Bora Bora

French Polynesia

Why Bora Bora

is special

The Polynesian island Bora Bora in the South Pacific is widely touted as the most beautiful island in the world. I agree.

Bora Bora

tips & insights

Essentially, Bora Bora is a crumbling core of a tall extinct volcano that is surrounded by a tropical emerald-turquoise lagoon, which in turn is ringed by a string of islets, which in turn is surrounded by coral reefs.

Bora Bora is dramatically crowned by two rugged volcano-core peaks draped with lush tropical foliage. One is as tall as a modern 200-story building.

This travel destination is a mecca for honeymooners and other amorous couples, mostly in the high budget range.

Bora Bora is known for its over-the-water bungalows on stilts (see mid-background of photo above ). Today, many of the high-end resorts offer them.

You will enjoy lovely white sand, palm-fringed beaches for lounging and swimming.

Snorkeling and diving are popular. You can also see the lagoon's colorful tropical fish on a glass bottom boat.

To get a sense of the non-tourism face of Bora Bora, travel its 32-kilometer (20-mile) coastal road that circles the island. You can do it by car, motorbike, bicycle, or - as I did - on foot. It is an unforgettable experience.

Bora Bora is part of French Polynesia, which is an overseas territory of France. You will quickly see this connection in language, food and other cultural influences.

Trade winds keep the climate balmy year-round, though the ideal visiting time is from May to September when sunny days abound.

To reach this island paradise, most visitors take an international flight to Tahiti. From there, it's a 45-minute flight to Bora Bora.

Other Polynesia

medal winners

Use my clickable "Polynesia Triangle" map below to learn about the other Polynesia Hillman Wonder medal winners.

I hope your French Polynesia travel dreams come true - and that 

my Bora Bora page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications