The French Overseas Departments and Territories
All climates are represented in the French Overseas Departments and Territories…from the Polar climate in Adélie Land to the Equatorial climate in Guiana, but it is the Tropical climate that dominates the most. As a consequence, the vegetation is luxuriant but there are also zones that are exposed to the tropical diseases.
The islands are specialized in the tropical cultures: coffee, sugar cane, fruits (especially bananas) whereas the forest exploitation has developped in Guiana.
These islands give France a huge ZEE (Exclusive Economical Zone), the third in the world among other “maritime countries”. Without them, France would be ranked beyond the fortieth place.
Most of these islands are located near the volcanic insular arcs. Volcanism is a constant threat, especially in the Antilles with the “Soufrière Volcano”, in Guadeloupe.
These islands are reputed for their exceptional beauty and for the kindness of their people.