Tahiti, Bora Bora

I have visited many islands across the Pacific Ocean, and in my opinion, the most beautiful one is Bora Bora in Tahiti.

Bora Bora is famous for its breathtaking lagoon, overwater bungalows, crystal-clear water, and incredible marine life. Compared to other islands in Tahiti, it feels warmer, brighter, and more magical. On the other hand, Bora Bora is also much more expensive because it is such a famous and popular island. Many celebrities choose Bora Bora for their holidays, which makes the destination even more exclusive. As a result, accommodation, food, and restaurants are much more costly than on other islands.

Another interesting fact is that during World War II, the United States built an airstrip and a military base on Bora Bora to support Pacific operations. This made the island more accessible by air earlier than many others, which helped boost tourism and made Bora Bora famous.

However, the true jewel of the Pacific is Bora Bora because the color of the water is unlike anywhere else. I have seen both shades of turquoise and blue that look unreal. There are also many sea animals such as manta rays, stingrays, sharks, and colorful fish that you can swim with.

To share a personal experience with you. I once swam with a manta ray about five meters wide. It opened its wings and mouth while cleaning small fish nearby. I was amazed and a little scared as it swam in my direction, but it felt like entering another world.

In addition, Bora Bora is famous for its pearls. Pearls are farmed locally and sold in silver and gold jewelry. I noticed that many local women wear pearls as their everyday jewelry, which shows how important they are to the island’s culture.

Food in Tahiti is also very special. People cook meals in underground ovens called himā‘a, where fish and root vegetables are wrapped in banana leaves and baked underground. Because of French influence, you can also find baguettes, pastries, and French-style dishes. Tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and pineapple are common in desserts.

In conclusion, after seeing so many islands in the Pacific, I truly believe Bora Bora is the most beautiful one. It is not just a place to visit, but an unforgettable experience that feels like discovering the true pearl of the Pacific Ocean.

Written by Alina Polkova