Travel Updates for French Polynesia
Those who dream of visiting the paradise islands of French Polynesia will have to wait a while longer as it is closing again to international visitors from 3 February.
Moreover, the South Pacific archipelago had previously reopened on 15 July. However, following a spike in cases, it has shut down again in an effort to curb the impact of COVID-19. When the pandemic struck in March 2020, French Polynesia closed to visitors, and at that point, it had registered 62 cases of the virus. After reopening in July and removing compulsory quarantine requirements, the numbers subsequently rose to 18,000 cases.
Under the new regulations, travelers who are currently on the islands can leave when their trip is over. Inbound travelers cannot enter the territory; however, exceptions have been made for those entering due to the death of a family member, medical emergencies, administrative or judicial summons, or if they are health professionals working to address COVID-19.
Exploring the Islands
French Polynesia is comprised of 118 islands, including the showstoppers, Tahiti and Bora Bora. Sculpted by sky-piercing, moss-green peaks and lined with vivid turquoise lagoons, visitors flock to these islands to experience the warm, laid-back island culture. Most high islands are surrounded by fringing reef that creates a protected swimming pool of the most intense aqua imaginable.
Fish, dolphins, rays, sharks, turtles, and more inhabit the clear-water coral gardens that are excellent for snorkeling, diving, and swimming. Consequently, the slim stretches of white, pink, and black-sand beaches serve as pretty springboards into the real draw: the lagoons.
For further information on what is required of travelers entering French Polynesia, please see here.
This article was first published Jun 11, 2020 and updated Feb 2, 2021.
