Tag Archives: luxury travel tahiti

Four Seasons. Bora Bora, Tahiti

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This month is all about exotic islands of the world, and although Bora Bora has been talked about and visited constantly for the last decade, it does not diminish the raw beauty that this island showcases.

I have always said that Bora Bora is the most beautiful island I have ever been to, and I have been to more than 105 countries. The towering volcano coming out of the clear ocean with its lush green palm trees make this island second to none. In addition to having the volcano, there is a perfectly formed reef surrounding the volcano a few miles out, which makes swimming in the reef almost like swimming in a pool.

There are many gorgeous hotels in the island, however my favorite has to be the Four Seasons Bora Bora, not only because it has the best service, architecture, decor and food, but also because it is located in a motu a mile away from the main land, which offers breathtaking views of the entire island of Bora Bora. Don’t worry about being too secluded, there are private boats coming back and forth every time you request one.

When you land in Bora Bora, an elegant Four Seasons classic wood boat will be waiting to whisk you to the Four Seasons private Motu Tehotu. The smooth ride is only about 35 minutes long, but with a fresh mango juice and your aromatic plumeria lei, it will make it seem like it was 5 minutes long.

As you approach the hotel you will notice the stunning over-water bungalows. Friendly staff members will be awaiting your arrival with more leis and fresh juices. They will put your and your belonging in a golf cart and drive you to what will be your home for the next few days.

As you drive by you will notice the one luxurious bungalow after another with beautiful wooden decks and private pools. Most of the rooms are identical except for the views . The lagoon view and mountain view is my favorite and the Otemanu Over-water Bungalow Suite is my number once choice when staying at the FS Bora Bora, simply stunning.

 

 

 

The Brando. Tetiaroa, Tahiti

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“Tetiaroa is beautiful beyond my capacity to describe.
One could say that Tetiaroa is the tincture of the South Seas.”

Marlon Brando

Ten years ago I was flying from Papeete to Bora Bora, but had to divert to Tetiaroa to refuel. Little did I know that this diversion would be the best surprise I had had in a long time. The five different types of clear blue water, waves crashing into the white sandy beach and lush green flora were enough to make me ask the pilot if I could stay there for a day and get picked up the next day.

Tetiaroa had long been the home of the Tahitian royal family and well respected doctors, that was until Marlon Brando discovered it while filming Mutiny on the Bounty and fell head over heels with this corner of the world.

Brando purchased the island for a total of $270,000 in 1966 partly because he had fallen in love with his future Tahitian wife that happen to reside there.

In addition to making Tetiaroa his second home, he invited scientist to study the ecology and archaeology of the island. He built a simple airstrip, 12 bungalows, kitchen, dining room and bar with local materials. Tetiaroa became the favorite place to vacation for his family and friends.

Using various methods of renewable, as well as innovative wastewater treatment procedures—the entire resort aimed to create a net zero water and energy community and they accomplished it. This objective is above and beyond the requirements of LEED, the highest ecological certification, and reflects Marlon Brando’s passion for environmental sustainability.

In February 2014, the Brando Hotel was finished. The Brando Estate and eight of Marlon Brando’s sixteen children are involved in the project.

The Brando is a barefoot luxury resort on the French Polynesia. The atoll is composed of a dozen small islands surrounding a sparkling lagoon 30 miles northeast of the main island of Tahiti. The Brando has a carefree luxury vibe in the midst of pristine nature.

The resort features 35 villas on white-sand beaches frequented by sea turtles, manta rays and exotic birds. The resort stayed true to its mission, which was to showcase the Polynesian lifestyles and culture.

Although the Brando is perfect for a romantic getaway, it is actually ideal for families looking for adventure in the ocean. Their 3-bedroom villa is out of the Swiss Family Robinson movie, so look no further than the Brando for your upcoming family vacation.