After you’ve canoed, sailed, scuba dived, and visited the resort’s sanctuary for the critically endangered hawksbill turtle, you’ll be ready to recline on your patio for a view of the extinct 2,300-foot Mount Otemanu volcano. —Brendan Brady Le Méridien Bora Bora, French Polynesia. (800) 543-4300, starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien, from $605. Photo courtesy of lodging. This appeared in the September/October 2010 issue. See more overwater bungalows.
My 25th wedding anniversary was approaching and I wanted to take my wife somewhere romantic. It didn't take much research to discover that Bora Bora fit that description. I booked an overwater bungalow that allowed us to feed the fish from the floor of the living room, paddle a canoe to breakfast, or just laze on the deck above the cerulean waters. A week on this beautiful atoll brought back all of the romance that sparked our relationship 25 years ago.The high cost and the 12 hour flight from LAX were well worth it. There isn't a lot to do on the island, which is the point really. However, to enhance the romance, you will want to spoil her with a black pearl that was pulled from the sea on a nearby island and wine and dine her at La Villa Mahana, a lovely little restaurant that only has 6 tables and is one of the best meals you'll ever eat. Truly a once in a lifetime romantic trip!
My first encounter with a black sand beach was in Tahiti and talk about a gem, having it all to myself.
On a recent trip to research resorts, I had the opportunity to visit Tahiti, Moorea, Bora Bora and the island of Taha'a. All were fabulous places to explore, but my favorite stay was at the Five Star Taha'a Island Resort and Spa on the island of Taha'a. Part of the allure of the resort is the remoteness of Taha'a. To get there I had to take a 35-minute boat taxi from the airport in Raiatea. What a spectacular boat ride it was, however. The lush setting on a sparkling lagoon is everything I imagined the resort would be. It was my first time ever to stay in an overwater bungalow, and a luxurious bungalow at that. I especially enjoyed the sunset over the lagoon, and an early morning swim right outside my door. The resort has a few restaurants, a swimming pool, fitness center, spa and gift shop, so you are not totally isolated. If you want to just relax in one of the prettiest spots in the world, you can do that too. If you visit this special place in French Polynesia, you may discover as I did, that it is hard to get any better than this!
We spent 10 days honeymooning on the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia. The St Regis is located on the reef that surrounds the central island, which is in the background of the picture. We stayed in an over-water bungalow, which actually had a glass floor so you could see the fish below, and jumping off of the deck into the warm waters of the lagoon was an incredible way to start or end the day.
On our second to last day in Bora Bora, we took a private outrigger around the lagoon, swimming with the sharks in one area, and admiring the beautiful coral reefs in another. We ended up at a private beach, where our gracious host procured an umbrella, table and chairs from his boat, and proceeded to feed us a delicious lunch of barbequed fish and local fruit, as the water lapped our feet. The outrigger guy's name is Keishi; check out keishi-tour.com for more info.
This photo was captured on an unbelievable morning. The blue water mesmerizing words really can't describe... you just have to dive in! (from our overwater bungalow at the IC Moorea).
Just one of the many stunning views on our spectacular honeymoon that is forever etched into our minds. We swam with sharks in open water, snorkled off our OWB daily, had a private island BBQ and did a jeep tour of the main island. There was plenty to do and we were never without adventure. We felt very very far away and loved every second of this paradise!
When travelling I always try to go to the local markets to see what new edible items I can find. After a few magical days in Bora Bora and Moorea my last day in French Polynesia was Tahiti. I had encountered the "Marche Papeete' which is Papeete's local market. My new find were these impressive turquoise colored fish. On a side note you can find vanilla bean sticks, fresh tuna and a great variety of exotic fruit and vegetables.
The most exciting place to watch New Year festivities is also one of the very last to celebrate: Le Meridien Bora Bora. Hop a plane ( only 8 hours from LAX) and ring in the New Year at one of the most beautiful lagoons in the world for a New Year celebration like no other. The Le Méridien Bora Bora is set on a six mile-long “motu” islet off the main island, and has various accommodations all with an unsurpassed view of the Mount Otemanu in French Polynesia. ( Think Bali-Hai from South Pacific). There is still time to don your pareu and bring your beau as Le Méridien Bora Bora will begin the countdown to the New year after most of the world has gone to bed. Start with music by a local Tahitian group from 6 to 10pm in the bar Miki Miki, then sup at a sumptuous New Year’s Eve buffet dinner beginning at 7pm as a DJ spins musical memories throughout dinner. At 1130 pm things start to heat up at the beach with fire- knife dancers on the sand. Just before midnight, fill your glass with Champagne and watch the fireworks illuminate the sky over the lagoon bringing in 2013 in grand style. In case you are curious, I have done the homework for you for this party. Room rates start at $723.USD. The Party Package is $354.USD per person and includes the buffet dinner,wine, Champagne, the shows, fireworks and parties.
Technically part of Tahaa in French Polynesia, Vahine Private Island Resort is an escape from reality. The hotel features three beach bungalows, three self-contained beach suites and three overwater bungalows, all with beach views and designed using only natural materials in such a way as to make you feel like you're in a traditional Polynesian home. Moreover, the resort is set on a 23-acre private island lush with coconut trees and white sand beach. Snorkel in their vibrant coral gardens, kayak to nearby motus or to natural sting-ray pools, take in a coconut show, learn how to tie a pareo or weave palm leaves, paddle a traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe or take an excursion to the nearby mainland of Tahaa (the "Vanilla Island") or a private motu. Guests love their food and beverage program, with French dishes crafted using local cuisine and cocktails infused with local fruits and juices. Tip: Don't leave without having a traditional massage with scented Monoi oil on your deck, where you'll hear nothing but the billowing palms and gentle crashing of waves.
Lesser known (and less expensive) than its sister island Bora Bora, Moorea is just as beautiful with as many (or as little) activities as you can jam into a day. Although the best thing to do is sit back, relax and enjoy the gentle breezes, beautiful sunsets and island hospitality!
Fakarava's lagoon is majestic, white translucent blue waters filled with vibrant coral and tropical fish. In fact, Fakara is touted as the "mecca of diving" thanks for its waters rich with flora and big fauna. Enjoy a walk along its perimeter along a white sand beach littered with lush vegetation and billowing palm trees.
Taking a plunge from our overwater bungalow was the start to yet another perfect day. We had a great time staying at the Intercontinental Moorea with our kids. The water is spectacular for swimming, snorkeling and all kinds of watersports. We all loved it!
Came upon this casual vendor of island bounty. I hope and pray that heaven is just like Bora Bora.
Diving in French Polynesia one supposedly gets used to the seeing black tip reef sharks. You actually feel comfortable in their presence (after all we are not a part of their food chain). We took a few dives with our kids while traveling on the Paul Gauguin cruise ship, our dive master was Clement, who was wonderful! A ton of fun, very safe, and just the right amount of adventure!
Full-body immersion in some of the most pristine water in the world. Rangiroa doesn't have the dramatic peaks of islands like Bora Bora, but it does have a much better underwater scene in my opinion. After traveling by boat for two hours from our resort we came to this very remote part of the atoll where the snorkeling was fantastic!
From Raiatea -- I launched my kayak from the edge of Raiatea Lodge Hotel, who rents the boats free to guests -- you can have the unique experience of kayaking to a motu. Motus are small islands made up of coral and its derivatives. From Raiatea one of these islands you can paddle to is Motu Miri Miri, which allows you to float over vibrant gardens of coral and see tropical fish while getting a workout. Exploring the motu is also nice, as it allows you complete peace of a deserted island as well as take in views of Raiatea from afar. The kayaking journey takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
The Maroto Valley, also known as the Papenoo Valley, is located on Tahiti and allows you to explore the lush vegetation, flowers and fruits of the island away from the hustle and bustle of Papeete. There are an array of waterfalls, marae, natural pools and lookout points to enjoy. For example, in this photo, you have a clear view of Mount Orohena, Tahiti's highest peak at 2,241 m (7,352 ft). I recommend going with Marama Tours, as guides are knowledgeable about the area and can educate you on how it relates to ancient Polynesia. You'll also get to do a bit of hiking and swimming in this magical place.
Tahaa is where more than 80% of French Polynesia's famous vanilla comes from, so visiting a plantation is a worthwhile experience. Vallee de la Vanille is an organic vanilla plantation (one of the few) on Tahaa that offers free tours so visitors can learn about the cultivation, drying and production of the vanilla -- as well as sample of the fresh fruits from the grounds (Tahaa is extremely lush and great for growing tropical fruits). Don't leave without purchasing something from their shop, which has an array of vanilla-infused products like coffee beans, shampoo, lotion, volcano rocks, sea salt, cooking oil, rum and more.
Spectacular view from the top of "Magic mountain," which is truly magical. You can only access this through 4 wheel drive or ATV-We went up on ATV's (using Albert Tours) which was a ton of fun! The road is quite narrow and steep, but is a magnificent vantage point to see the mountains and the absolutely gorgeous clear blue water of Moorea. We happened to be up at the top just as the sailboat was passing through the channel on yet another beautiful day...
This picture was taken as the sun was rising over Cook's Bay on the island of Moorea. This will be remember as the most spontaneous trip we have ever taken...at least to this point. It was one of those last minute deals on the internet that we were fortunate to see. The "deal" came in on a Wednesday around 12:05 AM and we had to leave on Saturday. I did some quick checking with my work to secure the time off, get our home ready, pack and we were off...to romantic Moorea, the quiet island just 17KM northwest of Tahiti. It was a great trip with excellent scuba diving and warm clear water....
Le Meridien Tahiti is one of Tahiti's most luxurious accommodations. The hotel features 150 units total, including a mix of overwater bungalows, garden view rooms, lagoon view rooms and suites. On the grounds guests can enjoy a stroll through their beautiful botanical gardens and Japanese koi pond and walking bridge. Set on the beach, guests can also enjoy the free use of kayaking, canoes and snorkeling equipment for exploring the vibrant underwater world Tahiti is known for. The property also offers two bars and two restaurants, although make sure to add some culture to your stay with one of their Tahitian feasts and dance shows.
There may not be much to this tiny island in the French Polynesia but it's big on history if you have any interest in Paul Gauguin and Jacques Brel. If you are looking for a secluded spot with little amenities, this is a perfect spot in paradise.
Ninamu resort is the newest resort in Tikehau. The resort is the only establishment on the island and consists of just 6 bungalows, a common area, bar, restaurant,kitchen, boutique, and equipment room. Ninamu is the place to go if you really want to disconnect from everything. There are no roads, cars...other people- just the staff who are WONDERFUL! Ninamu will be your home away from home.
Fakarava is full of family-run pensions (there's only one hotel on the island), one of which is the Pension Tokerau Village. When you arrive they'll greet you by putting a flower necklace over your head and kissing you once on each cheek. The accommodation itself is simple, although the beachfront access, homecooked meals and free kayaking and snorkeling are wonderful.
While pensions in French Polynesia are often touted as overpriced accommodations with no amenities, Fare Pea Iti proves this is not always true. In fact, this family home pension is downright luxurious, with an in-ground pool, well-manicured grounds and a mix of beach and garden bungalows featuring sumptuous amenities and whimsical touches. The beach bungalow is particularly opulent. While in the bathroom you'll find Monoi oil body products and an over-sized walk-in tiled shower, the enclosed porch features beautiful views, self-catering kitchen with barbecue and mini-bar. In the room, the bed is adorned with tropical flowers and canopied with delicate baldaquin. Moreover, the garden bungalows offer comfortable beds, televisions, Monoi oil tiki soaps, a walk-in shower, mini bar and table and chairs in the garden for scenic relaxing. Don't miss the fantastic homecooked meals in their open-air restaurant and bar. In the morning there's an artisanal breakfast of hot beverages, fresh juices, fresh tropical fruit, homemade vanilla yogurt, fluffy bread and housemade jams with large chunks of fruit. Moreover, at night guests can enjoy a 3-course candlelit dinner featuring fresh local ingredients.
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