Tahiti covers over two million square miles of the South Pacific Ocean and is comprised of 118 islands spread over five great archipelagos.

Bora Bora island is possibly the single most famous island in all the world. The legends, mysteries, and romance associated with the words "Bora Bora" bring an almost mystical presence to the island.

Part of the allure has to be its almost unbelievable beauty. Two towering peaks of sheer black rock dominate the center of the island and make an impressive backdrop to an assortment of blue waters that will dazzle the eyes. Bora Bora's lagoon is its most treasured feature, and allows the traveler many opportunities to experience it in a variety of ways. Windsurf, jetski, scuba dive, swim, bask in its warmth... the list goes on.

Although travelers visit Bora Bora for a variety of reasons, newcomers are often quite naive about most of the facts and facets of the island, including its people, culture, flora and fauna, history, economy, etc.

They often arrive with the simple desire to just relax and take in the Pacific Island charm. Not long after arriving, however, does the true nature of French Polynesia begin to unfold for them.

A couple of days of exploring this enchanted island and they begin to recognize the country for its many faces beyond a mere vacationland.

This French owned territory is filled with a unique energy unto itself. There's no place on earth quite like it. Of course return travelers and local inhabitants know that. Each lives or returns to Bora Bora for their own reasons...

Bora Bora has two official languages: Tahitian and French. Although English is widely spoken, it may be useful to learn a few phrases and greetings in French. Polynesian French is linguistically similar to the French spoken in France; the difference may be likened to that of British English and American English.

It is a wonderful fact that a selection of nature's most magnificent creations are born in the turquoise-colored lagoons of some of the many islands and atolls that comprise French Polynesia...

These natural creations are known as Tahitian black pearls, veritable jewels of the sea, and living symbols of purity and perfection found in a paradise.