I was there in January 2023. I traveled alone. LOVED IT! I was there for a week. I also flew Air Tahiti Nui business class. For me alone, it was close to $20K. I decided to splurge and did everything my heart desired. It was absolutely beautiful!! Great video BTW!!
Thank you very much! It is truly a magical environment and it’s hard to not want to splurge on all the beauty and luxury offered! I’m glad you had a very fulfilling time 🥰
No judgement my friend on ANY prices you budget for priceless memories ❤. Thanks for sharing I really enjoyed your experience! We like Caribbean travel and use vacation express that’s within our budget but really appreciate the price breakdown ! This is on my bucket list.
People won't believe u had major surgery a couple months ago... u go girl...I'm going to stop feeling sorry for my self and start appreciating life... thank you xxxx
Oh' Kim! I am so happy that you and Jason had the opportunity to vacation here! I love how you think everything out a head of time, with your viewers in mind. Your videos are so easy to navigate and beautifully done. Thanks for sharing with us!!!! Take care and have a great day! 😊🤗😘😊🤗😘❤️
Such an amazing video Kim! I know so many hours went into it, It’s incredible. This is something I would love to watch if I was planning a trip! Gorgeous vacation ❤
@@SpaandTell I know how hard that is though....lots of work. You are producing such amazing content! You can look forward to all the content and vids when you go back with the boys ❤
Fantastic review. I am planning a Bora Bora trip for our 20th wedding anniversary. We will be flying from Seattle. Your tips are detailed enough to know exactly what to expect. We want to stay at an overwater bungalow, ideally with a view of the mountain. The bungalows look very well appointed. Thank you for filming!
Thanks for sharing. This has to be one of best Bora bora videos I have seen. I admire the effort and thought you put into producing this video. The capture, editing, story telling and detailed info is very good. Awesome and entertaining video. Subscribed
Wow, thank you! This is so kind of you 😘 I try to spend my time making travel videos even though I love to make them. Unfortunately it’s really hard to get them to do well, whereas my other content dues better. Bora bora series I made did well but I think it’s bc it’s Bora Bora :)
Wow terrific video and thank you for all the details and sharing your experience! Just discovered your channel and look forward to sharing with my girlfriend. And greetings from another Ketovore Californian. :-)
Awe yay!!! I’m so glad you enjoyed this video. We had the most amazing time in bora! Also my husband who has been so much more carnivore than me is working on a video that I hope will be insightful. He’s done so well and it changed his life.
This was so fun to watch! Beautiful topography and the food looked delicious 😋 I agree the sunglasses was a jaw drop and only one pair 😁 Great tips throughout the video.😉 Thank you for sharing your vaca😘
I really enjoyed your video. I'd love to know where you got your hat - its great you can sit in a lounger and not have the back interfere with leaning back. Cant wait to visit Bora Bora for our 30th anniversary/60th birthday! Thanks again!
Great commentary on both the Four Seasons as well as the St. Regis property. As a luxury travel advisor I am always glad to see honesty when it comes to reviews of luxury properties. I thought you were very transparent and I could truly appreciate that. I love the fact that you mentioned your mommy makeover so that other women could feel okay about their bodies as well. That being said looks like I need to go and take a trip to Bora Bora as I like to pre vet all of my destinations before I sell them to my clients. It looks as though the St. Regis property fell short in comparison to the Four Seasons.
I love your comment thank you! Absolutely, I’ve built my life and community around this idea of full transparency. People know my videos will be honest and real. I typically don’t do exchanges or sponsorships bc I never want to compromise my voice. I’ve been all over the world, living abroad, staying at very high end and low end places. I feel this gives me huge perspective on price, hospitality, etc. I have filmed so many places that I’ve never cut and released bc it’s honestly simply hard to get thru it all. But I love helping people know the real deal! If there is anywhere I haven’t shared publicly but you have questions about ask away because most likely I have an experience even if I haven’t made it public yet 😘
@@SpaandTellThanks again. It sounds like we have a lot in common. I also grew up in Germany and have family who live there. I also have traveled worldwide pre-vetting the destinations, hoteliers, and transportation companies because I sell ultra-luxury. I have so much content that I'm working with an editor to try and get my channel up and flowing. I have 2 more continents and I will all 7. I will definitely keep in touch. I did want to ask if you don't mind sharing, what did you tip for these 2 experiences?
Great video. We love the South Pacific. We have taken 4 long cruises to the South Pacific, which leave out of San Diego. Our typical cruise lasts 50 -56 days. Typical cost is about $18,000-20,000 per couple for the least expensive cabins on the ship. It would be double that or the most expensive cabins. This price includes all food, all liquor, internet, all tips, all on board entertainment. It does include the cost of the excursions you may want to take at each port. It does not include the cost of spa treatments. Besides Bora Bora, the cruise ship stops at several other islands in French Polynesia. However before arriving in French Polynesia (which is actually near the end of the cruise) the ship stops at 3-4 Hawaiian Islands, Fanning Island, Pago, Pago, and Apia Samoa, a couple Fijian Islands, a couple Tongan Islands, Raratonga, (Cook Islands) and a few smaller islands in the Coral Sea. Finally it goes to 3 or 4 islands in French Polynesia. Bora Bora is very nice, but actually our favorite island is right next door. It is called Moorea. After leaving French Polynesia the ships head to Nuku Hiva (one of the Marquesas Islands.) Finally 6 days at sea before returning to San Diego. Of course if you are not retired (or can work remotely) you are better off flying to Bora Bora and spending a week or so. If you are interested in Black Pearls, Bora Bora is where to get them. (About ½ the cost.) The ships now have SpaceX, Starlink (as or a couple years ago), so now zoom calls etc are available for those who work remotely. Cruising is not for everyone, some people get sea sick, others feel "trapped" on the ship. But for those so inclined, cruising is an alternative way to see French Polynesia.... and so many other islands in the North Pacific and South Pacific. The ships typically stop in Bora Bora overnight, so some cruisers book a one night stay at a Four Seasons overwater Bungalo. Best of both worlds. Glad you guys had a blast.
@@davidhill7055 I know the cruise that you are referring to. I think I saw that itinerary on Holland America. I almost signed up for it but ended up going somewhere else. I have a question for you. When you arrive to American Samoa (Pago Pago) is there enough time to visit American Samoa National Park? I am on a quest to visit all 63 of the National Parks and need to check that one off my list.
@@Lisa-Tahiti The ship usually docks at 7:00a, the ship is cleared by customs and people usually can get off at 8:00a. The ship usually requires everyone to be back on board by 5:00p. So I guess if you made advance preparation with a tour guide in Pago Pago and he/she knew you time schedule you can visit the Park and be back in time. If you miss the ship there is always the last resort of flying to the next island. The next Island is usually Apia. After that the ship usually heads to Fiji next.
Great video! We love Bora Bora and are fortunate to go there often, our happy place! We stayed at Four Seasons for 7 nights a little over a year ago (also during Spring Break) at a Mountain View OWB on the West wing (#211) and loved it! We had been there a few times before on previous trips, but just for the day with Day Passes. We usually go to Bora Bora for two weeks (14-15 nights), so for that length of time our resort of choice has been Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts, where the two weeks in an OWB cost about the same as one week at FS. Enjoyed seeing Roberto from Lagoon Service serving you lunch. We always do their Full Day and have gotten him twice.
We did Four Seasons Beverly Hills for our wedding venue of which I negotiated a discount on our honeymoon package at four seasons bora bora at 40% off. It was an exact itinerary you had with over water bungalow. It was truly magical and went Air Tahiti Nui business class which was phenomenal. The service is truly 1st class all the way. We were lucky enough to use a friend's private charter back to the main island and four seasons packed everyone fresh lunches and beverages in to go boxes. It's truly paradise on earth!
Very beautiful. I expect that much for the cost without the airfares. I can’t wait for your comparison with other resorts. Thank you for sharing. By the way, in which month that you were there as I do not familiar with the school break period in U.S., as I am from Australia.
What a fantastic video! I feel like I'm always behind on watching your videos, but I save them for when I know I'll have enough time to watch uninterrupted. I don't want to miss anything! This one was definitely worth the wait - so professional and well thought out! Just the right mix of facts and information vs fun stories and observations, all backed by the most gorgeous views and great camera work. Very impressive. I love that you are so open about things and share so freely and honestly. As for the cost, it seemed well priced to me (not that I can afford it myself any more 🫤) considering the quality of service and the spaciousness of the bungalow, being over water, etc. Food always seems to be expensive in places where so much needs to be brought in. It looks fabulous - YOU made it look fabulous - and I can't wait to watch the next video about the St Regis!
Thanks for the vid, I’m planning on taking the wife for our 10yr anniversary. I’ve narrowed it down to Maldives and Bora Bora but thinking about bora bora just because it looks like there are more things to do and we love exploring and it’s closer to the US. But the idea of Hawaii also lingers 😂
Bora bora actually doesn’t have much in my opinion to explore. It’s very small with only the center island…very little town scene and the resorts are all separated on the reef…it’s definitely a relaxing not do much trip. Hawaii on the other hand offers a lot more to do. I’m very Hawaii partial though…the food is better, the temperature is cooler. Don’t get me wrong I love that I experienced bora bora but it’s not somewhere I have a huge desire to return to
That’s a great question. We tipped on everything. The service is really good and just like in Hawaii you tip a lot. We tipped on every service but everything is cash free so it’s all going on your massive bill at check out
Love your video! So you mentioned that you traveled with your children. How do you take care of your kids when you enjoy your spa and other activities?
I do travel a lot with my kids. They didn’t come with us to Tahiti. But if they had been there they could have been at the pool or the kids club while I did spa time;)
About 20k for my wife and I. For about 7 days at a over water bungalow room 306 at Le Bora Bora. During Halloween 2021 and decorate out bungalow, brought costumes. We did almost everything. two private tours, one half day the other full day with a beach dinner and fire dance. Snorkeling, Helmet dive, jetskis, scuba, sky dive. I think food is expensive because there is little competition / chances to eat else where unless you have easy access to the center island. What a great time no regrets.
Ok now I'm looking into flights I am based in NY..I'm guessing LAX is where would be best for us to leave out of. But everything I'm getting has overnight stops. Is there a direct flight that you know of ?
Look at airfrance but if you are coming from the east coast I doubt you have a direct. You will need to stop most likely on the west coast. Then take the 8 hour flight from either LAX, SFO, or SEATTLE
Great video! My husband and I are wanting to travel there for our 10 yr anniversary next year, but we would only have a total of 6 nights to spend there, and coming from TN, so the travel time is long for such a short time. Do you still recommend it for such a short time? Thanks!
Yes because there isn’t much you can do do besides relax and chill…so after few days of eating, drinking and sunning it in paradise you will feel complete
When we went it was April and it was great. No rain no bugs. Summer has more rain and bugs. I think spring’s break could be the best time but I’m not certain.
@@SpaandTell you are so lucky. I can't imagine what it must be like to actually be there. The closest thing I've experienced is Aruba. I can't wait to go!
Thank you so much for your compliment. I love music so it's always been a big part of my edits. I pay for music licensing from epidemic sound. I've used them for 5 years. I'm not sure why I know what to pick or how to find the right music. My husband who also helps with editing and is getting better, he asks me the same things he struggles finding musuc but then I go into the catalogs and find stuff. I also reuse music that I love all the time
Great video! Thanks for sharing the details of the resort. We are planning on the same stay. May I ask does it conclude complimentary shuttle service to and from bora bora airport? Was the snorkeling trip offer by the hotel? Thank you .
It really depends on what you choose for excursions and where you eat. If you leave the resort etc. For two people with a daily excursion or spa visit you should budget a $1000 per day
@@SpaandTell thank you for the reply. We are looking up honeymoon destinations. I can't figure out which resort is the best. Some reviews say 4seasons some St Regis. The majority St Regis.
May I ask, did you regret not getting the room with the built in pool? It seems like a cool but expensive extra I'm just wondering if I don't get it will I look to other guests with envy Thanks for the invitation you have the best videos on this topic online
Thank you very much! I love making travel videos but unfortunately the rarely do well so I don’t put as much energy into them anymore. This bora bora series I did actually did perform well which is nice…makes me feel like I could do travel vlogging if I wanted to. I was simply so excited to go and the cost is already obscene. If we had more money then the pool facing mt otemanu would have been fabulous. But I never felt less than by not staying in one.
@@SpaandTell thanks so much. I'm becoming obsessed with this place I know I will make it there soon. Also looking at the La Bora Bora. Have you been there ? Seems a little cheaper but if we pay in advance for Four Seasons we get 30% back so I think that evens it out.
Thank you for the info! Ill be going to four seasons bora bora in April for 4 nights . What activities do i need to book in advance? Was the snorkeling free or is that something i book separately? Thank you!
The activities are separate. We actually didn’t book anything in advance and were lucky to get them set up when we arrived. You get a concierge team when you book to help you book dinners out. They can help you ahead of time book other activities 😘 you will have the best time. April is when we were there last year and it was great weather. It’s HOT!!!!🥵
That’s a good question. I don’t know when we were there in April I never noticed any bugs. September will be after the rain in summer so this cold be a good concern
I'm curious how you got the room for that cheap, I'm looking at a 4 night trip in July 2024 and it seems like nightly rates are well over 2,000usd, although maybe its just the seasonal difference? ETA: just checked in March and April and still being quoted over two grand a night, so that 5k price is amazing.
As you know rates vary. Before Covid these rates were higher. Rates simply vary. I didn’t do anything special, we booked directly with four seasons. I know people find deals to bora bora with Costco travel. But again I don’t know what rates are today or 6 months from now.
We went to Bora Bora Four Seasons Feb 2022. We thought everything were superb, except the food was overpriced, boring and not great. We did go take the boat to Bora Bora island on the last night and had amazing French food there. Wish there were better food options at the Four Seasons. I heard they used to have great chefs, but they all left. :(
I'm glad I'm not the only person thinking the food is mediocre and overpriced. I didn't realize all the good chefs left. One thing that I thought plagues them is they don't have a deep culinary staff environment. For instance, one of the reasons Napa has such exceptional food is because all these kitchen workers and sous chefs stay in the industry from kitchen to kitchen, with amazing chefs constantly improving as they grow. In Bora Bora, I felt like even if they had the best chef, i don't know how they could truly execute with such a small pool to draw from. Perfect example, I could tell that every shrimp I ate there had been blanch hours, maybe a day before I had and then plated and refreshed. The only reason I think they are staging food prep in this manner (which is not acceptable to me) is that they don't have enough staff to execute basic concepts well. I think the shrimp thing bothered me the most because Im in the middle of the Pacific. If I can't even get a shrimp wrap with juicy fresh shrimp, what is happening? This should be top in their wheelhouse. I will tell you after we were here, we went to the St Regis, where the food is a little better, but not Napa or Hawaii executed. Nothing extra special. But it is so much more money, doesnt even make sense, so Four Seasons is better than St Regis for me, and i prefer the four seasons property so much more.
Omg where/who did you book from?! I'm looking at prices for this exact amount of time and bungalow for our honeymoon and am being quoted at over $20,000.
Ok so question, how did you book your room? Most prices i have seen are around 1800 to 2500 a night which total between 8k to 12k for the least expensive bungalow.
We flew Air Tahiti too but we went coach because it was free. Coach is tough! Never again. Going to Rome next month but going Business class because we learned our lesson. We had a 14 day cruise RT from Papeete.
Excellent video thanks for sharing, very well put together. I do have a question on the price. I looked at booking at the 4 seasons for 4 days and the cheapest option was a little over 10,000$. Did you go through the 4 seasons or through a booking site? Also what time of year did you go as that may have impacted the price as well.
@@SpaandTell I looked online and if I were to book for January for 4 days it’s a little over 5,000$ that’s not bad at all for the 4 seasons. But if I were to book 4 days within the next couple of months the cheapest room for 4 nights is a little over 10,000$. I think the time of year has something to do with it. I will keep this place in mind it’s on my list to visit I have to plan around my wife’s schedule. I will probably do the Maldives 🇲🇻 first and then visit Bora Bora the next year. Thank you again for the informative video
U KNOW????? I DESPIZE CIVILISATIONS COZ I'M IN LOVE OF GOODY FREEDOM IN OFFGRID N' TRUTHWORDY I APRECIATE WATERVILLAGES BUNGALOWS IN YOUR VIDEO !!!!!! OH YEEEAAAAAAHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!
Absolutely not. Four Seasons is never all inclusive. I don’t think there are any all inclusives on bora bora and food is very expensive. Breakfast comes with you’re room rate if you pay more
Awesome. We are going for 7 days in a couple weeks and I can’t wait. Food isn’t included.m, oh my. Must not be your average Cancun vacation.. Im afraid of sharks, things that bite, and things that sting. We were told we’d be checking out the reef a lot. I’m hoping to face my fear of salt water. Tell me, the sharks.. ?
You will have the best time!!!! Don’t worry about sharks the water is so protected inside the lagoon. Yes bora bora is not an “all inclusive” Cancun thing it’s very a la cart and it’s truly breath taking. Make sure to take your own medicine
I’ve filmed a ton over the years not everything I get edited and put out. I have an amazing trip in Costa Rica that I filmed in a tropical spa in the jungle. I’ve never edited the footage but it’s gorgeous
Thank you for your review. My wife and I have visited Tahiti, including Bora Bora on four occasions and I must say, your video shows the "commercialism" and the "Americanism" that has penetrated into the South Pacific. Your stay at the Four Seasons, however luxurious, does not provide an insight into the true South Pacific and the beauty of the land, water, and the people. I do realize that many love to go on vacation and it to be just like home, but that is not why we went to Tahiti. We went to see the beauty through the ruggedness of the islands, the beauty of the people, and the sheer intimacy of a resort. Unfortunately, I must say, if we had never been to Bora Bora, the video would profoundly change my position on visiting. Though your video was presented well, it did not capture the true spirit of the islands. But as the old adage goes...beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Thank you for sharing a resort that we would truly not visit. The costs you incurred are a whole other story.
Paddle boarding is free…you can pull one from the beach. The snorkeling was an opportunity to see the island which unless you leave the resort you will not experience
Okay... I realize no one can do anything about it, but just because the room cost is comparable to other luxury resorts doesn't mean the room isn't over priced. Yes, THE ROOM IS OVERPRICED. The luxury resorts charge those prices simply because they can. There is nothing, absolutely nothing that justifies the room cost. I don't begrudge anyone from making a profit and charging fairly for their services, but the cost of staying at those resorts are what they are because of greed, greed, and more greed. $800 - $1,000 per night would still provide a good profit without being overly prohibitive. I certainly wasn't suggesting that the room should be $150 bucks. Of course, you have to pay the staff, maintenance, upkeep, etc. Yes, it's expensive, but the ridiculous cost of staying in a Pacific Island resort is beyond outrageous.
Although I agree the prices are steep one thing to remember us everything is 30% more expensive in Tahiti due to the tax. Second these resorts don’t have many bungalows to spread the maintenance cost across. So although I agree it’s high I’m not sure there is as much profit as you might think. I honestly have no idea because I don’t see their accounting books and what it’s costs to do high end in the middle of no where. All I’m suggesting is that although the fees are outrageous it might be what it costs, but again I don’t know their margins
The room is priced in line with the four seasons brand. Four seasons always charges more for the room because they also include the extra hospitality services. There are some air b&b rooms nearby that you can rent out from the locals for like $200 / night. So bora bora doesn’t have to be expensive but I guess the point of going there is to stay on the over water bungalows. Lol. I’m used to staying in huge penthouse suites in Vegas for about $300-400 a night so if the room is the most important you should try Vegas. Vegas and Dubai you get your moneys worth.
I do like Vegas rooms. Crazy deals. China is the same. Huge high end rooms for $300. We took the boys to Sanya China for the new Atlantis. The Atlantis the Bahamas is $$$ and old. But chinas is new and cheap and it wasn’t crowded!
I was there in January 2023. I traveled alone. LOVED IT! I was there for a week. I also flew Air Tahiti Nui business class. For me alone, it was close to $20K. I decided to splurge and did everything my heart desired. It was absolutely beautiful!! Great video BTW!!
Thank you very much! It is truly a magical environment and it’s hard to not want to splurge on all the beauty and luxury offered! I’m glad you had a very fulfilling time 🥰
$20,000 for airfare??😳
Thanks for being truthful....to each their own. A little stiff for us, but knew we probably couldn't afford this. So nice that you could!
No judgement my friend on ANY prices you budget for priceless memories ❤. Thanks for sharing I really enjoyed your experience! We like Caribbean travel and use vacation express that’s within our budget but really appreciate the price breakdown ! This is on my bucket list.
Thank you for the transparency on the cost! That is extremely helpful.
I’m glad it was helpful. I plan to make more videos like this on other places we’ve gone
What a special vacation! Thanks for sharing everything! So glad you enjoyed
People won't believe u had major surgery a couple months ago... u go girl...I'm going to stop feeling sorry for my self and start appreciating life... thank you xxxx
Oh' Kim! I am so happy that you and Jason had the opportunity to vacation here!
I love how you think everything out a head of time, with your viewers in mind. Your videos are so easy to navigate and beautifully done.
Thanks for sharing with us!!!! Take care and have a great day! 😊🤗😘😊🤗😘❤️
Such an amazing video Kim! I know so many hours went into it, It’s incredible. This is something I would love to watch if I was planning a trip! Gorgeous vacation ❤
@@SpaandTell I know how hard that is though....lots of work. You are producing such amazing content! You can look forward to all the content and vids when you go back with the boys ❤
Fantastic review. I am planning a Bora Bora trip for our 20th wedding anniversary. We will be flying from Seattle. Your tips are detailed enough to know exactly what to expect. We want to stay at an overwater bungalow, ideally with a view of the mountain. The bungalows look very well appointed. Thank you for filming!
What an incredible honeymoon you will have! It will be everything you think it should be! It’s really that beautiful in real life 😘😘😘
Incredibly detailed and helpful video!
Oh I’m so glad!!! Thank you I love making these types of videos
Thanks for sharing. This has to be one of best Bora bora videos I have seen. I admire the effort and thought you put into producing this video. The capture, editing, story telling and detailed info is very good.
Awesome and entertaining video.
Subscribed
Wow, thank you! This is so kind of you 😘 I try to spend my time making travel videos even though I love to make them. Unfortunately it’s really hard to get them to do well, whereas my other content dues better. Bora bora series I made did well but I think it’s bc it’s Bora Bora :)
You're welcome & fantastic work @@SpaandTell
Very comprehensive and interesting . Thank you for sharing your holiday !
Wow terrific video and thank you for all the details and sharing your experience! Just discovered your channel and look forward to sharing with my girlfriend. And greetings from another Ketovore Californian. :-)
Awe yay!!! I’m so glad you enjoyed this video. We had the most amazing time in bora! Also my husband who has been so much more carnivore than me is working on a video that I hope will be insightful. He’s done so well and it changed his life.
Great Video. You really gave me an idea what its like there. I needed that.
I’m so glad that you enjoyed it thank you very much for telling me:)
Good video, you present the vacation and property well.
Thank you so much:) it was an amazing experience
This was so fun to watch! Beautiful topography and the food looked delicious 😋 I agree the sunglasses was a jaw drop and only one pair 😁 Great tips throughout the video.😉 Thank you for sharing your vaca😘
Thank you for the info! I enjoy seeing the paradise sceneries and the luxury enjoyments. Subscribed.
So excited for this one 🧡💚☀️
@@SpaandTell ❤
I really enjoyed your video. I'd love to know where you got your hat - its great you can sit in a lounger and not have the back interfere with leaning back. Cant wait to visit Bora Bora for our 30th anniversary/60th birthday! Thanks again!
Thank you very much:) my hat was from anthropology a year ago. Bora bora is truly gorgeous it really looks like the postcards it’s insane
Thank you for sharing your wonderful vacation. I appreciate all the great information.
Thank you for sharing this with us Kim! Bora bora beautiful place❤
Great commentary on both the Four Seasons as well as the St. Regis property. As a luxury travel advisor I am always glad to see honesty when it comes to reviews of luxury properties. I thought you were very transparent and I could truly appreciate that. I love the fact that you mentioned your mommy makeover so that other women could feel okay about their bodies as well. That being said looks like I need to go and take a trip to Bora Bora as I like to pre vet all of my destinations before I sell them to my clients. It looks as though the St. Regis property fell short in comparison to the Four Seasons.
I love your comment thank you! Absolutely, I’ve built my life and community around this idea of full transparency. People know my videos will be honest and real. I typically don’t do exchanges or sponsorships bc I never want to compromise my voice. I’ve been all over the world, living abroad, staying at very high end and low end places. I feel this gives me huge perspective on price, hospitality, etc. I have filmed so many places that I’ve never cut and released bc it’s honestly simply hard to get thru it all. But I love helping people know the real deal! If there is anywhere I haven’t shared publicly but you have questions about ask away because most likely I have an experience even if I haven’t made it public yet 😘
@@SpaandTellThanks again. It sounds like we have a lot in common. I also grew up in Germany and have family who live there. I also have traveled worldwide pre-vetting the destinations, hoteliers, and transportation companies because I sell ultra-luxury. I have so much content that I'm working with an editor to try and get my channel up and flowing. I have 2 more continents and I will all 7. I will definitely keep in touch.
I did want to ask if you don't mind sharing, what did you tip for these 2 experiences?
Great video. We love the South Pacific. We have taken 4 long cruises to the South Pacific, which leave out of San Diego. Our typical cruise lasts 50 -56 days. Typical cost is about $18,000-20,000 per couple for the least expensive cabins on the ship. It would be double that or the most expensive cabins. This price includes all food, all liquor, internet, all tips, all on board entertainment. It does include the cost of the excursions you may want to take at each port. It does not include the cost of spa treatments. Besides Bora Bora, the cruise ship stops at several other islands in French Polynesia. However before arriving in French Polynesia (which is actually near the end of the cruise) the ship stops at 3-4 Hawaiian Islands, Fanning Island, Pago, Pago, and Apia Samoa, a couple Fijian Islands, a couple Tongan Islands, Raratonga, (Cook Islands) and a few smaller islands in the Coral Sea. Finally it goes to 3 or 4 islands in French Polynesia. Bora Bora is very nice, but actually our favorite island is right next door. It is called Moorea. After leaving French Polynesia the ships head to Nuku Hiva (one of the Marquesas Islands.) Finally 6 days at sea before returning to San Diego. Of course if you are not retired (or can work remotely) you are better off flying to Bora Bora and spending a week or so. If you are interested in Black Pearls, Bora Bora is where to get them. (About ½ the cost.) The ships now have SpaceX, Starlink (as or a couple years ago), so now zoom calls etc are available for those who work remotely. Cruising is not for everyone, some people get sea sick, others feel "trapped" on the ship. But for those so inclined, cruising is an alternative way to see French Polynesia.... and so many other islands in the North Pacific and South Pacific. The ships typically stop in Bora Bora overnight, so some cruisers book a one night stay at a Four Seasons overwater Bungalo. Best of both worlds. Glad you guys had a blast.
@@davidhill7055 I know the cruise that you are referring to. I think I saw that itinerary on Holland America. I almost signed up for it but ended up going somewhere else. I have a question for you. When you arrive to American Samoa (Pago Pago) is there enough time to visit American Samoa National Park? I am on a quest to visit all 63 of the National Parks and need to check that one off my list.
@@Lisa-Tahiti The ship usually docks at 7:00a, the ship is cleared by customs and people usually can get off at 8:00a. The ship usually requires everyone to be back on board by 5:00p. So I guess if you made advance preparation with a tour guide in Pago Pago and he/she knew you time schedule you can visit the Park and be back in time. If you miss the ship there is always the last resort of flying to the next island. The next Island is usually Apia. After that the ship usually heads to Fiji next.
@ Thank you for this information. It really helps!
Ty for this video; I truly enjoyed this video AND needed to smile from the inside out, today. ❤
Great video and so much really good information. Thank you so much. 😀
lovely trip thank you for posting this
thank you for including the cost breakdown. It really helps decide where to stay.
Very informative. Thank you for sharing the cost.
Thank you so much! That place has been on our budget list for years! But some how Cruise ships have always taken out time ?
Now I know it's nextl
It is beautiful and was on our bucket list too so I’m so happy we experienced it and I captured it 😘😘😘
Such a beautiful resort❤🏖🏝🦞🦀🦐🐠🐡🐟
Well done and honest. Cheers.
Great video! We love Bora Bora and are fortunate to go there often, our happy place!
We stayed at Four Seasons for 7 nights a little over a year ago (also during Spring Break) at a Mountain View OWB on the West wing (#211) and loved it! We had been there a few times before on previous trips, but just for the day with Day Passes.
We usually go to Bora Bora for two weeks (14-15 nights), so for that length of time our resort of choice has been Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resorts, where the two weeks in an OWB cost about the same as one week at FS.
Enjoyed seeing Roberto from Lagoon Service serving you lunch. We always do their Full Day and have gotten him twice.
We did Four Seasons Beverly Hills for our wedding venue of which I negotiated a discount on our honeymoon package at four seasons bora bora at 40% off. It was an exact itinerary you had with over water bungalow. It was truly magical and went Air Tahiti Nui business class which was phenomenal. The service is truly 1st class all the way. We were lucky enough to use a friend's private charter back to the main island and four seasons packed everyone fresh lunches and beverages in to go boxes. It's truly paradise on earth!
Thanks for the video
Thank you fir watching and commenting it’s very kind of you 🥰
Thanks for sharing. 🙂
You are very welcome it was an amazing experience
Thank you for sharing!🩷
You are very welcome 😘😘
I found my favourite place on the planet here it's so beautiful so worthwhile watching 😁
Thank you so much it’s just glorious there
beautiful!!
Thank you! Cheers!
simply breathtaking
The memory is priceless 🩱🩳
It was an incredible bucket list moment certainly and I still think about it
I love the white gray blanket on you
Very beautiful. I expect that much for the cost without the airfares.
I can’t wait for your comparison with other resorts.
Thank you for sharing. By the way, in which month that you were there as I do not familiar with the school break period in U.S., as I am from Australia.
We were in bora bora the first week of April 2023:) I’m glad you enjoyed this video thank you
Thank you for your reply
Thank you Kim!
What a fantastic video! I feel like I'm always behind on watching your videos, but I save them for when I know I'll have enough time to watch uninterrupted. I don't want to miss anything! This one was definitely worth the wait - so professional and well thought out! Just the right mix of facts and information vs fun stories and observations, all backed by the most gorgeous views and great camera work. Very impressive.
I love that you are so open about things and share so freely and honestly. As for the cost, it seemed well priced to me (not that I can afford it myself any more 🫤) considering the quality of service and the spaciousness of the bungalow, being over water, etc. Food always seems to be expensive in places where so much needs to be brought in.
It looks fabulous - YOU made it look fabulous - and I can't wait to watch the next video about the St Regis!
love your hair kim
I love the Brazilian Jaz...you totally rock!
Thank you so much 😘😘😘
Thanks for the video. Should you bring the a snorkel, mask, and fins with you or they are rental?
They have all of that stuff. Don’t bring it unless you like your custom fit scenario
@@SpaandTell Is it free or..?
Such a beautiful place❤
i love your hair in a bun and the white bath robe
Thank you, it’s a great spa look
Thanks for the vid, I’m planning on taking the wife for our 10yr anniversary. I’ve narrowed it down to Maldives and Bora Bora but thinking about bora bora just because it looks like there are more things to do and we love exploring and it’s closer to the US. But the idea of Hawaii also lingers 😂
Bora bora actually doesn’t have much in my opinion to explore. It’s very small with only the center island…very little town scene and the resorts are all separated on the reef…it’s definitely a relaxing not do much trip. Hawaii on the other hand offers a lot more to do. I’m very Hawaii partial though…the food is better, the temperature is cooler. Don’t get me wrong I love that I experienced bora bora but it’s not somewhere I have a huge desire to return to
Awesome video, thanks for sharing. One question what is the tipping policy there?
That’s a great question. We tipped on everything. The service is really good and just like in Hawaii you tip a lot. We tipped on every service but everything is cash free so it’s all going on your massive bill at check out
Love your video! So you mentioned that you traveled with your children. How do you take care of your kids when you enjoy your spa and other activities?
I do travel a lot with my kids. They didn’t come with us to Tahiti. But if they had been there they could have been at the pool or the kids club while I did spa time;)
About 20k for my wife and I. For about 7 days at a over water bungalow room 306 at Le Bora Bora. During Halloween 2021 and decorate out bungalow, brought costumes. We did almost everything. two private tours, one half day the other full day with a beach dinner and fire dance. Snorkeling, Helmet dive, jetskis, scuba, sky dive. I think food is expensive because there is little competition / chances to eat else where unless you have easy access to the center island. What a great time no regrets.
Yes we loved it too and what an amazing experience during Halloween. How was the weather in October? April was great
Ok now I'm looking into flights
I am based in NY..I'm guessing LAX is where would be best for us to leave out of. But everything I'm getting has overnight stops. Is there a direct flight that you know of ?
Look at airfrance but if you are coming from the east coast I doubt you have a direct. You will need to stop most likely on the west coast. Then take the 8 hour flight from either LAX, SFO, or SEATTLE
@@SpaandTell great thanks. Yes we will use it as an excuse to see LA
Was it warm in April ?
Thx for giving us an idea of the cost... 🙏
My pleasure 😊 I’m so glad you found this video and hopefully it was helpful
Incredible video can I ask you what app you use to edit videos?
Thank you so much:) I edit in final cut pro
Great video! My husband and I are wanting to travel there for our 10 yr anniversary next year, but we would only have a total of 6 nights to spend there, and coming from TN, so the travel time is long for such a short time. Do you still recommend it for such a short time? Thanks!
Yes because there isn’t much you can do do besides relax and chill…so after few days of eating, drinking and sunning it in paradise you will feel complete
Hey
What's the best time of year to go weather wise ?
When we went it was April and it was great. No rain no bugs. Summer has more rain and bugs. I think spring’s break could be the best time but I’m not certain.
@@SpaandTell you are so lucky. I can't imagine what it must be like to actually be there. The closest thing I've experienced is Aruba. I can't wait to go!
You select the perfect misic gor all your videos, how do you get your playlist?
Thank you so much for your compliment. I love music so it's always been a big part of my edits. I pay for music licensing from epidemic sound. I've used them for 5 years. I'm not sure why I know what to pick or how to find the right music. My husband who also helps with editing and is getting better, he asks me the same things he struggles finding musuc but then I go into the catalogs and find stuff. I also reuse music that I love all the time
Thanks for sharing. Do your totals include gratuity?
Yes they do fit the most part. Everything essentially cashless and charged to your bungalow so yes tips are in it
Those drone shots looked awesome! What's the situation regarding drones on Bora Bora?
@@SpaandTell that's a good motto to enjoy life 😁 tnx!
Great video! Thanks for sharing the details of the resort. We are planning on the same stay. May I ask does it conclude complimentary shuttle service to and from bora bora airport? Was the snorkeling trip offer by the hotel? Thank you .
How much spending money is appropriate per day ?
For food and excursions
Thanks
It really depends on what you choose for excursions and where you eat. If you leave the resort etc. For two people with a daily excursion or spa visit you should budget a $1000 per day
@@SpaandTell thank you for the reply. We are looking up honeymoon destinations. I can't figure out which resort is the best. Some reviews say 4seasons some St Regis. The majority St Regis.
May I ask, did you regret not getting the room with the built in pool?
It seems like a cool but expensive extra I'm just wondering if I don't get it will I look to other guests with envy
Thanks for the invitation you have the best videos on this topic online
Thank you very much! I love making travel videos but unfortunately the rarely do well so I don’t put as much energy into them anymore.
This bora bora series I did actually did perform well which is nice…makes me feel like I could do travel vlogging if I wanted to.
I was simply so excited to go and the cost is already obscene. If we had more money then the pool facing mt otemanu would have been fabulous. But I never felt less than by not staying in one.
@@SpaandTell thanks so much. I'm becoming obsessed with this place I know I will make it there soon.
Also looking at the La Bora Bora. Have you been there ? Seems a little cheaper but if we pay in advance for Four Seasons we get 30% back so I think that evens it out.
@@SpaandTell I have not been able to find a direct flight. I'm searching LAX to BOB. Is that correct?
I love the white towal on your head Kim
Thank you Howard
Does that include tips/gratuities. Would love more info on that especially for spa services
Thank you for the info! Ill be going to four seasons bora bora in April for 4 nights . What activities do i need to book in advance? Was the snorkeling free or is that something i book separately? Thank you!
The activities are separate. We actually didn’t book anything in advance and were lucky to get them set up when we arrived. You get a concierge team when you book to help you book dinners out. They can help you ahead of time book other activities 😘 you will have the best time. April is when we were there last year and it was great weather. It’s HOT!!!!🥵
@@SpaandTell thank you for your reply. Haha i will pack accordingly! Thank you ❤️
Were you able to fly a drone?
Yes but we did it illegally. It’s not allowed
How did you get the room so cheap?
We went over a year ago and those were the rates in April 2023. We booked directly with four seasons site
What about mosquitos and bugs? I was eaten alive by the bugs while I stayed at Seychelles in the past. I wonder if it would be any different there?
During April last year we did not experience any bugs.
i love the wite towal around your head
can you do a video with you in a steam room
I wonder if you need to worry about mosquitoes there in the fall? We are planning a trip there the end of September.
That’s a good question. I don’t know when we were there in April I never noticed any bugs. September will be after the rain in summer so this cold be a good concern
❤❤
I'm curious how you got the room for that cheap, I'm looking at a 4 night trip in July 2024 and it seems like nightly rates are well over 2,000usd, although maybe its just the seasonal difference? ETA: just checked in March and April and still being quoted over two grand a night, so that 5k price is amazing.
As you know rates vary. Before Covid these rates were higher. Rates simply vary. I didn’t do anything special, we booked directly with four seasons. I know people find deals to bora bora with Costco travel. But again I don’t know what rates are today or 6 months from now.
We went to Bora Bora Four Seasons Feb 2022. We thought everything were superb, except the food was overpriced, boring and not great. We did go take the boat to Bora Bora island on the last night and had amazing French food there. Wish there were better food options at the Four Seasons. I heard they used to have great chefs, but they all left. :(
I'm glad I'm not the only person thinking the food is mediocre and overpriced. I didn't realize all the good chefs left. One thing that I thought plagues them is they don't have a deep culinary staff environment. For instance, one of the reasons Napa has such exceptional food is because all these kitchen workers and sous chefs stay in the industry from kitchen to kitchen, with amazing chefs constantly improving as they grow. In Bora Bora, I felt like even if they had the best chef, i don't know how they could truly execute with such a small pool to draw from. Perfect example, I could tell that every shrimp I ate there had been blanch hours, maybe a day before I had and then plated and refreshed. The only reason I think they are staging food prep in this manner (which is not acceptable to me) is that they don't have enough staff to execute basic concepts well. I think the shrimp thing bothered me the most because Im in the middle of the Pacific. If I can't even get a shrimp wrap with juicy fresh shrimp, what is happening? This should be top in their wheelhouse. I will tell you after we were here, we went to the St Regis, where the food is a little better, but not Napa or Hawaii executed. Nothing extra special. But it is so much more money, doesnt even make sense, so Four Seasons is better than St Regis for me, and i prefer the four seasons property so much more.
Omg where/who did you book from?! I'm looking at prices for this exact amount of time and bungalow for our honeymoon and am being quoted at over $20,000.
Ok so question, how did you book your room? Most prices i have seen are around 1800 to 2500 a night which total between 8k to 12k for the least expensive bungalow.
We flew Air Tahiti too but we went coach because it was free. Coach is tough! Never again. Going to Rome next month but going Business class because we learned our lesson. We had a 14 day cruise RT from Papeete.
Yeah some of those longer flights are hard in coach, intl biz is always such a luxury
Excellent video thanks for sharing, very well put together. I do have a question on the price. I looked at booking at the 4 seasons for 4 days and the cheapest option was a little over 10,000$. Did you go through the 4 seasons or through a booking site? Also what time of year did you go as that may have impacted the price as well.
@@SpaandTell I looked online and if I were to book for January for 4 days it’s a little over 5,000$ that’s not bad at all for the 4 seasons. But if I were to book 4 days within the next couple of months the cheapest room for 4 nights is a little over 10,000$. I think the time of year has something to do with it. I will keep this place in mind it’s on my list to visit I have to plan around my wife’s schedule. I will probably do the Maldives 🇲🇻 first and then visit Bora Bora the next year. Thank you again for the informative video
Luckily our experiences has been great with customs..yes the salt water is intense there
your a real sweet heart kim seeing you get a massge are you going to do any more vlogs of you gettin a massge
3 hr wait in line is crazy
It was and so hot
@@SpaandTell ive been to cook islands it was only 20 mins. 3 hrs sounds like the place is mismanaged
U KNOW????? I DESPIZE CIVILISATIONS COZ I'M IN LOVE OF GOODY FREEDOM IN OFFGRID N' TRUTHWORDY I APRECIATE WATERVILLAGES BUNGALOWS IN YOUR VIDEO !!!!!! OH YEEEAAAAAAHHHHHH !!!!!!!!!!
Thank you 😊
So the resort is not all exclusive?
Absolutely not. Four Seasons is never all inclusive. I don’t think there are any all inclusives on bora bora and food is very expensive. Breakfast comes with you’re room rate if you pay more
are you going to make new videos
I make new videos every week
whens your birthday kim
What is the best time during the year, to go to Bora Bora and catch some sun and goo weather? What is the hot and slow season?
Summer is the hot season. Spring and October are ideal times
you going to make any more new vlogs
I’m going to Bali next month so I will make some new travel videos:)
please when your i bali make more vlogs of you wearing a robe i enjoy seeing you wearing a robe kim
Which snorkeling/lunch tour did you guys choose?
Awesome. We are going for 7 days in a couple weeks and I can’t wait. Food isn’t included.m, oh my. Must not be your average Cancun vacation.. Im afraid of sharks, things that bite, and things that sting. We were told we’d be checking out the reef a lot. I’m hoping to face my fear of salt water. Tell me, the sharks.. ?
You will have the best time!!!! Don’t worry about sharks the water is so protected inside the lagoon. Yes bora bora is not an “all inclusive” Cancun thing it’s very a la cart and it’s truly breath taking. Make sure to take your own medicine
how many more vlogs of you getting a massage do you have kim
I’ve filmed a ton over the years not everything I get edited and put out. I have an amazing trip in Costa Rica that I filmed in a tropical spa in the jungle. I’ve never edited the footage but it’s gorgeous
i drew a picture of you wearing that whit bath robe
You are funny. You love robes
Thank you for your review. My wife and I have visited Tahiti, including Bora Bora on four occasions and I must say, your video shows the "commercialism" and the "Americanism" that has penetrated into the South Pacific. Your stay at the Four Seasons, however luxurious, does not provide an insight into the true South Pacific and the beauty of the land, water, and the people. I do realize that many love to go on vacation and it to be just like home, but that is not why we went to Tahiti. We went to see the beauty through the ruggedness of the islands, the beauty of the people, and the sheer intimacy of a resort. Unfortunately, I must say, if we had never been to Bora Bora, the video would profoundly change my position on visiting. Though your video was presented well, it did not capture the true spirit of the islands. But as the old adage goes...beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Thank you for sharing a resort that we would truly not visit. The costs you incurred are a whole other story.
Of course
Those prices don’t shock me. I probably would have skipped the spa and snorkling and gone paddle boarding or kayaking.
Paddle boarding is free…you can pull one from the beach. The snorkeling was an opportunity to see the island which unless you leave the resort you will not experience
also kim are your you going to wear a robe like you did in bora bora
Don't worry about the cost. It's only money, and you can't take it with you when you die. Four Seasons Bora Bora is worth every penny.
It’s an amazing experience no doubt
you should get good oil rub down kim
Resorts there spend 60% of their budget to keep the power and AC on.
Yes energy and the 30% import tax makes everything very expensive
Okay... I realize no one can do anything about it, but just because the room cost is comparable to other luxury resorts doesn't mean the room isn't over priced. Yes, THE ROOM IS OVERPRICED. The luxury resorts charge those prices simply because they can. There is nothing, absolutely nothing that justifies the room cost. I don't begrudge anyone from making a profit and charging fairly for their services, but the cost of staying at those resorts are what they are because of greed, greed, and more greed. $800 - $1,000 per night would still provide a good profit without being overly prohibitive. I certainly wasn't suggesting that the room should be $150 bucks. Of course, you have to pay the staff, maintenance, upkeep, etc. Yes, it's expensive, but the ridiculous cost of staying in a Pacific Island resort is beyond outrageous.
Although I agree the prices are steep one thing to remember us everything is 30% more expensive in Tahiti due to the tax. Second these resorts don’t have many bungalows to spread the maintenance cost across. So although I agree it’s high I’m not sure there is as much profit as you might think. I honestly have no idea because I don’t see their accounting books and what it’s costs to do high end in the middle of no where. All I’m suggesting is that although the fees are outrageous it might be what it costs, but again I don’t know their margins
The room is priced in line with the four seasons brand. Four seasons always charges more for the room because they also include the extra hospitality services. There are some air b&b rooms nearby that you can rent out from the locals for like $200 / night. So bora bora doesn’t have to be expensive but I guess the point of going there is to stay on the over water bungalows. Lol. I’m used to staying in huge penthouse suites in Vegas for about $300-400 a night so if the room is the most important you should try Vegas. Vegas and Dubai you get your moneys worth.
I do like Vegas rooms. Crazy deals. China is the same. Huge high end rooms for $300. We took the boys to Sanya China for the new Atlantis. The Atlantis the Bahamas is $$$ and old. But chinas is new and cheap and it wasn’t crowded!
Honestly the prices in bora bora is way better than Jamaica. A bungalow in jamaica cost over 5k per night. I wish bora bora was all inclusive.