I stayed at the Sofitel Motu. It was outstanding!

We intended to take a 10-day cruise on the Tahitian Princess and then stay two days extra in Bora Bora afterwards. My father helped build the airfield on Bora Bora during 1942-3 - he never stopped talking about the beauty of the island. We decided to travel during the "rainy season" (January) when rates were reduced. Once we had booked the cruise we begin to research the various properties for what we desired (privacy, intimacy, over water bungalow, best view of the Bora Bora, and best cost.) We originally decided on the Bora Bora Lagoon resort (BBLR) but later found out it was scheduled to undergo renovations during January. (We saw this during our cruise stop in Bora Bora - BBLR is doing a lot of construction - possibly a new building or pool - and looked closed). We cancelled our reservation and were referred to the Hotel Bora Bora (HBB) for reservations. Reports of morning and evening scooter noise and high cost drove us to consider the Sofitel Motu - the recommendation of best deal for Bora Bora by the Tahiti Resort Guide web site. We cancelled the HBB and reserved a bungalow through our travel agent at the Sofitel Motu. 

Off to our cruise we went! The weather was great aside from one day at the beginning when we got rain - we brought home the tans to prove it! During our cruise stop on Bora Bora we took a 4X4 tour of the island and saw most of the hotels (exception was the Nui). To be honest, I was not all that impressed with HBB, the Intercontential, Le Meridian (they have a great view of the island's smoking garbage dump!) Club Med, and the Pearl Beach. The Sofitel Motu was unique in its location and setting as seen from the main island road.

We had seen earlier postings by a couple that did not get picked up at the airport by the Sofitel staff. Before we left for our cruise, I contacted our TA and made sure they knew or arrival time. This later paid dividends, as the hotel told us about our return flight had a time change. When we arrived at the airport, the boatman was there to meet us right on time and we were whisked away to the hotel in a matter of minutes. SMOOTH AS SILK! Planning pays off!

We were greeted at the dock of the hotel by a staff member blowing a conch horn, offered flowers, a drink, and cold towels. After a quick two-minute administration session with the staff (credit card imprint, fittings for swim fins and snorkel masks) we were taken to our bungalow. As we walked down the causeway the receptionist told us they had a surprise for us - bungalow #128 was ours for two days! Man what a view! If you go, ask for this bungalow or #129. Both have great views and privacy.

The room was spotless and well appointed. No bugs, clean, just perfect. We were greeted with a plate of fresh fruit, a gift sarong and T-shirt, and no other interruptions. The bathrooms are a thing to behold. Our first night we sipped wine out on the deck underneath a sky full of stars so clear we could see the Milky Way like a road map.

The grounds of the hotel are really nice. They have a beautiful water garden and sitting area next to the reception area. Most of all, I highly recommending a walk up to the hilltop behind the hotel to watch one of the vaunted Bora Bora sunsets. I have a picture of our first sunset on my computer desk top - WOW!

The hotel had only 7-8 couples staying at the property when we were there. It was almost deserted - perfect for a second honeymoon. The staff was very helpful. They had three ladies and one gentleman (the manager) working most of the time at the front desk. All of the ladies spoke English. One Japanese receptionist was particularly adept, being fluent in three languages, and was very personable.

Travel between the motu and the main island was quick and easy. The main hotel was nice and has a small but adequate pool. We ate most of our evening meals on the island. Bloody Mary's is a must stop for dinner. They will come to pick you up. I'm amazed that no one has franchised this concept here in the US. It was a unique dining experience - the full menu presented on a table upon your arrival, the sand floor, the white cat, and don't forget to see the rest rooms (guys - don't grab the flush handle on the urinal, just don't go there!). Our food service at the Sofitel Motu was likewise outstanding. The service was courteous, fast and the food was great.

Our return trip to the airport was very memorable (again, our departure was sounded by conch horn, shell necklaces were presented, flowers) and we arrived at the airport in a timely manner - no problems.

We hated to leave to say the least and would go back in a heartbeat!

Gregor