Cruise & Tourism Deals: Lindblad Expeditions is offering up to $2,000 in air credit on select 2027 expedition cruises, including sailings that touch French Polynesia, with bookings required through its Air Department (terms vary by fare). Remote Air Connectivity: A look at Mataveri International Airport (Easter Island) highlights how French Polynesia’s far-flung links can be measured in thousands of miles, with the nearest airport in the Gambier Islands. Marine Life Spotlight: Ocean Photographer of the Year 2026 winner Julien Anton captured a seahorse scene in Moorea, French Polynesia—an award that also spotlights the ocean’s risks alongside its beauty. Regional Comms & Resilience: Ingram Micro signed an AirBridge Networks distribution deal covering New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, French Polynesia and the Pacific, aiming to bring secure satellite-plus-network connectivity for remote operations in sectors like tourism, agriculture and mining. Weather & Early Warning: Pacific Meteorological Council (PMC-8) updates show countries strengthening early warning and forecasting capacity, including Tonga’s new multi-hazard centre and Tuvalu’s AI-assisted monitoring. Security & Illicit Trade: Australia unveiled a major plan to target cocaine smuggling across Pacific routes, citing seizures tied to French Polynesia and Fiji. Ocean Heat Pressure: New reporting flags record ocean heat streaks and what that means for marine ecosystems, with warming linked to shifts in species and habitats. Digital Identity Rules (Global): US regulators clarified how banks can use state-issued mobile driver’s licenses and other verifiable digital credentials for customer identity checks—relevant as Pacific partners weigh similar systems.