Bora Bora - rest your head

This week I've been researching all of the fantastic places to stay on the island - what a rough life! ;)

Here are my picks for "affordable" (and I put that in quotes since it's very relative) and a touch of luxury. There are many in between that would be great options but I figured these will help to separate the pack. Since I always travel on a budget, my focus will always be on the more affordable options but it is fun to explore what the other half experiences!

Low-end but still very nice, Le Maitai - I'd say it's about 3 stars or so. It's definitely the most affordable option on the island. The overwater bungalows (what Bora Bora is famous for) are around $650. If you aren't heart-set on staying out in the lagoon, then the island rooms at the hotel are only about $250. They also have a nice compromise - beach bungalows (about $475), they are right on the beach and offer great views. They are the next best thing to an overwater bungalow and can be a bit more private. Any of these will provide a beautiful view so it's just a matter of weighing the type of experience you want. Personally, I would go for one of the bungalows (probably the overwater) since it's one of those things that is so unique that it warrants the extra spending (make sure to research that they are - in fact over the water, some are half on the land and what's the fun in that?!). If you choose the bungalow option too, I would recommend looking into markets near your hotel to stock up on bread, cheese, fruit, etc. and make your own little picnics. You can splurge on a delicious dinner or relaxing massage and know that you aren't breaking the bank. Another point of note - alcohol is not cheap there! Depending on how thrifty you want to be, you may want to pick up alcohol before you leave to bring on your trip with you for drinking in your room and purchase mixers when you arrive. To give an idea, a bottle of Jack Daniels is about $20-$25 here and is around $65 there. A six-pack of beer is around $5 or so here - around $20 there. Just something to prepare for. :)

On the luxury side, I'd recommend Hotel Bora Bora. Although you can also choose from St. Regis, Starwood and Le Meridien...I really love the amenities and beauty of Hotel Bora Bora. Seeing as how it's the high-end pick, the rate for the over water bungalows is around $1100.

Personally, because I'm not in a position to spend a fortune on vacations but love the idea of experiencing new places - I'd go with Le Maitai...the way I look at it, the money saved can pay for even better meals, wine and fun excursions like a catamaran or water safari. :)