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Vahine Resort in French Polynesia - A Review of Your Private Island

Vahine Private Island Resort is Paradise in French Polynesia

Have you ever dreamed of living on your own private island - away from everything and everybody?

Well you can almost accomplish just that at Vahine Private Island Resort - named by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the world's Top 25 Escapes, and with good reason.

To get there from say...Chicago would go a little like this- Flight to L.A. Change airlines and take Air Tahiti Nui to Papeete, Tahiti. Change airlines again (may require an overnight in Tahiti) to fly to Raiatea to catch a boat transfer to the small island of Vahine -about a 30 minute boat trip from Raiatea past Tahaa to Vahine.

Alternately, you could fly from Tahiti to Bora Bora & catch a private helicopter to Vahine from Bora Bora

 

arriving by boat you can expect to be greeted by Sophie (or another representative) who may be waiting with a cool fruit cocktail beverage and refreshing towel. I found the entire staff to be completely charming.

As the name suggests, this island is very private. There are a total of 9 guest bungalows so you and your travel partner will comprise more than 10% of the total number of guests on the entire island!

Finding a solitary place to relax is no problem....

 

As you can see below, the chef and his staff do not have state-of-the-art culinary equipment to prepare our lunch, but often times excellent and low-tech are a good fit and I can assure you that our dining experience was excellent

 

 

Simple- grilled meats and seafoods, ceviche, fruits - all extremely fresh and prepared to perfection.

 

Sometimes the food at a restaurant is excellent, but the ambiance is sub-standard. Not this time...as you can see in the background, this restaurant has a killer view of Taha'a and is completely open air and just steps from the beach

 

So the place is beautiful, small, private with a top-notch staff and excellent food - but how are the rooms you may ask? Well this should give you a sense..........

Below is a deluxe beach bungalow as viewed from the exterior - charming!

 The deluxe beach bungalow is a bit larger than the standard beach bungalow. In both cases the bungalows are located on the water (as opposed to over the water)

There are 3 standard, 3 deluxe, and 3 over water bungalows, so the choices are not overwhelming....but the authentic Polynesian construction and decor are. Simply Irresistible

 

The 3 Overwater bungalows located out in the lagoon that separates Vahine from Taha'a actually have a view of the island of Bora Bora in the distance - one of the best views in all of French Polynesia

 So this is supposed to be a review- right?

Ok then, enough with the niceties....

How's the pool? - There isn't one

Is the ice machine close to the room?  Nope

Are you close to any "Hot" nightspots?  Absolutely not.....

Is the lounge a good place to go dancing at night?  Not really

Is there a better place to escape from it all for a few days and become one with nature in paradise? Maybe not....

Is there a better place for a Destination Wedding? Well, there certainly aren't many other places that are this quaint and allow you to rent the entire resort! Even if you are not exchanging your vows on Vahine it would certainly be a wonderful place for part of your Honeymoon....

This is French Polynesia. This is about sleeping until you wake up (around dawn) then enjoying the day to it's fullest - snorkeling, swimming, windsurfing, kayaking, paying a board game with your mate - or reading a book in the quiet solitude of the South Pacific

Then of course there are other activities that might cost a few $$ - activities such as

• Visit to a Pearl Farm or a Vanilla Farm
• Get a massage
• Tour neighboring islands
• Scuba diving
• Deep Sea Fishing
• and more...

The best way for many to experience French Polynesia is to spend a few days at 2 or 3 different islands. Spend some time on Tahiti and Bora Bora or Moorea - and spend some time at a place that is totally removed from the rest of the world.....

For more info contact someone who has been there and can offer the best advice available - EZTravelpad is here to help every step of the way!

 

 

 

Intercontinental Thalasso Resort & Spa - Bora Bora in French Polynesia - A Review

Intercontinental Thalasso Resort & Spa in Bora Bora is Phenomenal

 

Welcome....

 

The Intercontinental Resort & Thalasso Spa is located on a motu (small islet) just off the main island of Bora Bora in The Society Islands of French Polynesia - or in short- The South Pacific. Actually the name of the spa is The Deep Ocean Spa so check out that link....

As the name implies, this resort is all about the spa. From the moment you step foot into the reception area you immediately notice soothing mood music - relaxing - totally. The decor, layout and furnishings are all designed to be in harmony with the spa nature of the resort....

Initially I wondered, what is a Thalasso spa? As they say everyday is a school day, so if YOU don't know - here goes....

A Thalasso spa specializes in Thalassotherapy (derived from the Greek word ‘thalassa’ which means ‘sea’). The spa uses the beneficial aspects of the marine environment- the climate, sea water, seaweed and algae, mud and sand—all for therapeutic purposes. This spa even uses the seawater for air conditioning!

Sea water is sucked from a depth of 3500 feet (trust me- it's cool down there) and circulated amongst the buildings on property for cooling purposes. The water is available from this fountain in the spa and guests are encouraged to take a daily sip - maybe 1/2 oz or less for better health. I did, and it's not bad...

 

 

Like nearly every resort in French Polynesia the bulk of the buildings are bungalows. All guest rooms are in bungalows at this Intercontinental resort, as are the massage therapy rooms which are located in the overwater bungalows pictured below.  Guests can enjoy a soothing massage while relaxing as they watch fish swimming in the reef immediately below the massage tables - Clear viewing windows in the floors allow an up close experience and are a fixture of most overwater bungalows in the area, another part of the experience of French Polynesia...

 

 

Had a long flight and feeling like your ankles are swollen from the lack of mobility combined with the warmth and humidity of the climate? This may be just the ticket- a Deep Chiller Walk pool. The pool of cool water is approx 25 feet in length and designed to  allow you to walk back and forth in shallow cool water while being pounded by current...nice!

 

Tying the Knot

Considering French Polynesia as a destination for your wedding? There may exist a more romantic view than this, but if there is I am unaware of it. Imagine exchanging your vows in front of a huge plate glass window featuring Mt Otemanu as a backdrop - and standing on a clear floor with the reefs below..... this is the wedding chapel that dreams are made of.

A memory that will never, ever fade

 Yes, I have an inside shot of the view, but trust me- it just doesn't do it justice. Maybe a more professional photographer can- check this link

 

So yes, the spa is amazing - the wedding chapel is to die for - but what about the accommodations? How are the bungalows? Are they nice? How are the views? See for youself at their website. Suffice to say that the huge picture windows that are located at the foot of the King-sized beds in the bedrooms of the bungalows will afford a view like no other - provided that you know what to ask for.....

 

So is the Intercontinental Resort & Thalasso Spa the top resort in Bora Bora? Probably not for everyone. Some might opt for a larger resort - others may choose somewhere a bit more family friendly....but if you are a spa enthusiast who supports Green initiatives and you want to totally relax during your escape in paradise then this may be the best resort for you in all of French Polynesia.....

Can you book it thru some online "discount" source?

Sure- but why would you when the voice of experience is waiting for you - "Your friends....in the travel business" are here to help - Consider EZTravelpad - your source for unbiased advise and best price.

A Closer Look at Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort

Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort- Like Being in The Big Easy

Walking into Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort takes you right to New Orleans in feel and vibe. Ok, maybe not Bourbon Street during Mardi Gras- but definitely Jackson Square in the French Quarter!

It almost looks like you are entering New Orleans via a train station as you approach-

 

The courtyards have the look and feel of walking around Jackson Square, or maybe some other park like setting in the Big Easy

 

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory allows you to feel like you are taking a break for a snack during Mardi Gras (more kids - less drunks) with the festive decor...this is strictly quick service dining, but there is an option for full service dining on property.

 

The pool area shown here- Doubloon Lagoon features Scales the Sea Serpent water slide- another more relaxing option is the Ol' Man Island pool complex

 

The rooms appeared to be comfortable enough - certainly not luxury - yet affordable for Disney standards with options for 2 Doubles, King, or the ability to accommodate 5 at the Alligator Bayou rooms (1 child would be in a trundle bed) at Port orleans Riverside. I am not a big fan of the quality of bedding, but I am a big fan of clean- and well maintained, and any Disney property is going to rank high on that scale!

 

Pleasant baths with double pedastal sinks make up for the marginal bedding, but who's got time to sleep when you are at Disney- right?

 

no flat screen TVs here yet,  but considering the cost- and convenience of being on property at the Disney World, it's a great value for a Moderate Disney resort

 

 

So when it's time to plan your Disney vacation you have choices- you can go direct to Disney, you can take your chances on the internet, or you can have a professional travel consultant help you with the decisions and make sure you get the best value for YOU - no upsells, no Mickey Mouse games- just great advice from "Your friends....in the travel business" EZTravelpad

Honeymoon at Sandals in St Lucia - a Review

A Honeymoon or Destination Wedding at Sandals in St Lucia is Top Pick

A St Lucia Honeymoon, particularly at an all inclusive resort such as one of the 3 Sandals resorts located on the north end of St Lucia is one of the most sought after and romantic destinations in the Western Hemisphere.

 

Maybe it's Oprah's endorsement or maybe it is just the rare beauty this tropical paradise provides, it could even be that the last episode of The Bachelor was shot there last season, in any case it is real. It is beautiful, it is romantic, and it is in demand. Whether you choose Sandals Grande St Lucian (pictured above), Sandals Regency La Toc, or Sandals Halcyon Beach, you simply can't go wrong.

If lounging in a tropical paradise - sharing a couples massage on the beach - dining in an over the water seafood restaurant - driving thru a volcano - scuba diving wrecks and reefs - golfing in a tropical paradise - if any of these things sound like what you want your honeymoon experience to include, then perhaps a Sandals luxury included vacation to St Lucia is your ideal Honeymoon spot.

 

But Sandals is not the only option - there is also The Pitons

So what about these Pitons you keep hearing about? What about the 3 walled suites? Just imagine waking to this in your Honeymoon suite....

Sure, this is Brad and Angelina stuff, right? Well, it's not inexpensive. This Jade Mountain suite might run $20,000 per week- if you can get in (better book it very, very far in advance), but there are other options that afford the same sort of view and the same concept of 1 wall being omitted so that you have an unbelievable view of one of the top 5 places in the world to visit.

The Sandals experience is All inclusive - the 3 walled view of The Pitons experience is generally not all inclusive, but you can combine the 2 as many people do, you can have it all. You can split your honeymoon into a few days of all inclusive fun in the sun + a few days of total relaxation in the most romantic place in the world, and you can get it done from between $5000-8000 total for a week including air from Chicago this September.

How do you plan such a once in a lifetime experience? How can you make sure that your Honeymoon in St Lucia is all you dreamed it can be? How can you coordinate a Destination Wedding to St Lucia, a place so far from home? One way is the best way, consult with a travel professional that specializes in Honeymoons and Destination Weddings, a travel pro like EZTravelpad

Don CeSar in St Pete Beach - perfect for Destination Wedding

For a Destination Wedding at Florida's Sunset Capital it's Loews Don CeSar Beach Resort

Don CeSar Beach Resort - a Loews Hotel in St Pete Beach is a perfect spot for a U.S. based Destination Wedding. Stately, Classy, Gorgeous, and with a first class spa, this is a wonderful choice for discriminating couples interested in tying the knot beachside...

If coming in with a low budget is something that you want to accomplish for your Destination Wedding then this might not be the first choice, but compared to other more modest resorts in the area Don CeSar is surprisingly affordable.

Your Destination Wedding is in Good Hands

When putting together a destination wedding there are a few things to think about- location & reputation, capabilities and quality. Don CeSar has you covered, with 3 wedding coordinators on staff preparing to host over 400 weddings this year, rest assured that you are in good hands. If the service and attention to detail is anything like I experienced there recently I couldn't be anymore comfortable in suggesting this as a great spot to tie the knot.

Offering exemplary service at every turn, you will not be disappointed by the staff, by the facilities, or by the dining options....

Flatbread topped with shredded island chicken, black bean spread & vegetables - Potato & plantain chips served with traditional guacamole and pineapple guacamole - Yum!

For some people a grilled chicken breast over a rice pilaf is just fine- others require something a bit more interesting. A more interesting menu is what you will find at Don CeSar, but is doesn't stop there. The spa features 16 treatment rooms as well as a private deck overlooking the gulf - oh, and it smells like heaven when you walk through the door of the spa! Body toning water aerobics and beach yoga are complimentary for all guests.

Beach Resort = Beach + Pools

Beachside pools offer full service including complimentary refreshments (Italian ice, frozen grape kabobs, smoothies, chilled towels , etc) plus a full menu of activities include volleyball, beachball dodgeball, cannonball contest, and lots & lots of pool pampering are all in store for you if you stay for a few days.

Putting a Price on Service

How can you put a price on service? It's the little things that mean so much - like the general manager stopping to have a chat - or walking into a restroom that smells of mint and eucalyptus - or being greeted by smiles from all the staff....lots and lots of staff can you put a price on that? Would you want your wedding celebration to be anywhere that offered less?

view of Don Cesar from beachside - looking great from every angle

My reason for stopping into Don CeSar was to find a Destination Wedding and Honeymoon resort located in Florida that I could feel good about recommending. I found it. So if a Florida based Honeymoon or Destination Wedding is something that you want, let EZTravelpad help guide you there - or wherever else your heart desires. After all, it's your special day - but it's not your responsibility to plan it all.

U.S. Honeymoon on a Budget

When Budget is Biggest Honeymoon Concern

If  you are planning a Honeymoon (or helping someone who is) and you need to stay in the U.S. and also are concerned with your budget, Sirata Beach Resort in St Pete Beach might be an option.

Sirata Beach Resort & Conference Center is located on a super-wide stretch of white sand beach along the Gulf of Mexico in the Sunset Capital of Florida (as recently declared by Florida Governor Charlie Christ).  Sirata may not be the most luxurious Honeymoon destination, but at least when you can find them, the staff are super friendly. On my recent visit I found the grounds to be well kept and convenient with 3 pools, 2 poolside bars, easy beach access, volleyball, childrens play area & more.

It is tough to beat the air service, with 2 airports located close by, all kinds of culture with interesting museums such as the Dali museum, a fantastic Botantical Gardens, Sunken Gardens, Aquarium, Zoo, plus activities such as deep sea fishing, parasailing and all kinds of fun day cruises

A recent price check found a package including 6 nights at resort, airfare from Chicago, RT transfers to and from airport to resort plus a champagne cruise & a dolphin watching boat adventure - all for just a little over $1700 for a couple. For all sorts Honeymoon ideas trust EZTravelpad for the best values in this country, or any other!

Jamaica for Honeymoon or Romance? Consider Sandals Whitehouse- a Review

Review of Sandals Whitehouse on the South Coast of Jamaica

Sandals Whitehouse is another fantastic resort operated by the leader in Caribbean All Inclusive vacations for couples- Sandals resorts. In case you are not familiar, Sandals offers "Luxury Included" vacations for adult couples only- no kids, no singles, simply two people sharing a 4 poster King Size bed offered in every luxurious suite in every Sandals resort.

 Whitehouse is in a location that is simply gorgeous and authentically Jamaican. No vendors on the beach - nothing but natural beauty where jungle meets Caribbean on Jamaica's South Coast

 

 

After a drive over the mountains from Montego Bay to Jamaica's South Coast (a little over an hour) you arrive at the gates of the Sandals resort and all that it implies...where inclusions range from your choice of 7 restaurants serving the finest cuisine in Jamaica to activities such as-

• Canoes/Kayaks
• Windsurfing
• 4 Pools, 4 Whirlpools
• 2 Swim-up Pool Bars
• Glass Bottom Boat

• Hydrobikes
• Water-skiing
• Beach Volleyball
• Kneeboarding
• Sailboats
• Scuba diving (if certified)

• Table Tennis
• Shuffleboards
• Day/Night Tennis
• Fitness Center
• Squash

• 3 Level Amphitheater
• Board Games
• Beach Volleyball
• Billiards
• Red Lane^® Spa* (spa treatments are extra)

• Variety of Aerobic Classes*
• Aqua-Fit Classes
• Treadmills
• Elliptical Machines
• Exercise Bikes

• Stairclimbers
• Free Weights
• Cybex Equipment
• Universal Weights
• Tennis

• Ampitheater
• Piano Bar
• Talent Night
• Live Shows
• Carnival Party

• Art Auctions
• Caribbean Night
• Live Bands
• White Night
• Charity Casino

As if that were not enough, choose from 15 different room and suite categories ranging from very nice to over the top luxury with butler service in a 1 Bedroom Honeymoon Beachfront Walkout Suite

Consider concierge service accommodations, where while your luggage is being delivered to your suite as you can relax in style while checking in...

 

Pros and Cons of Whitehouse

Sandals = Luxury Caribbean romantic vacation experience, be that Honeymoon, Destination Wedding, Anniversary celebration, or even a romantic getaway shared among friends, but there are many Sandals to choose from, so which one if right for you? How does Whitehouse fit in?

If you are reluctant to go to Jamaica because you have heard from friends and neighbors- or perhaps even experienced for yourself the over-aggressive islanders trying to sell you something - braid you hair - give you a massage, etc. If you yearn for a lonely beach to get away from it all for a few days. If you appreciate the quality of a neat martini and a nice place to enjoy a cigar. If you enjoy sleeping on a firm king sized bed with quality linens... then Whitehouse is for you.

If you want to go to Jamaica for the party, do things and interact with the islanders in town, if getting to know the people and make friends and shop in the markets is for you, then Whitehouse is a poor choice because it is remote.

For more information on this and any other resort you are considering, get in touch with "Your friends....in the travel business" EZTravelpad, where we will help you sort it out.

 

 

Catalina Hotel and Beach Club in South Beach Miami

Many Hotel Choices in South Beach - Here's Another Miami Beach Option

Catalina Hotel and Beach Club in Miami Beach, Florida is one of many options for the hipster Millennial Gen Y partier...

While not a formal review- here are some notes from a recent stay at South Beach Group's Catalina Hotel and Beach Club in South Beach (SoBe) - Miami Beach, FL

 
A highlight of the whole experience- Connie the server - what a great personality & a cutie too..

• Funky - decor, attitude, style (smell?)
• Bad paint
• Rough around edges
• Check-in service bad
• Comfortable room
• Scarface bathroom (kinda reminded me of the chainsaw scene from Sacrface)
• 1 wash cloth - my wife was none to please to be dealt 1 wash cloth...
• Sushi marginal - at the restaurant streetside (although liked the vibe and service there really good - see photo above)
• Loud - no, really loud- until around 11p
• Good location- on Collins Ave near all the action in SoBe
• Kids didn't know much but were friendly (service staff didn't seem to know a forecast from a film cast, but they were nice)
• Service good - or at least prompt...
• Good specials & discounts

Now I don't want you to think that the whole experience was bad- kinda knew what we were getting into, and frankly- the wife loved the decor because it was different, and I loved the price - so take it all with a grain of salt....would I go back? Well, there are SO many other places to see - you know how it is :)  BUT- that said, if somehow magically I find that I am once again 25 years old- "Hells Yeah", I'm there!

For more hotel reviews check back frequently with "Your friends....in the travel business" - EZTravelpad