Bora Bora

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In things I didn't know, after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the US established a military base here during WWII. It didn't see much conflict, but apparently the returning troups (as well as a number that decided to stay permanently) were the start of the island's tourist boom. On all of the other islands I visited, local folks were fairly negative talking about Bora Bora - the ridiculous prices, volume of resorts/tourists, and somewhat less than pristine condition of the main island. These were all true, but it is still absolutely beautiful. For all of the reasons above, particularly price, I only stayed for two nights. Naturally, I assume because of this decision, it rained the full day I was there - fortunately the few hours I had on my arrival/departure dates were a bit better, and regardless, it is stunning just about any direction you look.

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