DROM-COM: the Overseas France


When we speak about France, we mostly talk about Paris or the French Riviera, Cannes or Nice. But the Hexagon expands far beyond its land boundaries, overseas.

Do you know about the wonderful French islands of the Atlantic, Indian, or Pacific Oceans?

We call them DROM-COM or formerly called DOM-TOM which means Départements, Régions et Collectivités d’Outre-mer (Overseas departments, regions and collectivizes). Distant territories from Metropolitan France.

The DROM, departments and regions are ruled by the same laws as the metropolis, but those can be adapted depending on the specific needs of the territory. (Article 73 of the Constitution)

The Collectivizes have their own laws and regimentation adapted to their needs, unique for their territory. (article 74 of the Constitution)

In addition to the local particularity, those territories are also famous to be amazing vacation spots where we speak French.

Here is the list:

  • DROM, Départements et Régions
    • Guyane
    • Martinique
    • Guadeloupe
    • Mayotte
  • Collectivités
    • Saint-Martin
    • Polynésie Française
    • Wallis et Futuna
    • Terres australes et antarctiques françaises
    • île de Clipperton (uninhabited area)
    • Saint-Barthélemy

By the way, if you want to enjoy those dream-like destinations while learning a bit of French, one of our partners schools are also in Guadeloupe!