Bora Bora – Crowning Glory Of South Pacific – Part II

Islands | Ricky | July 24, 2009 at 12:57 pm

Bora Bora, part of the Leeward Islands, is the abode to about 5,500 occupants, set in the midst of an ethereal blue-green hued lagoon, sheathed by offshore motu islands within a shielding coral necklace.

One can have a one-on-one session with sharks, dolphins, turtles, rays and fishes at the striking Lagoonarium or don a big helmet and engage in some aqua safari while scuba diving. The Aquascope is an incredible way of having a fish-eye view of the undersea by boarding a semi-immersed water craft that will glide you through the happening spots around the lagoon with the option of staying dry.

Bora Bora is home to some grand archaeological relics, particularly the familial veneration places devoted to a particular deity known as maraes whose blessings were called upon through gifts. There are 42 marae recorded in Bora Bora, with their majestic, open and smoothened coral raised areas or altars. The classic shaped Fare Opu marae located on the Faanui bay is outstanding with its ornate turtle petroglyphs perched atop huge coral rock formations. The Vaiotaha marae is noteworthy in comparison to all the marae. There are three maraes of Aehautai located on the shoreline of Vairao Bay.

History buffs are bound to be enthralled by the strategically posted seven gigantic WW2 cannons, relics of bygone era that were placed as key points on the island to avert an attack from the Japanese. Fitiiu Point situated about 11kms from Vaitape provides for interesting viewing with two maraes and two WW2 jumbo cannons. Taihi Point has splendid views of the lagoon and is located about 1km from the Marine Museum that has a wide display of remarkable boats and fascinating aspects of Polynesian marine past. The Tereia Point can be reached by road from Taihi Point, has another WW2 cannon atop found on top of the hill.

The Matira Point situated 7.5kms from Vaitepe has a massive cluster of hotels. One can head to the Matira beach that stretches for 1.5kms commencing close to the highly famed Bloody Mary’s Restaurant or stopover at the Club Med located about 9kms. The completely feral and unblemished Motu Tapu, perched in the heart of the lagoon drifts a mile outwards from the main island. The sunrise point on it proffers splendid views of the soaring Mt. Otemanu. Placed at the peak of its highest hill, lies the bell of the stone of Hiro which is an archaeological cache that used to be rung at the time of significant ceremonial functions. Opposite the Motu Toopua, on the west coast of the island are the two cavernous bays of Faanui and Poofai that are remnants of an olden volcanic fissure.