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With overwater bungalows, to teeming wildlife and tropical jungle, Bora Bora's reputation for idyllic getaways has been carried on the tides to all corners of the globe.
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Shimmering in the South Pacific Ocean, and sheltered by a pristine lagoon and barrier reef, the French Polynesian island group is just a one hour flight from Tahiti.
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Bora Bora has nurtured its inhabitants with a bountiful song since the 3rd century, when the earliest Polynesian mariners arrived on these shores.
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In ancient times, the islands were known as "Pora Pora mai te pora," or created by the gods.
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Today this paradise appears to have been created for just one thing, relaxation.
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Getting to the pearl of the pacific is an adventure in itself.
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Most travelers fly into Tahiti before boarding a small plane for the short flight to Bora Bora.
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Take in the soaring peak of Mount Otemanu, whose eruptions lifted the ocean floor into the bright Pacific sunlight millions of years ago.
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From Bora Bora Airport, take the ferry across the lagoon to the main island, and let your tensions slip away in the wake behind you.
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Step ashore, and be welcomed by the happy harmonies of island songs in Vaitapee, Bora Bora's largest town.
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Browse the local markets for a snack, or start collecting treasures like Tahitian pearls or crafts, lovingly made by locals.
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When you've finished exploring Vaitapee, set sail to your chosen resort.
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With breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu, crystal clear waters brimming with life, and of course, your very own over-water or beachfront bungalow, Le Meridian is a five-star favorite of honeymooners and romantics.
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Another of Bora Bora's most iconic bungalow hideaways is St. Regis Resort.
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After a day exploring the lagoon's vibrant marine life and savoring the island's fresh flavors, unwind in your bungalow, and let the melody of lapping waters beneath lull you into a state of total relaxation.
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Rise to the morning tides and set out on a boat tour to explore the aquatic abundance of Bora Bora's lagoon.
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Slip into the sheltered waters to meet friendly rays and black-tipped reef sharks.
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Swap your boat for a bike at Matira Point, and explore the cafes, markets, and vistas of Bora Bora's southernmost tip.
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When it's time to cool off again, park your bike at Matira Beach, Bora Bora's most popular public beach.
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Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters, or roll out your towel on the sunbaked sands and lounge the afternoon away.
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Nearby, surrender to the luxury of the Sofitel Marara.
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Or follow the scent of frangipani across the lagoon to the Sofitel Motu.
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This private resort island is the shimmering jewel of one of the world's most lavish hotel groups.
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Don't just come to experience luxury, take some home.
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At the Bora Pearl Company, dive for your very own Tahitian pearl, and discover how the island's lagoon is filled with life, as well as treasures.
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Bora Bora has been serenading faraway dreamers with its sweet ocean songs since the dawn of travel.
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Just as those first Polynesians sought new shores and discovered paradise, so will you.
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Glistening in the heart of the South Pacific, Bora Bora is one of our planet's rarest pearls.