The Islands of Tahiti open back up to international travellers from 1st May

The President of French Polynesia, Mr. Edouard Fritch traveled to Paris to meet several members of the French government and President Mr. Emmanuel Macron.

The following subjects have been discussed in particular:

• The COVID-19 pandemic in French Polynesia has improved and is under control with less than 20 new cases per week, thanks to the protective measures enforced;

• The vaccination campaign is accelerating in The Islands of Tahiti where vaccination against COVID-19 is now open to all;

• New entry formalities taking into account vaccinated people and immunized travelers are being finalised.

• The degraded economic and social context of the islands, which are heavily dependent on tourism, have been widely debated.

Back in Tahiti, the President of French Polynesia made the official announcement during a press conference this morning, Wednesday April 7, that The Islands of Tahiti will reopen to tourism from 1st May.

Regarding entry conditions, he said, “We are going to put in place a protocol at the entry of our borders using virological testing, serological testing, vaccine and ETIS (Electronic Travel Information System). We will explain this protocol in detail with the High Commissioner in the coming days”.

We will keep you informed of this protocol as soon as it becomes official.

“Safe Travels by WTTC” is the world’s first global health and safety label for travel and tourism, designed specifically to deal with COVID-19 and other similar health situations. After reviewing the protocols and awareness actions deployed by French Polynesia, Mrs. Gloria GUEVARA, President and CEO of the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), declared that she was delighted to recognise the country’s efforts in the implementation of health security measures in accordance with the global “Safe Travels by WTTC” protocols.

Located in the South Pacific, The Islands of Tahiti consist of 118 islands and atolls, made up of the well-known Society Islands including Tahiti and Bora Bora, Tuamotu Islands, Gambier Islands, Austral Islands and Marquesas Islands.

Known for being an artist’s residence to the likes of Gauguin and Matisse, The Islands of Tahiti are the birthplace of Polynesian culture. The locals are warm and welcoming, whilst exuding a humble spirit and proudly sharing their traditions and heritage with visitors.

The current Embraced by Mana campaign highlights the diversity of the destination, bringing to life the duality of seclusion and adventure and connecting all islands. Access from the UK is usually via Paris or Los Angeles with connections from Air Tahiti Nui.