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Undoubtedly
the most famous island in Polynesia, Bora Bora is surprisingly
small. But what this tiny gem lacks in size, it makes up for in
beauty. Approach it from the air or sea, and you are greeted with
a captivating vision... a coral reef dotted with emerald islets
encircles the main island like a string of luscious pearls. At the
center of this dramatic setting the chisel-like bulk of Mount
Otemanu rises sharply out of the gentle lagoon, a palette of
unimaginable blues and turquoises. Underwater coral formations
teem with countless brightly-colored fish, while a pod of playful
dolphins breaks the shimmering surface, and an outrigger canoe
glides lazily by.
In
this vast lagoon there is only one navigable pass, facing the
principal village of Vaitape, with its eclectic mix of Polynesian,
French and American culture. More than 5,000 American G.I.s were
stationed on Bora Bora during World War II, leaving behind them an
airport, still in use today, and inspiring the romantic musical
South Pacific.
Life
here is casual, relaxing, blissful. A place of dramatic beauty,
warm waters, and gentle climate, Bora Bora is an enchanting island
which bestows upon visitors a sense of peace--a special gift to
take home with them from the Polynesian gods.
Honeymooners
and romantics from around the world have laid claim to this island
where the castle-like Mount Otemanu pierces the sky. Lush tropical slopes
and valleys blossom with hibiscus while palm-covered motus circle
the lagoon like a delicate necklace. Perfect white-sand beaches
give way to emerald waters where impossibly colored fish animate
the coral gardens.
Simply said, the most
beautiful island in
the world. |
