Three Best Beaches
Bora Bora

History of Bora Bora - French Polynesia

noreply@blogger.com (Dave Jackson) — Mon, 09 Jan 2006 23:43:00 +0000

Just a brief history of Bora Bora before we get to the beaches and lagoon. Don't want to "Bora" you, but if you're going for a visit, this is interesting to know.

Bora Bora was settled by Polynesian people around the 4th century. You may be more familiar with the story of Captain James Cook, considered by many to have been the greatest of the explorers, sighting the island in 1777.

So, locals had been living there for more than 1300 years. What a shock it must have been to see Captain Cook float in.

Cook did something no previous European explorer to touch on a Polynesian island had ever done: he learned the basics of the local language, and then he used his rudimentary linguistic skills to ask how the islanders sailed and navigated their canoes, and where they voyaged.

They were able to explain how the Polynesians sailed their canoes and navigated by reference to the sun, moon, and stars, and to provide information on islands immediately surrounding Bora Bora as well as those a considerable distance away.

The early European explorers who first encountered the Polynesians could not believe that a stone age people, with only simple sailing canoes and no navigational instruments, could themselves have discovered and settled the mid-Pacific islands. Accordingly, they dreamed up elaborate theories that explained the presence of the Polynesians in the middle of the Pacific, while denying to them the ability of having reached there through their own sailing abilities.

Still, the people of Bora Bora, and French Polynesia in general, are known to be some the most friendly and hospitable on the planet. In fact, during World War II, after the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor, Bora Bora was chosen as a military supply base by the United States. They set up an oil depot, airstrip, seaplane base, and fortifications were built all around.

But Bora Bora never heard a shot fired. Americans went uncontested during the war. The base closed soon after in June of 1946 and it took force to remove some Americans from the island as they had fallen in love with the place and the people.

Today the island is dependent on tourism. Many high-end resorts dot the perimeter reef. Interestingly, tourists are mainly American and Japanese.

Most come to Bora Bora for a beach holiday, and are surprised to learn it is a lagoon destination with very few, narrow beaches. We'll cover those, but we want you to see the beauty of the lagoon and our special pages on the overwater bungalows with glass floors! Bora Bora is gorgeous and awe inspiring.

Getting to Bora Bora is fairly easy. Air Tahiti has five or six flights to Bora Bora from the island of Papeete. Since the airport here is located on a large strip of flat land, your transportation to your resort is by boat.

And you'll know you're in paradise when you see Bora Bora's airport has no walls or fences. No parking lot - except for the docked boat waiting to take you and your luggage to your resort.

On the main island, you can get around by public transportation. There is one bus that goes halfway around the island every hour or so. Bicycles are the recommended method of transportation for tourists. Arrange a bike at the resort. There are golf carts for hire in Vaitape.

Bora Bora is also famous for scuba diving in and around its beautiful lagoon. Many species of shark and rays can been seen. Two dive operators handle everything: Bora Bora Dive Center and Top Dive. Both offer shark feeding excursions. Brave enough?

Snorkeling is a favorite pastime. The color of the fish is bright. We've found that tropical fish from the Pacific are more brightly colored than those of the Caribbean or elsewhere. If and when you go, take an underwater camera (you can buy a disposable one here), and stay close to the rocks. The best formations are near rock. You'll see fish in the sandy area, but not much else.

One thing you will most likely see are turtles. They are prominent in this area and are not afraid of humans. Check around the sand and grassy areas. From your bungalow you will be able to spot a lot of marine life. Many bungalows have stairs that go down to the ocean surface.

On the site we chose not to bring you lots of those aerial lagoon shots, although those are amazing. We look to bring you the most interesting views of Bora Bora you'll ever see. So, sit back and click through our site and enjoy - Bora Bora! Next >>

The Flight to Bora Bora

noreply@blogger.com (Dave Jackson) — Sun, 08 Jan 2006 15:03:00 +0000

Your trip to Bora Bora will take you first to the Tahitian island of Papeete. Then it's a short flight over to the airport on Motu Mute, Bora Bora. That's the name of the small island American soldiers built a landing strip back during World War II. This island is one of the small barrier islands surrounding the main island of Bora Bora.

But here's a tip. Don't rest on this flight because the scenery is breathtaking. You will be able to see all colors and dramatic landscape as you approach the island. Many people have said that the beauty of Bora Bora is really unbelievable until they experience it for a few days. It sinks in that there is somewhere on earth this beautiful.

James Michener called Bora Bora the most beautiful island in the world. And he's seen a few. It's got to be the most famous island in the world.

The island is 18 miles long and is made up of a protected lagoon surrounded by white, sandy shores. These shores are mainly accessible by boat, and some reef islands are accessible by canoe. Locals still venture out to them to harvest coconut. Tourist visit them to snorkel, dive, or just have a romantic getaway.

Once you get to the airport, you have to get to your hotel, and as we mentioned, that's by water taxi or shuttle. And once at the hotel, it keeps getting better and better. You check in at the lobby and are assigned your bungalow.

Before you get too excited about the activities around the hotel complex, if you want to dine on the main island, or do any site seeing, reserve your shuttle trip because they do fill up at some locations. But remember, there are only a few hundred rooms on the entire island - the amount a normal, large hotel would have back home, so don't think you will be crowded.

Want to take full advantage of Bora Bora while you're here? Let's look at the best way to get around and what not to miss! Next >>

What to do in Paradise - Bora Bora Travel Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Dave Jackson) — Sat, 07 Jan 2006 23:51:00 +0000

Bora Bora is known as the most famous island in the world. One would think there would be the home of the world's best beaches. We'll give that honor to the Seychelles. In the meantime, we'll tell you where those strips of pristine white powder can be found, and uncover more wonders of Bora Bora.

First, don't think you can't get here. Bora Bora is very reachable as a vacation destination. Once in Papeete, Tahiti, you're a short hop to the island paradise. While you're hopping, don't close your eyes. The colors are simply breathtaking. Some say there are more than five shades of blue/turquoise as you are coming over the lagoons and reefs.

As you approach, you'll see the two towering peaks of black rock that dominate the center of Bora Bora. These are framed by the blue waters and world famous lagoon that captures your attention.

Of course, the lagoon is the centerpiece. You can wade in it, swim, snorkel, scuba, jetski, windsurf, or just take it in as the most wonderful piece of nature it is. It's really up to you. And believe us when we tell you, your vacation to Bora Bora will never be forgotten.

Bora Bora has a few different options of lodges, from plush resorts right on the lagoon, to family owned pensions - and if you'd like, there's even a campground on the island. Let's start with the plush.

These are where you go when you want your every whim catered to. Expect the best. Most have overwater bungalows with impressive glass floors. That's right; the floor of the bungalow is glass, and lit at night so you can look over your bed and watch the fish wander by through the evening. Some bungalows have manta rays that stay all night feeding on plankton drawn to the light.

Other bungalows have only glass bottomed coffee tables, which are chic, as well. There are full-sized bathrooms, with tubs and hot and cold water - all the conveniences of home - thousands of miles away in the Pacific.

Many of the bungalows on Bora Bora will have ladders that lead from the lanai (porch), to the surface of the ocean. These come complete with showers to wash off the sea after a relaxing snorkel in the surrounding lagoon.

Room service is special - the hotel will run it out to your bungalow in a classic outrigger canoe. You simply sit back, relax as you take in the view. But don't make every meal in the bungalow - most hotels use the beachfront as a dining room as your hotelmates gather to dine as the sun goes down. How romantic!

Many come to Bora Bora on honeymoon, but note that most hotels perform Polynesian weddings as well. You'll receive royal treatment and an unforgettable vacation, wedding and honeymoon. What more could you ask for?

Remember that all bungalows are not overwater. Some are garden views, some are called beach bungalows. The overwaters are the most spectacular, carry the higher price tag, and fill up first. Make sure you make your reservation early!

Next are the mid-range hotels and pensions which are two-star. These will allow you to mingle with the family owners. And finally, camping or private homes. These lodging are simple, expect no special features - however - many find these to be among the best places to stay because of the "family touch."

You land on one small section of the barrier island surrounding the main island. You are taken by boat to your hotel. After check-in at your hotel, and once you're set up - there is a wealth of things to do on Bora Bora.

Here's our picks:

Snorkel in the lagoon. All hotels have equipment rentals. Also check out the spectacular diving around the island. Your local dive shop will do their best to convince you to enjoy a shark feeding. There have been no reported accidents, so based on their record, they seem pretty safe - and how cool!

If your idea of fun is above the water, try windsurfing, jetskiing or kiteboarding. Or... our next choice - four-wheel island safaris. During the war (WWII), American soldiers carved out roads that circle around the ridges of the islands. Created to care for gun mounts (you'll see those), and other points, these roads offer the absolute best views of the islands.

You'll see Raiatea, Tahaa, and Maupiti islands and your local guide will educate you with historical facts, humor and spectacular scenery. It is well worth the price. Don't miss this.

Next, we recommend the half-day tour around the island by boat. The crystal-clear water will enchant you as you relax in the sun. Some tours offer a meal as you glide through the waters around the perimeter of Bora Bora. There are smaller boat tours, but you will enjoy the larger vessels as waves can get choppy.

Another fun adventure is renting bicycles and riding around the island. A paved road, thanks for the Americans, circles the island. You can take three or four hours, or all day if you choose. It's that big. Again, views are breathtaking, people charming. Make sure you stop at a few of the many local stores along the way.

And finally, the beaches - yes, there are a few. They all surround the best beach, Matira Beach. The only public beach on the island, Matira is plush and a photographer's dream. The sand is medium to fine and the coast here is dotted with jetski rentals and smaller hotels. Plan a few hours here, if possible. Matira has been named one of the top ten beaches in the world.

Enjoy your stay on Bora Bora and make sure you visit our other reviews and pictures of Best Beaches in the World.

The Islands of Tahiti - French Polynesia

noreply@blogger.com (Dave Jackson) — Sat, 07 Jan 2006 00:53:00 +0000

It is fascinating to think who may have been the first sailors to set foot on the fabled islands of French Polynesia. Wouldn't that have been breathtaking - to have been the first human? Captain James Cook was leaving here once and it is reported his lieutenant said, "They are as pleasant and happy a spot as the world contains."

Is there a magic spell?

For couples planning an unforgettable honeymoon, or if you're a diver who must add this part of the world to your log book, it may be hard to know just where to start. To get your mind around French Polynesia, note that the total landmass of all the islands is 1,359 square miles - and yet, its territory covers over a million square miles. That's roughly the size of Western Europe.

When landing in Tahiti, the approach takes you over two famous wreck dives - just off the strip at Faa'a International Airport in Papeete. If you're planning to make Bora Bora your home for a week, you'll find mantas in the famous lagoon - and sharks everywhere else.

Just outside the reef passes of Rangiroa, Fakarava and Manihi - in the Tuamotus - you'll find swarms of sharks, circling like a mad nest of bees. Then, south of there, close to Rurutu in the Australs, from September to January, plan on viewing dozens of humpbacks. By the way, to the north, near the Marquesas, the deep waters teem with pilot whales, beaked whales and enormous manta rays.

Tahitian culture has long been admired. The people have a sweet spirit and great know-how. The perfect touch of French, this mixture of peoples have a long history of living as one with the elements. For example, a roadside eatery may look like a thatched hut from the outside, but know that inside they're serving scrumptious fresh tuna with ginger and a side of escargot.

And what better to represent the people of French Polynesia than the black pearl? More that 98% of all the world's black pearls are cultured here. You'll see small mom and pop operations to huge pearl farms dotting the bays. Keeping the shells happy is an art, but all in a days work for farmers in the wonderful land of colors.

Must Know - Tahiti and French Polynesia

noreply@blogger.com (Dave Jackson) — Fri, 06 Jan 2006 01:20:00 +0000

WATER TEMPERATURE: 82 degrees - visibility 125 feet-plus.

GETTING THERE: Air Tahiti Nui has non-stop flights from Los Angeles and New York

LANGUAGE: French and Tahitian, but English widely spoken

CURRENCY: French Pacific Franc (XPF)

TAXES: No departure tax. How perfect can that be?

ELECTRICITY: 220 V, but most hotels have 110 V.

TIME ZONE: 2 hours behind U.S. Pacific Standard Time (GMT -10, same as Hawaii)

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS: Valid passport and return ticket. No visa if visiting less than a month.

NOTE: Remember, this is the honeymoon capital of the world.

MUST DO: Don't miss Tahiti's lava tubes. Also, visit Tiki Village. Eat at a Les Roulette (roadside snackshack). Soak in the musical culture here. Renew your vows!

Three Best Beaches Bora Bora

History of Bora Bora - French Polynesia

The Flight to Bora Bora

What to do in Paradise - Bora Bora Travel Tips

The Islands of Tahiti - French Polynesia

Must Know - Tahiti and French Polynesia

Three Best Beaches
Bora Bora