My two girls and my husband are considering Bora Bora and Moorea for our next vacation. However, having been to Europe and Hawaii, I was shocked at how expensive French Polynesia is. While we would love to see the gorgeous islands and do things like snorkeling and the other activities they offer, is it really worth the $12,000 to $15,000 I am being quoted for a decent trip OR, would anyone suggest possibly China and Japan as an alternative trip. We would love to experience both.

Yeah, French Polynesia is definitely pricy nowadays. If you are looking for a similar lagoon environment, I suggest you consider the nearby Cook Islands. Rarotonga is a good substitute for Moorea and Aitutaki does a pretty fare imitation of Bora Bora - but for a whole lot less green. Airfare to get there is pretty high, but once you arrive you'll find a wider variety of accomodations at a much wider range of pricepoints to choose from - including the option to rent a house or bungalow at fairly reasonable weekly rates.

Ken

I'd agree that the Cook Islands are a great alternative choice to FP's Society Islands.

If you do want to go to FP though, you can do it for a lot less than the amount you are being quoted. There are plenty of mid-priced accomodations on Moorea and Bora Bora that should cost your family no more than US $300 per night. Our family of four has done it for substantially less than that, but our 'standards' are low.

Hi,
I've reserved a trip to bora bora for this summer. I do not know to start looking for a house to rent. Could someone please help me on this? We are looking for an alternative cheaper than a hotel...
My email address is [email protected]

many thanks

There are several pensions or guest houses on Bora Bora. Check out

http://www.boraboraisland.com/tostay.html#budget

or

http://www.haere-mai.pf/index.php?pa...g=en&ile=8

Thank you very much, this was very useful

Hi Ledhead,

the short answer is "yes".

I always give clients the example of the $28 hamburger.....my client was in Tahiti with two teenage boys who nearly ate through their entire budget! With the exception of a hummingbird, I don't think anything on the planet can eat as much as an active teenage boy - her sons would polish off one burger and order another (at the aforementioned $28)!

Regards,

Melodie