The Pearl Of The Pacific

Explore Paradise In Bora Bora

By Sylvia Forbes

            Bora Bora. Even the name sounds exotic and unusual. James Michener, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, considered it the most beautiful island in the world. He traveled to hundreds of islands in the South Pacific during his years as a lieutenant in the U.S. Navy at the time of World War II, gathering information as a naval historian. Hardly known to anyone then, today, more than 60 years later, the lush, palm-tree covered, Pacific paradise of Bora Bora is considered one of the most elite travel destinations in the world.

Where Is It?  
            Bora Bora is part of a group of about 180 islands located south of the Equator, in the middle of the South Pacific, that compose the country called French Polynesia. The country is divided into six main island groups, and Bora Bora, as well as Tahiti, are part of the Leeward Islands group called the Society Islands.
            Only about two-thirds as big as Disney World in geographic size, Bora Bora is a small island with fewer than 9,000 inhabitants and only one town. The island is formed from an ancient volcano which left two main peaks, with the highest elevation about 2,400 feet. A surrounding chain of long, slender islands, called motus, protect Bora Bora and also enclose a calm, gloriously aquamarine blue lagoon. This calm lagoon is what makes Bora Bora so enticing — it  beckons people to swim, sail, and play in the warm waters, which are usually about 80 degrees throughout the year. Resorts cleverly have made the water an integral part of each visitor's experience by building “over-water” bungalows and villas on stilts with glass floors to view the magnificently clear, turquoise ocean water only a few feet below. They may look like thatched huts, but they have luxurious appointments inside. It's difficult to imagine a more romantic place to eat a meal or watch a sunset. The beautiful setting has attracted all kinds of A-list celebrities, and the bungalows rent for top prices — up to $15,000 per night.

It's All About Water
            With the ocean all around the island, and a large lagoon larger than the land mass found inside the strip islands, it's only fitting that most of the activities available on Bora Bora have something to do with water. No one should leave the island without having snorkeled the lagoon, where dolphins play in the waters, manta rays glide gracefully, and more than a thousand species of colorful fish hang out around the coral reefs. For the more adventurous, there are world-class diving experiences to be found all around Bora Bora and throughout French Polynesia. Divers can visit deep drop-offs, sunken ships, underwater caves, and even a sunken plane. Guests who stay a week, of more have time to complete their dive certification classes.
            All kinds of boats are available to rent. Anyone can take sailboat lessons, rent a sea kayak, charter a boat or take a thrilling ride on an outrigger canoe. Water-skiing, jet-skiing, powerboating and deep-sea fishing are all popular activities.
            Beach lovers will find glorious white sand beaches on the motus surrounding the lagoon. On the island itself, Matira Beach is the main beach. Resorts offer water toys, as well as snorkeling equipment. Watch the bodyboarders and windsurfers, or take a class and try it! Those visiting at the right time may happen across surfing or outrigger canoe races during their stay.
            Visitors may want to get to know Bora Bora by land, too, and renting a bicycle is a great way to explore. The main road around the island is only 20 miles long, making for an easy bicycle trip. Bicyclists will pedal past coconut plantations and verdant vegetation, with spectacular views around every bend. During the ride, pedalers can stop at a restored Polynesian temple, and view several remaining World War II installations from when the U.S. used the island as a military base for refueling. One of the famous hangouts along the way is Bloody Mary's Restaurant and Bar, where visitors may come across a celebrity or two enjoying the atmosphere.

Shopping
            Stop at Vaitape, the main town, to explore the boutiques and pearl shops on its one main street. Shop for black cultured pearls, a unique offering from the islands. These pearls are cultured in lagoons throughout the country, using a certain species of pearl oysters called Pinctada margaritifera. This particular oyster secretes a black pigment, resulting in pearls ranging in color from light gray to black. Depending on size and quality, the pearls can cost from $100 to $10,000 or more per pearl.
            Another specialty to look for is monoi oil, a blend of coconut oil scented with tiare flowers, which are Tahitian gardenias. Considered an ancient Polynesian beauty secret, Monoi oil is used in products such as shampoo, hand lotion and soap. Many of the spas in the region use Monoi oil as part of  their offerings.

An Unforgettable Island
            Bora Bora is one of the pricier destinations on the planet. However, the spectacular natural setting, along with the abundant sea life and relaxing atmosphere combine for an unforgettable, once-in-a-lifetime vacation.