In The Middle of The Pacific

Are you in need of a half adventure / half relaxing adventure in paradise? Look no further than Mo'orea, the jewel of French Polynesia! Some may even call it "The Better Bora Bora". With its stunning natural beauty and a plethora of activities to dive into, Mo'orea promises an experience you'll treasure forever. I am currently planning 2 client's honeymoon trips already and am so jealous they get to experience this gem for the first time.

Getting to this tropical paradise is a breeze. You can hop on a quick flight or take a ferry from Tahiti in less than an hour. Traveling to both islands is very manageable and I highly recommend renting a car to get around either island. When deciding where to stay in Mo'orea, I recommend basing yourself in Cook's Bay or Te'avaro, two fantastic spots that offer easy access to the island's wonders. When I travel back, I plan on staying on a boat in Cook's Bay for a few nights to change up the experience. There are many overwater bungalows you can stay in ranging from the Sofitel or Manava Resort but for a truly luxurious stay, consider booking a room at the Hilton Mo'orea. Their impeccable customer service, delectable dining options, and overwater bungalows with jaw-dropping views make it the ultimate tropical retreat. Plus, with an array of water amenities and a private beach, you'll have everything you need for a blissful getaway. The Hilton Mo'orea gives you your ultimate overwater bungalow and Instagram moment!

Besides The Bungalows...

One of the most thrilling activities here is the opportunity to swim with humpback whales. You can get inches away from them. Although we were unlucky on our visit and didn't get to swim with them, we were treated to the breathtaking sight of two whales breaching the surface. Make sure to plan your trip between June and November when it's whale-watching season to maximize your chances. And even if you don't encounter whales, Mo'orea's public beaches are filled with stingrays and black-tip sharks (don't worry, they are friendly) that you can touch. I found the local recommendations of public beaches and off-grid hikes to be some of my favorite activities.

When it comes to dining, remember that you are in the French Polynesian islands. It is common to see people deleting baguettes, pizza, sashimi, Lo Mein, and steak with fries. It feels like there is a mix between French food and Asian cuisines. A must-visit restaurant is Keiki. While they don't serve alcohol, their delectable meals and casual ambiance make it a standout culinary experience. When it comes to Pizza recommendations, Vaiare comes very highly recommended by the locals. They even have open mic night on the weekends for a free slice!

Indulge in some unforgettable experiences that Mo'orea has to offer. I feel fortunate to experience such a beautiful island that isn't super touristy and has some of the clearest waters to engage with sea life. For some overall tip, I highly recommend bringing an underwater camera, your own snorkel gear, and renting a car to explore the island. With that, you can easily enjoy your time without a strict itinerary.

You deserve to be Gone, let me plan your next vacation!

Email me at gonewithgab@gmail.com