Club Outre-mers (Overseas) Presse pack

PRESS KIT
ATOUT FRANCE
The “Club Outre-mers”
(Overseas Club)
Press contact for Romania:
Ms Gordana MALIC
ATOUT FRANCE in Austria & Central Europe
Tel: +43 1503 28 92 24
E-mail: [email protected]
www.franceguide.com
1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXOTIC FRANCE
Presentation
page 3
A Honeymoon in paradise
page 5
Spectacular nature - Environmental protection and sustainable
page 7
development
Overseas ecotourism
page 14
Adventurous destinations
page 17
Exotic flavours
page 21
Histories and identities
page 22
New
page 27
OVERSEAS TOURISM, A GREAT ADVANTAGE FOR FRANCE
The Club Outre-Mers of ATOUT FRANCE
ATOUT FRANCE
page 32
page 33
2
EXOTIC FRANCE
Overseas France, often called by the abbreviated DOM-TOM (Overseas Departments and
Territories) is a collective description of all the territories under French sovereignty outside
metropolitan France.
It is comprises of 11 French overseas territories, to which should be added, to leave nothing
out, the islands scattered over the Indian Ocean and Clipperton.
There are divided into three distinct geographic areas:
Atlantic Ocean
- Islands of Guadeloupe
- Saint-Barthélemy
- Saint-Martin
- French Guiana
- Martinique
- Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon
South Pacific
- New Caledonia
- Tahiti and her islands
- Wallis et Futuna
Indian Ocean
- Reunion
- Mayotte
- French Southern and
Antarctic Lands
Its assets
• A tropical or equatorial climate, particularly pleasant for foreign tourists, especially
during the winter.
• Natural wealth and a protected and maintained heritage.
• The environment benefits from a good level of protection due to the application of
the national regulations.
• Quality health and public safety facilities, which have become a determining factor
when choosing destinations.
• Air service and appropriate airport equipment.
• Use of the euro (or in the Pacific a currency with fixed parity with the euro)
guarantees that there is no risk of price increases due to the exchange rate and
makes offers easy to understand, as the Overseas Departments and Territories have
the benefit of European standards.
France’s overseas territories are located on the coast, under the tropics (except for SaintPierre-et-Miquelon, north-west of Canada), ensuring that France is present in all the oceans
and in all parts of the world and offering 11 million km2 of maritime territory.
The attraction of being part of France is a great advantage for the overseas territories, which
benefit from France’s image as the world’s number one tourist destination, combining, in
the tourist’s eyes, tropical charm and the French way of life ("French touch").
3
Unique tourism offers:
Honeymoons
The vastness of the white sandy beaches, the ocean's turquoise depth and
the bewitching perfume of the tropical flowers make Overseas France the
most beautiful destination to celebrate a union or to
experience a wonderful love story.
A Journey through time …
Overseas France is an original mixture of peoples, traditions and
culture, originating in Africa, Asia and Europe.
The love of festivities, to the rhythm of traditional music
and songs, is the common ground for all these people:
an explosion of joy, of colour and life!
Activities to everyone's taste
Walking trails, flora and fauna, the sea beds, rivers,
waterfalls, volcanoes and oceans, delight walkers, scuba diving
enthusiasts and lovers of water sports. With its 10 greens, Overseas
France also offers the best environments for enjoyable rounds of golf.
A real return to the roots…
Each territory boats its own unique nature which reveals
itself to those who take the time to discover it. Lush
vegetation, breathtaking views, forests and mountains,
nature reserves and parks, Overseas France will teach you
how to live at nature's pace.
4
A HONEYMOON IN PARADISE
With their pleasant climate and heavenly natural scenery, the islands of French Polynesia
and New Caledonia are ideal destinations for a honeymoon or a wedding anniversary.
The French Polynesian Islands guarantee a dream holiday. Weather vagaries almost
unknown and unchanged landscapes make for a magnificent scenery and serenity.
After an intercontinental flight to Papeete, on the island of Tahiti, there are two ways of
getting to the atoll -motu- chosen on the Bora-Bora side, Taha'a, Moorea, the Tuamotu: a
little regional plane or a boat crossing. It is essential to spend at least one week there to take
full advantage of these holidays at the end of the earth.
Accommodation. In Polynesia, the hotels are generally made up of luxury bungalows under
the coconut trees or modern, comfortable rooms built on stilts in a marvellous lagoon.
These "islet hotels" are part of the landscape without being confined in the same area, and
provide a discreet service: each couple can enjoy this paradise in complete privacy. In
addition to their legendary hospitality, these unique hotels also offer such classic services as
water therapy and spa treatments.
Activities. Swimming and diving in a safe lagoon intersperse this escapade for sweethearts.
Flippers, a mask and a snorkel are all that's needed to locate and observe the natural
treasures two or three metres deep down. This Polynesian holiday is also an opportunity to
visit a pearl oyster farm and to bring back a unique souvenir.
By heading for New Caledonia, young married couples opt not only for other magnificent
beaches but also for a certain novelty. They can select a more nomadic holiday, as tour
operators offer a wander around the "satellite" islands of Grande Terre.
Landing in Nouméa, the flower-bedecked and joyful capital, to take off again towards the
nearby Île des Pins. This island, where pine trees take over from coconut trees, is scattered
with luxury and exotic hotels.
The Islands of Lifou or Maré, a little bit wilder, abound in solitary and immaculate beaches.
5
Going to the French West Indies, Guadeloupe and Martinique, means deciding on a shorter
journey but one that is every bit as original: rent a small, typically Creole villa, traditional
festive evenings to the rhythm of the sensual "biguine" and sample local dishes.
Various formulas offer the sweethearts a special setting to be together: a chartered yacht, a
cruising yacht (with or without a crew), or luxury cruise ships.
New in 2009: formalities for marrying foreigners relaxed.
The new provision (article 58 of the Act of 27 May 2009) set up waives the obligation for
persons of foreign nationalities wishing to celebrate their marriage in an overseas
community or in New Caledonia to reside for at least one month in the commune where the
celebration is to take place.
6
SPECTACULAR NATURE – ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Active volcanoes, rainforests or coral reefs make up the unforgettable setting for
"discovery" holidays. From the cirques of Reunion to the West Indian mangroves, from the
Amazon forest in French Guiana to the dry plains of the Kanak land, as far as the Pacific
atolls, all exotic landscapes to be discovered by lovers of ecotourism or nature hikes.
The French Overseas Departments and Territories contain an exceptional nature, particularly
rich in biodiversity. Aware of the fragility of the ecosystems, the authorities and tourism
professionals have undertaken to preserve this heritage.
The Guadeloupe Islands
A national park covers most of the tropical forest and mountainous volcanic area in the
southern half of the island called Basse-Terre. Some ten rural cottages, various outdooractivity services (e.g., sea kayaking), as well as diverse ecotourism sites (e.g., archeological
park of stone carvings, water garden) are all to be found within the park.
The vegetation in Guadeloupe is very extravagant. The altitude stages of the “Piton de la
Soufrière” (1497 m high) enable the distinction to be made between the wet forest with 70
species of giant ferns and big trees to be seen, the rather dry "mesophilic" forest, and the
banana plantations. The park contains the island's most prestigious sites: the Deux
Mamelles, the Carbet Falls and, above all, La Soufrière. This group of very varied marine and
land environments harbour numerous protected species, rich from the ecological, landscape
and cultural point of view.
Called "traces", 260 km of marked paths criss-cross the slopes of La Soufrière, where the
great waterfalls can be admired. The peak, often lost in the clouds from December to
February, can be reached by experienced walkers.
The northern part, called Grande-Terre, is a plain covered with large sugar cane plantations.
The National Park also co-ordinates the Nature Reserve of the "Grand cul-de-sac marin",
located between the Grande Terre and the Basse-Terre north of the Salée River: it comprises
mangrove swamps, marsh forests, salt water marshes, wet meadows, coral reefs and
seagrass meadows. This area has been listed by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve since 1992.
The Guadeloupe national park
http://www.guadeloupe-parcnational.com
7
Guadeloupe's new Quality approach
- Higher quality of accommodation:
La Creole Beach Resort & Spa****, the Toubana & Spa****, the Plantation Resort Golf and
Spa****, the Club Med****, the Fort Royal***, all these recently inaugurated or renovated
structures reflect an overall policy of improving the quality of the destination.
- Involvement of the Guadeloupe Islands Tourist Board in quality:
In October 2006, by signing a joint charter, all the tourism professionals in Guadeloupe
expressed the intention of orientating the islands towards sustainable and high-quality
tourism. The aim of such a commitment was to improve the quality of the tourism offer, to
provide it with legibility, to provide guarantees to their visitors while diversifying the client
base and making the destination accessible to all. The CTIG (Guadeloupe Tourist Board)
became involved in three "Quality" approaches recognised from the national and
international standpoint: a project to obtain ISO 9001 certification within the organisation; a
"Guadeloupe Quality Destination", a territorial quality system recognised by the national
Qualité Tourism™ trade mark for Guadeloupe's hotels and restaurants; setting up the
national "Tourism et Handicap" seal of approval.
- The "Tourisme et Handicap" seal of approval launched in Guadeloupe
This approach to create awareness, launched at the beginning of 2009, and which should see
an increase in the number of accommodation structures with the seal of approval, should
encourage professionals to develop this offer and to provide disabled persons with reliable
and objective information on accessibility to the sites and tourism equipment.
Martinique
The regional nature park was created in 1976 to protect and develop the Martinique nature
and landscape. It covers a large part of the island: the Caravelle nature reserve in the north
of the park, the bird sanctuary on the Sainte Anne islets in the south of the park, the natural
developed sites such as the Tivoli Domain or again the Estripault Domain. Through its
charter, the Martinique Park undertakes to play a part in controlling how the territory
evolves; protecting the natural heritage and the landscapes; to enhance the status of the
natural cultural heritage for the benefit of the island's sustainable development, to develop
welcome, information and education to the public (rewrite).
A magnificent virgin forest particularly comprised of giant gum trees and bamboos is to be
found at the foot of Mount Pelée, an active volcano 1397m high. Marked hiking trails called
"traces", make it possible to climb to the peak in 6 hours.
Other hikes are there to be discovered in the north-west of the Caribbean coast, particularly
on the 20 km between Pêcheur and Grand'Rivière (cap Saint-Martin). Paths cross the various
plantations growing sugar cane, bananas or again cocoa beans. The regional park's head
office is in the Tivoli Domain, close to Fort-de-France.
http://www.martiniquetourisme.com/
Saint-Martin: new hiking trails in the RNN
Ten years ago, the island proved itself to be a forerunner in terms of ecology and sustainable
tourism. The Saint-Martin Nature Reserve, in the north-east of the island, was inaugurated
in 1998, aimed at protecting the biodiversity of the three ecosystems it harbours and with
the intention of making the general public aware this rare environment must be protected.
8
A paradise for nature lovers, the reserve stretches over 3060 hectares, partly on land and
partly on the sea. On land, a large number of species of sea birds, iguanas, racoons and
mongooses freely develop in a delightful landscape made up of rocky coasts, beaches, ponds
and mangrove swamps, filled with red mangrove trees.
At sea, from January to May, turtles and, farther out, humpback whales can be seen; sea
grass beds and coral beds shelter a multitude of molluscs and fish, to the great delight of
scuba divers.
A new trail was inaugurated in 2009: the "Sentier de Froussards", which links Anse Marcel
to the Grandes Cayes beach and which enables the least developed part of the island to be
explored, through a xerophilous forest.
www.iledesaintmartin.org
French Guiana
Established since February 2007, the Guiana Amazonian National Park has been protecting
a very special environment and its inseparable cultural heritage (the Maripa-Soula
Amerinidian people, and other communities). This territory covers 3.4 million hectares, or
four times more than Corsica!
On the edge of the Amazon basin, a Regional Natural Park covers an area of 6,998 km2, with
two focuses: to the east, the Kaw marshes and, to the west, the communes of Mana and
Awala-Yalimapo.
Apart from the fact of harbouring one of the last stable populations of black caimans in the
world, the park is also one of the largest areas Luth turtles lay their eggs.
It is easy to reach this primitive nature by pirogue, by going up the rivers called creeks.
Exploring it starts either from the north, at Saint-Laurent du Maroni, or from the south-east
at Régina. During the stopovers, you can have a meal and sleep in a hammock under the
carbet, a simple palm leaf roof used as a cabin. During the night, the forest continues to live
and produce a thousand sounds. In the heart of the primeval forest, the vast Kaw marsh is
an essential stop to see the multicoloured birds and the caimans.
On the coast, the famous "Luth" turtle can be approached.
This is the largest of the seven marine species and can
measure up to two metres long and weigh more than 600
kg. In fact, this rare and fragile species uses the Guiana
beaches as a breeding site.
The Luth turtle cannot live in captivity, so its natural
breeding must be preserved. The places where it lays its
eggs are close to Sinnamary and the Amana, a nature reserve supported by the WWF
(international organisation for the protection of the environment). Seeing these unique
turtles lay their eggs and their hatching out is an unforgettable memory.
The nature reserve on the island of Grand Connétable 15 km out into the Approuage
estuary, adds to this system. It contains the only protected marine area on the Amazon
9
coast, and rare or threatened species, such as the green turtles or giant groupers, can be
found there.
The Oyapock basin: a concentrate of nature and culture
Located two hours from Cayenne, the Oyapock basin is rich in natural, historic and human
treasures. Along this river 370 km long, budding explorers have the opportunity of visiting
the Amerindian communities, and seeing their almost unchanged ways of life and their
traditions. They can also venture into the heart of the Amazon in a pirogue as far as
communes such as Ouanary or even Saint-George where mixed-race cultures await them.
Some archaeological sites are clustered at Montagne d’Argent, where the region's rich past
and that of the first Amerindian people is recounted up to the 19th century.
L’Ilet-la-Mère: nature and trips off the Cayenne coast
Open to the public since 1er July 2009, this island, off the coast of Cayenne, is a paradise for
lovers of wildlife. Known as the "monkey island" as it is inhabited by a large number of
friendly squirrel monkeys, the island can be visited along a 3.5 km hiking trail so that a the
vegetation native to the Guiana coast as well as an enormous number of animal species can
be observed. The company Autremer runs boat crossings from Cayenne (30 min) for one-day
visits.
http://www.tourisme-guyane.com
Reunion
This island has two volcanoes.
The highest is called the Piton des Neiges - 3069 m-. This is an extinct volcano whose peak
may be coloured for short periods by frost, or very exceptionally, by snow. This is where its
name comes from.
The Piton de la Fournaise -2632 m- is a permanently active volcano. Its enormous crater,
with a lunar appearance, can be crossed on foot, by strictly following the marks painted over
a safe route. Its periodic eruptions are a unique spectacle.
Reunion has beautiful beaches and a small lagoon. Its nature, primitive, mountainous and
tropical, will arouse the enthusiasm of hikers and amateur naturalists. A very strong local
commitment protects this imposing and very special environment.
In the centre of the island, rare landscapes can be viewed from the "Les Hauts" mountain.
The steep Salazie and Cilaos calderas boast numerous, spectacular waterfalls. Hikers
particularly appreciate the Mafate caldera, a deep basin surrounded by ridges.
To the east, the rainforest of Bébour-Bélouve is located where the vegetation, due to the
humid climate, is very dense. Other spectacles to be discovered, the canyons of Takamaka
and the Trou de Fer, an enormous shaft several metres deep, whose vertical walls pour
impressive cataracts into the heart of the virgin forest.
The coastal path at Sainte-Rose and the waterfall cove, are more private. The breaking
waves prevent swimming but do not discourage daring fishermen in boats.
10
The best way of exploring this island is on foot. A topo-guide produced by the Fédération
Française de Randonnée (French Hiking Federation) identifies all the itineraries, - main GR
trails - R1 and R2- and the guest-houses and refuges.
A large number of services are proposed on the spot to manage the excursions: guides,
canyoning instructors, etc.
The Maison de la Montagne, in Saint-Denis de la Réunion: for more information.
http://www.reunion-nature.com – E-mail: [email protected]
The ninth largest French national park, set up in 2007, covers 40% of the island of Reunion,
concerns 23 communes and contains more than 300 native plant species, original wildlife
and an active volcano.
New: Since 1 August 2010, the Pitons, Cirques and Ramparts on Reunion Island have been
inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The prestigious classification applies to the
island’s national park, which is filled with tropical forest.
Since the 1970s, the island's coral reefs have suffered considerable damage from natural
causes such as cyclones and/or anthropic causes (pollution, over fishing, etc.). To deal with
this situation, in 2007 Reunion opened a National Marine Nature Reserve covering 35 km²,
incorporating 80% of the island's coral reefs (world-wide only 5% of coral reefs benefit from
protective measures).
Fifteen communes have also joined together in a network, under the trade mark Villages
Créoles®, and are committed to a responsible quality approach. The network's aim is to take
part in the development of people and territories, and to contributing to protecting the
environment, natural resources and biodiversity. In 2007, it won a Responsible Tourism
Trophy in the cultural and heritage category.
www.reunion.fr
New Caledonia
Since 8 July 2008, the New Caledonian lagoon has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage
Site, the first time for a French Overseas Territory. Close to 15,000 km2 out of the 23,000 km2
of the New Caledonian lagoon benefit from this international recognition.
UNESCO has listed a group of six New Caledonian sites, including the lagoon, the coral reef
and the mangrove swamp. Among them:
• In the South, the Grand Lagon Sud and the west coastal area,
• In the North, the northern and eastern coastal areas and the Grand Lagon Nord,
• The Loyalty Islands, the Atolls of Ouvéa and Beautemps-Beaupré,
• And farther out to sea, the Entrecasteaux Atolls.
To become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the sites suggested have to meet four criteria:
• An ecological and biological process with remarkable evolution of the ecosystems.
• The presence of habitats with the biodiversity in an excellent state of preservation, as well
as endangered and symbolic species.
11
• Exception natural beauty.
• Constitute examples representative of the earth's history.
Surrounded by a coral reef 1,600 km long, New Caledonia is the country with the largest
lagoon in the world. At certain points on the coast, the coral reef is only a few kilometres
from the coast, at others, as far as 65 km away. Its flora and fauna are unique in the world
with more than 1,000 species of fish and 6,500 species of unique marine invertebrates,
making it an extraordinary destination.
On terra firma, the dry plains of the north-west coast, called savane à niaoulis or again la
brousse (the bush), look like a scene from a western. Around Bourail, there are a large
number of cattle stations and mounted stockmen. The latter often accompany tourists
experienced in pony trekking. There are about ten ranches available around Bourail.
To the north of Koné, a primeval forest still exists. Seen from the sky, it represents the
famous Heart of Voh, the symbolic shape of the vegetation drawn by nature. Its photograph
taken by Yann Arthus-Bertrand has toured the world.
To the south, around Nouméa, there is a large number of wilderness areas, in this region
known for its nickel mining. Almost 3,300 plant species have been recorded, three-quarters
of which are native to the country.
http://www.nouvellecaledonietourisme-sud.com/en
Tahiti and its Islands
Famous for their magnificent beaches and their postcard lagoons, where scuba diving makes
it easy to discover an exceptional underwater nature, the large Pacific islands (such as
Moorea, Raietea or Tahiti) are made up of particularly attractive mountains and virgin
forests.
Close to Papeete, the experienced hiker can envisage climbing Mount Aorai – 2066 m high –
avoiding the rainy season between December and February. Less developed, the Marquesa
Islands are also a paradise for hiking enthusiasts.
Faced with the problems caused by global warming in particular, French Polynesia and its
actors are getting into action to save its heritage and its species. Here are the main initiatives
taken to protect the flora and fauna:
The centre for the protection of the sea turtles is a scientific and tourist project set up in
1999 by the enterprise Pae Tai Pae Uta, in which Le Méridien Bora Bora is taking an active
part.
In co-ordination with the ministries concerned, a team is working for the care and
convalescence of sea turtles rescued by volunteers. The turtles, adults or babies, are taken in
and then released when they are sufficiently strong to escape from their future predators.
www.boraboraturtles.com
12
On Moorea, since 2004, a clinic for marine turtles has been taking in and treating sick or
injured turtles. Set up by the Ministry of the Environment in Polynesia under a programme
to protect sea turtles, the Turtle's Clinic, located within the InterContinental Moorea Resort
& Spa hotel, is managed by the association "te mana o te moana". Since it was set up, the
clinic has taken in 110 turtles and 33 of them were released afterwards.
When Denis Schneider, a biologist, warned about the threats to the coral, the management
of the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & Spa decided to support the establishment of the coral
nursery. This genuine undersea laboratory is above all intended to protect and care for the
endangered coral so that it can grow in a protected environment. It also enables the
mysteries of this ecosystem to be studied under the best conditions. In 2001, artificial
concrete reefs were built underwater to serve as a base for the coral colonies and to slow
down the effects of the seabed currents. Today, the nursery shelters more than 91 reefs
bearing more than 3,000 coral colonies.
Since 2006, Fakarava and six other atolls around the Tuamotu islands are listed by UNESCO
as a biosphere reserve. Fakarava is a coral ring 60 km long by 25 km wide, famous for its
clear water. Created with the aim of protecting the great diversity of its undersea species,
the Fakarava biosphere reserve covers 270,000 ha of land and sea. Apart from protecting the
lagoon, its aim is to save the large number of species native to the atoll, particularly the birds
and turtles.
http://www.tahiti-tourisme.fr
Mayotte, the most southern island in the Comoros
Ecotourism is become an important element for the island, whose waters are the crossing
point for cetaceans and dolphins. Special "safaris" are run to observe the whales. All through
the year, one can also observe and swim with the dolphins in the Mayotte lagoon.
Not forgetting observing protected marine species, such as sea turtles, which lay their eggs
on the beaches of the Saziley reserve.
http://www.mayotte-tourisme.com/
13
OVERSEAS ECOTOURISM
Overseas France suggests magnificent "nature" destinations thanks to its protected
landscape and also its good addresses, which are becoming more and more environmentally
friendly.
These charming “gîtes” (rural cottages) and guest houses – frequently members of the
French Association for Ecotourism – as a principle, have selected solar water heating, low
consumption light bulbs, selective waste sorting or the use of natural ventilation rather than
electric air-conditioning!
Reunion, a mountain in the sea
Apart from high-quality Clubs and Residences, the hiking refuges and “gîtes”, isolated and
rustic but so friendly, in the Mafate caldera, or again towards the Salazie wet forests and as
far as the Piton de la Fournaise crater. A way of become completely absorbed in the local
culture.
One can be sure of finding guest houses with "eco" appeal or set in a lovely natural
environment.
Baobab and palm trees, a charming eco-lodge
Situated at “Etang-salé”, in the south-west of the island, on the side of a mountain,
overlooking the ocean, this charming address offers four bungalows and studios around an
authentic Creole cabin and in a tropical garden with a swimming pool. A location referenced
by the sustainable tourism “Guide du Routard” and which is also a member of the French
Ecotourism Association.
http://www.baobabetpalmiers.com/
Polynesia, the maritime Garden of Eden
To set off, to get away from the Bora-Bora luxury hotels and drift through the lagoon and
share a unique approach: this is what a couple of experienced sailors suggest who welcome
you to their yacht to sail around Rangiroa (access by air from Papeete or Raiatea).
Life in blue: Eco-cruise and naturalist scuba diving in Polynesia
Two formulas bring the passengers-sailors close to real authenticity:
- The "biosphere" cruise (between April and July: minimum stay of two weeks) allows plenty
of scuba diving or sailing, to observe the fish or the birds, around the island of Rangiroa,
which has one of the largest atolls in the world. This lagoon, with a circumstance of 200
kilometres, is comprised almost entirely of a small inland sea. The Fakarava zone (rarely
visited) is classified as a Biosphere Reserve, particularly for its coral forests. An invitation to
discover the special nature of this exceptional ecosystem.
- The sighting of large cetaceans which regularly cruise off the Leeward Islands: an
observation cruise to be planned between August and November.
http://www.tahiti-whales.com/
The InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa
Opened in 2006, the leading thalasso-spa hotel in French Polynesia has an air-conditioning
system using very deep seawater unique in the world (915 m). This very luxury hotel decided
in favour of sustainable development and ecotourism. This system, using a heat exchange
principle, results in a saving of 90% on electricity consumed by air-conditioning. This water,
very rich and pure in mineral ingredients and trace elements, protected from all pollution, is
also used in the spa. http://www.boraboraspa.interconti.com/
14
The four Intercontinental hotels in Polynesia (Tahiti Resort; Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa;
Moorea Resort & Spa, Bora Bora Le Moana Resort) and the three hotels in the South Pacific
Management Group (Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort & spa; Taha’a Island Resort & Spa:
Manihi Pearl Beach Resort & spa) have each been given the Green Globe Benchmark Bronze
2009 international certification, rewarding their commitments towards the development of
ecotourism and their initiatives in sustainable development.
Living Polynesian style: small family hotels
To become immersed into the Polynesian way of life, there is nothing like a stay in a Small
Family-owned Hotel in one of the 250 establishments (boarding house, guest-houses, faré
(traditional Tahitian dwelling) and family-owned hotel) to share in the inhabitants daily life:
take breakfast with the family, go fishing, cook with Mama, learn how to weave, etc.
www.tahiti-pensions.com
Martinique, a genuine West Indian nature
The Tak Tak network: to come in contact with all forms of tradition and authenticity
The Agency for the Promotion of Rural and Tourism Activities (Apart), Tak Tak Martinique,
has the task of developing supportive and sustainable tourism in the northern part of the
island. This network brings together the various actors (restaurant owners, owners of
country “gîtes”, local producers, museums, etc.) and has a Quality Charter focussed on the
"Local Produce" guarantee whose aim is to make the Martinique nature known while
protecting it.
In recent years, Martinique has been developing Sustainable Tourism and is making a great
deal of efforts in agri-tourism enabling traditional practices (Creole gardens, traditional
cultural fashion, cooking with local produce, etc.) to become known.
Recent structures were created in the form of Accueils Paysans, Fermes Auberges (Farm
guest-houses):
- Le Hameau du Morne des Cadets
http://www.tonton-leon.com/adecouvrir.php?page=hameau
- Le Domaine de la Vallée - Tel: 0596 52 51 81
- La Sikri Auberge - Tel: 0596 53 81 00
- L’Auberge de la Montagne Pelée – Tel: 0696 25 06 29
- L’Hotel Cap Macabou – Tel: 0596 74 24 24
Guadeloupe, the memory of Creole cabins and plantations
The Creole heritage and West Indian style of painted wooden houses is expressed by a
collection of “gîtes” and charming guest houses.
- Eco-lodge de l'Habitation Massieux - http://www.habitation-massieux.com/
- Le gîte An-tikaz-La - http://www.tikaz-la.com/
- Les Cocotiers: pretty bungalows –
http://www.bungalows-cocotiers-guadeloupe.com/index.html
- Case de Ti Gli Gli - http://www.tigligli.com/
- Au Jardin des Colibris, a guest house set in a Creole garden
http://www.aujardindescolibris.com/index.html
- La Creolina, another attractive gîte - http://www.lacreolina.com/
15
French Guiana: a little bit of French Amazonia
A floating Eco-lodge in the heart of the Kaw Marshes
The receptive JAL Voyages has completed its range of accommodation
in the Kaw Marshes with a new floating carbet which can accommodate
up to 18 persons. The guests of this charming Eco-lodge may chose to
sleep in the open wooden cabins, or in a hammock on the upper deck
or in the Balbuzard suite, which offers a 360° view of the enchanted
landscape of this nature reserve, a paradise for water birds and
caymans. This concept, new in Guiana, brilliantly combines
environmental protection, immersion in nature while keeping modern conveniences for
travellers and a complete tourism product with guided tours and observation of the daytime and night-time wildlife.
http://www.jal-voyages.com/kaw1j.html
Saint Martin: on land and at sea
To preserve the island's biodiversity and to inform the public on how to preserve its
environment, the Réserve Naturelle Nationale (RNN, National Nature Reserve) and the
Conservatoire du littoral (the coastal authority), with the aid of the Saint-Martin local
authorities (COM), have set up a huge programme of eco-tourist developments in the heart
of the nature reserve created in 1998, which is due for completion in 2011.
The route de Coralita, which follows the coastline, is now home to a whale observatory and
two wooden shelters that are perfect for stopping to look at the scenery. An exhibition will
introduce the protected marine species to all those who walk along the path.
On the edges of the botanic path linking the two beaches of Pinel Island, two wooden
shelters have recently been provided for the visitors. The path, which was recently laid out
by the Conservatoire du littoral, is equipped with information and educational panels on the
island's geology, the coral reefs, the seagrass beds, the beach vegetation and the sea turtles.
Similarly, two orientation tables allow visitors to identify the surrounding islands and the
most beautiful spots on Pinel Island and also presenting the local plant species and birds
which frequent the island.
The locality known as "Cul-de-Sac" is also moving towards eco-tourism by setting up a trail
on piles in the mangrove around the étang Barrière. In addition to the information panels
describing the fauna and flora, the trail will include two stopping points: "The balcony in the
mangrove", with a panoramic view over the landscape, and the "secret corner", for a
pleasant relaxing break. The aim of this project is to inform tourists and the island's
inhabitants about how to preserve and protect this rare ecosystem.
www.iledesaintmartin.org
16
ADVENTURE DESTINATIONS
French Overseas territories offer varied magnificent settings for water sports and outdoor
adventures.
Water sports and also adventures "in the back of beyond" in varied and magnified settings.
Fabulous lagoons and welcoming jungles, generous climates offer the facility of sporting and
entertaining activities with appropriate supervision.
The French West Indies
Guadeloupe and Martinique combine the sea and the mountains, enabling a large number of
activities to be carried on.
Martinique
Ideal temperatures and the trade winds blowing regularly, from
December to May, favouring sailing sports close to the beach:
dinghies, windsurfing, kite surfing, and sailing.
For about 20 years, the typical native sailing boat, the round
skiff, has been winning the hearts of enthusiasts. In the first
week of August, the very popular event, the Tour de la
Martinique in round skiffs is held.
At the Saut du Gendarme, the water hike: people walk in the
fast-flowing river bed, accompanied by a guide. The interior of
the island, mountainous and with lots of fast-flowing rivers and
streams, is an ideal setting for canyoning: roping down, jumping
and sliding down the smooth rocks.
http://www.yoles-rondes.org (personal website dedicated to
« Le Tour de la Martinique »)
Guadeloupe
From December to May, conditions are ideal for
classic water sports: water skiing beside SaintFrançois, a trip along the coast in a sea canoe to
explore the mangrove swamp, underwater scuba
diving in the Cousteau reserve, the Pigeon islet
spot opposite Bouillante, or at Saintes, the tiny
neighbouring islands.
By boat, wonderful experiences are suggested:
Take a blue marlin on board a big-game fishing boat (80 euro per half-day per person on
board) or take an observation board to cruise through the sperm whale's passage, beside
Pointe Noire.
For surfers, Anse Bertrand (in February-March) or Sainte-Anne (in April-May) are the best
places.
For canyoning lovers, Guadeloupe is full of more or less steep runs, particularly through the
Plaines and the Gallion rivers (about 45 euro per half-day supervised by a qualified
17
instructor). For strong emotions, give preference to the slopes of the Soufrière volcano. Even
if the warm water allows you to do without a neoprene suit, it is however recommended
that you wear one as protection against being grazed against the rocks.
Finally, on Grande Terre, or again Marie Galante, a neighbouring island, there are
magnificent paths through the sugar cane plantations to be taken on mountain bikes.
Reunion
Aerial sports are another way of discovering the island's spectacular landscapes: paragliding
taking off from the crests of the Maïdo and Dimitile, or microlighting from the Saint-Paul
bases. These activities are supervised by professionals.
Here canyoning finds an internationally recognised venue, ideal from June to October, the
rather dry southern winter period. Various runs are suggested at each level, supervised by
qualified professionals. The “Trou blanc”, near Saint-Gilles, proposes well-equipped water
runs which allow an entertaining advance. The very high waterfalls of “Fleur jaune” or the
impressive cliffs of Takamaka or “Trou de Fer”, are themselves reserved to hardened
practitioners of the sport.
Reunion has about 20 climbing sites at various levels: climbing a small section of the cliff
near the Saint-Leu beach, or the cliff on the “Piton des Neiges” (calculate 60 euro per person
for a day's climbing with an instructor).
Friendly hiking is a local speciality. Its ideal time is April to November, and is an excellent
activity for a "discovery-adventure" holiday on Reunion. The heights are criss-crossed by
1,000 km of trails two of which are marked GR.
For the most hardy, the island can be crossed completely in 8 or 10 days, with the possibility
of stopping in “gîtes” or in refuges.
In mid-October, high-level hikers take part in a trail, a very demanding long-distance hike,
125 km long and with 8,000 metres of differences in height, on the Grand Raid (longdistance trek).
The “Maison de la Montagne” in Saint-Denis de la Reunion offers a five-day excursion for
120 participants with bivouac-camps and Creole evenings spent in the great outdoors.
This "Rando Gadiamb" on foot only has become "Rando Métisse" (“Mixed trek”): it combines
hiking, a cycle trek or a climb (calculate 385 euro per person, on the spot). Information at
the Maison de la Montagne.
http://www.reunion-nature.com (The Maison de la Montagne site)
Mayotte
This island in the Comoros group of islands is a very
captivating one. Modestly sized, it is a magnificent
setting for scuba diving and hiking. Information
documents showing the various paths to be
explored, the cultural features of this island, or
again its native wildlife, including the likeable
Maki, a mischievous lemur.
18
French Guiana
French Guiana is the gateway to the dense Amazonian forest, an ecological paradise where
exotic flowers bloom and birds blossom. Sail up the rivers – creeks – in “pirogues” (dugout
canoe), with an engine or oars, with experienced local guides, is often the only way of
getting to this "beginning of the world". “Gîtes” (cottages) classed "Tropical Panda" by the
famous WWF organisation, an initiative for sustainable development and environmental
management, are proof of the efforts made by the Guyanese. They will welcome you for an
unforgettable experience.
New Caledonia
In the middle of the Pacific Ocean, the sailing spots
and waves favourable for board sports are abundant,
particularly at the little Tenia island, beside Nouméa,
or close to Bourail. Scuba diving is an attractive
activity, particularly at the Loyalty Islands, such as
Lifou and Ouvéa. Apart from the enchanting
reflections from the coral and the exotic fish, the
presence of a large number of wrecks is a motivation
for the enthusiasts. The Fortunes de Mer association, in Nouméa, is very active in this field.
Other marvels are to be discovered, Pine Island and Prony Bay, to the south. From Prony
Bay, the whale's migration can be observed, in September - October.
But New Caledonia is not just looking seawards.
To the north, the countryside, made up of a bush, is an astonishing setting for pony trekking.
The territory is also given over to extensive cattle breeding. Similarly to the cattle stations in
the Australian bush or the American cow-boys, the stockmen drive the herds across the vast
open spaces.
Wallis et Futuna
Enchanting islands in the Pacific Ocean. On Wallis, the lake formed by the Lalolalo crater, 80
metres deep and surrounded by the tropical forest, is a magnificent site to be visited during
a hike.
French Polynesia
Tahiti's beaches and lagoons and her islands are inescapable sites for lovers of water sports.
Scuba diving is a way of discovering priceless treasures particularly in Moorea, Bora-Bora
and in the Tuamotus.
In Tahiti, the most prized scuba diving sites are the Aquarium, the Saint-Etienne or the
Source precipices, where, it is said, a harmless shark lives, the Gorgons of Arue and its
colourful coral, or the Vénus headland.
www.tahiti-scubadiving.com
There are several surfing spots. Beside Papeete, the Teahupoo giant wave, famous
internationally, is reserved for the best surfers.
19
Every year, in May, the international surfing competition Billabong Pro Tahiti is held:
www.surf.pf
Experienced oarsmen can learn how to use the Va’a, the Polynesian and ancestral version of
the “pirogue” (dugout canoe). With this light boat carved out of wood, the Pacific peoples
crossed the ocean, from island to island, over thousands of kilometres. There is not a lagoon
in Tahiti and its islands where a pirogue is not to be seen floating on the horizon. The
inhabitants use it to travel, fish, move around. Nowadays, teams rowing the sporting pirogue
take part in very popular races when clubs and islands defend their colours.
In October, more than 100 dugout canoes and 400 oarsmen take part in the "Hawaiki Nui
Va’a" race towards the Leeward Islands.
An international event each year in May: the Tahiti Pearl Regatta.
www.tahitipearlregatta.org.pf
Polynesia has recently seen a tremendous increase in nautical tourism. Sailing clubs, day
excursions on a catamaran or a sailing yacht, everyone at their own level can explore the
islands' coastlines. The surfing kit has also become very popular.
Finally, lovers of green tourism will stroll through the virgin forests on the islands of Raiatea
or Huahine and discover the Afareaitu waterfalls on Moorea.
Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
To observe the puffins, seals and whales in summer,
mini coastal cruises are run in inflatable boats.
http://www.st-pierre-et-miquelon.com/
20
EXOTIC FLAVOURS
Creole cuisine is an incredible mix of Caribbean, European, Indian, African and Middle
Eastern traditions.
''French gourmets'' cooking in the four corners of the world
Mirroring the territories' mix of cultures, the cuisine of overseas France has mixed roots. To
flavours from Metropolitan France and elsewhere are added the chefs' imagination and
unique local resources, such as fish, vegetables and spices.
Samoussas, codfish accras, bonbons-piment ("spicy sweets"), and Creole aperitifs offer a
striking summary of overseas cooking.
The West Indies are home to tasty vegetable or codfish fritters called accras. The aperitif of
choice is a glass of punch made with agricultural rum, distilled in both the West Indies and
Reunion. Following the aperitif, you might want to try another Creole delicacy, the cabbage
palm salad, made from the tender heart of this plant.
In the islands of Guadeloupe, the magical mix of cultures and the immense variety of spices
have given birth to a rich local gastronomy, which can be found just as easily in the great
Creole restaurants as at the outdoor food stands selling bokits. Guadeloupe is the world's
second largest consumer of fish (per capita). Fish broth, soft-shell clam blaff, grilled rock
lobster, and conch fricassee are just a few mouth-watering Creole dishes. Gourmets and
food lovers alike will take immense pleasure in smelling a delicious colombo, tasting the
sweet flesh of a "Julie" mango, drinking a fresh juice of péyi cherries, and savouring the
aromas of a well-aged rum.
Essential dishes
In Reunion, it would be impossible not to stumble across the ubiquitous cari, inspired by
Indian curry. A rather spicy meat or fish ragout, cari is served with a large helping of rice and
well-cooked lentils or peas. The spicier rougail comes in two forms: a ragout, the most
common being the sausage rougail, and a "home-made" condiment of chilli peppers and
tomatoes, found on every table in Reunion.
On the islands of French Polynesia, raw fish is especially popular. Freshly caught tuna, red
mullet and bonito are diced and marinated in lemon juice and coconut milk for just a few
minutes before being served cold.
Rum, a West Indian speciality
Rum, made from sugar cane, is an integral part of West Indian culture.
The sugar cane made its first appearance around 1635 on Mardinica, the island of flowers,
the former name of Martinique. Initially intended to produce sugar, cane cultivation rapidly
spread all over the West Indies. Three centuries later, there are as many varieties of rum as
there are rural districts and distilleries.
In the French West Indies, rum is a real institution not just an alcoholic drink. This alcohol is
used to flavour a large number of desserts, such as the rum baba or bananas flambé. In the
islands, each region, each rural district has its own consumption customs. Rum is drunk neat
or mixed in many different cocktails, ti'punch, planter or daiquiri.
21
HISTORIES AND IDENTITIES
A short overview of the cultural unusual features of the Overseas France.
The tattooing tradition in Polynesia, the joyful homage paid to the dead in the West Indies,
the dramatic destiny of the rebel slaves in Reunion… The Overseas Territories have not
forgotten their roots and cultivate the virtues of mixing cultures and races.
Each destination has its own festive customs: the Carnival in French Guiana and in the West
Indies, the traditional dances such as Biguine in the West Indies or the Kassé Kô in French
Guiana, the famous Tamure – pronounced "tamouré"- in Tahiti.
People of many races are the memory of colonisation or slavery: Polynesians in the Pacific,
Melanesians in New Caledonia, Amerindians from Amazonia in French Guiana, Creoles from
the Island of a la Reunion or the West Indies.
The expansion of sea trading forged the destiny of certain faraway islands from the middle
of the 17th century.
But it was only with the actual abolition of slavery in 1848, under the decisive impetus of
Victor Schoelcher, a politician from Alsace, to free generations of Africans forcefully taken
from their own countries. Before that, thousands of rebels who escaped into the mountains,
the "browns" in Reunion, or into the jungle, the "black-browns" in French Guiana, gave these
territories a cultural identity in the same way as the Creole mixing of races and cultures.
The French West Indies
History
The reconstitution of the great plantations in Martinique or the historic excavations of the
Bertrand cove in Guadeloupe, traces of a slave village, recall that the sadly famous "Black
Code" was instituted in the West Indies in 1685. In the footsteps of the Afro-West Indian
François Dominique Toussaint, called Toussaint
l’Ouverture, a native of Saint-Dominique (today To see:
the Habitations Céron, of the Fonds
Haiti), the slaves' hopes were dashed during the
Saint-Jacques or the Latouche cove
in Martinique
French Revolution. The brilliant and ambitious
the
Habitation
Murat,
an
leader was taken prisoner under Napoleon and
ecomuseum on the island of de
Marie Galante, near Guadeloupe.
died in a cell in the château de Joux, near
Pontarlier in the department of the Doubs.
The entire economy survived on the basis of large-scale specialised agriculture: sugar cane,
coffee and cocoa beans, since then replaced by bananas. Today, one can visit some of these
great estates, comprising a traditional rum distillery or a typical Creole house.
22
Amerindian civilisation
The Arawak people, coming from the South American coasts, were decimated by warlike
enemies: the Caribbean Indians. They themselves were wiped out by the first Spanish,
English and French explorers. Of this pre-Colombian era, an archaeological site of carved
rocks remains, containing 220 relics of rock art, and the Museum of American Prehistory at
the Moule.
Some Literature
The museum called after Saint-John Perse, alias Alexis Léger (1887-1975), at Pointe-à-Pitre,
recalls that this Frenchman, born in Guadeloupe, was a committed diplomat and a poet who
won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1960. Patrick Chamoiseau, winner of the Prix Goncourt
in 1992, became established as the successful novelist who enhanced the value of the Creole
language.
French Guiana
Even if a French crew, dreaming of an Eldorado, landed in 1500, just after Christopher
Columbus had already been there, it was rather towards 1644 that a genuine European
commercial establishment started. The Amazonian tribes, the Wayanas, Arawaks,
Emerillons, Galibis, were then very endangered. With slavery and mixing of races, the
"creolitude" of Guiana increased. All the more since the tragic eruption of the Mount Pelée
volcano in Martinique (1902) led to these islanders migrating en masse to this Latin
American coast.
Nowadays, the discovery of isolated villages or just visiting Cayenne, the capital of French
Guiana, reveals a model cultural mixture.
The festive spirit is everywhere, particularly with the carnival tradition.
Craftwork has once again become in demand and is distinguished by each community's
specialities: wickerwork for the Amerindians, carved wood for the "Black-browns" called the
Bushi-Nengé. Small utensils used in daily life similarly to the pirogue, the inhabitants mainly
those on the banks of the Maroni river, pass on their messages through their decorative
work.
In a beautiful Creole house, in Cayenne, the Museum of Guiana Culture displays
ethnographic collections concerning the main cultural groups present in French Guiana.
The history of a penal colony
The Cayenne penal colony symbolised the exile and severity of the punishment for the
common law prisoners and a few political detainees, from 1852 onwards.
In this way, more than 2,000 convicts were sent to the various camps or forts in French
Guiana, isolated in the jungle or the primitive islands off the coast of Cayenne and Kourou
(Devil's Island, the Salvation Islands, etc.). There was even a penal colony for women at
Mana. The story of famous convicts, including Dreyfus, Papillon or Seznec, caused this prison
regime to be regularly denounced but it was only in 1946 that it was finally closed down.
From Kourou, a shuttle boat will take you to the Royal Island to visit this former penal
colony.
23
The conquest of space as a new cultural focus
The future of French Guiana is linked to the Kourou space centre, one of the most successful
rocket launch sites in the world. The European Space Agency is established on 50 km of the
coast and, in the morning or afternoon, free of charge (children less than 8 years' old not
allowed) visitors are shown around its futuristic domain. Here, one can see the enormous
equipment for the Arianne launcher and the Space Museum. With a little luck, one can even
see a launch from the Carapa observation site.
Reunion
History
The trading post of the East India company from 1642, and some pirates' landmarks brought
to life this volcanic mountain which rose up out of the Indian Ocean, up then uninhabited.
The sugar cane plantations then shaped the face of Ile Bourbon, the island's original name.
Districts in Saint-Denis laid out like a draughtboard or isolated villages (like Hell Bourg, in the
hollow of the majestic mountainous cirque of Salazie) are evidence of typical Creole
architecture.
Several museums display Reunion's past to the general public.
At Piton Saint Leu, Stella Matutina, a former sugar refinery, magnificently tells the story of
the farm production which was the basis of the fortune of the great colonial family and slave
labour.
At Saint Gilles-les-Hauts, the Panon-Debassayns estate recalls the destiny of a dynasty and
the outrages of slavery.
The Prefect Sarda-Garriga, who was later appointed director the Cayenne penal colony,
announced the end of slavery in 1848, thus setting two thirds of the population free. But
already, a large number of "Browns" had fled into the inaccessible mountains, setting up
small farming villages clinging to the steep slope.
To be seen:
On the Plaine des Cafres, on the slopes of the Piton de la
Fournaise, the Maison du Volcano, in a modern setting and
with an abundance of visual effects, shows the history of the
Réunion volcanoes. This educational site was also inspired by
Maurice Krafft, the famous vulcanologist who was killed on the
field of his research.
At Bras-Panon, the Vanilla Co-operative explains the amazing secrets of this world-famous
orchid, which was for so long a very precious spice and a basic production in Reunion. The
fruit of a delicate fertilisation and meticulous harvesting, vanilla promises lots of surprises.
Festivities
At Saint-André, in November, Dipavali, the feast of lights, emphasises the presence of a
Tamil and Indian community, only recently arrived from Sri Lanka and India. One more proof
of the charms of an ethnic diversity, well tolerated in the tropics.
24
New Caledonia
No doubt there were more than three hundred Kanak clans before the sailor and explorer
James Cook arrived in 1774. He changed the name of this big island in homage to Scotland.
Very rapidly coming under French protection, New Caledonia remained an important
maritime stopover. Part of its territory – the wide open spaces of the savannah – adopted an
Australian extensive "model" of cattle raising: large herds of cattle driven by mounted
stockmen.
Former civilisation
Over a long period, the Melanesian people declined considerably. Countless petroglyphs,
rock carvings, with symbolic and geometric patterns, found particularly beside Poya, reveal
that the Melanesians had been there a very long time in the past.
More recently, it was the discovery of enormous
mineral deposits, particularly nickel, that determined
the island's destiny. Nowadays, the Kanaks are
returning to their culture, their abilities as sailors and
fishermen.
To visit:
The Maritime History Museum, in
Nouméa
The Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural
Centre,
in
Nouméa.
With
spectacular architecture, by Renzo
Piano, this cultural centre strongly
emphasises the Kanak civilisation.
An inescapable evidence of the past
and the future of New Caledonia.
French Polynesia
Polynesian dances
The Tamure (pronounced "tamouré"), the famous Vahines' hip-swaying dance, is
accompanied by the Pahu, a small drum, and the Ukulele, the local version of the guitar.
Costumes woven from plant fibres and floral crowns give a joyful and very festive tone to
these events.
The Tamure is part of the fame of the Society Islands. But the Ma’ohi tribes, oceanic nomads
which established themselves from one island to another over thousands of years, have lots
more dances in their repertory: war dances or dances expressing all the emotions in life.
Sacred rituals
Legends remain of sacred rituals and Polynesian gods from before the Christian form of
worship (Tahiti was discovered in 1767): the god Oro symbolises bravery, the god Hiro
separated the two islands of Raiatea and Huahine, etc. The Marae still persist, the stone
remains where religious ceremonies or the coronation of a tribal king took place, particularly
on the sacred island of Raiatea. Today, picturesque and very highly coloured churches can be
seen, such as the one at Papara on the island of Tahiti.
The art of tattooing: the Polynesian signature
We know very little about it, but the Polynesian term has given its generic name to the very
trendy practice of tattooing. For the Pacific people, this great art means far more than an
aesthetic wish: tattooing has its own language, it defines the individual's social status. In the
past, it was proof that the initiation ordeals had been gone through, exploits carried out or
key roles within the community, the tattoos today claim a personality and a pride,
membership of a clan or an island (the Marquesas or Bora Bora).
25
Many tourists now return after a holiday there when they visited a tattoo artist’s studio,
which uses modern techniques.
The "Tatau i tahiti tattoonesia" festival is an annual event which, in November, brings
together in Papeete the best tattooists in Polynesia, the Pacific islands and the rest of the
world and more than 15,000 visitors. http://tattoonesia.blogspot.com
A festive get-together
The Heiva takes place during the month of July in Papeete. During these festivities, one can
discover traditional costumes and dances; very popular sporting events are organised, such
as the Va’a race in a Polynesian pirogue called Tiurai.
To see:
To understand the Polynesian identity better:
the Museum of Tahiti and its islands
the Robert Wan Pearl Museum
the Shellfish Museum
the Paul Gauguin Museum
In Papeete and its surroundings.
Saint-Pierre et Miquelon: the strong North Atlantic character …
The "Canadian" stopover by the Terre-Neuvas, fearless fishermen sailing from Brittany,
Normandy or again the Basque Country, was the origin of a little island community, which
draws its strength of character from the harsh living conditions. The Grey House and the
Heritage Museum reconstitute the austere daily life of the people of Miquelon.
26
NEW
POLITICAL NEWS
Mayotte, 101st French department in 2011
Following the referendum put to the population in March 2009, Mayotte will become the
101st French department in 2011, which will make it the fifth overseas department.
UNESCO LISTING
Reunion
On 1 August, the "Pitons, Cirques and Remparts" on Reunion Island became a world heritage
site. A unique territory, where mountain merges with sea, where the rugged landscape
reveals the most magnificent scenery, where 30% of the area has remained intact since it
was discovered, Reunion Island confirms its status as a tourist destination full of exceptional
natural riches. This is a reward for all the inhabitants of Reunion, who love nature, and
respect this unique heritage, proud of their natural sites and of their identity.
Today, the Reunion island has joined the other destinations which have obtained the
prestigious title whose aim is to "protect the natural and cultural heritage of outstanding
universal value against the threats of a rapidly developing world".
The Island's National Park, the ninth largest in France, is a perfect showcase of the Reunion
heritage. It includes outstanding natural scenery, rich in biodiversity, and landscapes
comprising more than 300 endemic plant species, an original fauna and an active volcano.
After the Maloya, a typical Reunion dance, listed last year on the World Intangible Cultural
Heritage register, Reunion Island confirms its status as an excellent tourist destination.
www.reunion.fr
AIRLINES
Air Caraïbes, a regular French airline specialising in the Antilles and la Guiana opened a
new line on 12 December 2009 from Paris > Saint Martin > Port-au-Prince > Paris, leaving
from Orly Sud airport.
The company is to open a new regional line from Cayenne (Guiana)>Macapa (Brazil) with
one return flight a week (on Mondays) from 29 November 2010.
www.aircaraibes.com
Air Austral opened a new line in April 2009 from Paris>La Réunion (Saint-Denis) >Sydney >
Nouméa.
Air Austral has decided to innovate by renewing part of its fleet and acquiring high-power
aircraft: 2 Boeing 737-800 NG planned for December 2010.
www.air-austral.com
Aircalin
Aircalin is now using the loyalty programme « Flying Blue » with the Air France / KLM Group.
www.aircalin.com
Air Tahiti Nui
Air Tahiti Nui has signed an agreement for transportation to departure point with Air France
from Venice – Bologna and Naples, enabling passengers to travel right through to their final
destination with just one ticket.
www.airtahitinui.com
27
ACCOMMODATION
Martinique
A delightful new hotel de charme: Hotel La Suite Villa****
This four-star hotel opened in February 2010. Located halfway between the Golf course and
La Pointe du Bout, one of the most animated places on the island, the colonial-style main
hotel houses 6 suites with panoramic views and 9 villas nestling amongst the tropical
flowers. It also offers a relaxation area with solarium, a magnificent swimming pool, suites
with balneotherapy treatments and gourmet cuisine full of exotic flavours.
www.la-suite-villa.com
A fifth star awarded to the Cap Est Lagoon Resort & Spa
A member of the Relais & Château hotel chain, the Cap Est Lagoon Resort & Spa this year
acquired its fifth star, raising it to the top of the range of luxury hotels in Martinique. As it
has already received numerous awards such as the Relais & Château and the Four Diamond
Award, this fifth star is a quite natural continuation to mark the hotel's achievements.
Located at Le François, on the east coast of the island, the Cap Est Lagoon Resort & Spa has
50 suites, spread out in 18 villas, hidden in the heart of a magnificent tropical park.
www.capest.com
Guadeloupe
A complete facelift for the former Golf Marine at Saint-François en Guadeloupe
Located in Saint-François, to the south of Grande-Terre, opposite the international Golf
course (18 holes) designed by Robert Trent Jones, the former Golf Marine in the Des Hôtels
et des Iles group in Guadeloupe has been fully renovated since August 2010. It is due to
reopen on 17 December 2010 under the name of BWA CHIK Hotel & Golf.
www.deshotelsetdesiles.com
La Réunion
L’Echappée Belle, new bed and breakfasts l’Entre-Deux on La Réunion
Four guestrooms in an independent house opened in September 2010 in one of the finest
typically Creole villages on La Réunion. Prices include the overnight stay and breakfast. The
premises cover an area of 4,000 m2 with coconut palms, litchi trees and a swimming pool.
The owners are there to guide you, give advice and even supervise certain activities with
their association "Bouillon d’aventures". It is ideally situated for the most important
excursions in the south of the island.
www.lechappee-belle.com
Opening of a 4**** lodge, the Diana Déa Lodge
On the east coast, a high-class tourist establishment on a hunting estate is due to open in
November 2010. The main theme is art and nature. Simple, in good taste, built with noble
materials: wood, stone and wrought iron, nature is omnipresent outside and inside the
lodge. You can see works of art almost everywhere, including some works specially created
for Diana Déa. Each guestroom has a balcony, and two-thirds of them lead directly on to a
garden. You have a panoramic view from your bathtub, Jacuzzi or spa. The unique highlight
of the Diana Déa Lodge is its breathtaking 180° panorama over the east coast.
www.diana-dea-lodge.re
28
The Palm Hotel & Spa, the best hotel in La Réunion according to the WTA
The four-star Palm Hotel & Spa was awarded the title of "best hotel on Reunion Island" at
the 17th edition of the World Travel Awards which took place in South Africa on 7 July 2010.
www.palm.re
Saint Martin
A kitchen by the sea at the Domaine de Lonvilliers
What could be more natural for the four-star hotel Le Domaine de Lonvilliers, run by the
famous chef Christophe Leroy, than to focus on its restaurant service? A kitchen has just
been added down by the seashore to provide continual service on the beach and at the
Beach Bar, offering sophisticated cuisine, combining French gastronomy with exotic flavours.
www.hotel-le-domaine.com
Tahiti and its islands
The "Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Awards” singles out 3 hotels in Polynesia
The Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa has been elected the “Best hotel in the world for
romance” and one of the best Spa/Relaxation hotels in the South Pacific by readers of Trip
Advisor, the largest website for travellers' reviews. The Manava Suite Resort Tahiti won the
2010 prize for the "Best Spa and Relaxation hotel".
The Raiatea Lodge also has its share of awards: after being elected the "Hidden gem of the
South Pacific" in 2009, it won the double title of "Best Service" and "Bargain".
New Caledonia
Kanua Tera, a new eco-hotel
In the Grand Sud, two hours' drive from Nouméa, the three-star Kanua Tera, New
Caledonia's first eco-lodge is now open. This establishment, with its 18 bungalows nestled in
the forest of the famous columnar pines (araucaria columnaris), is a traditional construction,
made with local materials and using ancestral building techniques. A tropical atmosphere on
the shores of the lagoon and the involvement of the neighbouring tribes fully integrate this
eco-lodge in its environment. From the hotel you can go on hikes, visit religious sites and see
the Yaté craft markets.
www.tera.nc
LEISURE ACTIVITIES
Saint Martin
Explore on an electric bike
At a time of sustainable development, the company Green Wheels lets you explore the
island of Saint-Martin in an original, eco-friendly way. Franck Verlaine, who thought up the
project, provides electric motorbikes for hire so that you can go off and explore the roads of
Saint Martin. The motorbikes are easy to handle and have no gearbox. They have a
rechargeable, recyclable, biodegradable battery. With autonomy of 60 kilometres, they are
perfect for original rides throughout the island.
www.iledesaintmartin.org
La Réunion
Adventure trail, Vertical Niagara on Sainte Suzanne
On the site of the Niagara Falls on Sainte Suzanne, an Adventure Trail meets the Indian
Ocean. Come and experience the sensations of mountaineering: vertigo, vertical drops, a
beautiful road taking you quite safely through a rocky wilderness. This leisure activity is an
initiation into rock climbing for all in an exquisitely beautiful site.
29
New eco-tourist products
Discover, or re-discover, the natural heritage on Reunion Island, on our original hiking paths.
- AUTHENTIC LANDS: the slopes of the Volcano
In the heart of the valley of the Rivière des Remparts, on the slopes of the volcano, come
and enjoy a unique, authentic experience lasting three days. You will discover the wealth of
natural resources in the valley and see how important it is to preserve a heritage like this. In
the village of Roche Plate, you can meet the inhabitants and share some wonderful
moments with them. The hiking trail takes you through the Pas de Bellecombe and Roche
Plate and then descends to Saint Joseph.
- A day in the forest: the Maïdo tamarind forest
You will be accompanied by a forest guide from the National Forestry Bureau, who knows
the area like the back of his hand. He will tell you the history of the mountain tamarinds
(acacia heterophylla), their past and present uses, and the work he does in the forest!
At the end of this easy, three-hour walk, you can feast on a delicious curry prepared in the
purest local tradition on a wood fire, by a Péi cook at the Camp Dennemont, a former
meeting place for forestry workers.
Information & Bookings
Nouvelles Frontières Réunion
Tél. : +262 (0) 262 33 11 99
[email protected]
Alizoa Voyages
Tél. : +262 (0)262 24 58 45
[email protected]
Guid'Anou
Tél. : +262 (0) 692 81 70 10
[email protected]
EVENTS
New Caledonia
First edition of the New Caledonia Great Lagoon Regatta on 9 to 13 June 2011
The world's largest lagoon haunts the minds of sailors from all over the world, with its
wealth of marine flora and fauna, full of endemic species, in the clear shallow waters.
Authenticity and a relaxed lifestyle in what might almost be the last paradise on earth, just
waiting to be explored.
For the past few years, the pleasure boating and water sport industry has enjoyed an
unprecedented boom: infrastructures have been developed, marinas created, and more
boats can now be chartered or hired. Now the industry wishes to present New Caledonia as
a tourist destination through a friendly local event that will no doubt attract regatta
enthusiasts and tourists from all over the world. The Great Lagoon Regatta will take place in
a festive, authentic atmosphere, starting from Nouméa; stages on the idyllic islands in the
colourful waters, and the music festivals at each stop will introduce you to the Melanesian
world through their ancestral customs. This competition is open to all types of yacht (racer,
single hulls, catamarans, trimarans, private yachts or chartered yachts, etc.) and there is no
size limit.
[email protected]
The Pacific Games, New Caledonia 2011, 27 August to 10 September 2011
In September 2011, New Caledonia will host the largest group event in the Pacific Islands:
5,000 competitors and officials, 22 countries in Oceania, 28 sporting disciplines over 2 weeks
of competitions spread all over the area.
New Caledonia will be the heart of Oceania.
www.nc2011.nc/
30
INTERNET
A new website for Saint Martin Island
Containing more information, fun to use and still as intuitive, the new website groups all the
information you need to find out about this tourist destination. Dynamic and interactive, just
like the island of Saint Martin itself, the new website is a complete source of information for
professionals, as part of the site is dedicated just for them.
www.iledesaintmartin.org
31
OVERSEAS TOURISM, A GREAT ADVANTAGE FOR FRANCE
THE ATOUT FRANCE CLUB OUTRE-MERS
Set up on 6 March 2003, the mission of the ATOUT FRANCE Club Outre-Mers is to promote
the French Overseas Territories in foreign markets.
In 2010, the Club now has 23 members: 6 institutional organisations; 9 hotel companies; 5
airlines companies; 2 tour operators and 1 boat rental company.
The objectives
As part of ATOUT FRANCE's new marketing strategy, it is striving to attain the following main
objectives:
- Position the ultra-marine tourist offer mainly in foreign markets to extend the offer
and diversify the types of tourists who at present come principally from mainland
France, particularly in the Overseas departments.
- Continue to develop awareness of the ultra-marine destinations by repositioning
them as desirable destinations.
- Increase our knowledge of the foreign markets and more specifically the clientele to
permanently adapt our offer to the targets, and to adapt our promotions to the
market realities selected by the Club, and to identify potential markets.
- Strengthen the knowledge of the market distribution to have more influence in the
distribution networks.
- Pool our resources to conduct collective promotional activities in addition to the
individual actions of the members.
Markets
In 2010, the Club is targeting the following markets:
Priority markets: Belgium, Germany, Italy, Scandinavia and Switzerland.
Secondary markets: Austria/Central Europe and Spain
Targets
The Club is targetting professionals (tour-operators and travel agents), the press and the
general public.
Website : www.franceguide.com (Overseas section)
In Romanian:
http://ro.franceguide.com/Vacante-de-temă/Franta-celor-3oceane/home.html?NodeID=189
32
ATOUT FRANCE - France Tourism Development Agency
ATOUT FRANCE, France’s only state tourism agency, is responsible for promoting the
development of the tourism industry, the country’s largest economic sector.
A unique strategic observation and intelligence platform
ATOUT FRANCE’s primary mission is to maintain a detailed and permanent system for
monitoring and analysing supply and demand in the tourist market. This dual understanding
of supply and demand gives the agency an expertise with great potential for added value.
The analyses resulting from these two areas of monitoring are then reconciled to produce a
complete view of the current state of tourist markets.
Two principal and complementary missions
• Development assistance
ATOUT FRANCE brings its expertise to bear with the aim of making businesses more
competitive and destinations more attractive (French and international).
• Help with marketing
The agency also helps its clients with their marketing activities and to promote tourism in
France and abroad.
Two linked and intersecting missions
• Quality mission
ATOUT FRANCE’s registration committee lists and maintains the public register of travel
operators and businesses operating chauffeur-driven hire cars.
ATOUT FRANCE also develops rating systems for the different types of accommodation on
the tourist market in consultation with industry professionals.
• “Training in professional tourism” mission
The agency is also involved in defining a national policy for training professionals who work
in the tourism industry.
A local, national and international sphere of activity
ATOUT FRANCE develops its missions internationally through a network of 37 offices located
in 33 countries. This unique organisation, which employs more than 250 people, provides
the agency with a perfect understanding of international markets and cultures and enables it
to successfully target and communicate the promotional activities of its partners.
Armed with this multiple expertise, ATOUT FRANCE is able to support its partners through all
stages of their tourist production: from design through development to the marketing of
their products.
ATOUT FRANCE collaborates in a unique and original partnership model with all players in
the tourism industry at an institutional, community and private level.
To find out more visit: www.atout-france.fr or www.franceguide.com
33