Nestled away in the South Pacific, Bora Bora is a lush island paradise in French Polynesia. Most visitors spend their time there in luxurious resorts overlooking the ocean, but explore the coconut tree-filled jungle and you'll discover ancient temple ruins. The United States does not have an embassy in Bora Bora, requiring American citizens to seek help of the consulate in Fiji should they require assistance.
American citizens may enter Bora Bora with a valid passport and do not need to apply for a visa in advance if staying on the island for less than 90 days. Check your passport's expiration date before leaving home though, as you must have at least six months remaining validity to enter French Polynesia. Additionally, you must also have a return ticket as proof that you will leave the country without overstaying.
If you plan to visit Bora Bora for two stays of 90 days within the same six month period, you will need to apply for a visa in advance, as you cannot leave the country and quickly reenter without one. According to the U.S. Department of State, anyone using an official or diplomatic passport must also procure a visa before visiting Bora Bora. Tourists planning a single trip of more than 90 days and anyone traveling for business also have to apply for visas in advance.
If your reasons for visiting Bora Bora require that you get a visa or you have a special diplomatic passport, you'll need to apply for your visa in the United States. To do so, you must apply at the French consulate nearest your place of residence, as the island is under the control of France. Foreign citizens living in the U.S. who are required to obtain a visa must also apply from a consulate.
Most accommodation on Bora Bora is very expensive, so follow Lonely Planet's advice and stay in a pension owned by a local family to save money. Pack summery, lightweight clothing no matter what season you visit, as temperatures on the island are in the 70s and 80s all year and bring lots of sunblock. If you want to make a good impression with local people, learn a few words in French or the native Tahitian language.
