The ancient name for Bora Bora is Pora pora mai te pora, which means “created by the gods” … and I can understand why.
This tiny island in the middle of the South Pacific is the most spectacularly gorgeous place I’ve ever been, and someplace I hope everyone gets to see at least once in their lifetime.
If Bora Bora isn’t already on your travel wish list, here are 5 reasons to add it … now.
1. Fabulous Resorts
When comparing resorts in French Polynesia, the properties on Bora Bora always sit at the top of the list. They’re continually rated as the most desirable places to stay in the entire South Pacific. But why is one tiny island (less than 2 miles long x 3 miles wide) home to the best of the best? Keep reading …
2. Unparalleled Beauty
All the islands in French Polynesia are stunningly beautiful, but Bora Bora is on a whole different level. It’s everything you could ever dream about and more. Pictures and movies don’t do it justice. You absolutely must experience it for yourself.
3. Bluest of Blue Water
The color of the water is so captivating. Words can’t begin to describe it. It’s also home to extraordinary marine life. Spot humpback whales during their migration (August-October). And see many types of sharks (blacktip whitetip, reef, lemon, hammerhead) as well as manta rays, eagle rays, bat rays, and several kinds of sea turtles. You can get closest to these creatures on a snorkeling or diving adventure … Or you might even see them from the comfort of your overwater bungalow.
4. Vibrant Culture
In destinations that rely heavily on tourism, the heart and soul of the local culture can become diluted and feel superficial and inauthentic. That is NOT the case in Bora Bora. The local people maintain great pride in their Polynesian traditions and customs, and you can feel the influence of their culture everywhere.
5. Incredible Hospitality
Everyone you meet in Bora Bora exudes a sincere warmth and generosity that makes you feel truly welcome. This also translates into a high level of service at your resort, which makes your visit even better.
How to Make Your Trip the Best It Can Be
In 2019, my husband and I visited French Polynesia and had an incredible time. Here are some tips I’d love to share:
Add a Few Nights on Mo’orea
Mo’orea is an easy flight away from Bora Bora and you’ll find tons of activities to do there.
- Start in Mo’orea, spend 3 to 4 nights, then head to Bora Bora for 5 to 7 nights.
- Stay in an overwater bungalow at Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa, and keep an eye out for the sharks swimming beneath your bungalow each night.
- Check out Moorea Beach Café by Bruno Jamais. It’s a cute little place that sits on the edge of the water. I especially loved how well they accommodated my gluten allergy.
Have some adventures! BUT be aware that safety standards are a bit different on the islands. We had a death-defying 4×4 experience that was thrilling, but I wouldn’t recommend it for my travel clients. (I can help you find activities that are fun and safe.)
Don’t Get Bored in Bora Bora
When you go someplace like Bora Bora, you’re supposed to slow down, be still and relax, right?
If you’re like me, though, you can’t sit still very long. All that relaxing can become pretty Bora Boring.
Luckily, my creativity kicked in and, with plenty of help from the amazing staff at the St. Regis Bora Bora, I turned my Bora Boredom into a memory my husband and I will always cherish.
Do you have any questions about visiting French Polynesia? Or are you now so inspired that you’re ready to book your flight to Bora Bora?
Let’s chat! I’d love to share more with you. Just click the button below to schedule a quick call with me.
