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When you think of luxury travel, what comes to mind? Take a moment and really think about it; where is the most exotic destination you have ever been, or would even like to visit at some point? Are you, perhaps, still searching? After a recent holiday for two, we discovered the Four Seasons Resort in Bora Bora – without a doubt, it is a true tropical paradise and quite worthy of its 2011 title as the #1 Resort in French Polynesia [and #23 in the world] by Conde Nast Traveler.
From Los Angeles, the flight to Tahiti is a mere eight hours with a quick island hop to Bora Bora; however, you can only make the transfer in daylight, as the airport runway is not equipped with proper lighting for night flights. As a side note, the Bora Bora airport is built on its own island or “motu,” as it is called in Tahitian. Once landed at this tiny little airport with one gate, you are taken to your hotel of choice via water taxi. In our case, an intimate staff of three assisted our transfer via a “small” 40-foot yacht, whisking us to the Four Seasons along the eastern atoll of the island. In addition to luxury resort accommodations [including 100 overwater bungalows and seven beachfront villas, all designed with traditional thatched roofs and decorated with indigenous artwork], there are also year-round private residences available for purchase; lots start at $2 million Euro, with ocean or lagoon views, along with private beaches and the enjoyment of all-inclusive resort amenities.
The island itself is volcanic, encircled by sand-fringe islets and an outer coral reef. As a result, the water is typically warm, calm and unbelievably clear! The lagoon is relatively shallow, and lends well to aquatic-centered activities, including a snorkel safari, scuba and kayaking. And for the more romantic gesture, a sunset sail aboard a private catamaran is an enticing escape.
From the moment you step onto the waterside yacht at the airport to your arrival at the dock for check-in, the service and hospitality is undeniably priceless; you are greeted with some of the kindest, warm-hearted people you will ever meet – which we were told is the “Tahitian Way.”
Our holiday for two in Bora Bora is simply the best we have ever taken. Why, you may ask?
Oh my, where to begin? Was it the helpful and friendly staff, or could it have been all the complimentary water activities? Stand up paddle surfing was our favorite, as it gives you a broader panorama of the sea life below – countless colors of fish and oversized rays home to the lagoon and coral gardens. Or, on second thought, was it the much welcomed warmth of sun kissed afternoons, the light breeze of the trade winds, dining alfresco, the unspoiled vast tracks of deserted white sand beaches, “coconut island,” the massive poolside cabanas or even the local flavors of Polynesia-South Pacific cuisine? So many choices!
For us, it was actually the accommodations themselves at the Four Seasons; the overwater bungalows, impeccably decorated, are simply magnificent! Upon check-in, you are greeted with cold towels and a drink; and somehow, the staff knows your name. A concierge then drives you via golf cart to your bungalow, over the winding and massive wooden roadway-bridge structures. Our room number was 423 and unveiled an incredible unobstructed view across the lagoon to the slopes along the center island. The multi-room, single story bungalows are the largest in French Polynesia and are often referenced as being “stadium sized” in several travel publications; with well appointed furnishings, the living space offers an open flow throughout, unfolding to an outside dining loggia and deck.
The bedroom suite and spa extends to a private outdoor deck for sun bathing and lounging; and without any hesitation, take a dip into the warm waters of the lagoon below. Complimentary snorkel gear is available on the patio, along with complimentary robes, slippers and beach bags. The bungalows also feature floor viewing panels throughout the residence for a glimpse at the underwater world of Bora Bora. By far, the private patio with direct and easy access to the lagoon was an unexpected treat that tops the list for this locale.
It is good to know that whenever you go, there is really no off season in Bora Bora. The water comes from desalination and is safe to drink; and even though French and Tahitian are the official languages of the famed Society Islands, English is extremely common. Wedding and anniversary celebrations are certainly a natural fit, but in any case, it deserves top spot on your bucket list. You can certainly take our word for it!
Four Season’s Bora Bora
fourseasons.com/borabora
