Experiencing Polynesian Culture: A Traditional Dance & Feast in Bora Bora

A traditional Polynesian dance and feast, or tama’ara’a, is arguably the most immersive way to experience the heart and soul of Bora Bora. Forget just seeing the island’s stunning turquoise waters – this is about connecting with its people, their history, and their vibrant culture through music, dance, storytelling, and of course, incredible food. Let’s explore everything you need to know for experiencing this cultural highlight.

Choosing the Right Polynesian Feast & Dance Experience

Not all tama’ara’a are created equal! Bora Bora offers a variety of options, ranging from small, intimate gatherings at family-run establishments to larger, more elaborate productions at resorts. Research is key to finding the experience that best suits your interests and budget.

Factors to Consider:

• Authenticity: Look for experiences that emphasize traditional practices and stories. Read reviews carefully, paying attention to comments about the genuineness of the presentation and the engagement of the performers. Avoid anything that feels overly commercialized or “touristy.”
• Location: Some feasts take place on private motus (small islands), offering a secluded and romantic setting. Others are held at resorts or cultural centers. Consider what kind of atmosphere you prefer. A motu typically offers a more relaxing and immersive experience, while a resort might provide easier access and more amenities.
• Food: The food is a central part of the experience. Inquire about the menu beforehand. Look for traditional dishes cooked in an ahima’a, an underground oven using heated stones. Common dishes include roasted pig, fish, taro, breadfruit, and poe (a sweet pudding).
• Dance Performance: The quality of the dance performance can vary significantly. Watch videos online or read reviews to get a sense of the skill and artistry of the dancers. Pay attention to the costumes, music, and storytelling. A good performance will transport you to another time and place.
• Price: Prices can range from $150 to over $300 per person, depending on the location, inclusions, and level of luxury. Factor in transportation costs, which may or may not be included in the price. Consider whether drinks are included or if you will need to purchase them separately.

Popular Options & Examples:

While specific venues might change, here’s a sense of the types of experiences you could find:

• Resort Polynesian Nights: Many of the luxury resorts, such as the Four Seasons Bora Bora and the St. Regis Bora Bora, host weekly Polynesian dance and feast nights. These events are typically well-organized and offer a high level of service. The food tends to be excellent, and the dance performances are usually professional. However, they can be quite expensive and may lack the intimacy of a smaller gathering.
• Motu Picnics with Cultural Performances: Several tour operators offer full-day motu picnics that include a traditional Polynesian feast and dance performance. These experiences often involve snorkeling, swimming, and other water activities. The advantage of this option is that you get to enjoy the natural beauty of Bora Bora in addition to the cultural experience.
• Family-Run Guesthouses: Some smaller guesthouses and pensions offer more intimate and authentic Polynesian feasts. These events are often organized by local families and provide a more personal and immersive experience. The food is typically homemade and delicious, and the dance performances are often less polished but more heartfelt.

Recommendation: If you’re seeking an opulent experience, consider a resort option. If you’re on a tighter budget or want a more intimate and authentic experience, explore smaller tour operators or family-run guesthouses.

Understanding the Traditional Polynesian Feast (Tama’ara’a)

The food at a tama’ara’a is much more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of Polynesian culture and a demonstration of traditional cooking techniques. The centerpiece of the feast is often roasted pig, cooked in an ahima’a, an underground oven. This is a labor-intensive process that involves digging a pit, lining it with heated stones, placing the food on top, covering it with leaves and earth, and cooking it for several hours.

Dishes to Expect:

• Roasted Pig (Pua’a Roti): Tender, smoky, and incredibly flavorful, the roasted pig is the star of the show.
• Fish (I’a): Freshly caught and prepared in various ways, such as grilled, marinated in coconut milk, or wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in the ahima’a.
• Taro (Talo): A starchy root vegetable that is a staple of Polynesian cuisine, often cooked in the ahima’a or mashed into a poi-like consistency.
• Breadfruit (Uru): Another starchy fruit that is often cooked in the ahima’a or roasted over an open fire.
• Cassava (Maniota): Similar to taro and breadfruit, cassava is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in various ways.
• Poe: A sweet pudding made from taro, pumpkin, or bananas, mixed with coconut milk and baked.
• Fafaru: A traditional dish of fish marinated in fermented seawater (often considered an acquired taste!).
• Tropical Fruits: A bounty of fresh, juicy tropical fruits, such as mangoes, papayas, pineapples, and passionfruit, provides a refreshing end to the meal.

The Ahima’a Experience

If possible, try to witness the unveiling of the ahima’a. It’s a fascinating process to watch as the earth is carefully removed to reveal the steaming food. The aroma is incredible, and it’s a real testament to the ingenuity of traditional Polynesian cooking techniques. Some smaller tours include the audience in the labor. Be prepared to get dirty if invited.

Delving into the World of Polynesian Dance

The dance performance is the climax of the tama’ara’a, a vibrant and captivating display of Polynesian culture. The dances tell stories of legends, love, war, and everyday life. The movements are graceful and expressive, and the music is infectious.

Key Dance Styles to Watch For:

• ‘Ori Tahiti (Tahitian Dance): The most famous Polynesian dance style, known for its rapid hip movements (fa’arapu) and energetic drumming. The women wear elaborate costumes made of natural materials, such as grass, shells, and flowers, and the men wear loincloths and headdresses. There are several sub-styles like:

  • Otea: a drum dance focused on percussive rhythm with fast hip movements.
  • Aparima: a dance that tells a story through graceful hand gestures.

• Hula (Hawaiian Dance): Bora Bora, while part of French Polynesia, is influenced by other Polynesian cultures. Some performances may include elements of hula, characterized by its flowing movements and storytelling through hand gestures.
• Fire Dance: A thrilling and dangerous performance that involves dancers twirling flaming batons or knives.

Interpreting the Movements

Pay attention to the dancers’ hands and facial expressions. They are using these to tell stories. Many movements have specific meanings, such as waves crashing on the shore, birds flying through the air, or a lover’s embrace. Ask the performers or your guide to explain the meaning of some of the movements – most will be happy to share their knowledge.

Costumes and Music

The costumes are an integral part of the dance performance. They are often made of natural materials, such as grass, shells, and flowers, and are designed to enhance the dancers’ movements. The music is equally important, typically played on traditional instruments such as drums, ukuleles, and conch shells. The rhythmic drumming and melodic singing create a captivating and immersive atmosphere.

Etiquette During the Performance

Show respect for the performers and their culture by refraining from talking during the performance. Applaud enthusiastically after each dance and feel free to take photos and videos (but avoid using flash, which can be distracting). It’s also customary to offer a small tip to the performers at the end of the show.

Booking Your Experience: Essential Tips

Planning ahead is crucial, especially during peak season (June-August and December-January). Booking in advance ensures you get a spot and allows you to compare options more carefully. Here’s a breakdown of how to approach booking, transportation, and what to bring:

Booking Channels

• Online Travel Agencies (OTAs): Websites like Viator, Expedia, and GetYourGuide offer a wide range of Polynesian feast and dance experiences in Bora Bora. These platforms often provide customer reviews and ratings, making it easy to compare options.
• Resorts and Hotels: If you’re staying at a resort, ask the concierge for recommendations and booking assistance. Resorts often have partnerships with local tour operators and can arrange special deals.
• Local Tour Operators: Booking directly with a local tour operator can sometimes be cheaper and more personalized. However, it requires more research and may involve communicating in French or Tahitian.
• Directly with Family Guesthouses: Look up small family-run hotels (“pensiones”) or guesthouses. Sometimes they offer Polynesian Nights exclusively only for the guests and/or the neighborhood residents for very affordable prices.

Transportation Logistics

• Included Transfers: Many tours include transportation to and from your hotel or resort. Be sure to confirm this when booking, as transportation costs can add up quickly in Bora Bora.
• Water Taxi: If you’re staying on a motu, you may need to take a water taxi to reach the location of the feast. Check with your hotel or tour operator about water taxi options.
• Rental Car: Renting a car can give you more flexibility but keep in mind that driving in Bora Bora can be challenging, with narrow roads and limited parking.

What to Bring

• Cash: While credit cards are widely accepted in Bora Bora, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for tips, souvenirs, and small purchases.
• Insect Repellent: Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent in the evenings, especially near water.
• Sunscreen: Even in the evening, the sun can be intense, so be sure to wear sunscreen, especially if you’re spending time outdoors.
• Camera: You’ll want to capture the vibrant costumes, dances, and food.
• Comfortable Shoes: You may be walking or standing for extended periods.
• Light Clothing: The weather in Bora Bora is typically warm and humid, so wear light, breathable clothing.
• Respectful Attire: While casual attire is generally acceptable, it’s important to dress respectfully, especially during the dance performance. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing.

Example Booking Scenario

Let’s say you’re staying at a hotel on the main island and want to attend a Polynesian feast and dance performance on a motu. You could start by searching online for “Polynesian feast Bora Bora motu.” Compare the reviews from several OTAs and choose the tour that best fits your budget and interests. Make sure the pricing includes round-trip transport from your hotel to a meeting point to take a boat to the motu, and then back to your hotel. Upon arrival at the motu, you will be welcomed with a flower lei; during sunset sip cocktails; enjoy the ahima’a unveiling and the traditional dinner; and afterwards the cultural shows.

Responsible Tourism: Respecting Polynesian Culture

When experiencing Polynesian culture, it’s important to be a responsible and respectful tourist. By being mindful of your actions and choices, you can help preserve the culture and ensure that future generations can enjoy it. Here are some tips for responsible tourism:

Support Local Businesses

Choose tour operators, restaurants, and shops that are owned and operated by local Polynesians. This helps to support the local economy and ensure that the benefits of tourism are shared more equitably.

Learn About the Culture

Take the time to learn about Polynesian culture and traditions. Read books, watch documentaries, and talk to locals. The more you know, the more you will appreciate the richness and complexity of the culture.

Be Respectful of Traditions

Follow local customs and etiquette. Ask permission before taking photos of people, and avoid wearing overly revealing clothing when visiting sacred sites.

Minimize Your Environmental Impact

Reduce your waste, conserve water, and avoid touching or damaging coral reefs. Choose eco-friendly tour operators and accommodations that are committed to sustainability.

Speak the Language (Even a Little)

Learning a few basic Tahitian phrases can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture. Even a simple “Ia Orana” (hello) or “Mauruuru” (thank you) can make a difference.

Example: The “Pareo”

The pareo (sarong) is a versatile garment that is worn by both men and women in Polynesia. It can be used as a skirt, dress, shawl, or even a towel. Learning how to tie a pareo in different ways is a fun and practical way to connect with the local culture. Many shops offer demonstrations, and you can also find tutorials online.

Documenting Your Experience: Photos and Memories

Capturing your Polynesian feast and dance experience through photos and videos is a great way to preserve your memories and share them with others. However, it’s important to be mindful of cultural sensitivities and avoid being intrusive. Here are some tips for documenting your experience:

Ask Permission First

Before taking photos of people, always ask for their permission. Many Polynesians are happy to pose for photos, but it’s important to be respectful of their privacy.

Avoid Using Flash

Flash can be distracting and disrespectful, especially during a dance performance. Use natural light whenever possible, or adjust your camera settings to compensate for low light conditions.

Focus on the Details

Don’t just take photos of the dancers and performers. Capture the details that make the experience unique, such as the costumes, the food, the music instruments, and the expressions on people’s faces.

Tell a Story

Arrange your photos and videos in a way that tells a story about your experience. Start with photos of the setting and the food, then move on to the dance performance and the interactions with the performers. Add captions or voiceovers to provide context and share your personal reflections.

Respect Copyright

Be aware that some performances may be subject to copyright restrictions. Ask the organizers whether it’s permissible to share your photos and videos online.

Examples and Practical Advice:

Imagine you are at a tama’ara’a on a secluded motu. The sun is setting, casting a golden glow over the lagoon. You’ve sampled the delicious food from the ahima’a, and now the dancers take to the stage. Rather than just passively watching, try to engage with the performance. Notice the intricate details of the costumes, listen to the rhythm of the music, and follow the storyline of the dances. Afterwards, approach the performers and ask them about their craft. You might be surprised by the stories they have to share.

FAQ Section

What is the best time of year to experience a Polynesian feast and dance in Bora Bora? The dry season (May to October) is generally considered the best time to visit Bora Bora, as the weather is sunny and pleasant. However, Polynesian feasts and dance performances are held year-round.

Are Polynesian feasts and dance performances suitable for children? Yes, most Polynesian feasts and dance performances are family-friendly. Children will enjoy the vibrant costumes, energetic dances, and delicious food. However, some performances may contain elements that are not suitable for very young children, such as fire dancing.

What if I have dietary restrictions? Most tour operators and restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary restrictions, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets. Be sure to inform them of your needs when booking.

Is tipping customary? Yes, tipping is customary in Bora Bora. It is customary to tip the performers, the servers, and the tour guides. A tip of 10-15% is generally considered appropriate.

What should I wear? Light, comfortable clothing is recommended. While casual attire is generally acceptable, it’s important to dress respectfully, especially during the dance performance. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing.

Can I participate in the dances? Some performances may invite audience members to participate in the dances. If you’re invited, don’t be shy – join in the fun!

References List

Tourism Authority of French Polynesia official website.

Various resort and tour operator websites in Bora Bora.

Ready to experience the magic of a Polynesian feast and dance in Bora Bora? Start planning your trip today and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this stunning island paradise. Don’t just see Bora Bora – feel Bora Bora. Book your flight, reserve your accommodation, and secure your spot at a traditional tama’ara’a. You won’t regret it!