Set adrift in the heart of the South Pacific, French Polynesia is a collection of more than 100 islands spread across five archipelagos, each one offering its own version of paradise. Yet it’s Bora Bora — with its iconic overwater bungalows, dramatic volcanic peaks, and impossibly blue lagoon — that has come to define what we imagine when we think of the ultimate tropical escape.

From the moment you arrive, Bora Bora feels almost unreal. The main island is encircled by a brilliant turquoise lagoon protected by a string of tiny islets, or motus, each fringed with palm trees and white sand so soft it seems to melt beneath your feet. Mount Otemanu rises like a dark emerald crown at the center, creating a dramatic backdrop that looks painted onto the sky. Here, mornings start with the gentle lapping of water beneath your bungalow, and afternoons are spent snorkeling among colorful coral gardens, spotting rays and reef sharks gliding gracefully through the shallows.

But beyond Bora Bora, French Polynesia is full of equally enchanting gems. The quieter islands of Moorea and Huahine offer lush mountains and laid-back villages where local culture thrives, while Taha’a’s vanilla plantations fill the air with a sweet fragrance carried on warm breezes. Rangiroa and Fakarava, in the Tuamotu archipelago, lure divers from around the world with their pristine atolls and electric underwater life, from swirling barracuda to curious dolphins.

Polynesian culture adds a soulful layer to every experience. You’ll find it in the soft melodies of ukulele music drifting across the lagoon, in the aroma of fresh poisson cru (Tahitian-style ceviche) served with a smile, and in the welcoming warmth of locals who still live closely tied to the rhythms of the sea and land.

French Polynesia isn’t just a destination; it’s a dreamscape that embodies the essence of “exotic.” It’s where luxury and raw natural beauty coexist in perfect harmony, where you can spend the day paddleboarding over neon-blue water, hike to hidden waterfalls deep in emerald jungles, or simply do nothing at all on a private stretch of sand that feels like yours alone.

See you at the airport soon!