Friday, May 7, 2010

3 Days in Bora Bora - Things to Do and See


Bora Bora is one of the most popular destinations in French Polynesia. A lush island paradise surrounded by barrier reefs, Bora Bora offers pristine, white sand beaches and a picturesque lagoon that has made the island one of the most sought after tourist destinations in the world.

Part of the Leeward group of the Society Islands, Bora Bora is located roughly 200 kilometers from Papeete. The name Bora Bora was derived from the Tahitian word Pora Pora, which, roughly translated, means "First Born." A majority of the Bora Bora islanders speak both Tahitian and French, but tourists will not find difficulty in finding English-speaking locals.

Day 1 - Vaitape is the island's main tourist hub and this is where most offices and shops are located. Nestled on the Western part of the island, Vaitape offers a number of hotels, restaurants and resorts that can cater to any tourist's needs. Vaitape is conveniently located near the main channel of the island's lagoon and offers the best starting point for tourists wanting to explore the rest of the island. The best way to see the sights around Vaitape is by renting a bicycle from one of the many rental shops scattered about the area.

Tourists should definitely visit Hotel Bora Bora. This famous hotel offers a number of over water bungalows that are available for occupancy. Meals are delivered by boat, and hotel guests are guaranteed all the privacy they want as they stare into the sunset.

Day 2 - The local lagoon is one of the best Snorkeling and Diving spots in the world. Tourists can spend the day engaging in some of the many water sports that are offered in the lagoon. Those looking for an exciting Bora Bora experience can try Jet Skiing, Windsurfing, and Water Skiing, while those looking for a more relaxing experience can spend the day observing the local underwater fauna in specially designed observation boats.

Day 3 - After a day of fun in the water, tourists may want to explore some of the earthbound pleasures the island has to offer. They can go hiking and climbing in Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia, s twin peaks. There are also a number of establishments that offer 4x4 rentals that take tourists driving around the extinct volcanoes. Many picnic areas and observation decks also dot the area around the twin peaks where tourists can spend some quality time with their friends and families.

Three days is not nearly enough to see and experience all that Bora Bora has to offer, but this tropical island paradise offers some of the best weekend getaway packages in existence.