Bora Bora Facts
- Perhaps most notably, the breathtaking site known as Bora Bora remains one of the best known of all tropical islands. The famous location quite easily earns that distinction due to its truly extraordinary natural beauty. Additionally, his stunning beauty also extends to its typical climate.
- Further, this extreme natural splendor understandably draws the attention of vacationers from around the world. As a result, this island continually ranks as one of the premier international tourists sites on earth. In addition, one of the greatest draws of the island remains luxury resorts.
- However, the gorgeous site was well known long before European explorers discovered it. That’s because evidence indicates that Polynesian settlers arrived there in the 4th century. Meanwhile, the first recorded sighting of Bora Bora by Europeans did not occur until the year 1722.
- Additionally, the famous explorer Captain James Cook later sighted the marvelous island in 1769. He, however, employed a Polynesian navigator to locate the isolated spot. Further, the London Missionary Society arrived in 1820. Subsequent to that, a Protestant church was founded in 1890.
- This magnificent work of nature remained an independent kingdom until the year 1888. At that time, the French forced its last ruler, queen Teriimaevarua III to abdicate. Following that action, the French government formally annexed the small territory as a colony. Today it remains an overseas territory.
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Bora Bora Physical Description
Firstly, the awe-inspiring and gorgeous Bora Bora holds yet another natural distinction to distinguish it from other locations. That’s because it formed from a highly unique geology, differing from many others. Secondly, that nature actually comprises the main island and numerous surrounding islets. Thirdly, and incredibly, these actually constitute the tips of coral reefs emerging from the ocean.
Furthermore, to add to its splendor, an atoll named Tupai, also exists in this fabulous spot. This formation, itself quite beautiful, sits located about 12 mi (20 km) from the main island. However, the atoll has no permanent population. Combined, the island and islets also have a total area of about 11.3 sq mi (29.3 sq km). The atoll itself also adds yet another 4.2 sq mi (11 sq. km) to the total area of Bora Bora.
Bora Bora Location, History, and Economy
First of all, the astoundingly magnificent location known simply as Bora Bora formed in a comparatively isolated location. It further forms part of the Leeward Group, which represents a western part of the Society Islands. Also, this, in turn, forms part of French Polynesia. Technically, therefore, it represents part of the geographic region collectively known as Oceania.
In addition to its astonishing popularity as a tourist destination, the location also played an important role in relatively modern times. That’s because, during World War II, the United States military used the island as a supply base. Thankfully for its natural wonders, the island never saw combat, however. Subsequently, following the conclusion of the war, the base there closed in 1946.
As if all this wasn’t enough to appeal to the eye, Bora Bora also sits surrounded by a large lagoon. Furthermore, the island further remains surrounded by an impressive barrier reef. In addition, located roughly in the center of the picturesque island also lies the remnant of an extinct volcano. This remnant further forms two respectable peaks, named Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia.
Finally, and coming as no surprise, today, the economy of the island remains driven almost exclusively by tourism. Snorkeling and scuba diving in the lagoon and surrounding ocean serve as key attractions. This incredible location continually ranks as one of the most active tourist destinations on earth. Despite this, however, the number of actual residents only totals roughly 8,900.
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