Travel Guide: Bora Bora

When Canadians immediately think of the island of Bora Bora, the recognizable thatched roof bungalows suspended over the cobalt-blue waters might come vividly to mind. Located in the South Pacific Ocean, Bora Bora is part of the society island of French Polynesia. This dreamland on earth offers visitors breathtaking natural settings like a coral reef barrier , soft-white sand beaches, lagoons in vibrant shades of blue, and a greenery-flanked volcano.

Bora Bora is a top bucket-list destination that covers everything from culture to adventure, art, relaxation, and romance to cater to all travellers. This travel guide will help you plan the trip of a lifetime to this paradise-like destination.

There is no direct flight available from Canada to Bora Bora. All passengers leaving Canada will need to connect in San Francisco or Los Angeles, where there is a direct flight to Papeete, the capital of Tahiti. From there, you can take a scheduled commercial charter, or helicopter flight to Bora Bora. The final flight lasts about 50 minutes.

• Anyone considering a trip to this worthwhile location knows that it is costly. Here are some helpful hints to help you make the trip and keep the shirt on your back.
  
  
• Redeem points and rewards you may have from any hotel, frequent flier program, and credit cards.
• Airfare is usually less expensive during the rainy season (February through May). If you want to avoid the rain, May is known for having nice weather.
• Be familiar with the baggage allowance regulations for Air Tahiti Nui ,which is the only carrier operating flights between Papeete and Bora Bora island. The airline levies a steep fee for any excess weight or bags.
• Book a hotel that offers free watercraft and unlimited access to the lagoon.
• A night in one of the overwater bungalows can cost as much as a monthly mortgage or rent payment. Instead, consider booking a resort or rooms with fewer amenities or less opulent views.
• If you find reasonably priced lodging, make a reservation immediately; less luxurious accommodations tend to sell out quickly.
• Check each resort's website for special deals and packages. Deals like three nights for the price of two occasionally become available.
• In some resorts, ordering room service is less expensive than dining at their restaurant. Breakfast can cost up to $50 per person. Why not share breakfast and have it delivered right to your bungalow instead?
• Drinks at the resorts can add up to a significant bill amount. So why not bring your alcohol or purchase it at a nearby market? A bottle of water can also cost as much as $10, so bring a reusable one and refill it whenever possible at the fitness centre.
• Book activities and tours in advance directly with the companies offering them. Booking at the hotel can be expensive, and some activities might be sold out.
• Visit a bank or an airport ATM to obtain local currency. They offer conversion rates that are more favourable than those offered at the hotels.

For stays of up to 90 days, Canadians can visit Bora Bora without a visa. However, ensure your passport has one blank visa page and is valid for at least six months past your entry date onto the island.

• Relax at Martina Beach: It is one of the world's most stunning and recognizable beaches and the only public beach on the island. It is located on Bora Bora's southernmost point.
• Hike Mount Otemanu: Although you can only hike up to the base of this ancient and extinct volcano, the trail is so idyllic that you can still have stellar views of the island and find American World War II cannons and ancient local shrines dispersed throughout the jungle.
• Go on an Aquabike Adventure: Take a two-person open underwater scooter on an adventure through the turquoise lagoons and explore native marine life. A glass helmet lets you breathe normally so you can focus on enjoying the view.
• Try Bora Bora's fast food: Moi Here is a charming thatched-roof hut that offers a good meal for a fair price. The restaurant also has breathtaking views of Martina Point's white sand beach and blue lagoon.
• Snorkel in the Coral Gardens - Nowhere else will you find the best specimens of colorful fish and corals in one place. In the shallow, clear water of the Bora Bora lagoon, you can swim alongside moray eels, anemone fish, eagle rays, manta rays, black-tipped reef sharks, and much more. Local guides see to your safety so you can immerse yourself in the experience. Many travellers mentionthe “Aquarium” as one of the most easily accessible spots to experience the coral gardens.
• Zip around the island on a jet ski: There isn't a more exhilarating activity in Bora Bora than whizzing through the island's azure waters on a jet ski. Watch for dolphins and the various hues of blue in the lagoon.
• Dine at Bloody's Mary – This laid-back Tiki hut-style bar and grill is one of the island's most well-liked nightlife places and is often frequented by celebrities. Sample delectable dishes made with top-quality meat, seafood, and fresh fish from the area. There are also vegetarian options available. The restaurant has a great atmosphere and signature cocktails.
• Hop on a glass-bottom boat – If swimming close to sharks gives you chills, an alternative option is to join a boat tour with a glass floor as a way to experience the amazing marine life of the island's lagoon.

Don't put off your dream trip to Bora Bora. Safeguard your trip with travel insurance from Allianz Global Assistance before you start your tropical adventure. Get a travel insurance quote online now.

Travel insurance is underwritten by CUMIS General Insurance Company, a member of The Co-operators Group of Companies, administered by Allianz Global Assistance, which is a registered business name of AZGA Service Canada Inc.

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