French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France, comprises more than 100 islands in the South Pacific, stretching for more than 2,000km. Divided into the Austral, Gambier, Marquesas, Society and Tuamotu archipelagos, they're known for their coral-fringed lagoons and over-the-water bungalow hotels. Island features include white- and black-sand beaches, mountains, rugged backcountry and towering waterfalls.
Temperature differences are moderate and the winters are mild but damp. It rains relatively frequently. In the East, the climate is continental. Summers are warm, with some thunderstorms, and winters are cold.
CFP franc is the currency of French Polynesia average conversion
Rate 1 CFP = INR0.67
Moorea may offer better bargains, but Papeete offers French Polynesia's greatest variety of goods. The vendors at the teepee-shaped Punaauia's Centre Artisinant sell handmade shell jewelry, colorful pareu fabrics, and vanilla beans across the parking lot from Tahiti's most modern shopping mall, Centre Moana Nui.