Originally Posted by
TravelConcierge
Recently did site inspections at both Four Seasons Bora Bora and the InterContinental Thalasso, and Four Seasons was much better in terms of bungalow maintenance (beautifully appointed overwater bungalows at Four Seasons vs. moldy grout in the bathroom at the Thalasso, noisy air con, cheaper looking fixtures), service, airport transfer and amenities. We did like how close Thalasso was to Mount Otemanu, but the closer views didn't make up for the other shortfalls. Also saw more marine life around the Four Seasons overwater bungalows than at Thalasso, which is in very shallow water--even saw a shark and barracuda right underneath our FS bungalow. But agree that you'll want to take excursions around or outside of the lagoon to really see the marine life--we enjoyed snorkeling with Pure Snorkeling and diving with Dive N'Smile.
People still go to Thalasso? Surely only if they use points. I am a big fan of FS Bora Bora, though during construction a lot of damage has been done. The area was basically destroyed. This is even more obvious if you visit other island paradises, such as Amanpulo or the Maldives. Only now it's starting to come back again and FS is going to great lengths to support it.
These days, I'd combine FS Bora Bora with the Brando.