Another hard night for me (joke); this time I am to watch Danny Summers perform his Elvis show.

I have seen Danny play in various bars around Caleta de Fuste a few times, and he’s always great, but tonight in front of 600 people he is fantastic. We are in the Hotel Barcelo in Caleta de Fuste, and the place is packed. They have a large performance area, and this is ideal for Danny’s act.

Being an Elvis fan, as I have been since I was eight, this was a real treat, he looks the part and sounds the part; in fact: Elvis lives…in Fuerteventura. Singing songs that spanned Elvis’ entire career, we are treated to American Trilogy, That’s Alright, Treat Me Nice, and Suspicious Minds, to start with, then later we are witness to fine versions of (Marie’s the Name) His Latest Flame, and even GI Blues and Its Now Or Never.

An impressive songbook and an impressive voice to match too, some would say, almost operatic in range.

His act is generally an hour, but he has been known to be on stage for up to two hours; so he obviously has a wealth of material to draw from. The stage at the Barcelo is well suited for a performer such as Danny, as he likes to move around and play up to the audience, as he does tonight. At one point he was singing to a child in the audience, and the crowd loved it; not so sure the child did, but that’s to be expected I guess.

In all, and as I said earlier, a great show from a performer that knows how to work an audience, and even brings his own jumpsuit. You can’t say fairer than that.

Catch Danny at the Barcelo in Caleta de Fuste on alternate Mondays from 2145pm. Or call +34664750321.

Sean Redfearn, is a writer for the Fuerteventura News, and owner of the Caleta Live website, dedicated to all things in Caleta de Fuste.
He is a resident of the Island, and spends much of it in Caleta de Fuste.

Located in Eastern Tennessee within a day’s drive of two third’s of the U.S. population, Pigeon Forge plays host to over 11 million tourists each year, and with the breathtaking beauty of the Smoky Mountains at its doorstep, it is certainly an experience to behold. A bonus to its scenic beauty and southern hospitality is its abundance of exciting activities for visitors of every age group. There is so much to see and do here that the city’s official motto is “Action Packed Pigeon Forge™.”

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is, of course, one of the biggest draws to the area. A half-million acre wilderness of mountainous terrain bordering Eastern Tennessee and Western North Carolina, this national park offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. From white water rafting to hiking and fly-fishing, you’ll never run out of outdoor activities. You’ll also find some of the most incredible photo opportunities in the country!

Besides its awe-inspiring beauty, you’ll find top-notch entertainment. Shows ranging from music and comedy to magic, mystery, and acrobatics can all be found in Pigeon Forge. The area even boasts over 50 family attractions. Museums, water parks, mini-golf courses, and arcades are just a few examples. Oh, and let’s not forget Dollywood theme park and the Dixie Stampede!

If you enjoy shopping and love to eat, then Pigeon Forge will be right up your alley! With six outlet malls that contain over 200 stores, and over 140 other specialty stores and craft shops, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ‘shop till you drop.’ Work up an appetite? Then you’re in luck, because there is a wide range of cuisine to choose from at the area’s restaurants!

After all the activities and excitement, it’s nice to know you’ll have a place to rest at the end of the day. Not only can the city accommodate over 58,000 guests each night, over 600 of its lodging properties are cabins, cottages, or condos with amenities (and luxuries) ranging from billiard tables and Jacuzzis to flat screen televisions. If camping out is more your thing, you’ll be pleased with the more than 15 campgrounds to choose from.

You will have different needs for a short trip and a longer trip.

SHORT TRIPS (Day trip, weekend, long weekend)
For something like this you can get away with very little gear and you can avoid chores, like washing your clothes.

The first thing is a lightweight rain suit. You can buy these from bike shops all over the place, and just about every importer and distributor offers one. They cost $100 or so, despite the price a lightweight suit is worth having. You want to enjoy your ride and being comfortable is part of that enjoyment. Who wants to go riding and be wet? A pair of waterproof boots that provide protection is next. You can get a good pair of waterproof boots that are just as comfortable as, and no hotter than, ordinary touring boots and they keep your feet dry in the rain. Waterproof gloves are an option as well, but these are hotter and therefore often less comfortable than lighter road gloves. It is nice if your body stays dry in that unexpected downpour.

In your tank bag carry your Mobile phone; road atlas; a small notebook with a pen; some postcards; a Swiss Army knife; a paperback book; and don’t forget your musician’s earplugs.

Some riders set up their phone so they can answer calls while they’re riding others prefer to peace and quite of their ride.

The road map means that you are never quite as lost as you thought. If you are visiting a particular area, you will probably carry a detailed map of that location as well. These will normally be available from the local Tourist Visitor Centre.

The notebook is pretty self-explanatory. It is amazing just how often you see something and try to remember it. This way you can make notes as you go. Keep the book and pen as handy as possible; say in an outside pocket of the tank bag, unless it looks like rain. Take a spare pen as well, because they always run out at the wrong time.

The postcards might seem a bit weird, but it’s nice to be able to drop the kids or other family members a line from the road. Carry them with stamps already on them, and write them while you’re waiting for your coffee or lunch. This gives you something to do and it’s a nice touch for the loved ones. If you don’t have any loves ones you can always write to your enemies and make them madly jealous.

The Swiss Army knife is one of the middle-sized ones, with the tine tweezers (very useful), a couple of screwdrivers (good for getting at the fuses without unpacking the tool kit) and, of course, the most vital tool of all – the corkscrew!

Why a book? Well, there are inevitably times that drag when you’re travelling. An evening alone in a motel room or beside the road depending on where you have stopped for the night; guard duty at the Laundromat while your clothes dry; the wait for the tow truck to pick up your bike with its imploded gearbox... Trust me, you’ll find time to read.

Now on the subject of earplugs – if you don’t have any, get some. Musician’s earplugs are moulded to the shape of your ears, and can be fitted with filters to cut out varying amounts of noise. If you have spent many years riding without them, you will be paying for it now. What? What did you say? I’m a bit def, you see … and you will not be the only one. If you are new to bike riding, there is no reason for you to suffer the same thing. Go see an audiologist and get a par made. They’ll cost $150 or so but they will work beautifully, and fit even better.

Another item you might like to consider for your tank bag is a disposable camera. It is cheap and easy, instantly replaceable, and yet with the potential to capture some wonderful moments and sights. Get one with a built-in flash and the light, or lack thereof, will not matter. If you are into photography you will obviously want your own “good” camera, but a disposable will do the job in most instances.

Carry a bag or stick of barley sugars in your tank bag. It doesn’t actually matter what kind of lollies you carry, but do carry some – they are an excellent source of instant energy hits, invaluable when you’re falling asleep in the afternoon of a long day’s ride or if you have missed a meal. Also loose is a roll-on container of sunscreen. And while we’re on the subject of the sun, carry a pair of sunglasses. In an external pocket, if there is one. I carry a small handful of change. That’s useful for a replacement packet of barley sugars, a cold drink, ice-cream or whatever. This can be extra useful if you are wearing your rain suit! If there’s no outside pocket in the tank bag put the change into another small Ziploc bag.

If you are going camping for the weekend have a look at our related pages of what else to pack.

LONGER TRIPS (Crikey, who knows how long? It could be a week or it could be a year – You may have to wash some clothes though for a longer trip).

For longer trips you may have a few more things to put into the tankbag. The first is your thermos. Full of hot coffee in winter or cold water in summer, this is a welcome source of fluid by the side of the road. And at least you know you can get decent coffee!

As the most famous of the Leeward Islands, Bora Bora can be found 289 kilometers north-west of Tahiti, the largest island in French Polynesia. A haven in the truest sense of the word, Bora Bora is truly the island of dreams.

Just as with all the other islands in the region, Bora Bora Resorts provide the local economy its main source of revenue. A number of Bora Bora Resorts can be found in the island, each providing their unique tourist packages.

Here are some of the top Bora Bora Resorts:

St. Regis Bora Bora

A Hollywood favorite, St. Regis ranks a high in the list of Bora Bora Resorts. From the resort’s service, to resort accommodations and amenities, to food, St. Regis is the best, even hailed as “the best when money is no object”. The resort is famous for its top quality throughout, as well as the large area it occupies.

InterContinental Resort and Thalasso-Spa Bora Bora

Perhaps the most impressive about this member of Bora Bora resorts would be the contemporary décor gilding the resort. With gorgeous bungalows, InterContinental Resort and Thalasso-Spa is simply a “cool” resort. Sharing the same area of Bora Bora’s lagoon as St. Regis and Le Meridien, the resort’s service, food, and shore access are simply the best of its class. The resort’s “Diamond” and “Sapphire” bungalows are notoriously known for their view of Bora Bora

Hotel Bora Bora

With its intimate approach to the resort’s ambience, Hotel Bora Bora is known as the Grande Dame of hotels/resorts. A clear understanding of what is sheer luxury makes Hotel Bora Bora a frequented resort in the list of Bora Bora resorts. Great food, excellent service, grade A location, and a clear understanding of intimacy and privacy, Hotel Bora Bora boasts to be a charming resort, sticking clear to the traditional side of the Polynesian islands.

Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa

The whole resort is basically on its own island, making it unique among Bora Bora resorts. Though the resort faces the ocean, not Bora Bora or its lagoon, the amenities and services the resort offers makes it a wonderful resort for private functions and events.

Le Meridien

Known to occupy what has been labeled as the “Resort Alley”, the Le Meridien stands in between two other resorts; The InterContinental Thalasso and St. Regis. The view of Bora Bora from Le Meridien has been hailed as divine, as the resort’s accommodations clearly show just how relaxing Bora Bora is. The resort is famous for its installed glass floor, which is simply impressive.

As the world comes to see the magic that is Bora Bora, Bora Bora resorts are there to make that “show” the most memorable of memories.

Being the most popular island in French Polynesia, Bora Bora has maintained a mystical allure to itself as a tourist destination. From the aerial view, the island has been described as “a tiny emerald in a setting of turquoise, encircled by a sheltering necklace of sparkling pearls”.

As a tourist destination, various Bora Bora packages are offered by various travel agencies, hotels and resorts. Pacific for Less offers two Bora Bora packages within their travel package roster.

Pacific for Less’ Bora Bora Lagoon Special

Experience the mystery and magic of Bora Bora starting at $2,599. Pacific for Less’ Bora Bora Lagoon Special covers everything from departure to arrival, leaving guests at ease, simply left to focus on relaxing and having fun.

A short, breathtaking ride via private launch from Viatape, Bora Bora’s main town, to the resort, starts off the Bora Bora adventure. With luxurious overwater bungalows, furnished with authentic Polynesian furniture, guests are left to just bask in the island’s allure of mystery and romance.

Though staples in most Bora Bora packages, Pacific for Less’ Bora Bora Lagoon Special, covers the following:

- Roundtrip airfare, which is from Los Angeles to Tahiti (Air Tahiti Nui)

- Flower welcome

- Porter/luggage handling service

- Inter-island airpass handling

- One night in the Sheraton Papeete’s Lagoonview Room

- Five nights accommodation in an Overwater Bungalow

- Ariport to Hotel and vice versa Transfers

- Farewell and airport assistance

- Sales and government taxes coverage

What makes this package unique from other Bora Bora packages are the various unique activities covered within the package’s itinerary. For example, a unique treetop spa, or getting to know the marine wildlife through a glass coffee table, a feature in all overwater bungalows. If you want a vacation worth your while, Pacific for Less’ Bora Bora Lagoon Special is for you.

Pacific for Less’ Bora Bora Price Breaker Package

A real deal among Bora Bora packages, Pacific for Less’ Bora Bora Price Breaker Package starts with $1,650.

It includes lodgings in the Novotel Bora Bora Beach Resort, a 3 star resort located nine kilometers from Viatape’s center. The resort features a variety of complimentary water sports including outrigger canoe, kayaking and snorkeling lessons. With 80 rooms overlooking a garden setting, the resort can be found in the famous Matira Point, at the southern part of the island.

The travel package includes:

- Return airfare, which is from Tahiti to Los Angeles via Air Tahiti Nui

- Flower welcome

- Porter/luggage handling service

- Inter-island airpass handling

- One night in the Sheraton Papeete’s Mountainview Room

- Five nights accommodation in Hotel Novotel Bora Bora Beach Hotel, Gardenroom accomodation

- Ariport to Hotel and vice versa Transfers

Bottom line, a tight budget doesn’t necessarily mean a sub-standard Bora Bora experience, as Pacific for Less’ Bora Bora Price Breaker Package boasts to be a really worth it deal among Bora Bora packages.

From its name alone, Bora Bora Island enchants. Once described as “a tiny emerald in a setting of turquoise, encircled by a sheltering necklace of sparkling pearls,” this almost mythical, mystical island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean is without a doubt one of the beautiful islands of the world.

Many a magazine and travel journal has attempted to capture the mythical beauty of Bora Bora Island in a few pages, a few photographs, and yet none of these are enough to truly reflect and describe what you experience once you are right there, imbibing its tropical beauty.

For a tropical island is what Bora Bora Island is, first and foremost. And yet, it is more than that. It is only one among a group of islands that make up the mystic beads strung across a blue canvass that is French Polynesia. And yet Bora Bora Island continues to separate and distinguish itself from all the rest of the Tahitian islands.

Just what is it about Bora Bora Island that clings to the senses, captures the heart, and excites the soul? The answer is simple – beauty.

What to See

Bora Bora Island is so resplendent with attractions that it is hard to name all of them, let alone pick just one to enjoy. But here’s a short list of some of the more popular places to check out to give you an idea on where to start:

Lagoonarium

Many travelers to Bora Bora Island consider this a favorite and with good reason, too. Indeed, Bora Bora’s exotic Lagoonarium has no equal anywhere in the world.

Of course, it is not the only lagoonarium to be found in French Polynesia. There is one in Tahiti as well, but it is nothing compared to the one in Bora Bora where you can not only look at the exotic fishes swimming in the lagoon but actually interact with them.

An experienced diver will serve as your underwater guide as you swim alongside the rich marine life that Bora Bora Island is known for. All creatures that you have heretofore seen only in pictures come to life in the Lagoonarium, such as dolphins, turtles, sharks, rays, and tropical fishes that add a variety of colors to the clear blue water.

Aquascope

Have you ever been in a “reverse aquarium?” The Aquascope, a unique semi-submersible watercraft designed by a working colleague and close friend of world-famous Jacques Cousteau, offers something close.

Imagine yourself inside a small space, watching colorful schools of fishes swimming beneath you, separated only by thick glass windows. For over 15 years, the Aquascope has delighted many a visitor to Bora Bora Island.

There are, of course, many more unique sights and fascinating attractions that Bora Bora has to offer. The ones mentioned above are but a few of what you shouldn’t miss when you visit this beautiful tropical island.

Different lodgings for different budgets can be found in the island of Bora Bora. Often described as “the island of dreams”, Bora Bora is among the most frequented tourist spots in the world.

Bora Bora Hotels exist to accommodate the island’s guests, giving them the time of their lives during their stay in the island. Bora Bora hotels have price packages for the ultra bloated, as well as the “controlled” budgets, which are the most common, considering the signs of the times.

Here are some of the top Bora Bora hotels:

Top End Bora Bora Hotels

Bora Bora Lagoon Resort

Famous for its activity-day organizing, Bora Bora Lagoon Resort is located on Motu Toopua, the hotel’s private island, in Bora Bora’s lagoon. Guests can enjoy outrigger, canoe and kayaking, as well as snorkeling in the lagoon, waterskiing, jetskiing, and scuba diving. The hotel has Garden Bungalows, Beach Bungalows, Overwater Bungalows, as well as a Conference hall, for various gathering related activities. Bora Bora is truly a majestic Polynesian destination. Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, makes one’s visit, majestically divine.

TOPdive Resort

A 15 minute distance from Bora Bora’s airport, TOPdive Resort is located in Viatape, the main settlement of Bora Bora. With a breathtaking view of Bora Bora’s lagoon, TOPdive Resort offer guests the finest facilities a luxury resort should ideally offer. With Garden Bungalows, Overwater Bungalows, and a spacious Conference Hall, TOPdive Resort is indeed a “top” when it comes to Bora Bora hotels. Relax by the pool, bask in breathtaking views, enjoy luxurious rooms, with TOPdive Resort, one would simply have no choice but do so.

Mid-range Hotels; Family Run Pesnion Houses, Motels and Small Hotels

Hotel Matira

As a 2 star hotel, geared for families, Hotel Matira is the located on Matira island’s one and only beach. Twenty minutes away from the airport, Hotel Matira boasts a beautiful view of Bora Bora’s lagoon. An afternoon with the sunset, fun filled activities for the family, and a price that wouldn’t cost you an arm and leg, Hotel Matira ranks quite a slot in Bora Bora Hotels.

Village Temanuata Beach

With a variety of bungalow types, family, beach, garden and deluxe, Village Temanuata Beach is laid out on a beautiful stretch of white sandy beach. You’re day’s activities can be arranged by the hotel’s management, including scuba and snorkeling, sunset cruises, canoe and outrigger rides and 4 x 4 safaris. A heavy hitter among Bora Bora hotels, Village Temanuata Beach know just what their guests want.

Of course, these hotels aren’t the only ones in Bora Bora. These are simply the most “heard of” and most remembered by those who have been to Bora Bora.

As Bora Bora hotels, Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, TOPdive Resort, Hotel Matira and Village Temanuata Beach all stand proud.

For a romantic and leisurely vacation, discover the island of Bora Bora onboard luxurious and ultimately private Bora Bora cruises. The two popular yachts for Bora Bora cruises are the elegant and custom-built Tu Moana and Tia Moana, each 230 feet with 30 large cabins. These gorgeous Bora Bora cruises will bring you to Bora Bora’s tranquil lagoons and neighboring islands to include Taha’a, Raiatea, and Huahine. On these islands you can enjoy numerous activities from a leisurely island tour to thrilling submarine, helicopter, Jet Ski, scuba diving or shark feeding experience.

The Tu Moana and Tia Moana feature spacious and sophisticated cabins with designer amenities that include a flat screen television, DVD, extra-wide windows, original works of art, individually-controlled air conditioning, elegant beds and linens, and locally made special bathing products. These super yachts have several Jacuzzis, sundecks, a spa nd other facilities that will make your travel experience truly restful, relaxing and rejuvenating.

Bora Bora cruises are usually available in travel packages, which often include airport transfers to and from your yacht and hotel accommodation in addition to the cruise itself. Guests of the Tu Moana and Tia Moana super yachts are welcomed at the airport with fresh fruits and champagne. Their package price includes gourmet meals served any time and a selection of hot drinks and wines.

Some of the special events that guests will be treated to include extravagant dinners, outdoor film showings, kayak and canoe expeditions, snorkeling, breakfast at a lagoon, plantation tours, sunset viewing, and island dances, among many activities.

Bora Bora cruises are also known for excellent guest services provided by well-trained crew experienced in hotel and luxury yacht service. They are attentive to the needs of the guests, efficient and friendly.

The Bora Bora cruises onboard Tu Moana and Tia Moana last 6 nights and 7 nights. You can easily book a cruise online through the website of the cruise company or through a representative agent based in California, France, Spain, Australia, Italy, and Japan.

Before booking a trip, make sure you have read all the necessary information provided on the company’s website such as package inclusions, policy about children, payment, refund and cancellation policies, taxes, pickup times, and other important notices. In addition, make sure you have secured all necessary documents for your trip. For example, on the Tu Moana and Tia Moana cruises, you should have with you a voucher provided by your travel agent. Lastly, it is highly recommended that you purchase travel insurance from a reputable company relevant toy your trip.

Between Australia and the Hawaiian islands, some of the most beautiful sailing destinations in the world can be met. Proceeding west towards the Pacific Ocean, from French Polynesia up to Melanesia, the islands of Tahiti, Marquesas and Bora Bora can be encountered.

Over the years, these islands have become part of major South Pacific cruise ships’ “stop-over” points, seeing that indeed, these islands have a majestic sense of beauty about them, ideal for vacationers, tourists, honeymooners and the like.

With Bora Bora Cruises, one gets to see French Polynesia up close and personal, and has been a particular favorite among tourists over the years.

Motu Miti Bora Bora Cruises, a six night cruise around Bora Bora, is particularly known for their Luxury Trip package. Included within the list is an array of activities simply geared for one’s enjoyment, and no “little details” to worry about. From First Class airfare handling, to yoga and tai chi classes, Motu Miti Bora Bora Cruises simply cover the basics, leaving guests to worry about wanting to ever go home. Afternoon tea served on deck, or on the island, idyllic Tahitian festivals, kayak expeditions within Bora Bora’s Faaroa River, beach barbeques, champagne and fresh fruits, what more could any vacationer want?

Nomade Yachting by Bora Bora Cruises is another cruise option for Bora Bora bound vacationers. Boasting a “new style of voyage”, the cruise is basically an “off-the-beaten track” alternative to well known organized travel/cruise itineraries. A flexible schedule is adapted, as constraints are removed, leaving guests to enjoy within their own time rhythm.

Not only limited to Bora Bora, the cruise sets sail from island to island, giving guests a clear view as to what truly fuels the world’s fascination over French Polynesia as a majestic archipelago, leaving guests an intimate atmosphere of knowing the islands. The chic mindset of the entire cruise package simply borders on the premise of the absence of schedules, using this premise in the conclusion that the best way to live a voyage, is to be free from a time table’s commands.

Paradise Adventures and Cruises, is another among Bora Bora Cruises, known for leaving guests to discover the beautiful islands of Bora Bora, Tahaa, Huahine and Raiatea. Onboard a private yacht, a casual yet intimate approach in knowing Bora Bora is easily achieved, leaving travelers simply relaxed in luxury. Boasting to have the world’s first boutique cruises, custom built yachts take vacationers on a cruise worth remembering for years to come. Movies shown on a deserted island under the stars, elegant dinners onboard with some of the finest cuisines available, Paradise Adventures and Cruises simply give vacationers what they want from Bora Bora Cruises.

Bora Bora accommodation provided by different hotels in the island is considered world class. Below is a list of top-rated Bora Bora accommodation that promises a wonderful stay in the island.

• Hotel Bora Bora

If you are searching for the best Bora Bora accommodation, you should consider staying at Hotel Bora Bora. This hotel is surrounded by spectacular lagoons that give you a 270° view of the island waters. Hotel Bora Bora is located in Point Raititi that overlooks the wonderful 25 mile barrier reef with a view of volcanic peaks that also allow you to see both sunrise and sunset.

The hotel was established in 1961 and has become one of the most recognized hotels in the island. The hotel has over 50 bungalows and villas and the over-water bungalows all have terraces. The garden and beach bungalows have sundecks and the hotel also has private pools and Jacuzzis. The place also has a variety of bars and restaurants where you can dine or have dinks while watching the sunset. Some restaurants like the Matira Terrace Restaurant and Bar overlook the lagoon of the island.

• Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort

Another excellent Bora Bora accommodation is the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort. This beach resort is located in the island of Motu Tevairoa that is a ten minute boat ride from the central island of Bora Bora. The hotel started its operation in 1998 and has been known for its exquisite Polynesian style.

Its Bora Bora accommodation is all in the style of conventional bungalows. The hotel has 50 over-water bungalows, 20 garden bungalows and 10 beach bungalow suites. All of them were built to provide a traditional feel of South Pacific homes. The place also has fresh water pools and Jacuzzis.

The resort also has tennis and volleyball courts, outrigger canoes and snorkeling equipment for guests to enjoy. Scuba diving and lagoon excursions can be arranged for an extra charge.

• Beachcomber Intercontinental Resort

The Beachcomber Intercontinental Resort is magnificently located in the middle of two white sand beaches in the main island of Bora Bora. The resort has bungalows that embrace the pearl-white sand beaches in French Polynesia. The resort also has more than 50 over-water bungalows that lie on top of crystal-clear lagoon waters of the island.

The beach resort also has two restaurants and two bars that serve French and International dishes that are added with Polynesian flavors. Because of everything the resort has to offer, there is no doubt that Beachcomber Intercontinental Resort truly exemplifies an elegant Bora Bora accommodation.

The hotels and beach resorts mentioned above are just some of the best Bora Bora accommodation. You can learn more about them or about other places in Bora Bora where you can stay by contacting your travel agency.

As Bora Bora is known to be an internationally preferred tourist destination, a number of accommodation options are available for guests to choose from. From very deluxe resorts with overwater bungalows to medium priced resorts along the shores of white sand beaches, there is an ideal package for everyone.

The family on vacation, the CEO on a business convention, the spring break vacationers, the honeymooners, they all have a place in Bora Bora, as Bora Bora Accommodations are congruently varied, just as how majestically beautiful the island is.

Bora Bora accommodations can be categorized into two; there are Hotels and Resorts, which are obviously the more expensive, and Lodgings in Privates Residences, which pose to be the cheaper alternative to deluxe hotels and resorts.

Bora Bora Accommodations: Hotels and Resorts

As an international tourist spot, internationally known five star hotels and world class resorts can be found in the island.

Bora Bora Dive Resort
Bora Bora Eden Beach Hotel
Bora Bora Lagoon Resort (Orient Express)
Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa (Starwood Luxury Collection)
Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort
Club Med Bora Bora
InterContinental Resort and Thalasso Spa Bora Bora
InterContinental Le Mona Beach Bora Bora
Le Maitai Polynesia Bora Bora Hotel
Le Meridien Bora Bora
Sofitel Bora Bora Beach Resort
Sofitel Motu Bora Bora Beach Resort
St. Regis Resort Bora Bora

Though the degree varies from one hotel/resort to another, most Bora Bora Accommodations host various activities for their guests. The most “basic” of which would be scuba diving excursions, snorkeling, kayaking, water skiing, jet skiing and other popular water sports. Island exploration packages are also among the most common activity packages, likewise island tours, giving guests an in depth view of the island. Depending on the available facilities hosted by the hotel/resort, sports like tennis and volleyball can also be catered to.

Bora Bora Accommodations: Smaller Hotels and Lodgings in Private Residences

Federation Haere Mai (Guesthouses and Pensions)
Mai Moana Island
Private Island Bora Bora
Rohotu Fare Lodge
Village Temanuata

As the cheaper alternative, for travelers with a care for their budget, Smaller Hotels and Private Residence Lodgings come to their aid. Not everyone can shell out money like they grow on trees, so these “smaller scale” Bora Bora accommodations come in to rescue guests with such concerns, still providing the “basics” in travel accommodations.

Perhaps their greatest win over more top of the line lodgings is their “intimate” closeness to Bora Bora, giving guests a more in-touch feel of the island. The “basic” activity packages offered by more upscale lodgings can still be met, as a number of private scuba diving services/rentals can be found within the shores of Bora Bora.

The bottom line is, be you stay in a deluxe hotel/resort, or in a small hotel, you’ll still be in Bora Bora. As Bora Bora accommodations vary, the bottom line is it is still Bora Bora.

First discovered in 1722 by the navigator Roogeveen, later by Cook in 1796, Bora Bora is a stand-out island, known for mystery and romance, as honeymooners and couples have basked in the island’s beauty for more than a decade. A popular venue for “escapes-from-the-real-world”, Bora Bora is among the most famous of islands in French Polynesia, the famous of which is Tahiti, being the biggest island in the area.

Attractions in Bora Bora have always been a thing of beauty, with touches of mystery, making Bora Bora a true jewel in the Pacific.

The unforgettable turquoise lagoon, serving as the habitat for aquatic fauna, manta and sting rays, tropical fishes and other ocean beauties, by themselves is already an entry in the roster of attractions in Bora Bora. Observing the blooming wildlife thriving in the lagoon could be done by outrigger, boat, canoe or diving explorations. A trip to Bora Bora wouldn’t be complete without getting up close and personal with the island’s marine wildlife.

As attractions in Bora Bora, the island’s corral reefs are simply gorgeous, as the white sand beaches surrounding Bora Bora are divine. The pass of Teavanui, located in between the ocean and the lagoon, is simply a stand-out sight.

Facing the pass is Vaitape, the main settlement of Bora Bora. Another entry in the roster of attractions in Bora Bora. The west coast bays of the island, Faanui and Poofai, both add to a scenic tableau building the island’s image. From an aerial point of view, Bora Bora has been described to be similar to “a tiny emerald in a setting of turquoise, encircled by a sheltering necklace of sparkling pearls”.

Another attraction in the attractions in Bora Bora is Mount Otemanu and Mount Pahia. Bora Bora, as with all other islands within French Polynesia, rose through the waters because of volcanic activity 3 million years ago. The seven hundred twenty seven meter peak, sided by Mount Pahia’s six hundred twenty six meter height, both extinct volcanoes, pose and bring a certain calm to spectators.

The island is rather small. Within an hour, one could circle the entire island in a car. The Coral Garden, to the southeast of the island, is another wonder worth mentioning as another attraction among attractions in Bora Bora. The natural underwater park, houses all types of corals and fish.

Famous writers and artists, as well as navigators have decided to spend the remainder of their days in Bora Bora, among which are Paul Emile Victor and Alain Gerbault, adding on to the island’s worldwide reputation of a haven here on Earth.

Many tourists come to Tahiti Polynesia to visit the Bora Bora Island. Bora Bora is really a fascinating place to sit under the sun to relax and enjoy the view but not all tourists want to just lounge around or go sight-seeing. Some tourists are into different adventures.

There are several exciting adventures that you can try in Bora Bora. You can explore the interior lands riding 4x4 trucks, catch marlins on board a luxurious fishing cruise, hike the hills of the island or you can go scuba diving and feed sharks and manta rays.

Checkout the guide below to pick the Bora Bora adventures of your choice:

• 4x4 Safaris – The Island of Bora Bora has a lot of roads that can only be accessed by four-wheel drive trucks and vehicles. These roads were actually made by the United States Military in the early 1940’s.

On top of the hills you can have a spectacular view of the surrounding islands and mountains. A 4x4 land excursion is usually run by Bora Bora locals who are knowledgeable about the island’s history so that tourists can learn more about the island during the trip.

• Sport Fishing – Sport fishing is also a favorite among Bora Bora adventures. The waters of Bora Bora are filled with many different species of huge game fish that are normally found in the deep ocean outside the lagoon. These species include Marlin, swordfish, giant tuna and many more.

• Shark and Manta Ray feeding excursion – This is probably considered as the most popular among Bora Bora adventures. There are several snorkeling and scuba diving operators that offer manta ray dives and shark-feeding dives.

• Parasailing – This type of adventure is also a major thrill and people of all ages can actually do it. It would normally take you about ten minutes to go up 600 feet above the water and you do not really have to know how to water ski. All that you need to do is clip into the harness and then step on top of the extra wide deck attached to a specialized towboat where you will take off upon reaching a certain speed. As the boat speeds up, your parachute catches wind that will take you high up in the air. Once you are high above the air, you will be able to get an amazing view of the island water and the mountains.

Bora Bora Island is a very wonderful place to visit and it is a must that you try out at least one of the several adventures mentioned above.

Being recognized as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, Bora Bora truly lives up to its namesake. Pristine beaches, incredible sights, this island of dreams can be found 155 miles northeast of Tahiti, in French Polynesia.

For over 40 years, Bora Bora has been a major tourist spot, catering to island guests year in, and year out. International hotels and resorts, as well as mid-range lodges and private residences, have mastered the art of hosting visitors, mastering the art itself.

Guests will discover a wide array of choices for activities in Bora Bora. Memorable, one-of-a-kind adventures, entailing a fantastic selection of diving excursions, water sports and island explorations.

Activities in Bora Bora could be categorized into 6 major activity divisions.

Watersports

Watersport activities in Bora Bora include surfing, snorkeling, jetskiing/waverunners, swimming, waterskiing, windsurfing, jetboat tours and kiteboarding (flysurfing). Guests to the island get to have their feet wet and have fun under the sun, as well as get up close and personal with the marine wildlife in Bora Bora through snorkeling activities. As varied as the activities in Bora Bora are, passions are also fueled, or rekindled, through surfing activities.

Bottom line, watersport activities in Bora Bora provide an avenue for pure fun in the water, under the beautiful rays of the sun.

Adventures

Adventure activities in Bora Bora basically include 4x4 safaris, parasailing, shark and ray feeding, deep sea fishing, and hiking and climbing trips. The most contemplative of climbers, as well as hikers, acknowledge just how peaceful hiking trips can be in Bora Bora. Thrill seekers would definitely get their high through shark and ray feeding activities in Bora Bora.

Adventures in Bora Bora indeed.

Relaxation

For this particular category of activities in Bora Bora, Motu Hangouts/Picnics, Bus and Mini-Van Tours, Private Lagoon Cruises, Massage Services, Nightlife and Entertainment fill in the Relaxation category. Geared to help guests unwind from the rigors of the days they’ve left behind, these tours, cruises and personal relaxation activities achieve their functions flawlessly.

Island Fun

In this roster of activities in Bora Bora, more focus is given to an intimate closeness to Bora Bora. Eco and Cultural tours, Lagoon Excursions, Horseback riding, Aquascope/Aqua Safari, Lagoonarium visits, and Flightseeing provide guests with an avenue to get up close and personal with Bora Bora.

Shopping

Incidentally, shopping activities in Bora Bora actually hold a place in the ranks of activities for visitors. Of course, this shopping category isn’t limited to simply shopping perse. Trips to Art Galleries and Studios, Black Pearls and Jewelry shops, as well as souvenir shops, pose to be quite much fun, for avid shoppers and non-shoppers alike.

Recreation and Games

Simply put, games and recreational activities in Bora Bora leave visitors wanting more. Bicycle rides, tennis and volleyball games, massage services, even casual walking, these activities in Bora Bora leave guests the option to have their fun, at their own pace.

Activities in Bora Bora are basically no different from other tourist destinations. The difference therein lies with this one fact: they are done in Bora Bora.

Some places in the world are there with which luxury is eternally attached. And this is true in every respect, be it nature, modern assets or ancient legacies. Even accommodations at such destination also seem to be eternally accompanied by luxury stuff, luxury amenities and luxury service. Luxury Mexico hotels fulfill all the demand of visitors who do not wish to compromise on their luxurious lifestyle even when they are on a foreign land. Come to Mexico and get face to face with a collection of contrasting beauties.

Desert landscapes competing with snow caped volcanoes and time-warped colonial towns coming face to face with glitzy resorts characterize the entire Mexico. You will find ancient ruins matching the industrialized cities in terms of glory, beauty and of course, luxury. This traveler’s paradise contains a bunch of floras and faunas that fill up the loneliness of lonely beaches. Mexico is a destination that competes with any other destination in the world in terms of luxury. Land in any part of this country in any season of the year and you will feel it a pleasant time to visit.

A fine amalgamation of modern and traditional features, Mexico entertains you with its both clichéd and surreal aspects. Throw back margaritas and listen to howler monkey or fulfill all your vivid interests in this wonderful part of the world. Travelers with diverse and distinct interests get all the opportunity to satisfy their desires to the max. You can surf in the Mexican pipeline or scramble over Mayan ruins. And you are not going to leave the place so early if you wish to relish these activities. Obviously, you need a good place to stay for such a long period and that is where Luxury Mexico hotels play its role.

If you're planning to take a beach holiday this summer, you'll have a vast range of stunning American locations to choose from. Whether you're planning to take a vacation along the Florida Coast, or you're hoping to take a road trip down California's most stunning pieces of coastline, you'll definitely be in for a treat. But don't spend too much time seeking out some of the USA's most secluded beaches. Instead, go for an old favourite - like Cape Cod, Massachusetts - and get in on some more traditional beach action!

In Cape Cod, you'll be able to enjoy some stunning areas of coastline that justify why so many people return to the area on vacation year after year. The Cape Cod National Seashore stretches along 40 miles, from Chatham to Provincetown, so not only will you be able to experience breathtaking golden beaches, you'll also get a taste of Cape Cod's rich human history. In Provincetown, for instance, you'll see the place where the Pilgrims first landed in 1620.

What's more, if you visit Marconi Beach in Cape Cod, you'll be able to see the site at which Guglielmo Marconi made the first transatlantic wireless transmission originating from the United States in 1903. Marconi Beach is also excellent for surfing and boasts sand dunes that are so high they block the sun - making sure you get to mix a taste of historical culture with serious fun during your vacation in Cape Cod.

If you love seafood, then Cape Cod is also a vacation paradise. Some particularly well-known products from Cape Cod include shellfish, particularly oysters and clams; while lobstering is also a prevalent activity. However, if you don't like eating undersea creatures, but love watching them, you'll adore the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary in Provincetown. Visitors in the area can choose from several whale watching fleets who berth in Provincetown; most of which guarantee a whale sighting - mostly humpback, finback and sei whales - although only one is federally certified to rescue whales.

Cape Cod's stunning surroundings and uniquely beautiful sunlight also means that the area is especially popular with artists, photographers and ordinary travellers who appreciate the sights and sounds of nature. Moreover, Cape Cod and its islands - like Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard - are home to a substantial number of working lighthouses, including Highland Light, Nauset Light and Chatham Light.

Although Cape Cod has a year-round population of only 230,000, the region experiences a flood of tourists during the summer. So if you're thinking about visiting Cape Cod between Memorial Day and Labor Day, you'll have to book early to make sure you're able to enjoy the accommodation of your choice. By making a hotel booking online well in advance, you can ensure that you'll be able to secure rooms for your vacation with ease. Furthermore, many hotels offer discounts for travellers who book their hotel accommodation early and online, meaning that you could save a significant amount on your holiday if you plan ahead carefully.

If you want a vacation in a lush, tropical location; try the town of Ocho Rios in Jamaica. On the coast, the town has much to do and see. From big resorts, to smaller, privately-owned garden styled hotels, it has something for everyone from souvenir hunters to scuba divers. The crystal-clear, vividly turquoise water of the Caribbean Sea is breathtaking. Or hire a driver and go inland to see the deep jungles and gorgeous countryside. Jamaica is pure paradise. Here are some ideas on where to go on your trip.

Dunn's River Falls

Every day, tourists climb a natural rock formation whose river empties into the sea, called Dunn's River Falls. It is a great way to cool off in the hot sun. For those who don't want to climb, there is a path along the falls to walk up to the top. Nature is all around, and hear the tropical birds squawk in the trees as you walk through this lovely site.

Shaw Park Gardens

If you love flowers, go to this large botanical garden on a hill overlooking Ocho Rios. There you will see huge Banyan trees, with multiple trunks spread out everywhere. Colorful flowers such as towering bougainvillea vines surround you along with other breathtaking scenery such as waterfalls and lush jungle meadows. Look down on the coastline, and take photos of the sea from way up high. It is a nature photographer's paradise.

The market

Get your dickering skills in order and go over to the public market. Here, you are expected to talk the vendors down in price for everything from hair braiding to t-shirts. Buy a rum-filled coconut that is cut open with a machete right in front of you. Watching this is interesting all in itself. If you have new items you want to barter, take them with you and see if you can strike a deal with the dealers who sell in various outside booths. It is a lively and fun place. Expect many people to ask if they can braid your hair into cornrows. I had them do a French braid on me, for hardly any money. American money goes very far as of this writing, in Jamaica. Check out the hand-carved wooden sculptures by local artisans. The craftsmanship and elegance is amazing, of subjects such as fish, flowers, birds and more. My suitcase was filled with them by the end of my trip. Prices are reasonable, and even moreso if you are a good bargain-negotiator.

Take a snorkeling or scuba tour

Go to a dive store or inquire at your hotel where to find a good snorkeling tour. There are reefs everywhere down in Jamaica, full of tropical fish of all sizes, colors and shapes. It's like swimming in an aquarium. The skilled divers know where the best coral sites are, and will take you in their boat to them. It is amazing to see the majestic "gardens" of coral all around you, growing as if they were flowers. Bring a disposable underwater camera to capture memories of this exotic venture. The experience is surreal and fun. Just make sure to wear strong sunscreen or you will get a lobster-red sunburn very easily.

Shopping and dining in the shop district

In Ocho Rios, there are a variety of stores from high-end to low-budget. They are all interesting and offer great souvenirs. If you love coffee, buy the Jamaican Blue-Mountain coffee there, which is much cheaper than it is in the U.S., where it can cost $50 per pound, easily. Buy spices at local stores, such as curry powder or jerk seasoning. Jerk chicken is a spicy dish found all over Jamaica. It is delicious, just make to eat it with a pitcher of water by your side.

Some of the best restaurants are understated and out-of-the-way. Ten years ago, when I was there, there was a small place called Blue Cantina near the Hibiscus Lodge (the garden-style hotel I stayed at.) The Blue Cantina has great food for cheap prices. Try the fried plantains, served as a side-dish, they are to die for. They make wonderful tacos. The restaurant in the Hibiscus Lodge is a good place for breakfast, too. It is terraced, and overlooks the ocean, with amond trees branching over your head. I always ate outside there. The wait staff are professional and serve great fruit and pastries.

In general, going to Ocho Rios, Jamaica is great if you want to get away from regular city life and try something more natural. If you have time, have a taxi take you to other towns and cities as well. There is much to see in the country island of Jamaica. Have a Pina Colada, sit back and soak in that glorious Caribbean sunshine. It truly is paradise.

Well it’s not what you think from the title, all though I am sure that you can find bongs in the Lake Boung area of Phnom Penh, it really is more of a lifestyle, as you live the life of a bohemian, in one of the better established backpacker areas in South East Asia. If it sounds like something you might enjoy, you better hurry as the great suck is coming, and the lake if, you would call this swollen puddle a lake, will mostly disappear, not because of global warming, but the lake is slated to become a Cambodian version of the future, with all the stuff you love to hate in the west, like malls and those annoying restaurants where they sing special birthday songs to embarrasses you, on a day that is suppose to be enjoyable!

The best thing about bonging in Phnom Penh is that it is cheap, almost India cheap. You can eat there for under a buck, and it even tastes good. For cheap lodging it can’t be beat, except maybe the free lodging at Utopia in Sihanoukville, but that story still needs to be written, soon I promise you.

Bonging also means music, as they play everything there that you can imagine. The Boom Boom Room, not to be confused with the massage parlors in the center of Phnom Penh, has every type of music that you could ever want to load onto your Ipod, and all of the restaurants and hotels have great “tuneage” going full blast all day and all the night.

Into fashion, well you probably aren’t going to see any specials from Fashion TV being shot here, but there are a lot of great clothes to be had, with Zoko clothing leading the assault, with taste bargain stuff flying off the racks.

Now the last thing that you would expect would be a literary center here, but at last count there were over 3 used book stores, not counting all the free books at the guesthouses, with everything from Lonely Planets to Mao’s autobiography and everything in between.

All you need to go Bonging is a sense of adventure, and a willingness not to conform. Did I mention that the place is surrounded by vegetation and has a fragrant smell!

The major river of Thailand is the Chao Phraya. It has low alluvial soil which marks the plains of Thailand. Chao Phraya originates from the meeting point of two other rivers Ping and Nan. The main tributary to Nan River is the Yom River.

Wang River is another river which flows in northern Thailand and this is 335 miles long. It originates from Ping River.

The longest river in Thailand is the Chi River which is 765 km but the water flow is very low. It runs through the Yasothon province of Thailand.

Chao Phraya runs for 372 km from Bangkok to the Gulf of Thailand. It bifurcates into two in a place called Chainat. The main portion of the river, known as the Chin River, flows parallel to Chao Phraya and ends in the Gulf. It is called by many names. In Chainat, it is called Makhamthao river and when it passes through Suphanburi, it is called Suphan. It becomes Nakhon Chaisi river when it enters Nakhon Pathon and after that it is known as Tha Chin river when it reaches the mouth of Samut Sakhon. Many canals are diverted from Chin River and the water from the canals is used for irrigation.

Nonthaburi Uthai Thani, , Singburi, Nakhon Sawan, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya and Chainat Pathum Thani are the cities along the flowing river. Nakhon Sawan is the city where the two major rivers Nan and Ping meet. Ang Thong is an agricultural land and Chao Phraya and Noi River meet in this city.