Heaven on earth is Bora Bora! This group of islands, has a land mass which is less than its famous coral bay, in which sea life abounds. To get around, one must take water taxis, or stay on the main island. Karen and Jonathan had accepted an invitation to go to the St Regis with some passengers, and Barry and I had made plans to go to another island to the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Spa and Resort. When we rounded the point, this gorgeous resort lay in front of us with several hundred overwater bungalows. Reception is an open pavilion waterside. The service was impeccable. We were presented with a small glass of the sweetest pineapple juice we have ever tasted, presented with fresh flower leis of of frangipani, and given cool towels soaked in gardenia oil, to wipe off our brows. Great start. Then we went up to the beach and pool area, where Oliver recommended that we take a spot poolside, as he thought we would get burned by the ocean, such was the reflection from the water and sand on this hot gorgeous day. I guess he took one look at my lily white skin and freaked out. The staff waited on us, by name all day, and we just luxuriated in the beauty of this place, hardly believing it was real. I said I wished I had the power to wiggle my nose and transport our whole family here with us. There were two tiers of cascading infinity pools before the white sand beach with crystal clear water.
There were hardly any guests there, as it is low season. However, we did hear that the US economy has greatly affected this island as well, as there are about 6 upscale resorts , including the Club Med, which are abandoned. Tragic. We took the 4 pm. boat ride back just in time to catch the last tender at 4:30 pm. We had 2 quick, but torrential downpours, while we were there. One great little sighting - gathered at the mouth of the small harbour where the tenders came out to the ship, were about 20 or 30 sea kayaks, some with outriggers. These local guys were riding the surf of our tender - great sport in the late afternoon sun. We heard about all the people that swam with the sharks and sting rays, and turtles.. and loved it.
We reluctantly left this little paradise… and wished that we could afford the average $1500 per night hotel fee to return - but were grateful to have had even the small time we had just enjoying the people and the setting of this magical place.
We attended the HAL show which features the very very talented group of singers and dancers who sang all the Super Groups from the 70's onward.
Tomorrow is our turn to attend The Captain's dinner.. theme is French formal night!
Looks and sounded like a heavenly few days. Can't wait to see the rest of your pictures.
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