French Polynesia (Tahiti) - Travel Report

French Polynesia is a French overseas country located in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. It is made up of several groups of islands, the largest and most populated of which is Tahiti. The capital is Papeete. French and Tahitian are official languages. Tourist facilities are well developed and are available on the major islands. There is no U.S. Embassy or Consulate in French Polynesia. However, there is a U.S. Consular Agent in French Polynesia who provides assistance to American citizens. To contact the Consular Agent, call (689) 42 65 35 or fax (689) 50 80 96 or e-mail usconsul@mail.pf. The average GDP of French Polynesia is $4.58 billion (2001 est.). The major exports of French Polynesia are cultured pearls, mother-of-pearl, coconut products, vanilla and shark meat. The predominant export partners of French Polynesia are Japan, the United States, France, New Caledonia and the Netherlands. The primary imports of French Polynesia are fuels, foodstuffs, machinery and equipment. The main import partners of French Polynesia are France, Australia, the United States, New Zealand, and Germany. The predominant religion in French Polynesia is Protestant; therefore a large segment of the population will observe traditional Protestant holidays and customs. Travelers are to be advised that the cyclone season is from November through April. French Polynesia is located in a high seismic activity area. Information regarding general disaster preparedness can be obtained from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.