Map of French Polynesia

An enormous collection of breath-taking islands, each being parallel to heaven, French Polynesia is indeed one of the best travel spots you would ever visit across the globe. The beauty of lush beaches, the charm of turquoise waters, and foremost, the loving people of French Polynesia, make your visit worth it! You would never feel such a frank touch of oceanic air with a delightful beach exposure anywhere else. Stay with us throughout this article to get some intriguing information about this loving country.

Where is French Polynesia located on the world map?

Where is French Polynesia, many people get it wrong! That’s because the name includes French, so they may think of it as a territory situated within France. French Polynesia Islands are an overseas group of archipelagos governed by France. The country is linked to France but does not share any border or location with it. French Polynesia is in open waters of the South Pacific Ocean. Far away, to the northeast is North America and to the southwest is Australia. The nearest neighbour of French Polynesia is the country of Cook Islands that is also in the southwest direction.

French Polynesia population

According to the latest United Nations records, the country has a population of 281,310 individuals that equals to almost 0% of all world population. On the official list of countries (and dependencies) by population as issued by the UN statistics, French Polynesia manages to acquire the 185th position. Although the islands are partitioned by pacific waters, the total land area stretches about 3660 square kilometers. With that much land territory, the population density is 77 people per square kilometer. Like every developed country, a big portion of the population (more than 64%) lives in urban areas. According to a recent estimate, at present, 18,188 people of its total population have an urban lifestyle. The median age is 33.6 years, and 44% of the people are aged between 25 to 54 years old. The yearly percentage change in population remains almost flat between 2010 to 2020 at c0.6%.

The ethnic composition comprises locals known as Polynesians, Europeans from French lineage, and Asians from Chinese ancestry. They make up 78%, 12%, and 10% of the overall population respectively. The dominant religion is Christianity split at 33% protestants, 31% Catholics, and 8% from various other Christian groups. The rest of the people are of mixed religious affiliations comprising Mormons, Chinese religions, and nonbelievers.

French Polynesia language

This nation has diverse languages spoken across the Polynesian islands; however, the major languages spoken are French followed by Tahitian. They are both considered as the official languages of the country, but that’s not always the case. According to the constitutional amendment made in 1996, the only official language is French, however, the law does mention that Tahitian and others are also included. More than 70% of people speak French here. The other Polynesian languages spoken in local territories include Marquesan in the Marquesas Islands, Tuamotuan in Tuamotu, Mangarevan in the Gambier Islands, Reo Tahiti in the island of Tahiti, and Pitkern in Pitcairn. English is the third language and a requirement if you work in the hospitality industry. Moreover, the young generation of French Polynesia is quite eager towards learning English, all thanks to the American singers and music influencers.

French Polynesia Flag Facts

French Polynesian flag comprises three horizontal stripes red, white, and red in a proportion of 1:2:1. The white band is in the middle and twice as wide as each of the red bands. Each red streak is 25cm in width, and thus the white one is 50 cm wide. Within the centre, the white stripe has a disc of around 43cm in diameter that encloses the national coat of arms. This symbol consists of a Polynesian canoe sailing over blue waters under the bright sun. The blue and white waves represent the ocean whereas the gold and white lanes portray the sunlight. Five passengers signified as five stars sitting within the canoe.

French Polynesia Flag meaning

The national flags are not a mere show-off but a symbol of integrity, dignity, and the strength of a nation. A lot of effort and intellect is invested in designing them as they are a permanent symbol of a land’s pride. Like all country flags, French Polynesia also exhibits a profound and remarkable message hidden in its flag design. Red and white are the traditional and official colors. The coat of arms represents the sea as well as the sun resources. The five stars sitting in the canoe are the 5 archipelagos Austral, Gambier, Marquesas, Society and Tuamotu chains respectively. The flag sums up the vigour, independence, assets, and obligation of the nation.

What to do in French Polynesia?

Not only the world-famous Bora Bora and Tahiti beaches, but the country is home to more than 100 islands all filled with thrill, adventure, and a sensation of self-discovery. It is the place where one requires less but enjoys more. Don’t worry about a checklist because taking just a swimsuit will be enough. You won’t find clubs and metro festivities, but peaceful exposure to the sun, sand, and water instead. The country is like a museum constructed by mother nature! Here are some of the coolest things to do in French Polynesia:

Magic Mountain! As the name speaks you will feel an eye bound magic of nature with its all magnificence. The mountain hikes are always an adventure regardless of location but when you think of climbing over a hill with volcanic crests, the thrill grabs your heart like a bead in the fist. Magic Mountain on Moorea has volcanic spots and offers a 3D view of the island from its peak.
Tahiti! Take a touristic Tahiti map with you to explore every corner with its fullest excitement. The natural wonders will hug you like a welcoming host taking all the stress off your weary shoulders. Some must-visit hotspots here include Fautaua Waterfall, Papenoo Beach, The Museum of Tahiti and Her Islands, and Vaipahi Gardens.
Bora Bora vacation makes you go beyond relaxation and fills the heart with an inspiration to assimilate life pleasures. Bora Bora resorts are tourist-friendly, and some of them also provide guiding services. The famous spots here include Matira Beach, Coral Gardens, Mount Otemanu, and many more. You also find a chance to feed the sharks.
Spending a couple of days at natural spots will inculcate in you a curiosity to experience the city life. When you get that feel, go straight to Papeete, the Capital of French Polynesia. Move around the Papeete’s main market to observe closely the culture and the social outlook of natives.

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