Money Saving Tips for BORA BORA

[@canbgoofy]

Hi--we just got back from Bora Bora and this video needs several updates. Maybe you can add this to the end or description. The Conrad now charges 150,000 XPF RT PP from the airport and 75,000 RT XPF PP for Vaitape transfers on your check in/check out day. Children under six are free with an adult. The visitor center will no longer store your luggage so if you are carrying a larger suitcase you will be limited in walking around and exploring. They also didn't have much in terms of materials for booking excursions other than a small brochure---they referred us to another shop around the docking area to get more information.

[@mattfrias2007]

Thanks for the updated intel! My fiance and I will go to Bora Bora next March-April.

[@jackieallgayer9362]

Same with us. April timeframe, curious what to expect?

[@fozzybear9114]

No way conrad charges 1400 usd to get from airport to thier resort and back per person i think you are off a couple zeros? They used to charge 125 usd for same thing 4 yrs ago

[@bmloveofficial]

@@fozzybear9114 Inflation made prices sky rocket in all markets

[@FBNick08]

@@bmloveofficial no it’s 15,000 not 150,000

[@aaronolson329]

Stay at a garden cottage at the Sofitel. Breakfast is included and there is a grocery store within walking distance for lunch and snacks and there is a nice cheap burger joint and dinner on the public beach further down the road. You will save tons of cash with those options.

[@jordanmarie241]

We’re staying at Sofitel and they’re saying there’s nothing walking distance?

[@Appoldro]

@@jordanmarie241 Sure there is, just walk down to Matira beach.

[@shinymystery]

I LOVE this video because it was very informational. I plan to go to Bora Bora in 2022 after I finish my graduate studies as a gift for myself. Thank you so much Sebby for posting this! I will follow every single tip you've mentioned.

[@Danny8Ter]

how did it go?

[@dsherma2]

Great video! My wife and I just had our honeymoon at the Hilton Moorea and Conrad Bora Bora. Both were absolutely amazing!! I agree that going to the main island of Vaitape should be a one time deal...not really worth a second trip (boat from Conrad was pretty expensive). Plan your day In Vaitape carefully because the taxis are pretty pricey. Not sure if you went to Moorea or not but we absolutely loved that! The local people were so nice and really made us feel welcome. We plan on going back in 5 years and I will be spending this time earning credit card points. Thanks for all the helpful tips!

[@sueleonard2955]

@@jaunt3603 We are going in August and staying at the Hilton Moorea. What were your favorite restaurants, best things about the resort and best things to do either on own or tours? Thank you!!

[@bobbrown9699]

When I went to Bora Bora it rained all day, every day. Finally I just went on the lagoon and shark tour in the rain. I suggest that you check out the historical weather for these islands before making your plans.

[@PlanetBlake]

Yes, a person should ALWAYS research the weather patterns of any place they plan to vacation. There are plenty of websites available with data on the average rain/sun/temperature for each month of the year. Here is one source..travel.usnews.com/Bora_Bora/When_To_Visit/ There are also ton of traveler reviews out there on sites like Trip Advisor. What month did you go ?

[@cschall4484]

When did you go may I ask? Currently planning a trip there

[@IronHulkTriathlon]

Really helpful video! I love that you brought us through what can be some of the most stressful part of the trip and provided solutions!

[@AmandaFair]

Hi Sebby! Would you be willing to do a post about your filming gear, what cameras you and Mandy use etc.?

[@PlanetBlake]

Certainly very useful tips for saving some money. Bora Bora resorts do charge a lot for alcohol, and even for small snacks. But part of the fun on being on vacation, at least for me anyway, is being served and taken care of. I go grocery shopping at home, and I don't really care to do it when I'm on vacation. I'm not all that interested in buying my own booze and making my own drinks, or eating all the same junk food I eat at home...etc. I guess it all depends on how budget conscious one wants to be on their trip. For many people, ( like me ), I tend to not want to bother with the extra steps of taking the boat to the main island, buying stuff, then doing a taxi and another boat to my resort. After traveling so long, and so many flights just to get to Bora, and being excited to land, all I wanted to do is to get to our beautiful resort ASAP and enjoy the rest of the day's daylight, even if it coasts me a few hundred extra for the resort transfer, high priced resort drinks, and high priced snacks...etc..

[@VisualEntity]

Upload everything 😃 I'm interested in seeing as much content as you can squeeze out of that beautiful trip.

[@canbgoofy]

You mention a follow up video talking about the shopping on Vaitape but I can't seem to find it. Did you end up publishing it somewhere else?

[@bigjohn2810]

My trip plan had all the transfers included, about $12,000 total for two, 10 days, food and airfare included. This looks like the long way, take a boat, then a taxi, then another boat, to get to resort. compared to one boat ride, remember, at this point of trip You're still hauling luggage. I guess I was expecting to see someone that had a real deal to save money. I still think You're video was informative, thanks for sharing. Just a tip, four nights in Bora Bora isn't long enough, in My opinion, to justify 15 to 20+ hours, and at least three planes, to get there. It was a Trip of a Lifetime, worth every penny. #1 on My bucket list!

[@SebbyFung]

I talk about the award travel elements on my main channel (Ask Sebby). a) We used cash for flights (needed cash segments for DL PM challenge) b) Hotels were covered with points/certificates (Conrad + Thalasso) c) Main things left were food (breakfast covered with status), alcohol, and excursions :)

[@SebbyFung]

I think the rationale was that we were going to visit the town at some point, so either: a) free boat => **town** => taxi => paid boat => **resort** b) paid boat => **resort** => paid boat => taxi => **town** => taxi => paid boat => **resort**

[@EtoTheKay]

Where did you stay Joseph?

[@hzyoni]

Is there a way to book those half/ full day tours online for these prices? I am worried to wait and book them on the main island finding out they are all fully booked. (Happened to me in the past on my Bahamas trip)

[@mcomeslast]

I love pearls and would love to see that. Also would love to see the excursions as folks need to eat and most aren’t on budget with the over water villas. Interested in the hotels on land, too.

[@WillShrop]

Good stuff, Sebby. I'm adding this to my Bora Bora playlist for my trip next year.

[@johnlaurastravelchannel3388]

Great Video. I have 2 question. 1) How much cash did you have US and XPF. and 2) what is the cost of food and alcohol at super market?

[@joyofcrochet]

i live in Canada. I love tropical area~!!! miss you all

[@VacationAdventurer]

I just wanted to say thank you for making this video. This is one of my go to videos just to prepare for my trip to Bora Bora.

[@paulgarza8389]

a free boat ride to there ? hell yes ! Instantly subscribed 2u and like the video. Thank you. Any thoughts on renting a car and crashing out in it in order to avoid paying X amount of $'s for a hotel. I dont mind living the homeless life in Bora for 5 days. Thoughts ?

[@gabrielleyva6969]

My tips: Take your alcohol in your checked luggage if you like to drink. We brought 6 bottles of wine and 2 bottles of liquor. We were glad we did, so nice to chill and not have to worry about high resort prices. Also, my recommendation is to take the shuttle offered by the hotel. I know it is more expensive but so much easier and relaxing. Remember time is your most precious commodity in a vacation to Bora Bora. I mean you already have a lot of sunk cost but this is one in my opinion is worth it.

[@SebbyFung]

Agreed, especially if you don't want to lug stuff around / aren't interested in seeing Vaitape.

[@PlanetBlake]

Gabriel leyva: I agree... Just getting to Bora Bora is a big journey, so once there I am not one who wanted to go through the extra steps of using the public ferry and grocery shopping, and then talking taxi, and another ferry..etc. etc... Once you land, it is exciting, and for me I just want to get to the resort and enjoy without burning precious daylight in Vaitape.... But hey, to each their own. Nothing against those who want to do it the other way and save money...

[@michaelic]

Man, this is very helpfful. Where are your other videos in Bora Bora?

[@jasonrogers944]

You guys went shopping before you got your resorts and mention cheap alcohol and snacks, where exactly was that?

[@joechapa]

We stayed in the presidential suite at the Conrad. No stay like it. OMG nice

[@TheReal-trublu357]

I booked 2 activities through expedia and it was pretty expensive......im gonna keep those activities booked and check out this visitor center when i get there! ....thanks for the info.

[@rachelh930]

This video was awesome thanks for sharing!

[@rosewise9896]

Thank you for posting.I am planning a once in a lifetime Tahiti Vacation and appreciate your money saving tips!

[@SuperWHYing]

Check out Costco deals! Grab the dinner package deals! Super well priced and full service

[@sueleonard2955]

@@SuperWHYing Where do you get the Dinner package deals? We already booked our trip directly with the hotels but would love tips on restaurants.

[@SuperWHYing]

Sue Leonard we booked the whole package from Costco! It has flights, transfer, room and dinner! The dinner included was so very worth it

[@veddaga1504]

On peak season fro 6 nights, what do you think the ideal amount at the St Regis Bora Bora garden villa?

[@veddaga1504]

I mean for

[@gregb5876]

Use CSR points to pre-purchase activities thru the Chase portals.

[@veddaga1504]

I found a deal on Marriott that is 340000 points for 5 nights equivalent to $680 a night

[@Vaillant44]

Going there in a week and a half! Can't wait!!! :)

[@melovesfood6714]

Vaillant 44 Good for you :)

[@apriljaco3388]

I was wonder. What water taxi company did you use to get to your hotel and how much did you pay?

[@khalilk6538]

Excellent video Sebastian. Do you recommend maldives or bora bora ?

[@myshlbeyer8294]

So good- thanks! Going in Oct

[@Moonitot]

Wow amazing Island.. thank you for sharing like ❤👍

[@paulgarza8389]

one more thing.. a ferry ride from Tahiti to Bora vs. the plane ride - ideas or knowledge ?

[@Drohead20]

Can you buy alcohol on Sunday?we arrive on a Sunday so wondering if we should go to the town .

[@REIGREHGKJREHGER]

love this vid. great tips

[@daphnewells4530]

Where did you stay? Was it worth it? What’s the exchange rate for US dollars? Ty!

[@dsenart]

So we can get from the airport to Vaitape for free, how do I get from Vaitape to Le Meridien Resort? My biggest concern is food cost on the resort.

[@cdez8486]

Great video going there in April. The person selling the trips is quoting prices in USD, but do they accept USD?

[@CopperHueCollectionsChippewa]

You gave great tips, thanks!

[@rachelh930]

When we went to Bora Bora last month, I packed different zipblock bags in different sizes (and brought it to the breakfast buffet) and packed 4 bottles of wine in my suitcase. I had to have saved at least $500 just by doing those two moves. If that's not the definition of balling on a budget, I don't know what is...

[@paulgarza8389]

U Rock ! (you think that i (man) can find a place to crash out on some steps or at a park for 3 days ? I plan 7 days there and hotel-ing it in Tahiti and of those 7 days ...3 day-ing it in Bora Bora and not getting a place to stay in order to blow all my $ on excursions and living out of a back pack (and zip locks lol) ???

[@Beachboyweezy]

Same when i traveled to puerto vallarta as far as them wanting you to take taxis or shuttles..known as the "shark tank" of they airport right when you pass the customs. they were super aggresive and made it seem like a taxi or shuttle is the only way..i read that people would say ignore them or just say "no gracias" and when i did just that they started to follow me and yell at me until I got out the airport lol. Nice video btw

[@carolinakumamaru2908]

How far is the visitor center from the airport ? How to get there ?

[@hridoyarrong]

Lovely informative video. Will be great if you can do one on how to reach there from India. Because Indians must have a visa before visiting French Polynesia.

[@jamiemonroe2622]

hello thanks for the video, how much did you pay for the accommodation? and where was it in Bora Bora?

[@BabyBytheBeach]

Amazing video! You should do one for every country you visit. What countries are currently on the top of your travel bucket list?!

[@mattfrias2007]

Thanks Sebby! My fiance and I plan to visit Bora Bora in March-April 2023 for our honeymoon. So I know that March-April is shoulder season, and there is a mild weather risk (rainy season). I researched the historical weather data for March, and it's not too bad. For example, second half of March 2022 was quite dry. Any thoughts on people's prior experiences traveling to Bora Bora in March-April would be most appreciated.

[@Akumaa2000]

Me and my wife and her brother and his wife are going next week, the weather service says it’s supposed to be rain but hopefully it’ll change by time we get there.

[@MaluluKeleGuiSila]

At 5:00 point mark the taxi driver in red DID say “everything open” so he wasn’t lying

[@lhaynes5587]

Curious - how much, on average, did you tip per excursion?

[@elliottgyll8453]

'O Tahiti nehenehe roa, Je veux y allerrrrr

[@lesio333]

Can you post some websites for booking tours?

[@sueleonard2955]

I would like this as well.

[@delarebaby9351]

How do you pay for things. Do I have to convert cash or can I use card

[@yz9550]

yes! Ive been waiting for this video!!!!

[@SebbyFung]

:)

[@Dragflyer9669]

I am so interested in French Polynesian and Air Tahiti. I am surfing around and found your video. You have very interesting descriptions and everything is clearly presented. Love your video. *Subscribe* :-)

[@alexlirio1359]

Do you need French Polinisian dollar in bora bora?

[@JdcorpUSA]

This is a very misleading video. Point one: The author stayed in Hilton Conrad Hotel which is located in an island To Opua which is not in the main island in Bora Bora. He did not saved any money because he has to take a boat of Conrad Hotel to get to his hotel. The bottom line is, really depends on where you are staying. If your hotel is located in the main island of Bora Bora, YES take the free ferry provided by Air Tahiti otherwise take the private boat being offered by your hotel host (Conrad, Thalasso, St. Regis or Four Season or other hotel islands in Bora Bora. Point Two: LIQUORS CHEAP. Maybe sound stereotyping, Asians don’t drink (BTW I’m Asian). It’s either he is talking some local beer in Tahiti but liqours are IMPORTED = EXPENSIVE. Bottom line two is, you want to save buy Liqours from DFS or just BYOL. Point three: Try not to do everything in one trip unless you’re on a day trip. It’s Bora Bora. Bottom line is, if you want to see the island plan a full day going around and do your shopping and what have you. If your hotel is in the main island, it goes around in circle. You will have time to go and buy your groceries, shopping (there’s really not much to shop there unless you are into sarong, pearls ir tiki). Bora Bora is for exploration. Pick the tours that fits you. They’re basically all the same type i.e. watersports.

[@yoog1]

Great Video Sebby! Unfortunately I only have one IHG Premier card... Everything there seems a bit pricey.

[@SebbyFung]

It's mostly about stacking points / anniversary nights (Amex Hilton cards).

[@taicho_]

Excursion video!!!🙌 skip or just do it😀

[@Carola18]

Muchas gracias por el video ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️❤️♥️❤️♥️

[@pakbew8159]

Nice

[@michaelpollina8034]

what time of the year was this trip?

[@toylerdtadsin709]

Thank you Sebby. Excellent info. God bless 🙏😇

[@Laura-hv7vz]

I see Mandy carry on Peak Design backpack, are she happy with that? Also they just announced an amazing tripod, check it up

[@SebbyFung]

She loves the Everyday pack, but it's too small for all of my equipment. I'm sticking with Travel Pack since it has removable modular compartments.

[@LanguageChameleon]

Why don't you guys get packages instead? THey cost around $4-7K - is doing everything on your much cheaper? I'm planning to buy a package and stay on those over-water bangalows... Just asking :)

[@robertborowski5240]

How much is 4 night stay for 2 roughly here at the Conrad ?

[@ВладиславРадовановић]

Its about 100€ per person for one night so it would be about 800€ if there is no other offers. But im not sure so check it on internet. And also that price is not including food, drinks I think.

[@ericchiu165]

Bora Bora is very Beautiful Island 👍

[@TravelQuintessence]

Great Video 👍🏿 Bora Bora ❤️

[@SebbyFung]

Thanks!

[@TheThinkinGuy]

dont you hate when the day u arrive it's cloudy.

[@aaronolson329]

Use Google phone to call and book excursions. It is very cheap.

[@forbiddendonut]

Does the Air Tahiti Lounge allow entrance with Priority Pass if I am stopping for a few hours on my way to BOB? My flight arrives at 5am and it would be nice to freshen up and grab a bite to eat.

[@Karen-ot3fv]

Air Tahiti doesn’t have a “private or Premiere-like” lounge. Just a public waiting area.

[@coolshotimagery4109]

Can anyone link the article on asksebby.com? I can't find it.

[@dyhppyx]

Which excursions would you recommend? Did you happen to see skydiving prices?

[@SebbyFung]

The swim with sharks + stingrays was my favorite excursion. Didn't see skydiving prices.

[@dyhppyx]

Thanks

[@justinwilliams2273]

What's the alcohol prices like seb??

[@SebbyFung]

Expect to pay $18+/drink at the resorts. Might be better to buy a bottle/mixers at the airport duty free shop or the grocery store.

[@sueleonard2955]

@@SebbyFung Was there a duty free shop at Papeete airport once you land or should we grab at LAX?

[@iiAngelic]

What is the cheapest route from Papeete to BOB?

[@SebbyFung]

There's only one airline so they can set the prices. I've seen a few "package" deals via United that end up saving a $100-$200 (i.e., booking SFO-PPT-BOB all on itinerary via UA). The argument for PPT is if you want to do Moorea as well vs. just Bora Bora.

[@Grief2Win]

You need to advertise this channel on your main channel.

[@marilyngaspar7233]

Do you still remember the tour companies in bora bora. We are going in 2 weeks by cruise. Thanks

[@Karen-ot3fv]

Marilyn Gaspar When you disembark the ship’s tender, tour operators are present offering a multitude of excursions, be they on land or on the lagoon.

[@thermann9]

Very helpful insider tips, thank you! And don't worry about the water, you're on vacation. Get out there and enjoy it.

[@charliemolie]

Super helpful :)

[@SebbyFung]

Thanks :)

[@sanderson1795]

Great video! I think it would be good to include maps in your content to better illustrate getting from one place to another.

[@SebbyFung]

Thanks for the tip!

[@2tickets1world]

So... Vaitape is where we go for excursions and alcohol lol?

[@totalkaos6969]

get what you paid. dont be cheap and have a good time!!!

[@bdiopgfe2513]

It’s beautiful France

[@whattheheck9641]

seems over priced and flooded with people... hmm thank you im going to search for a different destination

[@AdrianGarcia-jh8ry]

Sebby let me be your vlog cinematographer!

[@lanceryderwilson8618]

You also need a plan and some faith

[@sayittomyfaceidareyou8629]

You could also climb the tree and get your own coconuts so you can drink them. 😆 🤣 15,000 phone bill That's more Than the trip there. Wtf

[@OhGodisaLiar]

It doesn't look all that! In the photos Bora Bora looks so good. But real life, nah...

[@aus-reviews8462]

logistics seem terrible

[@joechapa]

Why go if ur on a budget to bora bora. It's f n awesome and u should enjoy each minute

[@carysymmons983]

why in the world would you stay out on the Motu's (Four Season's, etc) waaaaaay over priced

[@torres7918]

this video did not seem informative at all no cost breakdowns or anything wtf. waste of time

[@jovandraganescu1406]

He’s my advice, don’t go ! Go to Thailand and vacation like a king for wayyyy less.

[@rrocketman]

Thanks very much for this, good job👍