
Bora Bora © Tahiti Tourisme
Satellite pictures of the tiny island of Bora Bora from hundreds
of miles above the earth show it to be almost glowing, its dark
green centre surrounded by a coral necklace and an iridescent
aquamarine lagoon. Little wonder that this is the dream destination
for celebrities, honeymooners and lovers who live in splendour in
the island's luxurious spas and resorts, but enjoy privacy and
anonymity on magical secluded beaches.
Visitors to Bora Bora touch down on an airstrip (built by U.S.
troops during World War II) sited on a
motu (islet) in the
middle of the beautiful crystal-clear lagoon, and are ferried to
the main island. The lagoon forms the centre of activities for
holidaymakers, being the stage for numerous adventures from
shark-feeding excursions and swimming with giant turtles, to scuba
diving, snorkelling, jet-skiing, glass-bottom boat cruises,
descending into the 'lagoonarium', kite-sailing, picnicking on a
motu and so on.
Bora Bora also offers plenty of cultural and historical
attractions, like taking a day trip to a Marae (ancient temple),
exploring the World War II canon and relics, browsing the art and
craft galleries, watching a Tahitian dance ceremony and perhaps
even braving a tattoo (the skin art apparently originated
here).