honeymoon | Susan's Travel Services

Overwater Bungalow or No Overwater Bungalow?

Susan Green — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 17:59:34 +0000

How to Decide What’s Right for Your Tahiti Trip

Few travel decisions feel as exciting, or as stressful, as choosing whether to stay in an overwater bungalow in Tahiti. For some travelers, it is the entire reason they are going. For others, it turns out not to be the best fit once they really think about how they travel.

The truth is that overwater bungalows are incredible, but they are not automatically the best option for every traveler or every trip. Tahiti and Bora Bora offer beautiful alternatives that can be just as private, luxurious, and memorable.

Here is how to think through the pros and cons so you can choose what truly fits your travel style.

The Pros of Overwater Bungalows

There is nothing quite like waking up with the lagoon right outside your door. Overwater bungalows offer a sense of separation and escape that feels uniquely Tahitian.

One of the biggest advantages is direct lagoon access. Many resorts allow you to swim or snorkel straight from your deck, and the marine life can be surprisingly vibrant right beneath you. The views are also unmatched. Sunrise and sunset over open water often feel more dramatic without land in sight.

Overwater bungalows also tend to have excellent airflow. Being positioned above the lagoon means cooler breezes, especially in the evenings, which many travelers appreciate.

And of course, there is the experience itself. For many, staying overwater is a once-in-a-lifetime moment they have dreamed about for years. That emotional factor matters.

The Cons of Overwater Bungalows

What people often do not realize is how much walking can be involved. Depending on the resort layout, your bungalow may be quite far from restaurants, pools, and the spa. Some resorts, like the St. Regis Bora Bora, assign bikes to each bungalow, which makes getting around much easier and more enjoyable. Others require long walks, especially at night.

Overwater bungalows are also more exposed to weather. Wind, rain, and strong sun are felt more directly, and decks can become very hot midday depending on their orientation.

They are also not always the most practical choice. Beach access usually requires leaving your bungalow entirely, and water movement beneath the villa can be noticeable for light sleepers.

And then there is cost. Overwater bungalows are almost always the highest room category. While they are stunning, they are not always the best value depending on how much time you actually plan to spend in your room.

The Pros of Non-Overwater Bungalows

One of the biggest surprises for many travelers is just how private non-overwater bungalows can be.

Garden and beachfront villas often feel incredibly secluded, surrounded by lush landscaping. Some options, like the garden villa with pool at Le Bora Bora, feel like having your own tropical backyard. Fully fenced, with a private pool, outdoor seating, and lounge chairs, they offer complete privacy.

Non-overwater bungalows are also more convenient. They are typically closer to restaurants, the main pool, and resort amenities, which makes daily life easier, especially on longer stays.

They tend to be quieter at night, with less water movement noise, and they offer more shade throughout the day thanks to palm trees and gardens.

From a value perspective, these categories often allow travelers to extend their stay, upgrade experiences, or add private excursions without increasing the overall budget.

The Cons of Non-Overwater Bungalows

The biggest drawback is visual. While still beautiful, they do not deliver that iconic overwater look many people associate with Tahiti.

Privacy can also vary by resort and category. Some beachfront bungalows sit closer to walking paths, which is why resort layout and exact room selection matter more than people expect.

Views may also be more limited in garden categories, especially if ocean vistas are a top priority.

What About Pools?

Both overwater and non-overwater bungalows can include private pools. If having a pool is important to you, it does not have to be the deciding factor. You can find excellent pool options in both categories, and the key is choosing the right bungalow type within the right resort.

So, Which Should You Choose?

An overwater bungalow may be right for you if:

This is a bucket-list trip and the experience itself is the priority
You love being in the water and plan to spend time on your deck
You do not mind walking or biking around the resort

A non-overwater bungalow may be the better fit if:

You value ease and convenience
You love greenery, privacy, and a more grounded tropical feel
You plan to spend most of your time exploring the resort or taking excursions

For many travelers, the best answer is actually both. Splitting your stay between a garden or beachfront villa and an overwater bungalow allows you to experience the full range of what Tahiti offers without feeling locked into one style.

This is where thoughtful planning makes all the difference. Knowing which resorts have the best layouts, which bungalow categories offer the most privacy, and where a pool or bike access truly adds value can completely change the experience. Through our relationships within the Virtuoso network, we are able to help clients navigate those details and match them to the option that fits how they actually travel.

The details matter more than most people realize, and the right fit can completely change the experience. If you are curious to explore what options align best with how you travel, we are always happy to talk.

Why I’m Choosing to Go Back to Tahiti for My 2026 Honeymoon

Susan Green — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:00:41 +0000

Most people dream of going to Tahiti once in their lifetime. I went for work, and now I’m going back for love.

When I first traveled to Tahiti, it was part of a professional familiarization trip. My goal was to experience the islands the way my clients would, to understand the rhythm of each destination, and to truly evaluate the properties and excursions I recommend. I expected it to be beautiful. I did not expect it to completely capture me.

From the moment I stepped off the plane, I understood why Tahiti leaves such a lasting impression. The air itself smells different, soft and floral, like a welcome before you even see the water. That first breath set the tone for everything that followed.

Three Islands, Three Very Different Feelings

My journey began on the main island for one night, just enough time to ground myself and ease into the pace of Polynesia. From there, I headed to Moorea for several nights, then finished my stay in Bora Bora.

Each island felt distinct, yet deeply connected.

Moorea was lush, dramatic, and grounding. The mountains rise sharply from the island, and the energy there feels slower and more intimate. One of my favorite experiences of the entire trip happened here.

I joined a private tour that first brought us to a vanilla farm, where we tasted fresh jams made right on the property. It was simple and authentic and exactly the kind of experience that stays with you. Afterward, we were driven to the end of a trail and walked an easy slope up the mountain. The view from the top was breathtaking. The kind of view that makes you stop talking and just stand there, taking it in.

Bora Bora, on the other hand, felt like stepping into a dream. The lagoon is unreal, shifting shades of blue that don’t seem possible until you see them with your own eyes.

The Excursions That Changed Me

In Bora Bora, I experienced one of the most memorable excursions of my life. We swam with black tip reef sharks, who honestly seemed to have a sense of humor. They would swim straight toward us and then abruptly turn away at the last second, clearly enjoying the reaction they got.

After the sharks, we moved to an area to swim with stingrays. Surprisingly, this is what scared me. I wasn’t nervous about the sharks at all, but the stingrays made me hesitate.

Our local guide was incredible. He showed me how the stingrays would gently “hug” you, wrapping themselves around your legs and body. Once I understood their behavior, everything changed. They were affectionate, curious, and full of personality. They would actually get jealous if another stingray was getting attention, nudging them aside so they could be the one getting the hugs.

I fell completely in love with them.

Overwater Bungalows That Truly Live Up to the Hype

My overwater bungalow in Bora Bora was everything people hope it will be, and more. Spacious, beautifully designed, and positioned over water so clear it felt like floating above glass.

Mornings became my favorite time of day. I loved waking up to the ocean stretching endlessly in front of me, stepping out onto my deck for a quick swim, then heading to the main areas of the resort to mingle with other guests at the pools and bars.

The service across every resort I stayed at was exceptional. Friendly, intuitive, and genuinely warm. My butlers learned my daily coffee order almost immediately and made sure it was ready and delivered at whatever time I wanted each morning. I never once handled my own luggage. My room was always immaculate when I returned.

And then there were the bathtubs.

Anyone who knows me knows that my favorite way to end the day is with a long bubble bath before bed. Whether I’m traveling solo or with my soon-to-be husband, it’s my ritual. The bathtubs in Tahiti were huge, deeply comfortable, and exactly the kind of detail that turns a beautiful stay into a restorative one. It’s honestly one of the things we’re most excited about for our honeymoon.

The Heart of Tahiti Lives in Its People

What truly made Tahiti unforgettable, though, was the people.

The locals were incredibly warm and welcoming. I loved wandering through marketplaces, talking with artisans, purchasing handcrafted goods, and sampling local cuisine. There was an ease and generosity in every interaction that made me feel not just welcomed, but invited.

Our Resort Picks for Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Honeymoon

Susan Green — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 20:22:08 +0000

Happy belated birthday to Taylor Swift! In honor of her recent birthday, I wanted to play a little game and share my opinion on what resorts would be a perfect fit for Taylor and Travis’s honeymoon.

When you think about a honeymoon for two people who live very public lives, the priority list looks a little different. Privacy is not a “nice to have.” It is essential. Add in their obvious appreciation for meaningful experiences, elevated service, and environments that feel intentional rather than flashy, and the list narrows quickly.

Here are the places that truly feel like they would fit.

The Brando, French Polynesia

Our top pick

If there were ever a honeymoon destination that felt purpose-built for privacy, it would be The Brando.

Located on the private atoll of Tetiaroa in French Polynesia, The Brando is one of the most exclusive resorts in the world. The entire resort consists of just 35 private villas and one ultra-exclusive residence, with a maximum guest capacity of roughly 80 guests at full occupancy, something that rarely happens. Even when the resort is “full,” it never feels that way.

Each villa is completely standalone, surrounded by tropical greenery, with its own beach access and private plunge pool. The experience feels less like staying at a resort and more like having your own private island, because in many ways, you do.

Service here operates on a 3:1 staff-to-guest ratio, which means the level of attention is extraordinary without ever feeling intrusive. Staff members learn guests’ first names before arrival, preferences are anticipated rather than asked for, and the pace of the experience bends entirely to you.

It is also the only true all-inclusive luxury resort in French Polynesia, which allows honeymooners to stay fully present instead of thinking about logistics. Dining, activities, wellness, and experiences are all seamlessly woven into the stay.

The Brando’s reputation for discretion is unmatched. Britney Spears has vacationed here, and Barack Obama famously chose the island as a place to write his memoir. When privacy, calm, and intention matter, this is where people go.

For a Taylor and Travis honeymoon, this feels like the gold standard.

Other Resorts That Feel “Brando-Level”

If the appeal is low guest counts, ultra-high-end luxury, and complete seclusion, these resorts deliver that same rare energy.

COMO Laucala Island, Fiji

This private island resort features just 25 villas, each with its own dramatic setting, whether perched on cliffs or tucked along secluded beaches. The island is vast, but the guest count is intentionally small, creating an experience that feels expansive, peaceful, and deeply personal. It is polished luxury without pretension.

North Island, Seychelles

With only 11 private villas, North Island is one of the most exclusive resorts in the world. The emphasis here is barefoot luxury and natural beauty, paired with thoughtful design and exceptional service. It is wild, cinematic, and incredibly private, perfect for couples who want to disconnect completely.

Fregate Island Private, Seychelles

Home to 16 villas and a very limited number of guests at any given time, Fregate Island is designed around privacy and space. Each villa is positioned to feel completely isolated, with sweeping ocean views and dedicated service. It feels like a secret that very few people are allowed to know about.

Kudadoo Maldives Private Island

Kudadoo offers a modern take on private-island luxury, with just 15 overwater residences. The aesthetic is sleek and minimalist, but the experience is deeply indulgent. Privacy, sustainability, and highly personalized service are the foundation here, making it ideal for couples who want something refined and intentionally designed.

Musha Cay, Bahamas

For the ultimate in exclusivity, Musha Cay offers entire private island buyouts. Only one party stays at a time, accommodating up to 24 guests. For a honeymoon where privacy is non-negotiable, this is as exclusive as it gets.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

Necker Island accommodates up to 48 guests, but often operates on a partial or private-use basis. It offers a more playful luxury vibe while still maintaining privacy and exceptional service. It is ideal for couples who want seclusion with the option for activities and social energy.

The Common Thread

All of these resorts share one thing. They are not trying to impress everyone.

They are designed for travelers who value space, intention, discretion, and meaningful experiences over spectacle. The guest counts are intentionally low. The service is deeply personal. And the environments are curated to feel calm, protected, and rare.

That is what truly defines luxury at this level.

As a Virtuoso-affiliated agency, we have direct relationships with many of these properties, which allows us to advocate for our clients, personalize the experience further, and ensure the right fit from the start.

Engagement Season Is Here: How to Start Planning the Perfect Honeymoon

Susan Green — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:40:34 +0000

From holiday proposals and Christmas engagements to New Year’s Eve celebrations and sparkling engagement rings, this is the busiest engagement season of the year. If you recently said yes to your fiancé or are celebrating a holiday or New Year’s proposal, congratulations. Along with wedding planning often comes an equally exciting question: how do you plan the perfect honeymoon?

With so many honeymoon destinations trending online, it can be tempting to start with what is popular. But the most memorable honeymoons are not built around trends. They are designed around the couple.

Start With Your Personalities, Not Just Popular Honeymoon Destinations

One of the biggest mistakes newly engaged couples make is choosing a honeymoon destination based solely on what they see on social media or what friends recommend. While destinations like Bora Bora, Italy, the Maldives, and Greece remain popular honeymoon destinations for good reason, they are not the right fit for every couple.

When planning a honeymoon, it is important to consider how you and your fiancé actually like to travel.

Do you picture quiet mornings, privacy, and uninterrupted relaxation, or do you thrive on exploration, food, culture, and activity? Are you looking for adventure, romance, luxury, or a mix of everything? Do you prefer a single destination or a multi stop itinerary?

A honeymoon should reflect your relationship and your shared travel style, not just what is trending during engagement season.

Popular Honeymoon Destinations and Who They Are Best For

Some honeymoon destinations remain popular year after year because they truly deliver unforgettable experiences when matched with the right couple.

Tropical destinations such as the Maldives, Bora Bora, and the Caribbean are ideal for couples who want relaxation, beautiful beaches, and privacy after the stress of wedding planning.

European honeymoons in Italy, France, or Greece are perfect for couples who enjoy food, history, charming cities, and a balance of romance and sightseeing.

Safari and adventure honeymoons in Africa or Costa Rica appeal to couples who want something unique, immersive, and unforgettable.

Island hopping and multi destination honeymoons are wonderful for couples who want variety and a sense of discovery while still celebrating their engagement in style.

The key is understanding which destination aligns with your personalities, expectations, and budget.

Why Engagement Season Is the Best Time to Work With a Travel Advisor

Engagement season is exciting, but it is also overwhelming. Between wedding venues, guest lists, engagement parties, and coordinating details with your fiancé, honeymoon planning can quickly feel like one more major task on an already full plate.

Working with a travel advisor allows you to enjoy this season without adding stress.

A professional travel advisor helps you narrow down the right honeymoon destination, designs a personalized itinerary, and handles all logistics from flights and hotels to transfers and special experiences. This removes guesswork, endless online searches, and second guessing every decision.

Instead of spending late nights comparing reviews and policies, you can focus on wedding planning and enjoying your engagement.

More Than Booking: Why Travel Advisors Are Essential for Honeymoons

A honeymoon is not just another vacation. It is a once in a lifetime trip that deserves extra care and expertise.

Travel advisors offer insider knowledge, vetted properties, and relationships with hotels and suppliers that online booking sites cannot provide. This often results in better room placement, added perks, honeymoon amenities, and on the ground support if anything changes.

More importantly, if an issue arises before or during your trip, you have a real professional advocating for you. That peace of mind is invaluable, especially on a honeymoon.

The Best Way to Begin Planning Your Honeymoon

If you recently got engaged during the holidays, received an engagement ring over Christmas, or celebrated a New Year’s proposal, the best first step is a conversation. Talk about how you want your honeymoon to feel and what matters most to you as a couple.

From there, working with a travel advisor ensures your honeymoon is thoughtfully planned, seamlessly executed, and truly reflective of your relationship.

Your engagement season should be joyful, not stressful. Your honeymoon planning should be the same.