French Polynesia might become difficult to visit

French Polynesia's beautiful islands might be more difficult to see due to a new sustainable tourism strategy.

The Fari'ira'a Manihini 2027 (FM27), a five-year strategic mission of the French Polynesian government, aims to limit the number of foreign tourists per resident in France. This is approximately 280,000.

Popular destinations in the country of Southern Pacific include Bora Bora and Mo'orea, as well as Tahiti. The capital of the country, Papeete is located on Tahiti.

It is not clear if the new visitor cap will be applicable to French nationals.

French Polynesia, a territory of France, is not considered an overseas visitor.

FM27 acknowledges the importance of tourism as a source of income and employment for residents. The visitor cap and other modifications will allow for a more thoughtful type of tourism.

The government has outlined a plan to "diversify visitors, make it possible for economic growth to be reconciled with the preservation and quality of life of the population, and the appreciation of our heritage." It mentions that the government encourages visitors from all parts of the globe.

The stated goal is to "transition towards an inclusive and sustainable tourism model."

It may be strange, however, that the country would consider a cap on visitor numbers when there is no problem with over-tourism.

According to World Bank data, French Polynesia received approximately 300,000 visitors in 2019, which is its highest-ever number. However, this long-term plan was probably influenced by similar models from around the globe.

Bhutan, a central Asian country, is frequently cited as an example of how government can control tourism. The country currently charges a $200 per person per day "tourist tax," which discourages even the most committed travelers from visiting the country. The fee supports local communities through education and health care, as well as providing support for other causes.

Many popular European destinations have had to take tougher measures to stop the increase in tourists over recent years.

Over-tourism has hit Venice, Italy particularly hard. To stem the flow of tourists, it has implemented measures such as a daily tax on day-trippers to offset the loss of revenue from hotel stays. It also heavily restricted listings on Airbnb.

 

Source: edition.cnn.com