FlyerTalk Forums - View Single Post - The Westin Bora Bora Resort & Spa [Master Thread]
Old Nov 11, 2024 | 11:19 pm
  #384  
slariz
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Join Date: Apr 2005
Location: Washington, DC
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Originally Posted by Eridium
I stayed at the Westin Bora Bora in late October, 2024. Just a few weeks after the Mandy Roams video.

To update her info: the boutique store is now open, though it is small and there wasn't much worth buying.
Tote bags have been improved: now you'll get a large, woven bag that's identical to the Conrad Bora Bora's beach bag, only with different branding.
The turtle sanctuary is open, but we didn't feel it was worth paying $50 per person just to feed them.
The inner lagoon is still closed for swimming. That is unfortunate as it seems to be the best place to snorkel with fishes.

There is a trade-off between views and snorkeling from your over water bungalow.
Rooms closer to the beach are in shallower water. It some areas it's possible to stand, and we noticed more fish in the shallows.
Rooms deeper in the lagoon have a closer proximity to Mount Otemanu and better view. However, the water is deeper with a stronger current. There weren't many fish off of our balcony, and we had to expend more energy because of the current. I would still take the better view. One can have an unforgettable snorkeling experience by taking a one day boat tour. We were "upgraded" to an OWB with an excellent view of Mount Otemanu. (Platinum status; booked 4 nights using 85k FNAs and points)

On Thursday nights, the Tipaniers restaurant has a Polynesian song and dance show at their restaurant, along with a buffet dinner. We were impressed by both the food and the performance. At $150 per person, it was well worth it. I suspect it may be the same group that performs at the St. Regis every Wednesday evening. Also, we saw that every restaurant was open.

I appreciate the fact that the Westin runs complimentary boats to and from the mainland. Though in the end, we wanted to maximize our time at the resort, having spent a few days on Bora Bora beforehand. The Westin boat goes to and from Anau. There is a U Express supermarket nearby if you need to resupply. The main purpose of this boat is to shuttle employees to and from Bora Bora.

I have watched the Mandy Roams video and thought it was accurate and informative. I've picked up plenty of point related benefits from her boyfriend, "Ask Sebby" so I'm not sure why anyone would call him a shill. Overall they do a creditable job of sharing useful information.

As I just came back from the Westin Bora Bora, I can try to answer any questions.
Overall we were pleased with the hard product and service. It felt great staying at a newly refreshed hotel.
Thanks, this is helpful. Have you stayed at the St. Regis since you mentioned you knew the show schedule there - I'm sure like me, many are trying to decide between the two hotels!
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