French Polynesia Holidays

French Polynesia holidays are expensive and vastly over-rated compared to its South Pacific neighbours making it our least favourite South Pacific destination. Many of the islands are extremely commercialised (particularly Bora Bora), extremely expensive, the traditional culture has all but vanished (except on the Marquesas and Austral Islands where it is very rich indeed) and being a French imperialistic outpost, its many French expatriate settlers are mostly arrogant and unfriendly especially if you don't speak their language - far from what the glossy brochures of the travel agents would have you believe. In fact, there is little to attract the tourist to French Polynesia except for those who are prepared to explore the vast and remote Marquesas Islands where Paul Gauguin himself found the most peaceful and beautiful, or the equally stunning and remote Austral Islands.

There are of course a couple of exceptions - sailing is fantastic and if you're looking for a commercial cruise, then French Polynesia offers great opportunities with its stunning mountain landscapes. The only other reason to visit French Polynesia is if you are looking for an upmarket romantic escape, staying in an over water bungalow with fantastic lagoon views, with great French cuisine, and preferably on a small uninhabited island cut off from the world - but then, in reality, you're not in French Polynesia at all.

For non-French speakers who are looking for a relaxing tropical holiday and a little culture and interaction with the local people, I would highly recommend they let this dream go and instead visit the neighbouring islands of Fiji, Samoa or the Cook Islands where you will get all the above in addition to something very special - genuine hospitality and charming people.


International flights to French Polynesia

Travel Insurance is advisable for any visit to French Polynesia as medical fees are extremely high.

Internal Flights, Sea Transfers and Car Hire

Tour Operators

Package Holidays


Readers may also be interested in the following destinations:

Fiji Holidays Guide
Cook Islands Holidays Guide
Samoa Holidays Guide
Tonga Holidays Guide
French Polynesia Holidays Guide
Hawaii Holidays Guide

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