Leisure travel is back and travelers have more international airline routes available. Non-stop flight options from the United States to hard-to-reach destinations in Europe and Asia are highlighted. While Hawaii, Australia, and New Zealand are popular South Pacific destinations, French Polynesia's islands like Bora Bora and Tahiti offer a legendary experience that is more challenging to reach. Delta Air Lines now offers non-stop flights from Los Angeles (LAX) to Papeete, Tahiti (PPT) on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, which may be operated by Air France.
Ready to know more about the top luxury accommodations for a five-star getaway in Bora Bora, French Polynesia? The island is renowned for its endless crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, lagoon, and picturesque views. The luxury accommodations include the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora, InterContinental Bora Bora Resort Thalasso Spa, InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort, St. Regis Bora Bora Resort, and Conrad Bora Bora Nui. These resorts offer a range of amenities such as private plunge pools, fitness centers, tennis courts, water sports, snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, spa treatments, private dining, and they also provide beautiful views of the island's natural beauty and marine life.
Venture Tahiti has been quoted in a recent Forbes Magazine article by Senior Contributor, Christopher Elliot. We have included an excerpt inside. "This Is How To Stay Safe When You Travel After The Pandemic" - "A lot of people who want to stay safe while traveling during the coronavirus pandemic use other criteria to choose their destination — exciting, fun, or cheap. Mostly, cheap. That's a mistake, says Keith Smith, managing director of Venture Tahiti." A great way for travelers to stay safe as they begin traveling again is to be thoughtful and selective about their early destination choices," he told me. "I recommend traveling to destinations that have purpose-built health and safety protocols designed specifically for the resumption of incoming tourism." These protocols consider vaccinated or immune travelers and travelers complying with disciplined testing and entry requirements. If your intended destination has them, you can feel safer. Smith says places like Tahiti have been at the forefront of these purpose-built health and safety protocols, which allows visitors to not just feel safer, but to be safer."
The reason why some ocean water is more turquoise than others is due to the absorption and scattering of light, with absorption being a larger factor than scattering for clear ocean water. Waters in places like the Caribbean, South Pacific like in Bora Bora, and Greece are shallower and almost free of plankton, causing them to be a specific shade of azure blue. These waters are also usually home to heavier sand and sediment, which churn up less, leaving waters more clear. Additionally, these little slices of paradise tend to experience less "upwelling," which can turn water murkier.
The article features TIME magazine's "World's Greatest Places 2023" collection, which showcases 50 destinations around the world that are worth visiting. The list includes a diverse range of places, including tourist attractions, parks, and cultural sites. Each destination is chosen based on factors such as innovation, originality, sustainability, and impact. One of the featured destinations is French Polynesia and its pristine beaches.
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The Travel lists 10 of the best beach destinations worldwide for beach enthusiasts. It covers various destinations including Bora Bora, Bali, the Maldives, Santorini, and others. It highlights their unique features such as crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and picturesque landscapes. The article also provides useful information about each destination such as the best time to visit, top attractions, and accommodation options.
Star-Telegram.com highlights top travel destinations for 2023 which includes various exciting locations around the world that are expected to be popular among travelers in the coming year. The destinations include beach resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean, historic cities in Europe, exotic locations in Asia, and adventurous destinations in Africa and South America. The article provides brief descriptions of each location, mentioning their unique attractions, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. It also includes tips on how to make the most of a trip to these destinations, such as recommended activities, accommodations, and local cuisine. Overall, the article provides a glimpse into the anticipated travel trends for 2023 and offers inspiration for travelers seeking new and interesting places to explore.
Air Tahiti Nui will offer year-round flights connecting French Polynesia to Paris via Seattle. The new route provides seamless travel options for passengers traveling between Papeete and Paris, with a stopover in Seattle. The nonstop flights will operate throughout the year, offering travelers convenient access to the idyllic islands of French Polynesia from Paris via Air Tahiti Nui's services.
Stefanie Waldek shares her personal experience of cruising through French Polynesia on Windstar's Star Breeze ship. She highlights the ship's luxurious decor and friendly staff and raves about the natural beauty of French Polynesia, including the crystal-clear waters and lush vegetation. Stefanie particularly enjoyed the many opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and snorkeling, and notes the delicious food and exceptional service on board the ship. Overall, she highly recommends Windstar's Star Breeze for anyone seeking a luxurious and immersive experience while exploring the stunning islands of French Polynesia.
Business Traveller's Cellars in the Sky Awards 2022, which was sponsored by Whispering Angel, recognizes the best wines served by airlines on their flights. Singapore Airlines was the biggest winner, taking five gold medals, while Qantas, Qatar Airways, British Airways, Oman Air, Air Tahiti Nui, and Oneworld also received awards. The competition, which is in its 37th year, saw 22 airlines entering their best wines for consideration by a panel of expert judges, who selected the winners after a normal judging process following two years of disruptions due to travel restrictions.
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Sarah Marshall describes the Farerei Haga Rangiroa festival, which celebrates the culture and traditions of French Polynesia. The festival features evening dance shows, coconut-shelling, va’a racing, and stone-lifting competitions. Her article also provides an overview of French Polynesia, highlighting its remote location, the beauty of its islands and atolls, and its association with exotic travel destinations. Marshall shares their experience of visiting Rangiroa and exploring the Blue Lagoon with their boat captain, Ismael Tixier, who showed them how to weave a plate from palm leaves and served them a lunch of mahi-mahi fish and coconut bread.
Windstar Cruises has launched SpaceX's Starlink internet service on its Star Pride vessel during a Caribbean voyage, with plans to introduce it to other ships in its fleet. Windstar aims to add Starlink to most of its fleet worldwide by mid-2023, starting with Star Legend this spring, followed by Wind Surf, Wind Star, and Star Breeze. Wind Spirit will activate the new technology as soon as it's available in French Polynesia. According to Windstar's technology director, Gregg Wagner, Starlink will offer faster speeds, alleviating the frustration felt at peak use times.
Paul Gauguin Cruises has announced its plans for 2024, which include launching new itineraries and adding new ports in French Polynesia and the South Pacific. The new 14-night Islands of the Marquesas & Tuamotus voyage will feature five calls in the Marquesas, including two new ports. Paul Gauguin will offer seven itineraries on 33 all-inclusive journeys ranging from seven to 14 nights, sailing roundtrip from Papeete, with the exception of one itinerary that sails between Papeete and Lautoka, Fiji.
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As international tourist arrivals approach pre-pandemic levels, 2023 is expected to be a major rebound year for the travel industry. New and exciting international airline routes are being launched, and carriers are expanding their route networks, making it a great year for travel. Delta launched a new nonstop service from Los Angeles to Papeete, Tahiti, three times per week in December 2022, making it easier for travelers to visit the South Pacific archipelago.
The Gauguin continues to charm travelers worldwide, enticing couples, honeymooners, families, nature lovers, and adventure-seekers to discover the wonders of French Polynesia with one-of-a-kind expertise, artful authenticity, and all-inclusive excellence. As the Gauiguin celebrates its 25th year, they expressed how incredibly grateful they are to their loyal guests and valued travel partners for their continued devotion to Paul Gauguin Cruises. Look forward to a year of nostalgic celebration and new discovery with Paul Gauguin Cruises.
Been dreaming of a bucket list getaway to French Polynesia? With United MileagePlus miles, you can use them to pay for your initial far-flung journey — and we’re not just talking about your travel essentials. You can even fly directly from the US because United Airlines flies nonstop on the nearly nine-hour flight from San Francisco (SFO) to Papeete, Tahiti (PPT). Award prices on this route vary widely, so you’ll want to shop around for availability and costs by date.
What could be more romantic than a tropical island getaway? A cruise to Tahiti and Bora Bora offers an immersive experience with an overwater bungalow, crystal clear waters, and lush vegetation resulting in unspoiled beauty. The Paul Gauguin cruise line is custom-purposed for the most well-known islands of the South Pacific. Couples will find adventure or relaxation with the many shore excursions available on this exciting cruise line.
Bora Bora is the ultimate destination for couples looking for a true tropical paradise. There is so much to do and see, whether it be taking a stroll along the beach or exploring underwater adventures. The overwater bungalows, crystal clear waters, and lush vegetation make it the ultimate setting for romance.
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If you're into diving, the Tuamotu Archipelago is an excellent place to visit. This natural and cultural gem is located 600 miles south of Bora Bora and has many nearby dive sites where underwater life is spectacular. As you discover these atolls with incredible natural scenery, once you come back you'll definitely be seduced by them.
Entry Procedures for French Polynesia have been simplified once again. To help clarify these new requirements, Tahiti Tourisme has released, and subsequently updated, an Infographic PDF. As this information is still being refined, we have linked to the source document on Tahiti Tourisme's website below. This document was last updated on August 5, 2022.Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Resources page for more detailed information on the specific requirements and remaining testing protocols to see which apply to you.If you are a Venture Tahiti client and are unable to comply with the new protocols before your travel dates arrive, please contact your Tahiti Specialist to reschedule under our Book with Confidence policy.
The Tahiti Travel Specialists at Venture Tahiti have recently introduced a comprehensive online guide providing resources for travel during the pandemic. In our COVID-19 Travel Resources, you will find a real-time COVID-19 travel update, answers to Frequently Asked Questions, new COVID-19 travel protocols introduced by the United States, French Polynesia and the airlines, and recent news articles related to international travel during the pandemic. You can also find suggestions on what to take with you as well as many health and safety protocols introduced by the hotels and resorts in Tahiti.
For more details, click for a link to the source article.
The new Entry Requirements have finally been announced for Tahiti's May 1st reopening. The cautious French Government, undoubtedly influenced by the level of infection in Europe, has announced that travel to French Polynesia can commence for fully vaccinated, or immunized, visitors from the United States only. Please visit our COVID-19 Travel Resources page for more detailed information on the specific requirements and testing protocols. The link below also provides more insight as published by the news site "Tahiti Infos". The content is in French, but Google Translate is available. If you are a Venture Tahiti client and are unable to comply with the new protocols before your travel dates arrive, please contact your Tahiti Specialist to reschedule under our Book with Confidence policy.
The government of French Polynesia has just announced that they will accept a specific type of Antigen Test as an alternative to the RT-PCR test for entry into Tahiti. The RT-PCR test has been in place since July 2020. As mentioned in our French Polynesia COVID-19 Entry Protocols, the Antigen test must detect the "N" protein of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This test should prove to be more widely available, be less expensive, and produce faster results.
In response to the new regulations, requirements and entry protocols updated and clarified by the authorities in French Polynesia on April 22, 2021, Air Tahiti Nui has updated the guidance provided on their website. We have provided a helpful updated summary of Air Tahiti Nui's policies in our Tahiti Travel Tip called, "Air Tahiti Nui | COVID-19 Policies & Protocols". It is also found in our COVID-19 Travel Resources section. Air Tahiti Nui's source documents can be found through the link above or below.
An interview by Travel Pulse with Kristin Carlson, Managing Director of Tahiti Tourisme. Kristin provides timely answers on travel to Tahiti under the new Entry Protocols.
United Airlines streamlines boarding process for its San Francisco to Tahiti flights by integrating the new Entry Requirements into their "Travel Ready Center". Click the link below to view the Travel Ready Center on UA's website. This does not eliminate the need to complete the Tahitian government's online forms. But, it does streamline things, add some peace of mind, and allow you to check-in from another domestic US airport.
Does Travel Insurance cover COVID-19? What exactly is covered? Which policy should I buy? These are questions we are often asked at Venture Tahiti. The professionals at Yonder Insurance have put together a nice summary of how Travel Insurance companies treat COVID-19 related issues. Click the link above or below for the details. If you are interested in comparing policies for yourself, click here. You can also learn more about Travel Insurance in our article titled, "Should I buy Travel Insurance".
French Polynesia is listed by Travel Pulse as one of the safest countries to visit this summer. This is based on recent CDC travel recommendations. Tahiti reopened to US travelers in May and touts some of the lowest levels of COVID-19, globally. French Polynesia continues to lead the way in the global reopening efforts.
Inside Hook takes a look at how Overwater Bungalows have changed travel forever.
Once again, our friends at Air Tahiti Nui win Gold in the Business Traveler In-Flight Wine Awards. This year it is for Best Business Class White Wine, Best Business Class Sparkling Wine, and Best Business Class Cellar. They also brought home a "Highly Commended" for the Best-Presented Business Class Wine List. Click the link below to learn more.
Upon the reopening of the resort, Luxury Travel Magazine recognizes The Brando's "enhanced" dedication to Holistic Wellness. The new offerings of the Varua Te Ora Spa at The Brando are designed to "tap into the power of one’s physical and spiritual senses for a much-needed mind, body, and soul realignment".
The US State Department has validated the response to COVID-19 by the government of Tahiti by recently lowering the travel risk assessment for French Polynesia to "Level I - Exercise Normal Precautions". This is great news for US tourists and the people of French Polynesia. We applaud their continued efforts in leading the way back to safe travels.
Photographer Julien Gardot takes us through his personal quest to design and build traditional Tahitian Sailing Canoes. Yachting World's article shares the details of this excellent and worthwhile effort to recapture the spirit and heritage of Ancient Tahiti.
The Brando has been recognized as a hotel making waves with World's Ocean's Day Initiatives by Luxury Travel Magazine. The Brando, and its parent company Pacific Beachcomber, along with the Tetiaroa Society have long been champions of the environment. The Brando is one of the few truly luxurious resorts that is also eco-friendly.
Mt. Otemanu in Bora Bora is listed as one of the 25 Natural Wonders of the World that you can still visit by Reader's Digest.
CNN Travel gets off the beaten path with a trip to the beautiful and remote Marquesas. Nuka Hiva is the largest island in the Marquesas. The link below takes you to a nice overview of the destination. Our clients that have ventured that far have absolutely loved it.
Have you been on the edge of your seat waiting for Cruising to come back? Look no further than Paul Gauguin to get your cruising fix in the paradise of French Polynesia. AFAR gives a great overview of the "something for everyone" Islands of Tahiti cruise.
Tahiti Tourisme teams up with AFAR Journeys once again for a custom designed itinerary featuring the "Big Three"...Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora Bora. This itinerary hits all the major sites and features 2 of our favorite resorts, the Sofitel Kia Ora Beach Resort and The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. We are very glad they included a stop at the sumptuous Villa Mahana as well!
The High Commissioner and President of French Polynesia have announced a temporary restriction for the Society Islands from August 23rd through September 6th. Resorts remain open and travelers can still travel between accommodations in their itineraries. However, they will need to remain on resort property during their stay. You can read the full press release through the links above and below. You can also find more updates on our COVID-19 Travel Update.
Volcanos, waterfalls, hiking trails and amazing nature guides - The Wild Side of Tahiti has them all. Forbes dives into a conversation with a Tahitian tour guide...
Manoi oil is one of the most precious products made in our beloved French Polynesia. Our friends at Pearl Resorts have taken Manoi oil to a new level with their island-theme scents. Bring some back home with you and you can always been taken away (at least mentally) to that special place in the South Pacific.
US News recently released its annual "Best Vacation Destinations". We are pleased to see Bora Bora as number 3 and Tahiti as number 4 in the Top 5 World's Best Places to Visit! Press release is linked below. For the full rankings, visit the following: https://travel.usnews.com/rankings/worlds-best-vacations/.
The Brando continues to rack up accolades. The luxury resort was listed as number 4 in Luxury Travel Expert's Top 10 Most Exclusive Private Island Resorts in the World. Click below for the full list.
The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort unveiled two new Special Offers to celebrate the reopening of Tahiti - "The Ultimate Bora Bora Reset" starting at $19,500 USD per night, and the "Work From Bora Bora" special.
Once again Matira Beach in Bora Bora is recognized as one of the Top 25 Beaches in the World! One of our favorites as well and very convenient to the InterContinental Bora Bora Le Moana Resort.
Travel + Leisure agree that a workcation should be in your future. This article features the many resorts offering extended stay specials right now in Tahiti. Check out the article, then give us a call to help you set up your office in paradise.
AFAR Journeys features another original Tahiti Tourisme itinerary with a 14 day immersion into Huahine and Moorea. If you are looking for a more authentic glimpse into slow, island life, this itinerary could take you there.
Are you looking for some "alone time"? AFAR featured an adventurous itinerary for the solo traveler designed by Tahiti Tourisme. If you are going solo, give it a look. It features stops on the islands of Taha'a, Raiatea, Moorea, and Tahiti.
Marlon Brando, Leonardo DiCaprio, Kim Kardashian, Ancient Tahitian Kings... they've all considered Tetiaroa a home away from home at one time or another.
Get ready to hear more about this topic, The Workcation. Millions of Americans are getting a little tired of working from home. For a change of scenery, many hotels in French Polynesia are offering extended stay discounts and making setting up a remote office in the islands, easier than ever before.
Need a little romance in your life? Bora Bora and Moorea make Travel + Leisure's Top 25 List for the Most Romantic Islands in the World. Grab you significant other and head over for some much needed R&R (Romance and Relaxation).
Getting married in the fall? September is the perfect time for a honeymoon. According to Upscale Living, Bora Bora is one of the Top 5 Destinations for a September Honeymoon. Take a look at a few of our recommended Honeymoon packages for some inspiration.
Atlas Obscura dives in to the wonder, history and culture of one of our favorite atolls/ islands, Tetiaroa.
French Polynesia is open once again and the planes are lining up on the taxi way to get you there. An increasing number of flights are coming online as the opening ramps up. Click below for the full article by Travel Weekly. For more information on flights offered by Air Tahiti Nui, United Airlines, French Bee, and Air France, see our Tahiti Travel Tips article called, "How to Get There | Flights to Bora Bora and Tahiti".
The world is slowly reopening and travel is coming back...but, the new COVID-19 rules and protocols can get confusing. According to Travel Pulse, the biggest mistake travelers are making right now is not consulting with a Travel Specialist or Advisor. At Venture Tahiti, we work with clients in many different ways...
We often have clients use points or miles to book part of their stay or their international flights. Bora Bora remains on the list of one of the most exclusive destinations where this is possible.
A press conference was held by the President of French Polynesia, Edouard Fritch, and the High Commissioner of the Republic in French Polynesia to reconfirm that The Islands of Tahiti are still on track to resume tourism on May 1st.Tahiti will only allow tourists from the United States for now as France and other European countries are currently exhibiting "High Epidemic Risk." Tahiti Tourisme has not released the new Entry Protocols, yet. But, they are said to be released very soon. There is an indication that vaccinations and/or immunizations will be taken into account in the new procedures. Stay tuned and we will provide an update as soon as more details are released.
During the recent, temporary border closure, Venture Tahiti was featured in TravelAge West's article on the impact of COVID-19 on Tahiti tourism.
The President of French Polynesia has announced that Tahiti will reopen on May 1st. After discussions with Emmanuel Macron, President of France, the table is set to reopen based on new Entry Protocols that are forthcoming. "We are going to put in place a protocol at the entry of our borders using virological testing, serological testing, vaccine and ETIS (Electronic Travel Information System). We will explain this protocol in detail with the High Commissioner in the coming days”. - Edouard Fritch, President of French Polynesia
You may not be ready to travel, but you should be ready to book your future trip to take advantage of the current special offers in the marketplace. Bloomberg travel writer explores destinations exhibiting extraordinary value, including Bora Bora.
On Wednesday, April 7, 2021, after meetings with the President of France, Emmanuel Macron, the President of Tahiti has announced that Macron does indeed approve of Tahiti reopening its borders on May 1, 2021. Macron is satisfied with how French Polynesia has managed the COVID-19 crisis. More details on Entry Protocols to follow.
Tahiti Tourisme's CEO, Jean-Marc Mocellin issued a statement that borders will remain closed through April, but with the intent to reopen to tourism on May 1st. Tahiti continues its positive trends of reducing COVID-19 numbers within its borders and looks forward to welcoming back tourism very soon.
You don't have to be independently wealthy and buy out a private island resort to experience "private travel". Now more than ever, private travel moments are becoming more accessible and more popular among travelers. From airport lounge access to private tours to private airport transfers, the luxury of private travel is within reach. Feel free to ask your Venture Tahiti Specialist about ways to enhance your trip with more private experiences that won't break the bank.
Given discussions held between French Polynesian leaders and their French counterparts, Tourisme Tahiti expects current border closure, enacted on February 3, 2021, to be "very temporary". Eduoard Fritch, the President of French Polynesia, strenuously requested that the temporary closure of Tahiti be no more than three months in duration. Tahiti has seen much improvement in their COVID trends. However, leaders of France mandated the closure for all of its overseas territories due to fear of new COVID variants they were already seeing in Europe. French Polynesia's economy, and it people, depend on tourism. A closure of more than 2 or 3 months would be a devastating and avoidable mistake. Expectations are that the borders will be open for travel in April or May.
We wouldn't be in this business if we didn't enjoy helping dreams come true. Travel + Leisure features staying in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora (specifically, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort) as one of their top 5 bucket list dream trips. Your dreams can come true and we'd be glad to help.
Bora Bora is consistently regarded as one of the top Honeymoon destinations in the world. Salon Prive Magazine includes Bora Bora at the top of their list of 11 destinations.
Millions of Americans plan to get revenge on this horrible pandemic by taking amazing trips and getting back to enjoying life over the next few years. Bora Bora is among the top 10 destinations trending for the first post-pandemic trip.
If you can part with $340,000, visit Bora Bora in style on Four Season’s new jet. Just one stop on their around-the-world package. Simple Flying explores the Four Season’s new A321LR private aircraft. If you can afford it, why not travel in style. The Four Season’s “Round-the-World” package is $170,000 per person (at least one of their available itineraries), but it includes stops at 10 of the most epic destinations on earth. Not to mention the new plane offers all the creature comforts you will need along the way, while you hop from Four Seasons to Four Seasons over the course of 24 days.
For the latest from Air Tahiti Nui on the recent February 3, 2021 border closure and how it may affect your travel plans, please see the link inside. With the recent suspension of leisure travel, Air Tahiti Nui has a dedicated web page to provide travelers with the latest information. From conditions of entry to rebooking options, you will find everything you need to know related to flights scheduled for February or March.
Airgo Design has a new interior configuration for those long-haul flights to Tahiti. Lay-flat seats, in-flight entertainment, coolers, and more. If you are prepping your Private Jet for a long-haul flight to French Polynesia, you might want to upgrade your interior with this new configuration. Every seat on board converts to a lay-flat bed. You will definitely arrive well restedand ready to enjoy Bora Bora!
No surprises here. Bora Bora listed as one of the Most Romantic Places to Propose by Forbes. We agree, of course. From Ireland to Greece to Morocco and Monte Carlo, Bora Bora is in good company on Forbes list of Most Romantic Places to Propose. There were a few interesting surprises on the list as well.
Four Seasons Bora Bora claims the award for "Best for an Epic Stay" for the fourth year running in AFAR's annual Traveler's Awards. Winning 4 years in a row has inspired Four Seasons Bora Bora Resort's Get a 4th Night Free package. Feel free to contact a Venture Tahiti Specialist for a quote on an Epic package for one of our favorite resorts.
Pent up demand, vaccine rollouts and realigned priorities are resulting in luxury cruises booking up more than a year in advance. Interest in cruises, specifically luxury cruises, is heating up as travelers are ready to hit the open seas again. French Polynesia is always a favorite destination on high end itineraries and deservedly so. BusinessWorld explores this trend as ships are selling out more than 1 year in advance.
Four Seasons Bora Bora guests will benefit from the resort's recent partnership with WiseOceans, a marine conservation company. Together they have created a unique Marine Discovery Program to delight and educate guest. It features a resident Marine Biologist to oversee research as well as provide bespoke interactive experiences in the Resort's Lagoon Sanctuary.
Collaborative conservation efforts to restore the South Pacific atoll of Palmyra by The Nature Conservancy, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and Island Conservation will also benefit efforts by our friends at The Brando and the Tetiaroa Society.
To the delight of divers, snorkelers and nature lovers around the world, a first ever "census" count of all the coral in the Pacific Ocean has pleasantly surprised researchers that global extinction risk of certain types of corals is much lower than expected. There are roughly 500 billion corals in the pacific - roughly equal to the number of trees in the Amazon.
Holland America has unveiled its 2022 itineraries featuring the South Pacific. Both the 34 night, "South Pacific Crossing" and the 45 night, "Tales of the South Pacific" make stops in our favorite destination.
The President of Tahiti suggests this latest border closure should only last 2-3 months. Tahiti has seen much improvement in their COVID trends and has implemented excellent protocols and standards for tourism during the pandemic. With this latest border closure being mandated for all French Territories, the President of Tahiti is stressing the importance of keeping this closure to no more than 2-3 months. Tahiti depends on tourism to survive. A closure longer in duration than 2-3 months would have a devastating effect on the nation's economy and citizens. Expectations are that the borders will be open for travel in April or early May.
Business Traveller magazine's "Cellars in the Sky" has been ranking the best wine selections among airlines for 35 years. Air Tahiti Nui has been awarded the prestigious "Cellars in the Sky" gold medal by Business Traveller. The airline's selection of Grosset Springvale Riesling 2018, Clare Valley, Australia won the Best Business Class White Wine. Business Traveller magazine's "Cellars in the Sky" has been ranking the best wine selections among airlines for 35 years. Click the link below to see the other winners.
Bora Bora is the most popular destination that American's are dreaming about, researching, and planning travel to, during the pandemic. Throughout the crisis, Americans have been longing to return to travel. Recent research by KOALA has used web searches and internet traffic to confirm that American's are indeed planning their next trips already. The top spot among the destinations that American's are dreaming about, researching, and planning travel to is Bora Bora!
It breaks our hearts that so many of our clients have had to postpone their weddings during the pandemic. Our friend and industry colleague, Renata West, decided he would make the most of the situation and get married in Tahiti. Congratulations to him for his recent wedding in Tahiti and featured article in Brides! Details of their Destination Wedding can be found in the link below. Perhaps this can be an inspiration to the many couples whose dreams have been put on hold during the pandemic. A dream wedding can still happen by eloping to Tahiti. Please contact a Venture Tahiti Specialist if you would like to discuss how to make this happen for you!
As of February 3, 2021, Tahiti's borders will be closed again, temporarily. We expect borders to open again after 2-3 months. French Polynesia has been welcoming back guests since July, 2020. As of February 3, 2021, their borders will be closed again, temporarily. Despite Tahiti's progress in combatting the COVID virus, other areas under French rule have not fared so well. As a precaution, the leaders of France have mandated that all French Territories close their borders for a two month period. This is due to concerns in France about new COVID variants and is not correlated to the progress made on the ground in Tahiti. In the months preceding this mandate, Tahiti was trending very positively with decline numbers of cases. The leaders of French Polynesia have been very clear that this closure should not last more than 2-3 months.
Each of these luxury hideaways is equipped to handle the jet-setting elite with their own private airport. Congrats to The Brando for making the list. The Telegraph dives in to a list of the most sumptuous and luxurious resorts in the world narrowing the front-runners down to just eight. Each of these luxury hideaways is equipped to handle the jet-setting elite with their own private airport. If you are in between jets at the moment, never fear. The Brando will pick you up at the main airport in Tahiti in one of their private planes. As always, we believe The Brando deserves every accolade it gets. Please contact a Venture Tahiti Specialist if you would like to arrange a visit to this exclusive paradise.
The annual Underwater Photographer of the Year competition, based in Great Britain, has chosen an image taken in August 2020 off the coast of Moorea! Winning photographer, American Renee Capozzola, captured shark's at sunset from underwater. The photo named "Shark's Skylight" is an excellent tribute to these special residents of French Polynesia. Hats off to Renee for her excellent work. We hope you enjoy it as much as we did. "In French Polynesia there is strong legal protection for sharks, allowing them to thrive and balance the marine ecosystem." - Renee Capozzola
We are not surprised. Are you? French Polynesia has earned a spot on the list of "safest destinations" to travel during the pandemic. Tahiti and Bora Bora should be on your list of safe destinations to travel to. Their track record for handling COVID-19 and implementing necessary safety protocols for tourists has put them at the top of the list of the safest destinations in the world. Let us know if you'd like to plan a trip to paradise.
French Bee’s no-frills, discounted fares have been a crowd pleaser for a few years now. They are becoming even more efficient with their new Airbus. Now, French Bee has brought more capacity and cheaper fares along the California to Tahiti routes. While we have always been focused on luxury travel to Tahiti, French Bee's Premium Economy has a comfortable cabin, more amenities and does represent a good value. The coach class remains the choice for the die hard frugal travelers who are not dismayed by fewer amenities on an overnight flight. The airline has stepped up their efficiency even more with their latest Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. It now boasts the most efficient passenger plane in operation in terms of "per seat operating costs" with 488 seats (40 of which are premium economy). If you are looking for a great fare and don't mind sharing space with almost 500 other people, look no further. One Mile at a Time explores this new aircraft in more detail in the linked article. As for our team at Venture Tahiti, our recommendation to upgrade to the Premium Economy seats on French Bee remains intact. In this class, you'll find more comfort at a great value.
Excellent deep dive into the history and vision behind one of our favorite places to stay, The Brando as well as the Tetiaroa Society. If you are headed to The Brando or just interested in this luxurious hideaway for the rich and famous, as well as one of the best examples of responsible luxury in the world, it's worth a read. Courtesy of the staff at Outside Magazine.
Are you looking for a luxury Private Estate rental in Bora Bora? The newly refurbished Bora Bora One might be exactly what you need. Five Star Private Estate rentals are few and far between in Tahiti. If you are interested in a private estate, check out the newly refurbished Bora Bora One. If it is booked for your dates of travel, there are still options. The Four Seasons Bora Bora and the St. Regis Bora Bora have their own private estates to offer, too. Of course, the new Residence Teremoana at The Brando is a great option as well. Ask a Venture Tahiti Specialist on the best locations for the ultimate in luxury and privacy. We would be glad to help.
"A cocoon where simplicity is luxury and kindness a way of life." - Nice tribute written by a guest of Le Taha'a. We think it captures the essence of the resort. We hope you enjoy it as well.
COVID-19 has taken down its share of businesses and hotels worldwide. Unfortunately, the InterContinental Resort & Spa Moorea is on the list and has closed permanently. Thank you for the memories InterConti Moorea. We will miss you.
Lucky number 21... There are plenty of Top 25 lists and Top 10 lists, Conde Nast Traveler has introduced "The 21 Most Romantic Places to Stay in the World" and The Brando made the cut!
As of February 3, 2021, French Polynesia will once again close its borders to temporary. This is a mandate passed down from France and is not indicative of the positive trends that Tahiti has been showing with regard to COVID-19. All French Territories must comply. We have been told this is a very temporary measure and expect borders to reopen by May 1st, if not sooner.
Got the lockdown blues? Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora has announced a nice array of benefits for guests who stay a while. New tiers of benefits are reached with stays of 10, 20 and 30+ nights. We'll take the 30 night plan, please!
Want a behind the scenes look at one of our favorite resorts? The Brando is featured in the BBC's "Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby".
We have been watching the ELYT Charter Floating Villa/ Luxury Solar Powered Houseboat very closely as it has been developed. Deservedly so, it has made its way to Secret Manchester's list of 8 "Seriously Lavish" getaways and it hasn't even opened for business yet. It is set to anchor in the Bora Bora lagoon on August 1, 2021. Let us know if you'd like to make a pre-opening reservation. They are currently offering 30% off.
Leave it to The Points Guy to give a nice synopsis of the new COVID-19 testing requirements prior to returning to the US. Never fear, the government of Tahiti, Tahiti Tourisme, and Air Tahiti Nui have already taken steps to make this very easy on its American visitors as well.
For some people a postcard or a Tahitian Black Pearl is enough. But, for others, and you know who you are, souvenirs have to be over the top. Well, this one lasts for ever (and it looks pretty cool). Our friends onboard The Aranui 5 have you covered.
It wouldn't be the 25 Best Island Beaches in the World without Matira Beach in Bora Bora. Conde Nast Traveler gets it right again. What a great beach!
The travel writers at Forbes have put together a true bucket list of Outrageous Villas that you must visit when you are able to travel again. The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort's exclusive "Royal Estate" made this very special list of only 6 properties. The full article is available through the link.
