Located in the South Pacific nearly equidistant from Los Angeles in the US and Sydney, Australia, few names evoke the exotic nature of the South Seas like Bora Bora. A short flight from Papeete, the principal city of Tahiti, the island is part of the remnants of along extinct volcano, is surround be a barrier reef and a lush lagoon.
Bora Bora is a major international destination for tourists, acclaimed for its "aqua-themed" luxury resorts. Many resorts here are all inclusive; this generally means that outside of the gift or souvenir shop, you'll not be required to spend any extra money during your stay. Your meals, drinks (including spirits at some hotels), water and land sports and nearby excursions are all part of the nightly rate.
One must be diligent when shopping for all inclusive resorts, however, as different hotels have different definitions of the phrase. For example, with very few exceptions, airport transfers will not be included, and depending on the mode, private or shared plane or water transport, the fees can be substantial.
Le Meridian
At the ultra swanky Le Meridian Bora Bora, meals and beverages are not included, but sports activities like snorkeling, kayaking, wind sailing, and beach sports are complimentary.
Four Seasons Bora Bora
The very posh Four Seasons Bora Bora, an absolutely gorgeous lagoon-side setting, offers all-inclusive packages through contract packagers. The price includes round trip air from the US, airport transfers, baggage handling, accommodations, all meals, and resort activities, water and land side. Prices can vary according to the type of room you choose, whether your preference is an over water bungalow, or a beach side house with private pool. The Four Seasons has a very complete holistic healing center and spa on site.
Sofitel
Another resort that offers all-inclusive packages through tour operators is the French-owned-and-operated Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach which is situated on its very own island with views of Bora Bora's spectacular lagoon. Luxurious accommodations are available in beach side, hillside, or over water bungalows.
St. Regis
The St Regis Bora Bora not only has some of the most luxuriously furnished rooms on the island, but is also known for the Miri Miri spa, which features delightful Polynesian and Asian style treatments. In addition to the upscale room appointments, nightly turn down and the exclusive St. Regis Butler service will make your stay all the more enjoyable and let you feel like pampered royalty, even if for only the length of your vacation.
While many resorts do not offer "all inclusive" per se, some tour operators specialize in packaging vacations that end up being truly all inclusive, with airfare to Bora Bora, accommodations, meals, drinks, and side tours all in one set price. The only downside with these types of excursions are that departures are usually on set dates which are not flexible.
