When it comes to luxury vacations, few destinations can beat the magical island of Bora Bora.  Dubbed “the most beautiful island in the world,” by author James Mitchener and “the pearl of the Pacific” by Captain Cook, this tiny piece of French Polynesian paradise bewitches all who venture to her shores.

Just mention to anyone that you are going to Bora Bora and the most likely phrase you will hear is “I’m jealous!”  And with good reason.  Floating in the middle of the South Seas, Bora Bora invokes dreamy images of exotic palm-fringed, sun-drenched sugar-sand beaches and bungalows that hover over a shimmering turquoise lagoon.

Be prepared to be pampered.  The luxury resorts on Bora Bora pride themselves on making sure their guests’ every wish is tended to.  And to make your stay an over-the-top experience, staying in an overwater bungalow is a must.

Here are just a few reasons why…

The Bungalow

Located on the motu – the small islets ringing the main island –   having your own thatched bungalow is the most spectacular place to call home while on Bora Bora.  Be sure to find one with a view across the lagoon to the looming volcanic Mt. Otemanu. Steps lead from the private terrace perched above the warm, shallow, crystal lagoon where guests can snorkel among the coral nurseries and myriad tropical fish any time of day.  Most bungalows are built with a glass floor under the coffee table for guests to observe sea life passing underneath them.

Paradise, however, comes at a price.  Overwater bungalows are the most expensive accommodations in Bora Bora.  But the pricey rate of up to $1000 a night or more, is worth the splurge, even if it’s only once in a lifetime.  The best deal is at the Bora Bora Pearl Resort and Spa.  While it’s smaller than some of the better-known chain resorts, it is the most authentically Polynesian and offers discounted rates on bungalows booked in advance. There are also other ways to afford this unique experience, such as booking only the last couple of nights in a bungalow.

Read about Bora Bora’s overwater bungalows in Travel Dreams Magazine, May 22, 2013