My job takes me to Moorea sometimes and I always stay at Mark’s Place, for good reasons. Not only is the site beautifully and imaginatively laid out in a secluded spot and scrupulously maintained, but the accommodation itself - quality bungalows - has been designed and built with a perceptive sympathy and understanding towards the potential needs and wishes of clients. All are built with the best available local materials by Mark himself. Since I was last time I stayed there has been an upgrading programme with renewal of old, and construction of new, bungalows. The ambience now is more family-friendly. Mark’s Place is Wi-Fi wired and every bungalow is equipped with satellite TV in addition to all the facilities that would be expected in better quality accommodation, though at affordable (by the standards of French Polynesia) prices. Mark, I believe, has lived on Moorea for nearly 30 years and so is in a position to give advice about every kind of activity - whether it is on the beach, in the mountains or the lagoon - and this he does freely and helpfully. There is a shop about 5 minutes walk away where all the basics can be purchased so you can cook on site or, if you prefer, there are other places to eat. Moorea is not a huge island and so anything that you want should not be too far away, though the bus service could be a lot better. That said, you can hire bikes on site or Mark can arrange other transport if required. I know Moorea pretty well and the accommodation has a tendency to be either second-rate budget or camping sites, or insanely expensive hotels. Mark’s Place is the only place I know that caters for those on a limited budget but who want better quality accommodation and facilities. Highly recommended.

Iran is wrongfully called Axis of Evil -- you'll understand once arriving at Mark's Place 'Hell'. The photo is artistically crafted in Photoshop. As you arrive in this supposedly cheerful paradise location, you immedialy notice its complete absence from that wonderful beach Mark has promised you will enjoy nearby. Not only that -- the rooms are a total dump if you compare with other places in Moorea. The man's a sweet-talker, so please don't give into his magic. We did, and ended up hitch-hiking away from the 'paradisus horriblis' on our first day in Moorea. So -- stay away by all means!

I stayed at Mark's two days and one night in Dec 2006. I was in a decent cabin with one big bedroom, with bunks for about 8 people, depending upon how many slept in one bed. It had a kitchen with pots, etc., and flush toilets and showers, and mosquito nets for the beds, so it was fine for me.

It is rather isolated, so I advise to either rent a car at the dock, or hitch-hike. Mark was very helpful to me and others regarding where the good snorkeling spots were, etc. Given the nature of the place, i.e., basically a hostel, I would not expect any help "booking" anything. The price was about $20 to $25 US as I recall, which is dirt cheap compared to a hotel room on Moorea. I have no idea how other hostels may compare.

Had a fantastic time...great budget location for camping...only need your tent...Mark's set up for kitchen was great...helped cut down on the need to bring cookgear/stove. Grocery within walking distance. Also cabins/bungalows for those who want to spend the money - looked nice. Bikes for rent also to go further around the island - for full ride around island...get one with a good seat! Mark and family super! All locals were great.