The volcanic activity that created this island paradise occurred several million years ago, yet the steep slopes remind you of its origin. If you are looking for a tropical destination for your honeymoon that is beyond compare, come to Bora Bora.
Author James A. Michener called Bora Bora the Enchanted Island. Its name is pronounced Pora Pora and means First Born. In 1942, the island was occupied by thousands of US Naval personnel and used as a supply base for troops fighting in the South Pacific. During the war, no fighting occurred as far south as Bora Bora, but naval cannons were installed for security. Although the Navy left in 1946, the cannons are still on the island today. An airstrip, a power plant, a shipping dock, and a road around the island were all built during that time and remain in use.
One of 118 islands in French Polynesia, Bora Bora is closest to Papeete, northwest of Tahiti. Hibiscus flowers scent the air and topless sunbathers wander the beaches. One main island is surrounded by dot-like smaller islands in a lagoon that is part of a submerged volcanic crater.
A barrier reef protects the magnificent lagoon, and makes it a haven for a plethora of tropical fish. All kinds of water activities are available in Bora Bora, but the clear water and marine life bring snorkelers and scuba divers from around the world. If you would like to add a bit of excitement to your swim, consider having a tour guide take you out to feed 4 foot long black tipped reef sharks.
Bora Bora is known for its beauty, casual atmosphere and peaceful vistas. Temperatures on the island are between 75 and 85 degrees year round, and the clear waters are between 72 and 75 degrees. With nearly 8 hours of sunshine a day, there is no more scenic and relaxing place on Earth!
Most honeymooners arrive by charter plane after first stopping in Tahiti. Whether arriving by plane or by boat, once in Bora Bora, it is not uncommon to walk, or ride a rented bicycle to get from place to place. The island is not a big one, so you are not likely to get lost and the road around the island is level, encouraging an easy trip. If you prefer, rent a small boat or a jet ski and encircle the island by water.
Mt. Otemanu is at the center of the island and rises sharply to 2385 feet. The entire island population is 4500 people, with 2500 of them living in Vaitape, where most of the lodging is located.
Honeymoon accommodations will not be hard to come by on Bora Bora. Because of the location of this island, it is rarely crowded and rooms are nearly always available. Bungalows with a private bath are the norm, but luxurious resort bungalows over the turquoise blue lagoon, guesthouses, yacht moorages and campsites are also available.
Honeymooners will benefit from checking out travel websites and reading guest reviews posted on these sites of the various properties prior to making their selection. While full-time air conditioning, casinos and a roaring nightlife are not to be found here, the light tropical breezes and French Polynesian hospitality will encourage a romantic honeymoon adventure.
Before you go to Bora Bora, you will need to acquire a passport. US and Canadian citizens can stay up to one month without a visa, and no special inoculations are required. Although there is a medical clinic on the island, it is always a good idea to have a doctor's check-up and your Tetanus and Hepatitis B shots up to date prior to traveling out of the country.
The warmth of the people, the unmatched colors of the island, and the quiet, laid-back atmosphere make this a place unlike any other. If you desire the serenity and romance that only comes from the South Pacific, consider a Bora Bora honeymoon.
