Tag Archives: Tahiti

Asia, Caribbean, Europe, Greece, Islands, Maldives, Oceania, Plan, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas, Turks & Caicos

Islands From Above

February 7, 2023

Tropical islands present an endless range of photographic opportunities. But one perspective that is rarely shown is the view from directly overhead. A look down at these favorite places reveals a new dimension to the destination and showcases the incredible clarity of the water. It’s a phenomenon these talented photographers have discovered and shared.

A Royal Legacy

Pierre Lesage flew a drone over blue Pacific waters to capture this panoramic image of The Brando Resort, which sits on the private French Polynesian island of Tetiaroa. As director of sales and marketing for the resort, Pierre had a unique opportunity to document this iconic property, which is set in a sparkling lagoon some 30 miles northeast of the island of Tahiti. Tetiaroa, which was once the playground of the royal family of Tahiti, was bought by Marlon Brando in 1965 when he was filming the Mutiny on the Bounty. His goal when purchasing the island was to preserve it for future generations.

Aerial coastline of Tetiaroa. Photo: The Brando/Tim McKenna @timmckenna

Down Under From Above

Photographer Will Turner waited until sunset to launch his drone above the rocky shoreline of the Shelly Beach headlands, which sit at the edge of Australia’s Sydney Harbour National Park. “The water was crystal clear and the trees were red as fire,” he writes, “making this awesome composition.” The sheltered waters of Shelly Beach are popular with swimmers and snorkelers, while surfers favor nearby Manly Beach, which was the site of the first World Surfing Championship in 1965. A favorite day trip to Manly from downtown Sydney begins with a half-hour ferry ride that takes in famous sites such as the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Bird’s-eye view of rocks at Shelly Beach, Manly, Australia Photo: Will Turner/ Unsplash @turner_imagery

Worth The Effort

When prepping for a trip to the Islands of Fiji, Jay Daley wasn’t sure he wanted to go through the hassle of packing his favorite photo drone. “I was jetting off to the little tropical island to relax,” he says. “Lugging a large drone through checked luggage, and customs, and getting it to and from the resort didn’t seem like a relaxing idea.” But in the end, the drone came along, and Jay was glad it did. “There was a huge coral reef right at my doorstep and kayaks ready to go.” The drone flew, and the result was this evocative image of a snorkeler dwarfed by huge coral formations.

Coral reef from the Islands of Fiji. Photo: Jay Daley/Flickr

A Liquid Gem Set In Stone

Falassarna Beach is considered one of the most beautiful stretches of shoreline on the Greek Island of Crete, and it’s been the subject of countless photo shoots over the years. So when Athens-based multi-media producer Filippos Sdralias set out to create some aerial images of the coast, he wanted to show a different facet of Falassarna. Instead of focusing the lens on the warm sands of the beach, he flew his drone above a rock-strewn area at the edge of the strand to document the enticing turquoise waters of this shallow, boulder-lined pool.

Rocks of Falassarna, Greece. Photo: Filippos Sdralias/ Unsplash @filippos_sdr

Flight To A Distant Haven

This bird’s eye view of the coral reefs surrounding Laysan Island comes from U.S. Coast Guard Lieutenant Commander (ret.) Kevin Cooper. This remote outpost is located in the Northwest Hawaiian Islands, some 900 miles from Honolulu. The photo was taken during an overflight of the island in 2016. It shows the reefs to be in good health, but this wasn’t always the case. Laysan was historically exploited by guano miners and overrun by invasive species. Decades of reclamation efforts by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service have since restored most of the island’s natural order, and it is now protected under the Hawaiian Natural Life Act.

Laysan Island overflight, Northwest Hawaiian Islands. Photo: Kevin Cooper/Flickr

Phuket In Mid-Day Light

The crystal-clear waters of Thailand’s most famous island, Phuket, draw visitors from around the world. It’s easy to see the allure in this overhead view by Giuliano Di Paolo, who focused on the rocky shoreline near the island’s southern point at Promthep Cape. The cape is one of the most photographed locations in Phuket, but most shooters wait until sunset to visit. By shooting in mid-day sunlight Di Paolo brought out the full vibrance of the water. He is a Milan-based media creator who is fascinated with Thailand and often turns his lens to subjects such as elephants, temples, and local people.

Phuket, Thailand. Photo: Giuliano Di Paolo/Unsplash @giulianodipaolo

Sailing A Coral Coast

The Maldives is a nation of 1,200 small islands set in 3,500 square miles of coral reef. To capture the impressive scale of these formations, Hassan Ishan took a high-altitude look at a traditional dhoni sailing vessel making its way along the edge of a massive ridge of coral that’s visible in the clear water. Dhonis are the workhorses of Maldivian maritime commerce, serving as everything from fishing boats to cargo vessels and inter-island ferries. Ishan is a self-taught Maldivian photo pro known for creating surreal images that capture the unique beauty of his homeland. His work has inspired many younger photography enthusiasts to get into the field.

Sailing boat in the Maldives. Photo: Ishan/Unsplash @seefromthesky

Lighting The Way

Mariners in the Turks &Caicos have learned to navigate the extensive network of channels and shoals that surround these islands based on water color. Sapphire and aquamarine waters signal “go ahead,” while light green or tan warns of shallow depths that could spell trouble. Filmmaker Romello Williams perfectly captures this phenomenon with an overhead shot of a speedboat transiting a tidal creek set between a sandbank and a seagrass meadow. A native of Grand Bahamas now living in the Turks & Caicos, Williams says his work is heavily influenced by his island upbringing.

Turks & Caicos Islands. Photo: Romello Williams/ Unsplash @romello

Asia, Caribbean, Europe, Greece, Hawaii, Islands, Kauai, Maldives, Oceania, Plan, St. Lucia, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas

7 of the World’s Most Beautiful Islands

January 27, 2022

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While no longer well-kept secrets, the following isles continue to engage with charm and scenery. Read below to see our picks for the most beautiful islands in the world to see in 2022.

Moorea

The Islands of Tahiti include over 100 islands within five archipelagos. The most photographed and visited are the Society Islands, which include Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea. You’ll find barrier reefs and cobalt blue lagoons, powdery soft sands and emerald volcanic peaks. Among the dramatic mountain ridges lies volcanic Mount Rotui, the second-highest mountain on Moorea. The five-mile round trip hike to the top is challenging even for experienced hikers but rewards with scenic views of the entire island.

The mountains of Moorea are some of the most rugged in the world. Mount Rotui is the easiest to climb and offers views of Opunohu Bay and Cook’s Bay. Photo: Ugur Ozden/Flickr

Santorini

Certainly, Santorini has been on many a bucket list. For decades it has been the most popular Greek destination but it’s still worth joining the crowds to see this crescent moon-shaped island. Cruisers head to the picturesque village of Oia for the views and sunsets amidst the stunning architecture of whitewashed buildings dotted with cobalt blue dome roofs. Be sure to wander through the stone-paved alleys stopping at a café to taste the local wine paired with tomatokeftedes a patty made with local feta cheese and the famous Santorini cherry tomato.

After visiting Oia village take the hike along the caldera to Fira, the largest town on the island. Drop by a tavern or two along the way. Photo: Gene Tobia/Flickr

Kauai

While tropical rainforest covers much of the island’s interior including ribbons of trails favored by hikers, the Garden Island offers 111-miles of coastline with 50 miles of glistening white sand for beach lovers. The Na Pali coastline with its intensely colored dramatic cliffs, pinnacles and canyons beckon photographers from around the world to capture its glory from air or sea. A helicopter tour from Princeville takes visitors over the 65 miles of lush roadless terrain showcasing the waterfalls, valleys and crevices.

Kauai has several small towns to explore. Hanapepe is known for art, Koloa dates back to the sugar era of 1835 and locals favor Hanalei. Photo: Karsten Winegeart/Unsplash

Bali

The land of elaborate temples, Hindu ceremonies, terraced rice paddies and monkeys, the island of Bali is not known as much for its beaches as for its lush landscapes. Sure, you can find white and black stretches of sand with cliffs looming above hidden shores. Dubbed the most popular beach in the world of Instagrammers, Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida Island is mostly viewed from above. Getting to its shore involves a precarious hike and most will find the scene from above to be equally mesmerizing.

Kelingking Beach AKA T-Rex Beach is the claim to fame for the island of Nusa Penida. From above the shape resembles the neck of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Photo: felfin05 evin on Unsplash

Maldives

This archipelago of 1,200 islands and atolls stretches across the equator and lies within the Indian Ocean. The collection is comprised of fine white sands formed from coral, crystal waters and palm trees; and it’s the world’s lowest country reaching four feet above sea level. Here, over-water bungalows are prevalent. Rasdhoo Atoll is uninhabited topside but beneath the surface, the surrounding ocean is populated with hammerhead sharks, manta rays and stingrays as well as the more docile sea turtle.

Divers find Rasdhoo’s underwater world to be some of the best. Shallow water lagoons are great for beginners while deep walls and channels appeal to the advanced. Photo: Maahid Photos/Unsplash

St. Lucia

A visit to St. Lucia isn’t complete without a glimpse of the Pitons, the Caribbean’s most distinctive landmark. Often seen from the winding mountainous roads when approaching Soufrière, the views are ubiquitous. Even more captivating are the twin volcanoes seen from the water. These twin peaks that rise up from the sapphire blue sea are connected by an inland ridge that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.

A visit to the Pitons might include a rigorous hike on the Gros Piton trail or a relaxing soak and mud bath in the Sulphur Springs. Photo: David Dale/Flickr

Phi Phi Islands

The Phi Phi Islands National Park is comprised of six islands skirting Maya Bay, which was made famous in the 2000 film The Beach starring Leonardo DiCaprio. The two larger islands Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi were so popular among day-trippers and snorkeling boats that the officials of Thailand closed the bay, not so much due to Covid but to restore the damage done to the once pristine spot due to over- tourism. Today visitors are allowed back but with imposed new rules to protect the area.

While the Maya Bay draws with its natural beauty there hundreds of gorgeous islands between Phuket and Krabi. Take a longtail boat and explore the area. Photo: Miltiadis Fragkidis/Unsplash

Asia, Bahamas, Bahamas-New Providence, Bahamas-Out Islands, Cabo San Lucas, Caribbean, Hawaii, Islands, Mexico, Oahu, Oceania, Plan, Play, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas

Where to Snorkel with Sharks

November 18, 2020

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Forget those old cliches about “shark-infested waters.” The reality is that these often-misunderstood creatures pose very little danger to humans, and are far more likely to avoid the splashing chaos of swimmers and divers. But there are certain places around the world where sharks can be found with predictable regularity, allowing snorkelers with a sense of adventure a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.

New Providence, Bahamas

From Thunderball to Into the Blue, a vast majority of the underwater shark encounters that show up on the big screen were filmed in the waters near Stuart Cove’s dive center in the Bahamas. Decades of feeding have conditioned the area’s resident population of gray reef sharks to the presence of humans, and they hang around even when they aren’t getting a handout of fish bits. Snorkelers can get in on the action with trips to several of the area’s shallow reefs, where the sharks will cruise by, but otherwise ignore the fin-wearing interlopers. There’s usually a dive guide with a camera on hand to grab a shark-and- snorkeler shot for anyone looking for a great social media post. Visit: https://stuartcove.com/

Underwater sites with clear and calm waters in the Bahamas await divers and snorkelers on a Stuart Cove’s adventure. Guided adventures include shark sightings. Photo: Salisbury University Geography Students/Flickr

Bora Bora, Islands of Tahiti

The huge sand-bottom lagoon that surrounds the island of Bora Bora is filled with all manner of fish life, including a group of resident lemon sharks and rays. Encounters sometimes begin right from resort beaches or near over- water bungalows, but more guaranteed are the boat trips provided by several tour companies, which ferry snorkelers to areas within the lagoon where the sharks and rays are known to gather. Snorkelers who prefer a more controlled environment should visit the island’s Lagoonarium. This natural enclosure is located near the island’s eastern shore, and it is home to a variety of sharks, rays, tropical fish, and sea turtles. More adventurous swimmers can also book trips to outer reefs where dolphins and manta rays may join the mix. Visit: http://lagoonarium.e-monsite.com/

Shark and ray feeding trips are available from resorts for visiting snorkelers in Bora Bora. The sandy flat outside the lagoon is populated with hungry sharks and stingrays. Photo: Michael Rubenstein/Flickr

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Cabo is the gateway to the Sea of Cortez. All manner of sharks and large marine mammals pass by this point on their way to and from seasonal hunting and breeding grounds. The Pelagic Safari takes small groups of snorkelers on a half-day or all-day speedboat cruise into the open waters of the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. When a likely site is located, participants go overboard with snorkel gear and drift with the waves as the boat follows to provide support. Depending on the season, snorkelers may come face-to-face with anything from humpbacks and gray whales to blue and mako sharks, billfish, and massive schools of Mobula rays. Visit: https://pelagicsafari.com/

Modula rays invade the waters off Southern Baja and the Sea of Cortez on a seasonal basis. Plan a visit May through July or November to January. Photo: Pelagic Safari

Oahu, Hawaii

There are some sharks that are best seen from behind bars, and that’s exactly what snorkelers can do at Hawaii Shark Encounters. These adventures take place three miles off the north shore of Oahu. After reaching deep water, the tour operator stops the boat and deploys shark cages that float on the surface. Snorkelers enter these cages, and chum with fish deployed to lure oceanic predators. The species that show up most often are Galapagos, sandbar, and tiger sharks, but there’s also a chance of a visit from blue sharks and hammerheads. To make the encounters more thrilling, the cages are fitted not only with bars, but also Plexiglas windows that provide unimpeded viewing. Visit: https://hawaiisharkencounters.com/

Both thrilling and educational, shark cage adventure tours on the north shore of Oahu will dispel many shark myths and create awareness for their protection. Photo: ptpablo/Flickr

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

The Phi Phi Islands are the stuff of postcards and screen savers. Rising like giant limestone haystacks from emerald waters, these unique formations are surrounded by coral reefs and riddled with secret coves fronting white sand beaches. In recent years, one of the fastest-trending adventures that visitors to the islands can experience is the chance to swim with black-tip reef sharks. Several tour companies ferry snorkelers to shallow reefs, where these non-threatening sharks forage among the formations in search of hidden morsels. Morning is said to be the best time to sign up for these tours, as this is not only when the sharks are most active, but also the times when there are fewer swimmers in the water. After the swim, there’s usually a chance to visit mysterious sea caves and have lunch on a deserted beach. Visit: https://www.getyourguide.com/discovery/phi-phi-islands-l9477/snorkeling-tc57/?utm_force=0

From Phuket, visitors can take boat tours to the amazing Phi Phi Islands. Some may stop at Monkey Beach, while others head out to reefs. Photo: Corey Hamilton/Flickr

Bimini, Bahamas

The waters of the Gulf Stream flow close to the Bahamian island of Bimini, bringing game fish and sharks in from the deep blue. This gives snorkelers a rare chance to meet oceanic marine life in shallow water, including reef sharks and hammerheads. The starting point for these thrilling encounters is Bimini Undersea, which is located within the fisherman’s village at Resorts World Bimini. Participants board speedboats for a three-mile trip to a formation known as Triangle Rocks. There, in depths of 25 feet or less, the reefs attract passing sharks, which are clearly visible in the clear water. This half-day trip is considered safe and appropriate for all ages, as the sharks gather in anticipation of a free meal, but are not fed while snorkelers are in the water. Visit: https://biminiundersea.net/

Up-close views of reef sharks can be experienced in special programs like The Sharks Adventure at a beautiful reef, south of Bimini. Photo: sassamafracken/Flickr

Caribbean, Central America, Costa Rica, Europe, Greece, Guadeloupe, Hawaii, Hawaii-Big Island, Islands, Maui, Oceania, Plan, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines, Tahiti

10 Beautiful Black Sand Beaches of the World

August 14, 2019

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They are sexy, silky and mysterious. Some are hidden and hard to find while others are well known and favored by beach lovers. Images of dark, dramatic black sand beaches elicit the idea of exotic locales but many are found on nearby shorelines. As you travel the world make sure you add a couple of these intriguing coasts to your bucket list. Here, Playa Negra on Vieques is a favorite when visiting the Spanish Virgin Islands.

Islands, Oceania, Stay, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

Best Snorkeling in Moorea

May 18, 2018

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To call Moorea’s sparking turquoise water inviting would be an understatement. The island is surrounded by coral fringed lagoons filled with colorful tropical fish and vibrant reefs. Some of the best snorkeling sites can be found right off hotel beaches and among the pilings of overwater bungalows. Here are three top picks for travelers who want to enjoy top notch snorkeling at a first class resort.

InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa

Set between two bays and sprawling across more than 40 waterfront acres on Moorea’s north coast, the InterContinental offers a variety of snorkeling experiences. There is a fully-enclosed lagoon where youngsters and beginners can build confidence, a network of small, interconnected islands surrounded by shallow coral heads, and a beach that opens to an expansive reef and a tidal channel. Guests can enter and exit the water at numerous points, and spend hours skirting the shore or venturing across the channel to a large area of coral heads that extend to a barrier reef. The resort is also home to a dolphin research and rehabilitation program and a turtle rescue center, and offers daily boat trips to a small, uninhabited island surrounded by reefs. Serious snorkelers can also book excursions for stingray and shark encounters with Top Dive Sports, which has an on-site facility.

Bungalows at the InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa sit on the shores of a collection of small islands. Snorkelers can spend hours exploring the shores and lagoons. Photo: InterContinental

Bungalow-style accommodations line the shores of the InterContinental’s island cluster, and are nestled into the garden-like grounds, which hold more that 200 species of tropical plants and trees. The resort is more family- friendly than many other properties in Moorea, and some bungalow classes provide separate living areas with additional bedding to accommodate young guests. Three on-site restaurants offer fine dining, casual options or buffet convenience, and the staff can coordinate a number of unique private dining experiences. Also on the grounds is the award-winning Hélène Spa, which was the first full-service spa in French Polynesia.

At the InterContinental, a dolphin research facility provides guests with an opportunity to observe and interact with marine mammals in a natural setting. Photo: InterContinental

Hilton Moorea Lagoon

Many consider the waters surrounding the Hilton to have the best snorkeling reefs in Moorea. The property sits on a point of land between the clear waters of Opunohu and Cook Bays, and corals begin just a few yards from shore, and extend into the shallows underneath the pilings of the resort’s extensive collection of overwater bungalows. Snorkeling is best when waters are relatively shallow, and the Hilton provides acres of sea bottom that is four to five feet deep, and home to more than two dozen species of coral and hundreds of varieties of tropical fish. More adventurous snorkelers can roam farther afield to arrive at a barrier reef on the edge of blue water, or follow the edge of a deeper tidal channel for a chance to see eagle rays and small blacktip reef sharks.

Scattered coral heads cover the shallows at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort, where guests can begin snorkel trips from shore or the deck of an overwater bungalow. Photo: Hilton

With just over 100 rooms, the Hilton is relatively small in comparison to other properties in Moorea, but it offers all the amenities one would expect from a top-rated beach resort. Guest amenities include a fitness center, infinity pool, tennis courts and a range of complimentary water activities. The resort’s two restaurants serve traditional Polynesian and international cuisine, and the Toatea Lounge is the only overwater bar in Tahiti. Rooms are divided between overwater bungalows, beachfront bungalows, and garden bungalows, and most have most with private pools. All units come with plush beds, minibars, sleek bathrooms with stand-alone tubs and separate showers, and furnished outdoor spaces.

Reef fish gather among the corals at the Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort. This area benefits from the tidal flows that nurture corals and support a variety of marine life. Photo: Hilton

Sofitel Ia Ora Beach Resort

Guests who stay in Ia Ora’s overwater bungalows can catch a preview of snorkeling activity by simply looking through the glass viewing windows set into bedroom floors. Entering the liquid realm is equally easy, as steps lead from private decks right into the water. But excellent snorkeling opportunities aren’t confined to the premium overwater accommodations. A large patch of coral begins right in front of the main beach, allowing guests who stay ashore in the garden bungalows to begin their in-water explorations without having to make a long swim. The barrier reef that flanks the shoreline creates calm conditions for snorkelers, and the lagoon holds an abundance of tropical fish.

The Sofitel Ia Ora Beach Resort sits at the sheltered upper end of a sheltering lagoon. Corals grow close to the beach, and extend outward to a barrier reef. Photo: Sofitel

Ia Ora sits on one of Moorea’s best beaches. The setting is private and quiet, but also convenient to the airport, and to off-property shopping and dining. The resort itself boasts two premier restaurants and an award-winning spa that specializes in traditional Polynesian treatments. The hotel grounds are nicely landscaped, and deliver an ambiance that is a blend of French elegance, Polynesian hospitality and tropical island relaxation. Rooms are finished in a sleek, contemporary décor that showcases rich natural materials and ushers in an abundance of ambient light. Beach time and water sports are the primary focus, and guests can enjoy a range of activities that include paddle sports, sailing, fishing and cruises to small, uninhabited islands within the lagoon.

A snorkeler explores coral formations that begin just off the shores of Sofitel Ia Ora. The resort’s lagoon offers calm conditions and clear water. Photo: Sofitel

Islands, Oceania, Plan, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

Fiji or Tahiti?

April 2, 2018

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So you want to escape to a tropical island in the South Pacific. But which one? Tahiti seems amazing, but you’ve also heard good things about Fiji. To help you start packing, here’s the low down on what to expect, and some of the differences between these two idyllic destinations.

The Islands

For starters, neither of the destinations known as Tahiti or Fiji are a single island. There is an island named Tahiti, but it is just one of a number in the group of islands also known as Tahiti, and sometimes called French Polynesia. In addition to the “big island,” the two that attract the vast majority of tourism are Bora Bora and Moorea. All of these are mountainous, volcanic islands ringed by lagoons. The country of Fiji includes more than 300 islands, ranging in size from 4,000-square-mile Viti Levu to small and in some cases uninhabited islands—like the one Tom Hanks landed on in the movie Castaway.

The barrier reefs that ring many of the Islands of Tahiti also include small outer islands known as motus. Visitors can arrange to make day trips to islands like Tikehua by boat. Photo: Grégoire Le Bacon/Tahiti Tourisme

Getting There

If you are starting from North America, both Fiji and Tahiti are a fairly long hop across the Pacific. A direct flight from Los Angeles takes 8.5 hours to Tahiti, and a bit more than 10 hours to Fiji. Both destinations are served by a single international airport, which are located on the largest islands. From there resorts are a shuttle bus, ferry ride or an inter-island flight away. In many cases, the transition from airport to resort will be shorter in Tahiti, as you’ll either be taking a ferry or short flight to Moorea, where hotels are ten minutes to a half-hour from the runway, or a flight to Bora Bora, with similar transfer times once you land. Travel in Fiji is a lot more variable. Resorts on the west and north coasts of Viti Levu can be less than a half-hour away, while properties to the south will require a two-hour-plus van ride. There are a number of resorts scattered across the smaller islands, and getting there could involve a single flight and a boat ride, or a series of transfers that take the better part of an afternoon.

A number of the Islands of Tahiti are ringed in barrier reefs that create calm water lagoons ideal for snorkeling. Stingray encounters are a favorite activity at many resorts. Photo: Tahiti Tourisme

The Resorts

Tahiti is famous for it’s over-water bungalows. This style of resort originated in these islands, and the shallow lagoons of Bora Bora and Moorea are home to dozens of resorts with over-water accommodations. These offer wow factors such as glass floor panels, plunge pools and over-water hammocks on private terraces, and steps that lead directly from rooms into the water. There are no such resorts in Fiji, where the usual resort scenario is a group of cottages known as bures, which are set in garden-like settings on the shore. Another difference is the usual size of the resorts. Tahiti has a number of 200-plus room properties that deliver a full range of amenities that include multiple dining options and some of the most opulent spas on the planet. A stay in Fiji more likely means a small resort with a few dozen rooms or less, with a central dining hall and a boutique spa.

The Islands of Tahiti are famous for over-water bungalows. Islands such as Bora Bora and Moorea are home to a number of resorts that offer this type of iconic accommodation. Photo: Alice Izal/Tahiti Tourisme

On the Water

With warm Pacific waters washing the shores of both island groups, it’s no surprise that water sports are a central focus in both Tahiti and Fiji. That said, the experiences can be different. The aforementioned over-water bungalows of Tahiti immerse guests in an aquatic panorama, and the lagoons that surround these resorts offer calm conditions and clear water for snorkeling right form the beach. The corals aren’t as colorful as in Fiji, but there’s plenty of tropical fish, plus the thrill of seeing rays and even sharks swimming by. Fiji also offers snorkeling, but more often on near- shore reefs that could be either a swim or a boat ride away. Scuba diving is what puts Fiji on many travelers’ list. The destination is known as the soft coral capital of the world, and reefs explode in vibrant growths of red, yellow, purple and indigo sea fans. Above the surface, both destinations will please paddlers, sailors, fishermen and even surfers at certain times of year. In Tahiti, these activities are more likely to take place within the lagoon, while Fiji offers sheltered bays that open to blue water channels.

Fiji is world famous for its colorful soft coral formations. Some of the most spectacular are growths found off the island of Taveuni at Rainbow Reef. Photo: Paradise Taveuni Hotel

On the Land

You can hike across wooded valleys and climb to elevated overlooks on the islands of Tahiti, but there are more chances for land-based adventures in Fiji, which offers more waterfalls, taller mountains, bigger rainforests and even a white water river. From a cultural aspect, there are also significant differences. Tahiti is more cosmopolitan, and permeated with elements of French culture. English is fairly widely spoken at the resorts, but a visit to the capital of Papeete is bit like a trip to a tropical version of Paris. Get outside the few major towns on Fiji’s big island, and you’ll discover an authentic slice of traditional island life. For many, a highlight of their vacation is an invite to a traditional lovo feasts, or a kava ceremony.

The kava ceremony is a mainstay of tradition Fijian culture. Visitors are invited to share a beverage made from the root of the yaqona plant, which creates a sensation of mild relaxation. Photo: Chris McLennan/Tourism Fiji

Africa, Asia, Islands, Oceania, Play, Seychelles, Tahiti, Thailand, Trip Ideas

Sail-Away Adventures in Paradise

March 20, 2018

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Imagine leaving it all behind and setting sail for a tropical island paradise. There, you’d anchor in a remote cove and spend your days swimming over coral reefs, walking deserted beaches and feasting on fresh seafood. This doesn’t have to be a daydream. Not when you book a charter boat vacation.

At some of the world’s most scenic islands, it’s possible to rent a well- equipped sailboat and set your own course for adventure. And don’t worry if you and your crew aren’t seasoned mariners, because these same charter companies can supply a captain to show you the ropes, or become your personal guide for the duration of the voyage. Here are four premier destinations in the Pacific and Indian Oceans where dreams of sailing away can become reality.

Tahiti

These are islands that inspired the artwork of Gauguin, and seduced the crew of the Bounty. Today, the Islands of Tahiti welcome sailing crews, who come to anchor in turquoise lagoons, walk unspoiled beaches and swim over bright coral reefs. Sailing adventures typically begin on the island of Raiatea, which is part of the Leeward group of islands that lies some 100 miles to the west of the big island of Tahiti. This cluster of tall, green islands includes Bora Bora, with it’s world famous lagoon, the quieter sister islands of Tahaa and Raiatea, and the garden island of Huahine. Each offers something different, from traditional villages and coconut groves to world- class resorts and spas. Because these islands are all within an easy day’s sailing of each other, a charter boat crew can island hop, anchoring in a different bay or lagoon each night. Warm, steady trades blow year round, creating easy sailing conditions that will have even new skippers soon feeling like old salts.

The Tahitian island of Raiatea is the nautical center of French Polynesia. The main town of Uturoa is home to a number of sailboat and yacht charter companies. Photo: Grégoire Le Bacon/Tahiti Tourisme

Seychelles

A thousand miles east of Africa, the remote islands of the Seychelles were known to ancient mariners from Phoenicia, Polynesia, China and the Arab world. Today, only the savviest of sailors know of this magical cruising destination, but the word is getting out. The Seychelles group is hundreds of small, low-lying islands scattered across thousands of miles of ocean. But the star attractions are the larger Inner Islands, which are geological wonders of twisted granite, mountainous and lush with tropical forests that support species of birds found nowhere else on Earth. From the capital island of Mahé, crews can make an easy day sail to a cluster of small islands to the east, where they will find bays fringed by ivory-white sands and clusters of monolithic granite boulders that are an iconic symbol of the Seychelles. Ashore, the islands offer a rich commingling of French, British, Indian, Middle Eastern, and African cultures.

Sailboats ride at anchor in the south bay of the Port Launay Marine Park in the central Seychells. These islands offer dozens of calm coves for overnight stays. Photo: Seychelles Tourism Board

Tonga

The Kingdom of Tonga is best known for whales. Each year, humpbacks migrate from the Antarctic waters to mate, breed and birth in the warm waters that surround these remote islands, creating a unique opportunity for humans to swim with these 50-foot mammals. That alone would be reason enough to visit these remote and unspoiled islands, but there’s more. In the center of the Tonga archipelago, the Vava’u group of islands provide the ideal sailing conditions that make these waters one of the most appealing cruising grounds in the South Pacific. The green-clad islands sit in close proximity to each other, are ringed in protective coral reefs, and are graced with steady trade winds. Skippers can glide over calm waters, navigating from island to island by sight, with more than 40 calm anchorages to choose from. These same reefs offer exceptional snorkeling and diving in some of the world’s clearest waters, and there are miles of deserted beaches to explore.

A sailboat glides past a small island in Tonga’s Vava’u group. Calm waters, close harbors and steady winds make this region ideal for sailing vacations. Photo: Tourism Tonga

Thailand

Not many people know of the Phi Phi Islands by name, but most will instantly recognize them by sight. These limestone towers, which rise precipitously from the waters of the Andaman Sea, have served as backdrops for feature films, and have graced thousands of magazine covers and travel brochures. These and the other hundred-plus islands that surround Thailand’s vacation mecca of Phuket are far from unknown, but sailors who charter their own vessels have the advantage over those who come by tour boat. Within the sheltered waters of Phang Nga Bay, there are numerous bays and anchorages on uninhabited islands that aren’t on the main sight seeing routes. The prime sailing season runs from November through April, as cooler, drier northern winds create ideal conditions for relaxing island-hopping passages. Crews can choose to spend nights in quiet coves, or stop in more populous harbors to enjoy shore leave that comes with the warm hospitality that the Thai people are known for.

Sailors can explore the dramatic landscapes of Thailand’s Phi Phi Islands, where towering limestone cliffs surround calm bays ringed in white sand beaches. Photo: Flickr

Islands, Oceania, Play, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

Where to go in French Polynesia

October 2, 2017

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Tell someone you are off to Tahiti and they will probably be jealous. But only a savvy few will follow up with the question “Which Island?” Tahiti is an island, but you’ll also hear the phrase “The Islands of Tahiti.” Or you may hear about the islands of French Polynesia. So which is it? In case you’ve always wanted to go, but aren’t clear on where to go, here’s a simple guide to discovering the world’s favorite South Pacific paradise.

Know Your Islands

The more than 100 major islands that are collectively known as French Polynesia are all part of an Overseas Collectivity of the Republic of France. These islands stretch more than 1,200 miles across a broad swath of the Pacific Ocean, and are divided into five main groups: the Marquesas Islands, Tuamotu Archipelago, Gambier Islands, Austral Islands and Society Islands. It is this last group that we’ll be focused on, and it’s also the group that welcomes more than 90 percent of all travelers. The Society Islands are the stuff of postcards and screen savers, with towering green volcanoes and aquamarine fringing reefs. This is the land of over-water bungalows, waterfall hikes and outrigger canoe trips to deserted beaches. There are five unique island destinations in the Society group that travelers can choose between, and each has its own special charms.

An over-water bungalow at the St. Regis Bora Bora. Over the years, these iconic structures have evolved into luxurious accommodations with unique features such as glass viewing floors and on-deck plunge pools. Photo: St Regis

Tahiti – The Big Island

At the center of French Polynesia is the island of Tahiti itself. Unless you are arriving by boat, all travel to French Polynesia begins with a flight into Faa’a International Airport on the Island of Tahiti. This island is also the seat of government, and the capital city of Papeete. Arriving travelers who are transferring to other islands might want to add a few days to explore Tahiti itself. Papeete’s vibrant open-air markets are a show unto themselves, and the dining scene offers a savory range of Tahitian, French and Asian cuisines. The two highest peaks in Polynesia—Mount Orohena and Aorai—soar more than a mile above lush tropical forests where hiking trails through coconut groves and thickets of bougainvillea lead the way to cascading waterfalls.

Hikers follow a stream towards the mountainous interior of Tahiti. As the largest and highest island in Polynesia, it offers hikers and climbers a wide range of adventures. Photo Grégoire Le Bacon/Tahiti Tourisme

Bora Bora – The Crown Jewel

If there were a beauty contest for islands, Bora Bora would wear the tiara. And in a way, it does. The single emerald spire of iconic Mount Otemanu sits within a sparkling lagoon that is ringed by small islands known as motus. Scattered around this ring of palm trees and white sand beaches are a number of upscale resorts that feature spectacular over-water bungalows, where views of the central island peak are framed by the aquamarine lagoon. With resorts providing a combination of fine dining, world-class spas and luxurious accommodations, some guests are content to cloister in their bungalows. For the active and adventurous, the sheltered waters of the lagoon provide an aquatic playground for snorkelers and paddlers. Ashore, the island, though small, offers several unique hikes into the Valley of the Kings, and to elevated views from the slopes of Mount Otemanu. Bora Bora is reached by a 45-minute flight from the island of Tahiti.

A view from the pool deck at Le Meridien Bora Bora Resort takes in views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu. This iconic peak dominates the landscape from points all across the island. Photo: Le Meridien

Moorea – The Friendly Isle

Just ten miles to the west of Tahiti’s bustling capital of Papeete, the island of Moorea moves at a slower pace. The island’s shores offer dazzling white sand beaches and shady lagoons, all set within an encircling ring of coral reef. Inland, lush valleys hide picturesqueness villages, and narrow roads lead upward through pineapple fields into forested slopes where waterfalls cascade from the central peaks. Complementing this bucolic landscape are a number of mid to upper-end resorts scattered along the coast. Hospitality comes naturally to the people of Moorea, who are known for their warm and inviting personalities. Snorkeling, diving and sailing are favorite activities for many guests, along with unique opportunities to join paddling crews to explore the shore in a traditional outrigger canoe. Ashore, there are tours of villages and plantations, hikes into secluded inland valleys, and off-road drives to elevated view points to take in stunning views of island and ocean. Because Moorea is quite close to the Island of Tahiti, most visitors arrive by ferries departing from the Papeete waterfront.

A small island known as a motu sits at the outer edge of Moorea’s lagoon. Many of these islands remain uninhabited, and are a favorite destination for day trips. Photo Grégoire Le Bacon/Tahiti Tourisme

Huahine – The Garden Spot

Though far less visited than Bora Bora or Moorea, Huahine offers both scenic and cultural rewards for those who make the half-hour flight from Tahiti. Much of the island remains forested or planted in vanilla plantations, banana groves, orchards and taro fields. Coconut palms tower over deserted beaches, and small outlying motus become idyllic destinations for beach picnics. Huahine is actually two islands, separated by a narrow channel that is spanned by a single bridge. A handful of resorts are scattered around the shoreline, and intimate local guesthouses provide a chance to experience true island life. Visitors can go to local markets and fishing villages where they will be welcomed into a simpler way of life. Huahine is also noted for it’s numerous archaeological sites, which include the remains of ancient stone cities and fishponds created for Tahitian royalty. Also unique to the island are the sacred blue-eyed eels that live in Lake Fauna Nui.

Worshipers gather for a Sunday service on the island of Huahine. Modern Tahitian culture blends ancient Polynesian traditions with European influences. Photo Grégoire Le Bacon/Tahiti Tourisme

Raiatea and Tahaa – The Sacred Homeland

Once known as Havai’i, the homeland, Raiatea is believed by many to be the genesis for the great Polynesian migration that launched sailing canoes to colonize new shores from New Zealand to Hawaii. It is very much an island steeped in history and legend, and it is also stunningly beautiful, with an expansive lagoon that also encompasses the sister island of Tahaa, and a number of islets scattered across a vast lagoon. Most of these are small and uninhabited, while several are home to secluded, luxurious resorts. The expansive size and sheltering waters of the Raiatea lagoon make it a favorite with sailors, and several sailboat charter companies operate along the island’s shores. The island is served by daily flights from Papeete, while neighboring Tahaa can only be reached by boat. This most remote member of the Society Island group is sometimes called the Vanilla Isle, because it is the source of more than 75 percent of all Tahitian vanilla production.

A close up shot of a vanilla blossom. The islands of Tahiti are known for producing a very aromatic strain of this spice, which can command premium prices on the world market. Photo Grégoire Le Bacon/Tahiti Tourisme

Islands, Oceania, Stay, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

Bora Bora’s Top Snorkeling Resorts

June 26, 2017

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The sparkling waters of Bora Bora’s lagoon are a paradise for swimmers and snorkelers. Entering this aquatic paradise is as easy as wading in from a beachfront room, or dropping in from the deck of an overwater bungalow. But some locations are better than others, and we’ve found three resorts that offer the best underwater scenery and fish life, along with the easiest access to the water.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui

A stay at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui begins with a boat ride, because the resort is located on Motu To’opua, an unspoiled islet off the west coast of Bora Bora. This 114-room resort, formerly known as the Hilton Bora Bora Nui Resort & Spa, underwent a multi-million dollar renovation before reopening in March of 2017. Much more than deco update, this renewal includes room enlargements, new decks, the addition of floor-to-ceiling windows and new bathrooms with oversized soak tubs. The over-water bungalows are among the largest and most luxurious in the Islands of Tahiti, and range up to a two-story presidential suite with 3,000 square feet of living space. The property now includes a full-service spa, kids club, mini-golf course, fitness center and several dining options.

Many of the recently renovated overwater bungalows at the Conrad Bora Bora Nui now include private plunge pools and catamaran decks suspended over the lagoon. Photo: Adam Bruzzone/Conrad Bora Bora

Unlike some over-water properties, which perch over stark sand bottoms, many of the bungalow rooms at Bora Bora Nui follow the contours of a reef line that provides shelter for a range of marine life. Guests can get a preview of what awaits below through glass floor panels, then enter right from their private deck. Insiders say the best snorkeling is from bungalows in the 300 wing. There are more reefs awaiting discover at points all around the resort’s private island, along with regular excursions to nearby sites where snorkelers can swim with stingrays and turtles, or participate in a shark encounter. Families with younger children may want to schedule a trip to the Bora Bora Lagoonarium, which is a private snorkeling park where marine life encounters take place in a controlled environment.

The Conrad Bora Bora Nui is located on a small island to the west of Bora Bora, where guests can enjoy a private white sand beach, or follow trails into the island’s wooded hillsides. Photo: Adam Bruzzone/Conrad Bora Bora

Le Méridien Bora Bora

Water is a key element of this landmark resort, which straddles a barrier island between the blue Pacific Ocean and Bora Bora’s turquoise lagoon. The property can only be reached by boat, and rooms perch over the water, or overlook a white sand beach, with sunset views of iconic Mount Otemanu. The setting is that of a traditional Polynesian village, with plenty of thatched roofs and native woods, but the amenities are fully modern. The resort’s signature Le Tipanie restaurant sits on the banks of a sheltered interior lagoon, while the Le Te Ava restaurant allows guests to dine with their feet in the sand. The water sport center’s range of water sports includes kayaks, wave runners, parasailing, waterskiing, deep-sea fishing and excursions in traditional outrigger canoes. An on-site spa and wellness center offers a range of relaxing and therapeutic treatments.

At Le Méridien Bora Bora, the Le Tipanie restaurant sits on the banks of the resort’s private lagoon, which is a natural body of water that is home to a wide variety of fish and marine life. Photo: Ben Thouard/Le Méridien

Le Méridien has a reputation as one of the best resorts for snorkelers in Bora Bora. As expected, there are things to see right below the over-water bungalows, but that’s just the beginning. The property’s sheltered lagoon is filled with colorful tropical fish, and home to a turtle sanctuary and coral nursery. Guests are able to explore these calm and sheltered waters with mask and snorkel, which is an especially good option for novices and children. Highlights include a school of resident eagle rays and several colonies that house colorful clownfish. More experienced snorkelers can venture to a more exposed reef line on the ocean side of the resort, and the truly adventurous can ask directions to an area known as shark hole, which is a nursery where black tip reef sharks give birth.

Sea turtles are a common sight in the waters around the overwater bungalows at Le Méridien Bora Bora. The resort has created an on-site sanctuary where rescued and injured turtles can recover. Photo: Le Méridien

Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort

It’s not surprising that the setting has a cinematic quality, because this beachfront resort was originally built by filmmaker Dino de Laurentiis as a set for his film Hurricane. Today, the property includes 37 traditional French Polynesian bungalows with pandanus leaf thatched roofs, each tucked into a lush tropical garden fronting a stunning white-sand beach. Another 13 bungalows sit on pilings in the lagoon, and a ferry connects guests to a nearby private island that holds an additional 20 overwater rooms. Rich woods and bright colors set the tones in the overwater bungalows, where glass panels in the floor reveal tropical fish swimming below. Each offers a king size bed, luxurious bathroom and a private terrace, where breakfast can be delivered by outrigger canoe.

The overwater bungalows at the Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort are just a short swim away from a colorful reef, where snorkelers can see angelfish, butterfly fish, eagle rays and turtles. Photo: Sofitel

Marara Beach is located within a sheltering cove on Bora Bora’s southeast coast. This location ensures calm waters for snorkeling on scattered coral heads that begin less than 100 feet from shore. Guests staying in garden bungalows can wade in directly from the beach or enter from the resort’s dock. Access is even easier from over-water bungalows, which include entry ladders on waterfront decks. The greatest numbers of tropical fish are found on the more defined reefs at the eastern end of the beach, and in the area between the resort and Sofitel’s private island. For more snorkeling adventures, guests can paddle a canoe or kayak to the reefs surrounding a nearby deserted island.

Wood tones and warm accents provide a counterpoint to views of turquoise waters in the bedroom of an overwater bungalow at the Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort. Photo: Sofitel

Belize, Central America, Florida, Guatemala, Islands, Oceania, Stay, Tahiti, Trip Ideas

The Best Celebrity Owned Resorts

April 20, 2017

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Fame has its perks, but even sophisticated jet setters may appreciate a bit of home-style comforts when they travel. For a select few stars, this wish has translated not just into favorite stays, but actual ownership where they are able to put their personal stamp on every detail of the property’s ambiance, décor and services. Here are five premier resorts formed and transformed by star power.

Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize

When film director Francis Ford Coppola discovered an abandoned jungle camp deep in the jungles of Belize, he transformed it into a family retreat. A decade later, he opened the Blancaneaux Lodge to the public as a 20-room luxury hideaway. Here, nestled in the lush foliage of the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve, a collection of thatched roof cabanas perch above a rushing jungle creek where waterfalls tumble into turquoise pools. Each cabana is finished in a regional Guatemalan décor, with unique native art and local textiles. Some offer private plunge pools, outdoor showers and open-air living rooms with kitchens.

The dining terrace of Blancaneaux Lodge’s Montagna Ristorante serves classic southern Italian fare and surrounds guests with lush rainforest vegetation. Photo: Coppola Resorts

The lodge’s Montagna Ristorante features classic Italian cuisine with a special focus on Coppola family recipes drawn from the Basilicata region. Daily activities include hikes into the forest reserve, horseback rides, orchid hunts, mountain biking and tours of Mayan archeological sites. The Waterfall Spa specializes in the art of Thai massage, and features a professionally trained staff that has studied ancient techniques in Bangkok.

Deep in the rainforests of western Belize, a hillside cabana at the Blancaneaux Lodge sits on a cliff above the flowing waters of a jungle stream. Photo: Coppola Resorts

Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa, Vero Beach, Florida

The décor says Miami-modern, but this beachfront retreat is far removed from the hustle of South Beach. Music icons Gloria and Emilio Estefan lent their personal touches on every aspect of Costa d’Este, from the sea grass furniture and teak paneling to the iconic porthole windows. Sitting on 1,000 feet of golden sand in the heart of the quiet central Florida town of Vero Beach, this waterfront retreat is designed for unpretentious luxury. Each of the property’s 94 guest rooms and suites feature outdoor patios and balconies that usher in sea breezes and ocean vistas. The resort’s oceanfront pool deck takes a page directly from Collins Avenue properties, with manicured palms and market umbrellas shading parallel lines of chaise lounges.

Guest rooms at the Costa d’Este feature state-of-the-art electronics and are decorated in Miami modern style, with subdued warm tones that complement ocean views. Photo: Costa d’Este

Fine dining is a keystone of the Costa d’Este experience, and the acclaimed Wave Kitchen & Bar takes a creative approach to the culinary arts, utilizing fresh seafood and locally sourced produce in a range of original creations and select Cuban specialties. Another signature of Chef Armando Galeas’ menu is a special emphasis on premium wines and hand cut steaks. There is a full-service spa on site, and a range of water sports to enjoy, including ocean kayaking, paddleboards and snorkeling.

At first glance, you might think you were chilling poolside on South Beach, but the Costa d’Este Beach Resort sits well to the north in the quiet town of Vero Beach. Photo: Costa d’Este

Turtle Inn, Belize

This intimate beachside inn is a world away from high rises and tourism corridors. It sits on a narrow peninsula in the wilds of southern Belize, flanked by the Caribbean Sea and the calm waters of the Placencia Lagoon. Francis and Eleanor Coppola acquired this beachside hideaway in 2001 and transformed it into a relaxing refuge that could also become a base for adventures on land and sea. The Belize barrier reef lies just offshore, offering coral gardens for snorkelers and divers to enjoy, and expansive flats for exploration by fishermen and kayakers. To the west, the Maya Mountains and Victoria Peak rise above wetlands and rainforests that is home to monkeys, tropical birds, iguanas, crocodiles and jaguars.

The palm-lined beach at the Turtle Inn provides a quiet and secluded setting on Belize’s unspoiled southern coast, with coral reefs just offshore. Photo: Coppola Resorts

After a day of adventure, guests can relax in thatched cottages decorated with handcrafted Balinese furnishings, Japanese baths and outdoor showers. Open floor plans usher in the ever-present sea breezes, and white sand beaches are just steps away from private decks. For those seeking the ultimate escape, the Inn also offers a private island villa that can only be reached by boat. The Turtle Inn is also home to the Mare Restaurant, which serves traditional Italian cuisines with an emphasis on fresh-caught local fish and vegetables from the on-site organic garden. For local flavors, guests also have the option of Auntie Luba’s Kitchen, the resort’s authentic Belizean diner, which serves regional fare in a setting overlooking the waters of Placencia Lagoon.

The chefs at the Turtle Inn’s Mare restaurant pair local seafood with fruits and vegetables grown at the resort’s on-site gardens and groves. Photo: Coppola Resorts

The Brando

The island of Tetiaroa is home to one of the world’s most idyllic resorts. Once the exclusive retreat of Tahitian royalty, this private enclave delivers all the elements expected of a South Seas paradise, from swaying coconut palms to white sand beaches and a sparkling lagoon. Tetiaroa first caught the eye of Marlon Brando while scouting locations for his iconic movie, Mutiny on the Bounty. Years later, he would return to fulfill his vision of creating an eco-friendly resort that would both showcase and protect the island’s biodiversity and pristine environment.

Beachfront villas at The Brando are spaced around the island for privacy. Each offers separate bedrooms and social areas with high ceilings and large windows. Photo: The Brando

A 20-minute flight from Tahiti brings guests to the all-inclusive grounds of The Brando, where a collection of 35 beachfront villas are spread out across the island to provide serene privacy for each guest. Each 1,000-square foot villa includes separate sitting rooms that merge indoor and outdoor spaces, along with a private media room, pool and large windows that frame lagoon views through a screen of pandanus, miki miki, and coconut trees. A pair of signature restaurants showcases Polynesian inspired dishes, East-West fusion and classic French cuisine. Amenities include an on-site spa, tennis courts, library and cultural center, two bars, a large infinity pool and an environmental research station with guest programs.

On the private island of Tetiaroa, villas at The Brando feature private pools, outdoor living areas and secluded settings where lush landscaping frames beach views. Photo: The Brando

La Lancha, Guatemala

A stay at La Lancha is akin to an invitation as a houseguest at a treasured family retreat. In fact, most every detail of this intimate 10-room lodge, from the furniture and fabrics to the locally sourced carvings that adorn each room, was personally selected by the Coppola family. The property sits on a rainforest-clad bluff above the sparkling waters of Guatemala’s Lake Petén Itza. Just across the lake are the cobblestone streets of the colonial- era town of Flores, and the area is home to a number of significant Mayan sites, including the expansive ruins of Tikal, where ancient temples rise above jungle green.

At La Lancha lodge, locally sourced materials, traditional Guatemalan architecture and handcrafted accents create a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Photo: La Lancha

The area’s rainforests offer a wide range of eco-experiences, from relaxing hikes and birding tours to adventures such as aerial walkways, zip lines, and jungle horseback rides. The lake can be enjoyed by canoe, kayak, or tour boat. Each of the lodge’s Casitas is furnished with pieces sourced from Guatemalan producers, and feature locally made arts and crafts. Covered decks feature hammocks and lake views. An open-air restaurant situated under the thatch roof of the main lodge provides dramatic views of the forest canopy and Lago Petén Itzá. The menu features authentic Guatemalan dishes. In the evening, the lake itself becomes a source of entertainment, with dramatic color changes that shift from cobalt blue to turquoise, and then take on the warm glows of sunset.

A path leading from hillside rooms at La Lancha lodge brings guests to a private deck on the inviting shores of Guatemala’s Lake Petén Itza. Photo: La Lancha

A Royal Legacy

Down Under From Above

Worth The Effort

A Liquid Gem Set In Stone

Flight To A Distant Haven

Phuket In Mid-Day Light

Sailing A Coral Coast

Lighting The Way

Moorea

Santorini

Kauai

Bali

Maldives

St. Lucia

Phi Phi Islands

New Providence, Bahamas

Bora Bora, Islands of Tahiti

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico

Oahu, Hawaii

Phi Phi Islands, Thailand

Bimini, Bahamas

InterContinental Moorea Resort & Spa

Hilton Moorea Lagoon

Sofitel Ia Ora Beach Resort

The Islands

Getting There

The Resorts

On the Water

On the Land

Tahiti

Seychelles

Tonga

Thailand

Know Your Islands

Tahiti – The Big Island

Bora Bora – The Crown Jewel

Moorea – The Friendly Isle

Huahine – The Garden Spot

Raiatea and Tahaa – The Sacred Homeland

Conrad Bora Bora Nui

Le Méridien Bora Bora

Sofitel Bora Bora Marara Beach Resort

Blancaneaux Lodge, Belize

Costa d’Este Beach Resort & Spa, Vero Beach, Florida

Turtle Inn, Belize

The Brando

La Lancha, Guatemala

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