French Polynesia welcomes its first tourists

French Polynesia this weeк welcomed the first foreign tourists after four months of temporary suspension of international flights due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The overseas community in the Pacific was closed to travelers a few days after the first cases of coronavirus were reported. Only 62 were identified. Today, the virus is no longer circulating in Polynesia.

Since March, only about ten flights have been operated between Paris and Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia. Funded by France, they allowed the repatriation of Polynesians stranded in the metropolis, provide sanitary evacuation, and deliver goods, including medical supplies.

All passengers arriving in Polynesia were subjected to a 14-day quarantine, which was reduced to 7 days from July 1. Now the quarantine is being lifted in order to ensure the resumption of tourism, which is the main sector of the local economy.

However, foreign citizens are required to take a COVID-19 test 72 hours before departure, and another one four days after arrival. The second test should be done by travelers themselves using a special kit that is issued to them on arrival. It is also mandatory to wear protective masks in public places.

All arrivals from abroad are required to indicate their address and travel route. A fine of 750 euros may be imposed for violating the regulations.

Meanwhile, the island of Tahiti, the largest island of French Polynesia, also opened its borders to tourists from the United States, where the COVID-19 epidemic is not abating, but which is one of the main tourist markets for Polynesia.