Known as an exotic French Polynesian island, ‪@BORABORApaperdoll‬ is one of the resort capitals of the South Pacific. Famous for its over water bungalows, turquoise waters and mountainous interior, it is a tourist’s dream. Cruise ship passengers aren’t likely to be staying in the bungalows which are primarily located on the opposite side of the island from the cruise port, so may be looking for alternatives to a resort vacation. The port is located in the main city of Vaitape and there will be some shops, taxis, and car rentals right there. This is a great port for snorkeling, swimming with whales, or getting out to one of the uninhabited moths (small islands). We opted to stay in town and had the very good fortune to meet some kids playing in their neighborhood. They invited us to visit their family farm where they were growing pineapple, mangoes, lychee, citrus and other tropical fruits. We then went to their bee hives where the bees were busy making honey. Although our French is terrible, they were excellent ambassadors for their island. They taught us the names of their crops, and we took pictures. It was a slice of daily life on a small island in the South Pacific. For us, this was the best possible tourist experience, because we got to know the kids and see their daily life. Later in the evening, the town came to life with people swimming, riding bikes, playing volleyball, and enjoying the tropical sunset. The town was rich with the smells of food cooking and there were food trucks everywhere making meals to eat there or take to the beach. On this island, we got lucky - we didn’t hire a guide to see the sites, but had local children show us the best of their world.
Thanks Guys!