french-polynesia – Just Pete Hiking

We traveled a whopping 31 miles northeast from Raiatea to Bora Bora, the true pinnacle of tropical nirvana.

Bora Bora is often called the “Island of Romance” due to its natural beauty, secluded beaches, luxurious overwater bungalows, and tranquil turquoise lagoon.

Bora Bora isn’t exactly a sprawling metropolis. It consists of a cozy twelve square miles and around 10,000 inhabitants.

Mount Otemanu is the towering sentinel of Bora Bora, an extinct volcano 2,385 feet above sea level. It can be climbed but the six hour up and back was more time than we could commit…plus there’s zero chance I could have talked Kris into that.

The island is surrounded by several small islands known as motus. These motus encircle the main island and help to create the beautiful lagoon that Bora Bora is famous for.

We spent our time in Bora Bora on a boat circling the lagoon and motus.

We also spent some time “snorkeling”. You really didn’t have to snorkel as the water was perfectly clear, only 3-4 feet deep, and the black-tipped sharks and stingrays swam right up to you! Thrilling? Absolutely. A bit freaky? You betcha.

Bora Bora? More like Wowa Wowa. This place isn’t just a slice of paradise; it’s the whole pie.

Our next stop will be a couple of days away. Stay tuned to discover the next beautiful island. It promises to be just as dazzling.

Ahoy, mates!

Ahoy! Today we are in Raiatea which is 130 miles northwest of Tahiti. It was an eight-hour cruise to get here and a good start in getting our sea legs under us.

Raiatea, like Tahiti, is one of the Society Islands in French Polynesia. It is often called the “Sacred Island” due to its rich Polynesian history. It was once the Beatles of ancient Polynesia – the center of everything cool – religion, culture, politics, you name it!

Raiatea is the second largest of the Society Islands, after Tahiti. The economy of Raiatea relies on tourism, agriculture (primarily vanilla), and pearl farming.

The island is surrounded by a vibrant coral reef, making for beautiful lagoons.

The interior of the island is mountainous with lush rainforests.

We rented a car and embarked on a 60-mile road trip around the island. One road circles Raiatea’s coast, making it virtually impossible to get lost…theoretically.

Coconuts abound on these islands. We were fortunate to be “delivered” a coconut straight from the tree by a nice local. After a little hack job, we had more than a liter of refreshing and delicious liquid. The amount of coconut water inside surprised Kris and me.

We each have our own preference for seating. If you’ve read It’s Just Walking, you know I prefer a chair with a back. Kris apparently prefers a coconut tree! To each their own, right?