Bora Bora, home of the black pearl

Our first stop in French Polynesia is Bora Bora (population about 4,500) arriving at 12 PM.

We tendered into the small beachside town, arriving in time to board a little skiff holding 12 passengers plus the captain for a quick boat ride in the sparkling waters. We enjoyed the 90-minute ocean ride atop pure clear tourquoise waters, seeing a reef shark or two plus a sting ray.

The captain regaled us with stories about growing up on the island, his search for a wife, (every one is a cousin!), and learning fishing, farming, and weaving coconut leaf (to make all sorts of island accessories), and he sang island songs accompanies by his uku (Tajitian banjo). So enjoyable.

Later, we visited little stores selling black pearl jewelry, souvenirs, and island clothing. We even made a quick stop at a local Bora Bora grocery store. I bought a magnet to remind us of our stop in this little piece of island heaven.

Hot, muggy, and paradise all in one 😀Read more