strengthening social services.
Environment
NA

Cities in French-Polynesia



Airports in French-Polynesia
AtuonaAUQ
HuahineHUH
MataivaMVT
FaaaPPT


Beer in French-Polynesia (0.33l)
HUAHINE~ 2.5 EUR
Papeete~ 3.8 EUR

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