2,510 sq km / 969 sq mi (similar size to Rhode Island)
Capital City
The capital, Saint-Denis, lies wedged between the ocean and a mountain on the north coast of the island.
Ethnic Groups
50% Réunionaise 25% French 20% Tamil 5% Chinese, East African, South Asian, and Malagasy
Religion
86% Roman Catholic Buddism Hinduism Islam Chinese Folk Religion
Languages
French (official) Creole (common)
Geography
Réunion consists of a beautiful coastline, mountains with peaks over 9,000 ft, such as Piton des Neiges that summits at 10,069 feet, as well as an active volcano, Piton de la Fournaise.
Economy
Réunion’s economy is mostly based on sugar. They also grow vanilla, fruits and vegetables, and tobacco. The main exports are sugar and sugar by-products such as molasses and rum.
Interesting Fact
For the last ten years the Piton de la Fournaise, an active volcano in Réunion, has erupted every nine months.
Important Facts
Réunion was colonized by France until 1946. It became an overseas department of France which made the Réunionaise people full citizens of France.
