ROOM KEY

CHECKING IN …

THE ST. REGIS BORA BORA RESORT BY AMY ROBERTS

BORA BORA HAS LONG BEEN SYNONYMOUS WITH LOVE AND ROMANCE, and for good reason. With its gemstone-colored waters, overwater bungalows, and postcard-worthy beaches, it’s difficult to envision a more unspoiled or serene destination for adoring newlyweds. And while the honeymoon phase is far from over, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort takes things to the next level—catering to families just as much as couples.

The only resort in Bora Bora to offer two separate pools— one for all ages, the other adults-only—The St. Regis also boasts a private lagoonarium featuring tranquil water and colorful marine life (look for the resident Napoleon fish, Thierry), a complimentary Kids Club, and unlimited access to a plethora of water toys including snorkel equipment, standup paddle boards, water bikes, kayaks, a Hobie Cat sailboat, and more.

In addition to its famed over-water bungalows (the largest in all of Bora Bora), the resort also offers two-bedroom reefside villas, two-bedroom overwater villas, and for those with a larger family and budget, a three-bedroom Royal Estate Villa.

Opposite: The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort. Clockwise from top left: Snorkeling among the sea’s wonders during a manta ray safari; sea-to-table cuisine; toasting the mighty Mount Otemanu.

An exclusive stretch of white-sand beach, private pool, and chef’s kitchen are just a few of the amenities you’ll find in this 13,000-square-foot residence.

Delightful surprises like frangipani-infused chilled towels at the beach, fresh fruit served poolside, and dedicated cruiser bikes for peddling about make it easy to understand how this five-star resort consistently nabs the number-one ranking for guest satisfaction across all Marriot properties worldwide. The only downside? Readjusting to the “real world” without 24/7 butler service. CONSERVATION & PRESERVATION: While turquoise

blue is the predominate color in French Polynesia, The St. Regis is committed to green. General manager Emmanuel Richardet has prioritized protecting the area’s delicate ecosystem and plans to eliminate all single-use plastics by 2023. Other initiatives include an onsite coral restoration program, upgrading the resort’s waste management systems, and even hiring a full-time environmental engineer focused on sustainability. SERENITY NOW: Nestled on its own island in the resort’s private lagoonarium, the Iridium Spa bestows floor-to-ceiling windows ushering in panoramic views of Mount Otemanu. Treatments include body scrubs, wraps, facials, and more. For the ultimate in relaxation, try the signature Polynesian massage. BON APPÉTIT: With a total of four restaurants sprinkled across the resort, plus a bar menu and 24/7 room service, dining options are plentiful. But a meal at the Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges is widely considered the top culinary experience in all of Bora Bora. Known for his eclectic mix of flavors in both food and drink (think jalapeno, thyme, and kiwi cocktails), Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s creations are both award-winning and mouth-watering. Plus, a vegan and vegetarian menu is available upon request. UNDER THE SEA: Snorkeling with stingrays and reef sharks is a must, and the resort’s concierge can arrange beneath-the-sea excursions. There are several experiences available; be sure to book one that includes a manta ray safari. And for those who are scuba certified, dive a little deeper and explore the abundant pelagic marine species.

Talk about Tulum …

THE ANTICIPATED CONRAD TULUM RIVIERA MAYA IS POISED FOR ELEVATED PLAY.

IF THERE IS ONE AREA OF MEXICO THAT HAS SEEN AN INFLUX OF BOHEMIAN LUXURY, it’s the trendy coastal outpost of Tulum. Hugging white-sand beaches and clear waters of a pristine bay, the new Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya is a secluded oasis with decadent décor. This brand new resort should rapidly climb your travel wish list, and here’s why. SEE: Famed for beautiful beaches, lagoons, cenotes, and historic ruins, Tulum attracts both laidback hipsters and adventurous families. The Yucatan Peninsula has so much to experience—make time to discover the Tulum Archaeological Zone, dive or snorkel the beautiful Gran Cenote, explore the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, and shop the hip boutiques that anchor downtown Tulum.

STAY: Discover a tranquil escape located off the beaten path and directly on the spectacular shores of the Mexican Caribbean. Uninterrupted from the world’s distractions, seek harmony, find balance, and experience natural luxury. The resort includes 349 oceanfront and tropical view guestrooms and suites, five resort pools and sundecks, plus escorted private transportation to the resort (a two-hour drive from Cancun International Airport). The One Bedroom Governor’s Suite features inspiring views from floor-to-ceiling windows in all rooms and private stylish dining room that seats eight. SIP & SAVOR: Expect 11 restaurants and bars inspired by the wellness concepts integrated into the property and known throughout the region. Dining selections range from signature restaurants with global-inspired cuisine to casual poolside and grab-and-go light fare. Inspired by a design that evokes the calmness and beauty of the Aegean world, Maratea Mediterranean restaurant celebrates Mediterranean cuisine with a small- and medium-plates menu. Restaurant ‘de Autor’ Chefs features a sophisticated chef’s table and tasting room concept, with Mexican avant-garde cuisine and a chef’s menu. SPA: The spa features 16 treatment rooms, hydromassage therapy, wet areas, and a salon. Inspired by the shape of a cenote, or cave, and tucked away from the main resort, the unique design creates an authentic and secluded sanctuary. SERVICE: Your personalized concierge will help you unwind, or fill your day with only-in-Tulum activities, spa treatments, and excursions to nearby attractions. Tulum city center, underwater caves, amusement parks, and more are all within 15 minutes. DID YOU KNOW: Tulum is known for its beautiful underground cenotes, ancient Mayan ruins, and the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. The cenotes are ideal to snorkel or scuba dive (advanced divers), while the many famous ruins make for impressive day trip outings. The Sian Ka’an reserve is home to thousands of species of flora and fauna.

Expedition Ready

PONANT DEBUTS LE COMMANDANT CHARCOT.

BY MEREDITH DIERS

READY TO EXPLORE THE ENDS OF THE EARTH? Discover the immensity, silence, and unknown of the Arctic and Antarctica as you experience sea ice on the very first hybrid-electric polar exploration ship—Le Commandant Charcot by Ponant. The ship navigates deep into the middle of ice, where only a PC2 polar class ship can safely venture. What’s more, travelers will experience a combination of exploration and science. Biologists, naturalists, engineers, glaciologists, and geologists are all on deck to ensure safety and share their passion for the poles.

SAILING SUSTAINABLY

Le Commandant Charcot opens the gateways to the highest latitudes of the Arctic and Antarctic. The vessel is equipped with a hybrid LNG propulsion system, battery bank, routing software, and energy management systems that contribute to optimizing and maintaining fuel consumption. The ship also recycles its own energy as the Brazier, Blue Lagoon pools, and promenade deck benches are all heated via recuperation of energy generated by the ship’s propulsion system. The ship also features wildlife detectors and anchor-free electronic positioning to protect the seabed and marine wildlife. With a reduction in noise and vibrations as well as zero fine-particle emissions, Le Commandant Charcot works to preserve the pristine regions of the poles. Plus, Ponant is committed to zero breaking of ancient ice.

IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCES

Ponant travelers will encounter an exceptional range of wildlife in marine sanctuaries overlooked by ice shelves, cathedral-like icebergs, and unexplored volcanic islands. Le Commandant Charcot passengers can also experience the thrill of polar adventures via a kayak, zodiac, or hovercraft to get up close to wildlife. After a day exploring the ice, relax in the ship’s Blue Lagoon heated pool while enjoying passing vistas of ice floe and towering icebergs.