Bora Bora, Tahiti

Bora Bora "sounds very sexy, sexy."

Anyone recognize that?

Quote from the movie Serendipity - excuse my cheesiness but that is the first think that comes to mind when I speak of Bora Bora.

Check out what the tourism board has said about this romantic island:

"Under a one hour flight from the island of Tahiti or Moorea, the island of Bora Bora, with a lagoon resembling an artist's palette of blues and greens, is love at first sight. Romantics from around the world have laid claim to this island where the castle-like Mount Otemanu pierces the sky. Lush tropical slopes and valleys blossom with hibiscus, while palm-covered motu circle the illuminated lagoon like a delicate necklace. Perfect white-sand beaches give way to emerald waters where colored fish animate the coral gardens as they greet the giant manta rays. This could be easily be described as the center of the romantic universe, where luxury resorts and spas dot the island with overwater bungalows, thatchedroof villas, and fabled ambience."

If we did not already understand that this place is literally Heaven on Earth we do now. 

Seriously...where else can you eat like this???

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Before we cover Bora Bora lets learn a bit about Tahiti...

Just so you know a bit about where you are going :) 

Where is Tahiti?

Tahiti is the largest of the 118 islands and atolls that make up French Polynesia.  It is located equal distance south of the equator as Hawaii is north and also in the same time zone as Hawaii.  The islands are approximately halfway between Los Angeles, California and Sydney, Australia.  

Are the islands easy to get to?

Once you arrive in Tahiti Air Tahiti flies several times a day but are usually very full so make reservations ahead of time.  Once in Bora Bora typically your resort will have arranged pick up for you by boat to take you to the motu (islet) they are located on.  The main form of transportation is by boat.

Do I need a Passport/Visa to visit?

Any citizen of the United States or Canada staying less than 90 days only needs to carry their Passport but if planning on an extended visit or working consult their government website.

What language is spoken there?

French and Tahitian are the official languages but English is spoken in the tourist areas.  But as always when traveling to a foreign destinations, it is always appreciated to learn a few of their words and phrases.

• Hello - Ia Ora na (yo-rah-nah)
• Goodbye - Nana (nah-nah)
• Yes - E (ay)
• No - Aita (eye-tah)
• Man - Tane (tah-nay)
• Woman - Vahine (vah-he-nay)
• Child - Tamarii (tah-ma-ree-ee)
• Friend - Hoa (ho-ah)
• Polynesian - Ma' ohi (mah-o-hee)
• Big - Nui (new-ee)
• Small - Iti (ee-tee)
• Morning - Poipoi (poy-poy)
• Beer- "Pia" ( pee- ah)

What are their seasons and climate?

Tahiti offers one of the most perfect climates in the world - tropical but moderate and cooled by ocean breezes the average yearly air and water temps are around 80 degrees.  Their summer is from November to April offering a warmer more humid climate and winter is from May to October and the climate is more cooler and dryer.

Can I "haggle prices" when shopping?

No, this is not practiced in the islands and is consider very rude.

Do I need to tip when dining out?

It is not customary to tip but when you receive excellent service it is welcomed.  

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So what is it going to costs to stay?  

Believe it or not there are budget accommodations in Bora Bora.

Sunset Hill Lodge

These bungalows are not located over the lagoon but still offer you a true taste of Tahitian paradise.  It is a small lodge with only four cabins, two bungalows and two studios all with their own kitchens.  They do not offering a catering service but are only five minutes away from the local grocery store.  

If you are wanting to immerse yourself more 

in the local culture and not just a resort - this lodge is for you. 

Another great option for travel is with a group.  One it cuts back the prices so you can stay in something nicer and you have people to do things with.

If you do travel in a group check out HomeAway to rent a villa.  Most offer nightly rates with at least a four night minimum stay.  Staying in your own villa gives you the privacy of your own pool, you can stay water front if you like, the ability to eat wherever you want and to explore more of the local countryside.  

Then for the resorts that offer the famous bungalows over the lagoons.  For most people this is the main reason why they travel to Tahiti making this the one accommodation they want.  

Who could blame them???

There are a handful of resorts that range from 5 stars to 3 stars so depending on what you are willing to spend you have options.  Book early as this is a popular destination all year round!  When you choose to stay at a resort you will find there is not much reason so leave.  You room service is delivered via polynesian canoe and you can swim and sun bath from your private patio.  

Also, many of these resorts are all-inclusive so when you pay for your trip you no longer need to worry about setting aside money for food and drinks.  But check to see what activities (if any) are included because you will probably have to pay separate for them.  

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And no need to worry about the costs of the trip because with United Military Travel you can travel now and pay later.  Contact them today for your pre-approval! 

866-582-9579