Bora Bora Culture
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Nearly 5,800 people live on Bora Bora and most
still embrace the culture of myths and legends that have been
handed down from the Polynesian gods. This ancient folklore
influences the traditional song and dance of the island’s
people and they love to share these celebrations with visitors.
During festivals especially, women are adorned with leis and
hei (crowns) of tropical flowers- the desire for beauty is anchored
in the Polynesian culture. |
Protestant missionaries arrived on the island in the 19th century
and destroyed a large number of the ancient marae (sacred stone
temples) in an effort to convert the natives. Though more than 150
years have passed since the conversion, many people still maintain
their Christian beliefs and are considered to be very religious
and pious. You may even notice family gravesites in the front yards
of the local’s homes.
The pace of the people of Bora Bora is slow and relaxed and they
live by the philosophy, “aita pea pea,” which means
“not to worry.” A good way to see first-hand how Bora
Borans live is to take a walk through the main settlement of Vaitape
Village, which sits at the base of Mount Pahia.
The main languages of the island are French and Tahitian, but English
is spoken at many of the hotels, shops, restaurants and other tourist
attractions.
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