“New Year: Optimal Times to Call Relatives Overseas and in DOM-TOM”

Bassyonni

ago 2 hours

As the New Year approaches, many people are preparing to connect with loved ones around the world. With over three million French nationals living abroad and additional family and friends in the DOM-TOM (now officially known as DROM-COM), coordinating calls can be tricky. Understanding the time differences is essential for a successful New Year’s celebration with those far away.

Optimal Times to Call Relatives Overseas

During the transition to 2026, timing your calls becomes critical. Here is a breakdown of the optimal calling times for various regions.

DOM-TOM Time Differences

Martinique and Guadeloupe: -5 hours from Paris. When it’s midnight in Paris, it’s 7 PM in the Caribbean.
Guyane: Shares the same time zone as Martinique and Guadeloupe, making it an ideal time to call together.
Réunion: +3 hours from Paris. The New Year arrives at 9 PM in Réunion.
Mayotte: Celebrates one hour later than Réunion, at 10 PM Paris time.
Nouvelle-Calédonie: +14 hours. Midnight in Paris corresponds with 2 PM in Nouméa.
Polynésie Française: +11 hours. Papeete welcomes 2026 at 11 AM French time.

Europe and the Mediterranean

United Kingdom and Portugal: One hour behind France. Call at 12:30 AM Paris time to reach loved ones after their countdown.
Maghreb (Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia): Shares the same time as Paris, making calls straightforward.

Asia and Oceania

Japan: +7 hours. Call at 5 PM on December 31 for a conversation right before their midnight.
China: +8 hours. Connect at 6 PM Paris time for a timely wish.
Australia: Times vary by region. Sydney celebrates at 2 PM Paris time, while Perth waits until 5 PM.
India: +4 hours and 30 minutes. New Delhi enters the New Year at 7:30 PM Paris time.

The Americas

Canada and the United States: Vary widely. Montreal and New York are -6 hours from Paris. Call at 6 AM on January 1 to catch the midnight celebration.
Brazil: -4 hours. Rio de Janeiro celebrates at 4 AM Paris time.
Mexico: Similar to the U.S., but varies by region.

Practical Tips for Your New Year Calls

Using messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal allows for free calls over the internet. If you prefer traditional phone calls, make sure to check your mobile plan for international calling rates to avoid unexpected charges.

Network traffic is usually high around midnight, so it’s advisable to make calls 10 to 15 minutes before or after the main celebration. Knowing these optimal times ensures that you can share your best wishes as you transition into the New Year. Enjoy your celebrations!