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Bora Bora is a volcanic island in the Society Islands archipelago of French Polynesia.

It is perfectly possible to spoil oneself in one of the incredibly luxurious high-class resorts and spend the savings of a lifetime in a few days. Nonetheless, a bit of planning ahead can allow enjoyment of the majestic scenery with a tighter budget. Keep in mind that in any case Bora Bora is a tremendously pricey destination. Everything (catering and activities) ranges from "expensive" to "indescribably expensive".

[edit] History

Bora Bora is an island in the Leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The island, located about 230 kilometres (140 mi) northwest of Papeete, is surrounded by a lagoon and a barrier reef. In the center of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point at 727 metres (2,385 ft). The original name of the island in the Tahitian language might be better rendered as Pora Pora, meaning "First Born"; an early transcription found in 18th- and 19th century accounts, is Bolabolla or Bollabolla. The major settlement, Vaitape is on the western side of the island, opposite the main channel into the lagoon. The products of the island are mostly limited to what can be obtained from the sea and coconut trees, which were historically of economic importance for copra. During the August 2007 census, the population on the island was about 8,880 people.

The history of Bora Bora shows that the island’s first settlers back in the 4th century were Tongan people. The first European explorers who visited the island were led by James Cook. However, prior to this island of Bora Bora was already sighted by other explorers. The history of Bora Bora also indicates that in 1842 the island became a colony of France under the leadership of Admiral Abel Aubert Dupetit Thouars.

During World War II, the United States picked Bora Bora Island as a base for military supply, oil depot, air strip and seaplane base. The United States Military also constructed defensive fortifications although no combat took place along the island because the presence of American troops seemed to be accepted.

According to the history of Bora Bora, the United States Military Base closed on June 2, 1946 officially,after the war but many Americans refused to leave the island because it became close to their hearts. Some Americans were even forcibly asked to leave due to complaints of their families from the mainland. This previously used base became French Polynesia’s only international airport. But later on Faa'a International Airport was opened in the year 1962 in Papeete, Tahiti.

Today the Island of Bora Bora relies largely on tourism and because of this seven luxurious resorts were built over the past few years. Hotel Bora Bora was the first to build bungalows that stand over the water using stilts. And today, over-the-water bungalows are a given of every resort on the island because these bungalows provide spectacular sites of lagoons and mountains.

Bora Bora Island is popular for snorkeling and especially for scuba diving. Tourists can explore the lagoons and can find different species of sharks and manta rays. The island’s foremost attraction is its tranquil lagoon of dazzling clear water that offers different nautical activities like shark and stingray feeding excursion. Also a very interesting activity is the land excursion. In land excursions, tourists can take a ride on 4x4 trucks that climb up the hills to view old World War II cannons that is very much a part of the history of Bora Bora.

The main languages that are spoken by people in Bora Bora Island are French and Tahitian although most inhabitants that inter-act with visitors have good comprehension of the English language. Most tourists that visit the island are Americans, Japanese and Europeans.

The history of Bora Bora is very interesting and what better way to discover and relive it than to visit the villages and explore the island.

[edit] Understand

[edit] Rain! Rain! Go Away!

Because rain can be common in Bora Bora, don't sulk, be a good sport. Bora Bora probably wouldn't be as green as it is without rain. Rain is part of life. Think about it, isn't your vacation great so far?

[edit] Get in

Air Tahiti [1] flies several times a day from Tahiti. Flights are quite often full, so it is not a bad idea to make a reservation.

The airport is located on a small motu (islet) north of the main island. Transfer to the main island or to accommodations located on other motus is done by boat. The major accommodations have counters at the airport. For the accommodations located on the main island, you will need to take the (free) ferry to Vaitape. From there, small buses will usually pick you up.

[edit] Get around

Vaitape is the arrival point of the ferry from the airport, and is the only "town" of any size of the island. At the southern tip of the main island, Matira is the location of the largest beach as well as several hotels and restaurants. The central part of the island is extremely mountaineous, tough to access and not inhabited (and furthermore devoid of roads of any kind).

The way you get around in Bora Bora depends greatly on your accommodation and its location. Several resorts are actually located on motus and not on the main island, hence the need of boat transportation to get anywhere. Boat transfers from those motus resorts to the main island or between the resorts and the airport are usually provided.

On the main island, there is only one sealed road, but public transportation is extremely limited. Accommodations located on the island generally provide a transfer to and the Airport ferry quay. Taxis are also available.

Operators of activities and restaurants sometimes (but not always) provide a transfer to and from the accommodations.

Renting a bicycle or a small buggy can be an option if you plan to have your freedom on the main island, but the road is sometimes very narrow, and in bad shape.

[edit][add listing] See

The island is actually a volcanic caldera, and its stunningly beautiful lagoon is well protected from the outside waters by the surrounding motus. The unusual shape of Mount Otemanu (728m), and its smaller neighborh Mount Pahia combined with the spectacular water color variations of the lagoon guarantees some breathtaking scenery.

The final approach to the airport is particularly impressive. Try to sit on the left side of the plane (seats are not reserved).

The abundant tropical underwater life of the lagoon is also a major attraction. A mask, a snorkel and two fins is all you need, and most hotels will provide them free.

Very few go to Bora Bora for the historic relics. However, if you have seen enough of the lagoon, you might want to take a peek at the few WWII remains and the archeological polynesian relics in one of the tours of the island.

[edit] Attractions

The attractions of Bora Bora Island are so numerous, it is difficult to list them all, let alone pick only one to experience.

However, with that being said, there is nothing that compares to Bora Bora's Lagoonarium. There have been numerous travelers that have voted this as an all time favorite.

There are other lagoonariums located in the French Polynesia, however, there is nothing that compares to the one located in Bora Bora where you are able to see the exotic fish swimming in the lagoon and also interact with them.

See first hand the wonderful exotic fish that you have only before seen in pictures. Tropical fish of all sorts right before your very eyes bring the clear blue waters to life with colors beyond your wildest dreams.

A certified diver will act as your guide underwater as you swim and come face to face with the dolphins, turtles, sharks, sting rays and numerous other fish which call the lagoonaruim their home.

For those that are not into diving, there is the Aquascope; a semi-submersible watercraft, designed by a very close friend of the world-renowned Jacques Cousteau.

The Aquascope has delighted many visitors that come to Bora Bora Island for the past fifteen years. Watch schools of vibrant fish swim beneath you, thick glass windows are the only thing separating you from them.

Imagine yourself inside a small space, watching colorful schools of fish swimming beneath you, separated only by thick glass windows. This gives you the feeling of being in a reverse aquarium and allows you to still see the beauty under the waters.

These attractions are only a couple of options available when you visit Bora Bora. There are many other exceptional sights and wonderful opportunities offered and available for your pleasure on Bora Bora Island.

[edit][add listing] Do

There are comparatively more activities in Bora Bora to keep you occupied than in other islands of French Polynesia. Being practical while lazing under the sun in a white sand beach, a good book will be in every case a very useful item to bring. As weird as it may sound it actually sometimes rains in Bora Bora (and sometimes even a lot). The vast majority of the activities take place outdoor, and there are no cinemas, libraries or museums to visit, so even if large resorts do lend books and games, bring some good reading with you.

[edit] Water Activities

The tropical sea sometimes reaches 30C, making it perfect for various water activities. Swimming in the lagoon in perfectly clear warm water has the advantage of being free and can be very enjoyable. The beaches of Bora Bora are not huge by any standards, nor are they crammed with people. The most famous beach, Matira Beach is at the southern tip of the main island.

You do not have to pay a lot to enjoy Bora Bora. Just like swimming, Snorkeling is possible in many areas close to the shore, and even in Matira Beach you will be surrounded by multicolor tropical fish in seconds and in shallow waters.. Just remember to get out and put on sunscreen from time to time as the sun is strong and you will get burned badly if you stay in the water for an extended period of time.

Several companies operate snorkeling tours in the lagoon, bringing you by boat farther off the coast. A popular tour is the Shark & Ray Snorkel Safari. Shark and Ray feeding is typically done in shallow waters inside the lagoon. Approximately 10-20 sharks as well as 10-15 Rays will approach the boat and swim nearby, largely avoiding any snorkelers courageous enough to swim near. Shark Boy is highly recommended and can be booked through The Bora Bora Pearl resort and possibly other hotel concierges. Another good tour is one that goes to the "aquarium" at the Meridian hotel. Here you will tour marine life in pens and then have to swim back through an area that is full of fish and sharks (black tip and lemon), which were between 4 ft. and 8 ft.

Romantic Tours - Jourdain TETUANUI operates many activites from water taxi, Island Tour, Fishing, Snorkeling and Shark and Ray Feeding. We booked a fishing trip with him twice and both times he was excellent. He had our best interest in mind and just wanted us to catch fish, which we did. You will have the option of fishing the Lagoon or going offshore for big game fish. One our second trip we came across a school of bottle nose dolphins which Jourdain drove the boat close to and they started swimming with our boat making for great pictures. All of the fish that were caught were cleaned by Jourdain. tel:(689)677 934

Yacht charter Polynesia [2] Windward Islands, one of the worlds largest yacht charter companies, can take care of all charter requirements, from bareboat to luxury yacht in French Polynesia. Operating from different offices worldwide (UK, USA, Honk Kong, Dubai, Germany, Italy, France, Spain and Switzerland).

Scuba Diving is also very enjoyable in Bora Bora. Sharks (mostly black tip and lemon sharks, attracted by the aforementionned feeding tours), turtles, Manta rays, Napoleon fishes are aplenty in a usually clear and warm water. There are half a dozen diving clubs on the island, including TopDive [3] in Vaitape, and Nemo World [4] in Matira. Clubs offer scuba initiation and courses.

If you do not have a diving license, but still want to enjoy the underwater scenery, you can try the Aquasafari [5]. You do not actually need to know how to swim in order to wear the breathing undersea apparatus, and children from 8 are accepted.

Jet ski tours around the interior island are well worth the effort as they allow to appreciate the scenery from various viewpoints.

Kiteboarding is getting popular at the Southern tip of Matira.

[edit] Land activities

The island is about 20 miles around, and bikes and small buggys are available for rent at various sites. It is well worth the investment to ride the perimeter of the island.

You can do horseback riding along the motus on the fringe of Bora Bora as well as biking. Easiest to book through your hotel as they will know all the various activities that are available.

The Jeep tours are well worth a trip. You'll have a good time climbing through some rough trails on the island, and you'll get some breathtaking views. In addition, you'll tour the American WWII ruins, such as gun emplacements and bunkers.

[edit][add listing] Buy

Taking into account the costs of everything in Bora Bora, which sometimes defy imagination, it is a perfectly sound choice to forget the common sense of the traveller and buy as much as possible (including groceries) before getting there. Keep that option in mind if you want to self cater.

In case you do need something while on the island, you can find a medium-sized general groceries store in Vaitape (called Chin Lee) with a reasonnable choice of food and drinks. A smaller grocery store near Matira beach can be helpful if you stay in the area and you do not want to get back to Vaitape, but the choice is much more limited.

The "specialty" of Bora Bora is Black Pearls.

[edit][add listing] Eat

Art).

• Bloody Mary's. There are not a lot of restaurants in Bora Bora, but this by far is the most famous. Some visitors might be a little surprised by the service (speed over quality...). Outside they have a pair of big boards with the names on all of the famous people who have eaten there, e.g. Pamela Anderson, Pierce Brosnan, Marlon Brando, and Janet Jackson.
• Bounty Snack. Very reasonably priced but excellent tahitian restaurant in Matira.
• Restaurant Patoti is a difficult to classify restaurant (expect a mix of typical French with a mix of tahitian influence) located on the mountain side in Matira close to Sofitel.

[edit] Vaitape Area

• Bamboo House. This restaurant's name refers only to the setting, not the cuisine. The Bamboo House serves up French Polynesian fare for reasonable prices. The restaurant is located about halfway between Vaitape and Hoteldive center. Serves upscale french Cuisine

• Kaina Hut. An authentic polynesian restaurant with all tables set on a patio covered by a thatched-roof.

• Villa Mahana. A small french restaurant with only 5 tables. Serves the best French food on the Island, by an amazing chef. Make Reservations.

• Sunset Boulevard, [6]. A new concept of restaurant where you can eat on boats, actually there is a little catamaran called the "Lady Borabora" which is for VIP, and there is a bigger one which can take up to 12 passengers. The service is pretty good, they put some upbeat music that make you enjoy more your holidays. They are specialized in sushis, maybe this is the best Sushi bar/restaurant in Bora.

[edit][add listing] Drink

[edit][add listing] Sleep

Bora Bora Islands offer numerous hospitality resources in which guests can stay. The following website has all the information on hotels, ratings, and pictures for a guest to view.

http://www.boraboraisland.com/tostay.html

[edit] Budget

It is possible to keep some money for the activities by staying in one of the family pensions or even in a camping (try Village Pauline or Chez Henriette).

[edit] Mid-Range

• Novotel Bora Bora Beach Resort - an oddity in Bora Bora : this hotel has affordable rooms, with an overall excellent service and a very good location. There are no overwater bungalows there, only tranquil garden view rooms, and the beach is less than 10 meters away.

• Manureva House - is another affordable option in Bora Bora : this luxurious 2 BR, 1 BA vacation rental can accommodate up to 5 people. Located in the residential and peaceful northern part of Bora it features one of the most beautiful views on the lagoon. Manureva House is located montainside in a manicured tropical garden with a little private sandy beach for its guests less than 100 feet from the house. Pictures, availability and more information on this dedicated site: [7] From USD1899 per week.

Can someone verify this please ^. It feels alittle shady, dealing with a guy who has the last name 'Bonjour'.

[edit] Splurge

Keep in mind that the establishments listed below have prices above several hundred USD per night (the average being somewhere just above 1000), with suites well above several thousand dollars a night.

• Bora Bora Lagoon Resort & Spa - [8]has 77 overwater bungalows,a swimming pool, a fitness centre and tennis courts. A member of Orient-Express hotels.

• Hotel Bora Bora - Small, exclusive hotel with overwater bungalows on the best location on the island. It is the place that started the Overwater Bungalows thinggy in the 60s.
• Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort and Spa - [9]. The Bora Bora Pearl has 50 over-water bungalows, and 30 more beach and garden bungalows. This small resort is located off the main island, on the island motu Tevairoa. In order to get to the main island, regular boat shuttles take guests from the hotel's dock to a dock in Faanui, on the main island's north western end.
• Maitai, [10], located in Matira. A "mid-range splurge" hotel. It features (comparatively) reasonably priced overwater bungalows, not as splendid as its neighbor the Intercontinental, but nice. Get one of the overwater rooms at the end of the pier in which the rooms are located on as the water is deeper at these rooms. The other overwater rooms are just off the beach and some are in water less than 1 ft. deep.
• Club Mediterranee Bora Bora. Relatively well located, it is nonetheless a bit less extravantly luxuous than its competitors, and probably a bit expensive for what it is.
• Sofitel Bora Bora Beach Resort. Located in Matira, a luxuous yet intimate hotel with overwater bungalows and an incredible pool facing the sea.
• Sofitel Motu Bora Bora (different from the Beach Resort). Located on the Motu facing Matira, it enjoys fantastic views of the island, and has incredible snorkeling (snorkeling tour boats actually come to the area). The beach is a bit small, but the whole place is much more intimate than other motu-located resorts.
• Intercontinental Le Moana Bora Bora, [11] located at the very tip of Matira on the main island. You do not get the views on the island (well, you're ON it), nonethess this is a classy luxury resort with all you can expect for the price you pay.
• Le Meridien Bora Bora - Large hotel, billing itself as a 5 star resort. Very expensive, and the staff was less than hospitable. A popular destination for Japanese weddings, this hotel features a pretty cool turtle sanctuary and has a ton of beach. The overwater bungalows are a novelty. It sits on a motu away from the main island, travel to the main island is via shuttle boat.
• St. Regis Bora Bora, [12]. Newest and highest-priced resort on Bora Bora. Every room (100 in all) is a suite with luxury bathroom. Many of the rooms are over-water villas, some with pools or spas. Overwater villas have glass panels in the floors and under-villa lighing to make the lagoon shimmer in your room. Guests are 80% American, 80% of whom are honeymooners. Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban honeymooned here. Two excellent restaurants on-site, one by Chef Jean Georges. The angle of the view on the main island is impressive.

[edit] Get out

Maupiti, located 40 km from Bora Bora, is a smaller and less touristic but equally charming volcanic island. It can be reached by the Maupiti Express [13], an express ferry riding 3 times a week from Vaitape.

This is a usable article. It has information for getting in as well as some complete entries for restaurants and hotels. An adventurous person could use this article, but please plunge forward and help it grow!

[edit] Bora Bora Today

Today the island is mainly dependent on tourism. Over the last few years several resorts have been built on motu (small islands) surrounding the lagoon. Thirty years ago, Hotel Bora Bora built the first over-the-water bungalows on stilts over the lagoon and today, overwater bungalows are a standard feature of most Bora Bora resorts. The quality of those bungalows ranges from comparably cheap, basic accommodations to very luxurious - and pricy - places to stay. Most of the tourist destinations are aquacentric; however it is possible to visit attractions on land such as WWII cannons. Air Tahiti has five or six flights daily to the Bora Bora Airport on Moto Mute from Tahiti (as well as from other islands). Although French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken by the inhabitants, people in contact with tourists generally have some command of English. Most visitors to Bora Bora are American, Japanese, or European. Public transport on the island is limited, consisting of a single bus that goes halfway around the island and back approximately every hour. Bicycles are the recommended method of transport. There are also small fun-cars for hire in Vaitape. Bora Bora is predestined for snorkeling and scuba diving in and around its lagoon. Many species of sharks and rays inhabit the surrounding body of water. There are a few dive operators on the island offering manta ray dives and also shark-feeding dives. In addition to the existing islands of Bora Bora (called Motu in Taihitian), the new man-made motu of Motu Marfo has been added in the north-eastern corner of the lagoon on the property of the St. Regis Resort.