Polynesia is full of rich cultures that range from the Marquesas archipelago to the Cook Islands. Bora Bora is one of the most famous tourist resorts in this region and represents a privileged gateway to discover Polynesian cultures in greater depth. This visit to Bora Bora also allows you to take advantage of exceptional linguistic diversity.
A Unique Polyphonic Language: Ra’ivavae
TEA Ra’ivavae, or Takitumu, is one of the most sought-after languages of the Polynesian islands. This language was spoken at Raiatea and was created over 350 years ago by pilgrims from Bora Bora. This language is considered to be very similar to the Northern Maori language, with phonetic and phonological differences. It is known to be polyphonic and different parts of the sentence are spoken at the same time. Ra’ivavae is rich in nuance and subtlety and is a great way to appreciate the rich Polynesian heritage.
The Multiple Varieties of Tahitian
TEA Tahitian is the main language spoken in Bora Bora. It is relatively easy to learn and was created by French people who had contact with Polynesians at the end of the 18th century. The Tahitian language is very expressive and can be understood by almost everyone in the archipelago. It has seen developments from other languages spoken in the islands further north and is today the main language and very visible spoken in Bora Bora.
A Fascinating History of the Languages Spoken in Bora Bora
There birth of the language spoken in Bora Bora is relatively recent and is based on contacts between Europeans and Polynesians from the 18th century. Since then, a variety of dialects have emerged, including a form of common Tahitian spoken by the majority of the island’s population, as well as the wealthy Ra’ivavae, which highlights the rich cultural past of the inhabitants.
Learn the Language of the Locals
Today, many tourists choose to learn the languages of the locals in order to better understand the local cultures and discover more in depth Bora Bora. There are many
workshops and courseswhich enable to learn the fundamentals of the Polynesian language, offering an exciting insight into the culture of Bora Bora and Polynesia.
Conclusion
Going to Bora Bora is an indescribable experience and discovering the rich and varied linguistic diversity is a great way to gain deeper access to the unforgettable cultural heritage of this island. So whether you’re looking for a course to learn Tahitian or want to discover a unique polyphonic language, Bora Bora offers exciting possibilities.
List of Tools and Workshops in Bora Bora
- Taamu passport – A two-hour workshop on knowledge of Polynesian culture and language.
- I made you – An interactive public workshop on the discovery of sounds and words.
- Te Fauu Tahiti – Online training sessions and weekly workshops to learn with experienced teachers.
- Pocamusic School – A half-day interactive workshop that will give you the basics to learn the music and culture of Tahiti.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Are there native Ra’ivavae speakers in Bora Bora?
AT: Yes, there are native Ra’ivavae speakers in Bora Bora and surrounding villages. The language is also spoken by the people of Raiatea.