Bora Bora
Bora Bora is a small island located on the western side of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. A beautiful lagoon and a breath-taking coral reef surround the picturesque island, giving that turquoise colored water that makes Bora Bora so famous. In the middle of the island, there is an extinct volcano with two massive peaks that reach up more than 2,000 feet; they are Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu.
Bora Bora’s population is numbered fewer than 10,000 inhabitants, more than half of the living in Vaitape, the largest settlement of the territory. The island’s economy is mainly based on tourism and most products come from fishing the sea. English is widely spoken around the island with the main language being French and Tahitian.
The original name of the island was “Pora pora mai te pora” which means, “created by the gods” in the Tahitian dialect. The name used to be abbreviated to “Pora Pora” which in itself meant, “first born”, but the pronunciation of Bora Bora is also accepted and has been used since the first European explorers landed on the island back in 1722.
Bungalows on stilts are everywhere to be seen in Bora Bora, and it has become somewhat representative of the island to see these beautiful constructions sticking out of the clear blue waters. These types of buildings accentuate the beauty of the beaches and the relationship between man and nature that co-exists here in such harmonious balance.
There is no public transportation on the island. To travel around you can rent a car, or better yet, rent some bicycles and start pedaling. One of the best things about Bora Bora is that no matter if you are coming here with friends, on your honeymoon or visiting with your entire family, there are activities for everyone to enjoy according to their interests.
What to do in Bora Bora
Most things to do on the island are outdoor activities, so you may want to bring a book to keep yourself entertained in the off chance that it rains too much.
Bora Bora is world famous for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters and amazing dives. Scuba diving and snorkeling are something you have to do while you are here or you’ll be missing out on some of the most amazing underwater views in the whole world.
Image courtesy of gengish skan at Flickr.com
Matira Beach is Bora Bora’s favorite public beach and with good reason. This mile-long stretch of white sand is a great spot to enjoy the waters of this tropical paradise. Matira Beach looks like something taken out of a postcard, the contrast of colors in magical and the views are to die for. You can walk along the strip and find many cafes and restaurants where you grab a bite and enjoy the views if you are not in a mood to get in the water, but for those who want to swim, they are in for a treat. Matira Beach offers great access for scuba diving or snorkeling right off the beach, you do not need a boat nor to venture far out to see some of the most beautiful coral and fish species you can imagine; no wonder people call this beach the aquarium. There are venues on the island that rent equipment for snorkeling or scuba diving, but we recommend bringing your own mask and snorkel, as you will not regret investing in a good quality pair.
Matira Beach has been voted as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world and they are not exaggerating. The west side of the beach is a great spot to watch the sunset, there are few things more romantic in this world than a Bora Bora sunset and this spot is perfect to witness this marvelous sight.
Land tours are also quite popular in Bora Bora and many companies offer to take you around the island and show you the sights. Bora Bora was used as a strategic base for the allied forces during World War II, so many remnants of the occupation still remain today and can be visited by tourists. There are also many places that were once ancient villages of the local population. Ceremonial sites and sacred locations are excellent places to visit and just a few hours away walking. The Sacred Cave of Anau and the Valley of the Kings are some of the most culturally rich and beautiful locations to visit inland. Many services offer guides to lead you there and talk to you about the rich history of the island.
Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu are both popular destinations for those who like trekking and even climbing. The view from above is wonderful and well worth the walk.
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