Another striking change of scenery for the third episode of this globetrotting series, as our expert correspondent, Dr Barbara Czyzewska, selects the sun, sea and spectacular sands of French Polynesia. Dive in…
It’s August. The days have got longer and warmer, the school year is at an end, and everyone at work is dreaming of traveling to faraway destinations (if they haven’t been already!).
For most of us, destinations don’t get much more faraway than French Polynesia, one of the most remote exotic destinations in the world. If you are based on the west coast of the United States, reaching Tahiti – the largest island in French Polynesia – will take you approximately eight hours. If you are leaving from Glion campus in Switzerland, you must be prepared for a 24-hour journey!
But, oh boy, those white beaches, turquoise waters and superb cuisine, which is a delightful blend of Polynesian and French tastes, really are worth the trip. Summer is made for exploration, so let’s fly away!
Barbara’s best luxury stays in French Polynesia
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort – Why not start your Polynesian adventure in this stunning member of the St. Regis family, renowned for its incredible location on a pristine lagoon, offering breathtaking views of Mount Otemanu. Guests enjoy exquisite overwater villas and exceptionally personalized service, including dedicated butlers. Treat yourself to a traditional Polynesian spa ritual, including body scrub with Volcanic Tahitian black sand and miri oil massage. Relaxation guaranteed!
Sofitel Kia Ora Moorea Beach Resort – This luxurious hideaway was one of the first resorts to open on Moorea – the second largest of French Polynesia’s Windward Islands.
If you have worked up a hunger paddling in the crystal-clear waters, Conde Nast Traveler recommends heading to K, Sofitel’s beachfront fine-dining option, “where chef Frédéric Gigou wows gourmands with a five- or seven-course tasting menu featuring delectable foie gras dusted with gingerbread with fruit tartare and toasted brioche, and a coconut-and-lime-zest-crusted mahi mahi with pumpkin puree. Available with wine pairings and served by candlelight under a Kahaia-wood cathedral ceiling – your toes in the sand as the ocean breeze rustles the palms – it’s an achingly atmospheric culinary journey”.
Conrad Bora Bora Nui – What Conde Nast Traveler’s review loved about this resort the most was the way Polynesian culture was all around—in the greetings and traditional tattoos of the local staff, the food, even the names of hotel landmarks: Hina spa is named for the moon goddess, the Tamure grill pays homage to the hip-shaking local dance moves, the Upa Upa means “music” (and is the name of the sunset bar and lounge) and the Iriatai restaurant comes from the word for “horizon”.
For a truly unique experience, guests can take a 10-minute boat ride to spend a day at the hotel’s private islet Motu Tapu. There they can enjoy a picnic prepared by hotel chefs, sip on Champagne, and take in the serenity. There’s excellent snorkeling off the islet, too.
The Brando – While long haul travel certainly bears an environmental footprint, staying in the Brando Resort in the Tetiaroa Atoll is as guilt-free as it gets. Having been established by the legendary actor Marlon Brando, the resort features cutting-edge technology and practices, including solar energy, seawater air-conditioning, and a comprehensive conservation program, making it a model of eco-friendly luxury. The Brando not only offers a serene and exclusive getaway but also showcases how luxury and environmental stewardship can harmoniously coexist.
According to Forbes Travel Guide’s inspector, “Among the resort’s best activities is the Green Tour, which affords you backstage access to the island’s sustainable facilities. You’ll receive an overview of how this Platinum LEED-certified property generates electricity, uses seawater for air-conditioning, desalinates water and grows much of its produce.”
When you feel you’ve learned everything about sustainability, why not practice traditional Polynesian dance or try your skills at Pareu dying and tying.
Four Seasons Bora Bora – Have you already fallen in love with French Polynesia? If the answer is yes, you might want to extend your stay. For those who stay for more than 30 nights, Four Seasons Bora Bora offers a personalized culinary and wellness plan, twice-weekly private fitness sessions and personal concierge contact throughout your stay. The world is your oyster!
What to do in French Polynesia
Naturally enough for a collection of islands, the sea is central to the French Polynesia experience. If you desire a little more than splashing about in the shallows, there are plentiful diving options, among the most rewarding of which is at Anau, on the east coast of Bora Bora. Here snorkelers and scuba divers can swim with manta rays and visit a pair of coral reefs which are home to sea life including turtles, black-tip sharks, moray eels, and more.
If diving is not your thing, stay on the surface by chartering a yacht from one of the numerous providers dotted throughout the islands. Simply search “French Polynesia yacht charter” or consult your bespoke travel agent to check out the variety of options on offer.
There is also plenty to see and explore on land; for example the Marché de Pape’ete (Pape’ete Market), which provides the commercial and social hub of Tahiti’s laid-back capital and represents the oldest surviving institution on the island. Or maybe visit the island of Moorea where, in a superb lagoon-side location, you will find the Tiki Village Cultural Centre in which you can experience traditional weaving with natural fibers, the art of flower garlands, and intricate wood carving.
From all of us at Glion, have a wonderful summer. And stay tuned… we keep traveling!
- If you enjoyed this piece, make sure to check out Barbara’s first two luxury destinations St. Moritz and Zimbabwe
Photo credits
Main image: Maridav/Getty
Manta ray image: Michele Westmorland/Getty
Le Marché de Pape’ete: Massimiliano Cinà/Tahiti Tourisme
