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AustralAsia > FrenchPolynesia > Introduction
FRENCH POLYNESIA |
| The volcanic
islands and atolls of French Polynesia lie scattered around like so many gemstones against
the perfect blue of the South Pacific, girdled by underwater reefs that teem with the
myriad hues of coral polyps and marine creatures. The first impression of the islands is
of a garden paradise, where everything is ever so lush and ripe, the air redolent with the
fragrance of frangipani and hibiscus and the sweet, heady aroma of vanilla and pineapple. |
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Mountains
and volcanoes, deep green rainforests and black sandy beaches, waterfalls and lagoons
– the landscape is as varied as the people are charming.
Welcome to the “Islands Beyond the Ordinary” – Mecca for holidaymakers,
Eden for honeymooners. The island of love, surfers paradise and beach bums delight, a
living laboratory for anthropologists and marine biologists, the most beautiful place in
the world – Welcome to French Polynesia. |
F A C
T B O X |
| Full Country name |
French
Polynesia |
| Area |
5
million sq kms |
| Population |
200,000 |
| Capital |
Papeete |
| Language |
Tahitian
and French |
| People |
83%
Polynesians (Maohis), 12% Europeans, 5%Asians |
Religion |
55%
Protestant, 30% Catholic |
| French Polynesia Government |
Overseas
Territory of the Republic of France |
| Territory President |
Oscar Temaru (since 3 March 2005) |
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