Vaitape, Bora Bora - French Polynesia - November 22, 2013

Bora Bora is an island in the Leeward group of the Society Islands of French Polynesia, an overseas collectivity of France in the Pacific Ocean. The island is located about 140 miles northwest of Papeete, Tahiti. A lagoon and tiny reef-islets called motu ring the opalescent waters like little havens cast adrift. Many of the resort hotels are located on the motu's. In the center of the island are the remnants of an extinct volcano rising to two peaks, Mount Pahia and Mount Otemanu, the highest point is at 2,385 feet. The major settlement, Vaitape is on the western side of the main island opposite the main channel into the lagoon. French and Tahitian are the main languages spoken by the inhabitants, but people in contact with tourists generally have some command of English. Public transport on the island is non-existent. Rental cars and bicycles are the recommended method of transport. There are also small fun-cars for hire in Vaitape. The 20 miles of road around Bora Bora are paved, but always drive or ride slowly and carefully, and be on the lookout for pigs, chickens, pedestrians and especially dogs. Dogs are everywhere and seem to not be taken care of by anyone. The prices are very high compared to the other islands.

This is our second time visiting this incredible island, hands down one of the most amazing islands on the planet. Crystal clear warm water, white sandy beaches, perfect temperature all with a nice south Pacific breeze. We do just love it here and how can you not. We could not find the family that ran a Manta Ray / Shark tour for us four years ago so we went back to the drawing board (main dock) and ran into a couple that were repeating a tour that they had done a few years prior - with the same boat driver, Marona. So we signed on and for a reasonable price we had an incredible four plus hour tour with Bora Bora Adventure Tours, thank you Marona for making our day here in Bora Bora so so special.

Fifteen of us piled into his long boat where we swam with the Manta Rays and the Black Tip Sharks, then it was off to a Coral Garden, then to a bit of fun with a natural white sand mud bath (very good for the skin), final stop of our the entire island tour was at his personal home on a motu (island), just an incredible day. I know I say that a lot but wow how else better to describe this day and this adventure that we are on. Also had an opportunity to phone home today so very nice to hear some familiar voices.

Sail away was very special as the sun set on this day in Bora Bora. Had to keep this short as we are in Tahiti tomorrow. Whew!!!

Quote of the Day. A mind that has been stretched will never return to its original dimension. - Albert Einstein