Submitted by: Wanjiru Gathura
No one books a solo trip to Bora Bora, at least not willingly. In fact, I did not see or meet any solo travelers in all the islands I visited in French Polynesia.
This would be the perfect time to let you know that my boyfriend at the time did not apply for his visa on time and that’s how I found myself alone. Having planned for the trip seven months in advance, there was no excuse. Given that he only told me on the day that we were to travel that he wasn’t coming, I didn’t have a lot of time to regroup. It wasn’t the first time that his failure to plan had let me down in a major way.
As a person who has traveled solo, I wasn’t daunted by the idea of traveling alone until I arrived in Tahiti. First it was the curious looks and then it was the simple annoying question that would get asked multiple times over the course of the week, “Just you?” It’s a great reminder if you happen to forget that you are alone. I had to quickly psych myself and really try to have a good time.
Traveling to French Polynesia is expensive and I wasn’t going to waste my time and money sulking. So, what do you do in French Polynesia over a week solo? You island hop, make friends, and plan excursions. You must keep busy or your mind will torture you as you watch couples in bikinis and speedos drinking fruity drinks.
Tahiti
Book a tour and see the small island. There isn’t much else to do, and I wouldn’t encourage anyone to stay here too long. Most tours are done on a jeep, so you’ll ride in the back and make stops here and there. Then relax on the beach and sip your own fruity drink. Try not to notice people staring at you wondering why you came alone.
Moorea
One of the most beautiful islands in the world. It can be done solo because it is affordable, and you can avoid the resorts. There is also so much to do. Stay at this lovely villa aptly named Villa Bella Vista that can be booked via Booking.com. Make friends with the locals, hitch hiking is a thing and the locals will give you a ride if it’s on their way, bonus points if you speak French. Next book an excursion with Moorea Activities Center. It would be best to mix water and land activities. This was the highlight of my stay in Moorea. Also take walks along the beach, the sunrise and sunsets were better than Bora Bora in my opinion.
Bora Bora
Pictures do not do this island justice. From your arrival at the airport you will know you are in paradise. If you happen to share it with someone even better. I was blown away and despite my solo status I loved it. At some point I forgot I was solo. I had decided earlier on to have a good time and I did. On checking in to my resort again the question. “Just you?”. I almost snapped, “Do you see a person that I don’t?” Also, the assumption was that I was a Mrs. which I found annoying at first because I am not married second, I had not indicated that I was. It is also always assumed the person booking is a man which is strange, but it happens more often than you would think.
In Bora Bora you can look forward to beautiful beaches, unbelievable snorkeling where stingrays and sharks are in abundance, diving, para sailing, helicopter rides and so much more. It just depends on how much you want to spend. I booked an excursion with Lagoon Service Bora Bora and it was the best thing I did in Bora Bora.
As for food, it was underwhelming. Perhaps it’s because going in you cannot help but have great expectations. At your arrival you are treated to a traditional Tahitian welcome with luaus and everything, so the expectation is set very high. Expect to see some of the best tattoo work in the world. During my stay there was a tattoo convention in Moorea where you could get authentic tattoos for great prices.
If you do go, take it easy and enjoy yourself whether you go alone or with someone. It is really paradise after all.