I was somewhat apprehensive about visiting a place that is tailor-made for honeymooners as a solo traveler. As I am traveling through the South Pacific for a long while, I wanted to spent at least 2 nights in an over-water bungalow but the idea of going solo was originally daunting.

In the end, I'm very glad I went and I'm thrilled that I chose Le Meridien Bora Bora for my stay. From the moment I arrived and was warmly greeted by Poema--easy name to remember as she is as lovely as a Poem--I felt at ease with my choice. I had booked two nights in two different rooms but as the premium room (my 2nd night) was free, she upgraded me to avoid me having to change rooms. This was a fantastic way to begin my trip. The room was in very good shape--some reviewers on here lamented worn-out facilities but I saw no sign of this anywhere on the property. Two days of relaxing and swimming out of my over-water bungalow was just what I needed.

The food was very much a surprise. I normally shy away from 'resort food' but it was nothing of the kind, here. The fantastic Chef de Cuisine, Mr. Touré, does a wonderful job of keeping things interesting. I can still take the wahoo fish carpaccio with black seaweed, rocket and salty passion fruit drizzle.

A few notes: there isn't much coral below the over-water bungalows. I did have one piece of coral on one of the pylons which had a large fish colony and I noted a few bommies here and there but otherwise, this is not the place for rich fish life. Also, as a solo traveler, I was constantly asked if I wanted a table for two. When I said no, there was sometimes a quizzical look given my way. Other than that, this was a blissful stay and I would love to go back!

Best location for a villa overlooking the lagoon with magnificent views of Mt Otemanu. The villa was very spacious with plunge pool, private beach and huge lounge separating the rooms. Each room had private access to the beach. The lagoon was at our doorstep and we swam in it everyday. On a previous visit we stayed at the Intercontinental in an overwater villa which was also great, but our kids are much older now and the villa at this resort was more suitable for families with kids. The only criticism we had was at night the lighting was maybe a bit too dim especially in lounge area.

Everything was top notch. We had a warm welcome at the airport, assistance with luggage, a boat trip to the resort, a ukele reception, Ning checked us in and gave us a comprehensive tour of the resort so we knew exactly what to plan for the next few days. She is lovely and looked after us throughout our stay, including activity bookings, boat shuttles and dinner reservations. There is so much to praise, I dont know where to start. Our overwater bungalow was a premium one and worth it for the location (great sunset views) and a larger deck from where you can dive into the turquoise lagoon. Bungalow was clean, modern, tastefully decorated and the glass floor was amazing, even though it took me a couple of days to pluck up courage to walk on it! Beach facilities are extensive. If there would be one gripe, it is that the two restaurants became a little predictable if staying more than two nights. Buffets were so-so (on the plain side and some cooking techniques were questionable) but we didnt visit for the food, even though others raved about it. The one waitress who really made our dining events pleasurable was a smiley friendly French girl called Jeanne. Nothing was a problem for her. Overall, an amazing holiday and do make sure that you travel to the main island for variety. Note: it is sooo good arriving back at your overwater bungalow after a big day out driving or fishing.