One of the most luxurious resorts on one of the world’s most exclusive islands underwent a major overhaul in 2016. After extensive renovations and rebranding, the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa is no more. In its place, The Conrad Bora Bora sets a new standard for luxury, dining, comfort, and beauty - all while providing an authentic Bora Bora vacation experience on the Islands of Tahiti. But, wait… Haven’t we heard all this before? What makes The Conrad stand out from all the other high end, luxury properties that dot the Islands of Tahiti? After all, this is Bora Bora – the crowning jewel of French Polynesia. A luxurious experience is the expectation, and when it comes to Tahiti vacation packages, competition is fierce!
The Conrad Bora Bora Nui experience starts with the utmost in seclusion. As the only resort on Motu To’opua, The Conrad’s beachfront location offers unobstructed ocean frontage, with the surreal, yet completely natural blue waters of the lagoon protected and calmed by the Recif du Motu de Bora - the reef that surrounds Bora Bora. With a south-western aspect, guests also enjoy the best view of the Tahitian sunset. Of course, there’s more to French Polynesia than the beachfront and the lagoon. Looking back toward the rest of Bora Bora, you’ll see the soaring peaks of Mount Otemanu, which look out over the motus, or islets, that make up this alluring atoll, each one containing its own secrets and discoveries. That’s just the location.
When it comes to the resort itself, The Conrad is limited to just 114 villas and suites, 86 of which are Overwater Villas – a quintessential Bora Bora experience. Two are exclusive 2-story Presidential Overwater Villas, complete with plunge pools. Those not turning up on a President’s budget needn’t worry, however. Eighteen of the regular Overwater Villas feature infinity plunge pools as well, and every suite features a lagoon view all the way out to the horizon. There are no less than eleven different types of suites to suit a wide variety of travellers on various budgets. The Conrad also offers suites well suited to families, as well as the Tamari’i Kids Club, which provides a range of fun activities to children aged 4 to 14 – ideal for when parents need some time alone!
Being the only resort on Moto To’opua, some might say The Conrad Bora Bora is immersed in its own unique pocket of Polynesian culture and myth. As guests roam the grounds and explore the public spaces, they will make new discoveries, bringing them closer to the spirit of Bora Bora and Moto To’opua. The exploration continues over on a second islet, Motu Tapu, which is accessible only to Conrad guests. A water shuttle offers an easy and convenient means of transport between the islets. Still, for those who can’t bear to totally disconnect from the world, there is complimentary WiFi across the resort, perfect for making friends at home jealous. More than one of the world’s most romantic destinations, the Islands of Tahiti are an ideal island destination for Globetrotters who want to do more than relax on the beach. In fact, the white sand beaches of Bora Bora are the exception on the Islands of Tahiti, which are typically fine black sand. A day trip to Motu Tapu is an ideal beginning for guests at The Conrad. Just a 10-minute boat ride away, guests can indulge in a range of hikes to secluded picnic or romantic dinner spots, all surrounded by the lush tropical hinterland of Bora Bora. Those who’d rather get their adrenaline pumping can go kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, jet skiing, sailing, kite boarding, or take a ride in an outrigger canoe. Those who want to immerse themselves in the Polynesian spirit are equally well catered for, with a range of daily activities and demonstrations taking place at the resort, all designed to showcase local food, culture, and art.
Of course, The Conrad Bora Bora wouldn’t be among the atoll’s most exclusive resorts if it didn’t offer the very highest standard of facilities. Though a fully equipped day spa is standard at resorts of this kind, the Hina Spa stands out, quite literally, perched on a hilltop overlooking Motu To’opua. This creates a unique, al fresco treatment area that affords guests the utmost privacy during their pampering, yet still offers unparalleled views of the surrounding lagoon. Hina Spa also includes a fully equipped beauty salon, giving guests access to an astonishing array of treatments during their stay. The Conrad’s 24-hour fitness centre also boasts group exercise classes, but for those guests just wanting to immerse themselves in nature, a 4 kilometre (almost 2.5) mile outdoor running track has their fitness needs covered.
The Islands of Tahiti aren’t often talked about as a foodie destination, which is a grave injustice. This is French Polynesia, after all! Bringing discerning French tastes and cooking techniques to the unique flavours only the islands can offer, meals are an unforgettable part of the Bora Bora vacation experience. Even those who generally resist dining in resort restaurants are often converted. For its part, The Conrad Bora Bora offers six different restaurants and bars, each offering a unique style of cuisine. Those in search of French classics can dine at Iriatai French Brasserie. Those who want to step away from Polynesian cuisine for a night while still enjoying the freshest seafood can enjoy Banyan Chinese Restaurant. A reliable favourite is Tamure Beach Grill, which offers fresh Mediterranean and Polynesian fare in an al fresco environment, with different entertainment each evening. Once a week, this means a cultural evening including fire throwing, and a local dance demonstration exploring Bora Bora’s myths and legends. For all its variety, this mix of cuisines is quite authentic to French Polynesia, which has been importing culinary influences from around the globe for decades. For wine connoisseurs, The Conrad boasts its very own Uaina Wine Cellar, which stores up to 240 bottles of wine, and invites guests to visit before dinner, guided by an expert sommelier.
If The Conrad Bora Bora isn’t yet a familiar name when we talk about Bora Bora vacations, there’s good reason for that. It doesn’t officially open until April 1, 2017. It is however receiving guests throughout its "soft opening," which began in January and continues through to May 31, 2017. To celebrate, The Conrad is offering 40% off standard room rates through Goway for guests staying in this period. It’s the perfect opportunity to get in early and experience the beauty, seclusion, and luxury of a Bora Bora vacation at a bargain rate.
Christian’s first globetrotting adventure saw him get lost exploring the streets of Saigon. Following his nose to Asia’s best coffee, two lifelong addictions were born. A freelance writer and novelist, Christian’s travels have since taken him around his native Australia, Asia, Europe, and much of North America. His favourite trips have been through Japan, Spain, and Brazil, though with a love of off-beat, artsy cities, he’ll seize any opportunity to return to Paris, New York, or Berlin.
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