Satellite pictures of the tiny island of Bora Bora from hundreds
of miles above the earth show it to be almost glowing, its dark
green centre surrounded by a coral necklace and an iridescent
aquamarine lagoon. Little wonder that this is the dream destination
for celebrities, honeymooners and lovers who live in splendour in
the island's luxurious spas and resorts, but enjoy privacy and
anonymity on magical secluded beaches.
Visitors touch down on an airstrip (built by U.S. troops during
World War II) sited on a motu (islet) in the middle of the
beautiful crystal-clear lagoon, and are ferried to the main island.
The lagoon forms the centre of activities for holidaymakers, being
the stage for numerous adventures from shark-feeding excursions and
swimming with giant turtles, to scuba diving, snorkelling,
jet-skiing, glass-bottom boat cruises, descending into the
'lagoonarium', kite-sailing, picnicking on a motu and so on. Bora
Bora also offers plenty of cultural and historical attractions,
like taking a day trip to a Marae (ancient temple), exploring the
World War II canon and relics, browsing the art and craft
galleries, watching a Tahitian dance ceremony and perhaps even
braving a tattoo (the skin art apparently originated here).
