St Regis Bora Bora reopens June 14 - Renovated & New Management

The St Regis Bora Bora that was hit by Cyclone Oli last February is set to reopen on June 14 renovated and operating with new management.  For anyone who saw the movie "Couples Retreat" you will know this resort, although the movie may not have been the best, the scenery certainly was and this is the resort where it was filmed.

While the St Regis was closed, the resort has had the following upgrades completed:

• pools have been retiled
• the pool at the Royal Estate (13,000 sq feet) has been fitted with white glass tiles that reflect the colour of the sky
• serveral other pools has had turquoise glass tiles added to reflect natural light
• new landscaping & a wood deck around the main pool area facing the beach, coral blocks and Polynesian art
• beaches were re-sanded and re-shaped to enhance their appearance
• and the Private Lagoonarium and other public ponds have received new coral and fish species

For the discerning guest, this resort that originally opened in June 2006 has always been a favourite for clients.  It's 44 acres with butler service, 24-hour concierge and personalied touches has attracted famous guests such as Nicole Kidman, Keith Urban, Tim Allen and many others.  It is definitely one of Bora Bora's finest properties and soon open once again in top form!

For help planning your South Pacific Vacation visit www.carlhenderson.ca

Paul Gauguin looking to Expand

Richard Bailey, Chairman of Paul Gaugin Cruises is looking to add a second ship to the fleet. Paul Gauguin Cruises currently have one ship, the 332 passenger Paul Gauguin. The ship has recently been upgraded and had an additional 26 balcony cabins added along with an upgraded spa and more outdoor dining. The ship is defintitely an incredibly luxurious Polynesian experience and fantastic value for travellers.

Paul Gauguin cruises as reported earlier here was sold to Pacific Beachcomber who also own and operate the InterContinental Resorts in French Polynesia.

Now Richard Bailey is looking to purchase a small ship to add to the fleet and put together combination 4 night cruises with 4 night hotel stays, which I think is a brilliant idea and a great way to see Tahiti and her islands.

The question is, what ship is he eyeing for this new expansion?
I don't have any insight, but suspect since Nomade Yachting has gone to private charters only, their is a good chance they may look at selling one of their stunning yachts - the Tu Moana or the Ti'a Moana.

Time will tell - but I think it would be a great move and make for some fantastic Tahiti vacation packages! Having sailed on the Tu Moana when it first came out, it still ranks as one of the most memorable vacation experiences of my life and I would definitely recommend it to my clients.



www.carlhenderson.ca

Paul Gauguin Sold

Further to my last post, it is true the Paul Gauguin has been sold to Pacific Beachcomber a company who operates many destination resorts in French Polynesia. The extremely successful luxury cruise will continue to sale as scheduled for 2009 and 2010.

The Paul Gauguin is a great cruise experience for people looking to explore French Polynesia and the other South Pacific nations. Just remember to book well in advance. For 3 years the ship sailed at full capacity and now in 2009, during these more challenging economic times, it is still sailing at a 95% occupancy rate.

Read Reviews from Cruisers of the Paul Gauguin - Click Here

Paul Gauguin Cruise Ship up for sale?

After leaving ways with Regent Cruise Lines, the cruise ship the Paul Gauguin decided that they would strike out on their own for operating this luxury vessel that sales around Tahiti, Bora Bora and the stunning islands of French Polynesia.

Rumour now has it that the Paul Gauguin is close to being sold to Dick Bailey who owns 4 Intercontinental Hotels in French Polynesia.

The future ownership is yet to be determined of this incredible luxury cruise as it continues to ply the stunning clear waters of French Polynesia - one of the most beautiful places on earth! However, she remains to be one of the premiere cruise experiences in the world.

Other great cruise experiences to consider in French Polynesia:

Nomade Yachting - Tu Moana and Tia Moana -- Luxury boutique yacht experience with a French Polynesian feel

Roa Yachting - private yacht charters for a complete customized and private adventure

Star Flyer - a modern day tall ship sailing experience

Haumana Cruise - luxury catamaran exploring one of the world's largest lagoons in Rangiroa

The Aruani - travel by freighter amongst the South Pacific to explore some of the more remote regions of the Marquesas Islands and more

From private yachts, to luxury cruises or sailing on a freighter - there is something for every cruise fan in the French Polynesia. Add it to your must do list as it is a destination like no other!

Air Tahiti orders more ATR Aircraft

Despite the economy and low hotel occupancy rates in French Polynesia, Air Tahiti has placed orders for up to 7 ATR - 600 Series Aircraft with firm orders for 2 - 50 Seaters, 3 - 70 Seaters and an option for two more additional 70 seat aircrafts.

The airline currently operates an ATR fleet of aircraft that services over 47 Pacific Islands. As one of ATR's most loyal customers, Air Tahiti chooses the aircrafts for their unique design best suited for the tropical salty environment and the short and narrow airstrips often found throughout these beautiful South Pacific Islands.

Flying with Air Tahiti is a whole lot more than just getting to your destination with some of the most incredible views in the world as you land at island airports like Bora Bora. Each flight is like scenic tour so keep your camera handy and batteries well charged.

Changes in Tahiti Hotel Management

Rumour has it that Starwood Hotels is going to be pulling out of managing 3 popular resorts in Tahiti, Bora Bora and Moorea. Apparently the Sheraton Hotel Tahiti, the Sheraton Moorea and the Bora Bora Nui Resort and Spa (part of The Luxury Collection) are all no longer going to be managed by Starwood in 2009.

Starwood will still have The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort and Spa, the Meridien Tahiti and the Meridien Moorea all of which are very popular resorts in French Polynesia.

Perhaps coincidence, but I don't think so - Hilton Hotels are announcing new openings in February of 2009 in the region - Click Here for the Hilton Link

We anxiously await the official word and details from both hotel chains and see what resort changes may be made with the change of management.