TETIAROA ISLAND: Exclusive, romantic and luxury. Super-exclusive and unique paradise. You can save any of these statements to describe a break at this resort. Mark as expensive before you touch down on the small airport of Tetiaroa, far away from rest of the world.
This isolated island was discovered in 1960 by Hollywood star Marlon Brando when he stumbled across the atoll while scouting locations for Mutiny on the Bounty. Brando liked it so much he bought it for 200,000 euro – about 1 million euro in today’s money. He built an airstrip, a village of huts and – importantly for Brando – a bar. Then left his Polynesian wife, Tarita, to run this place.
Royal playground
The Polynesian atoll of Tetiaroa has always been considered somewhat of a royal playground for the wealthy and high class people. As a paradise, the quiet beaches are about as good as it gets for those fortunate enough to spend time on them. The atoll’s 13 islets are all classic secluded paradises of white sand and coconut trees. Surrounding a dreamy lagoon in the South Pacific, 33 miles north of Tahiti. Here you find purple coral gardens, 160 species of fish, 10,000 pairs of breeding seabirds and tropic birds.
The Brando
Years after the actor’s death, a plan to turn Tetiaroa into The Brando came up. The ultimate and exclusive eco resort. New technology could draw cold water from the ocean depths to cool the rooms, and electricity obtained from the sun and a bio fuel thermal power station.
To do and see
Tetiaroa is one of the Windwards Islands in French Polynesia. Getting there is a bit of a process. There is a small runway, but no regularly flight running today. The most common way to get to the atoll is by sailing or use service of charter companies for a day trip. There is a relatively limited amount of things to do and see. Most people just want to hang out and relax and head for the for the nearest coconut tree with a book. Other activities are going to “Bird Island”, swimming and snorkeling in the unique lagoon packed with marine species. Remember, the nearest scuba outfit is on Tahiti.
Bright future
But Tetiaroa has a bright future. The eco resort contains 35 villas and extravagant treatment such as spa, fitness centre, pool and various activities such as scuba diving. Guy Martin in Paris has provided the menu. Five days all-inclusive in a one-bedroom villa costs nearly 20,000 euro per couple, with flights from London to Tahiti via Los Angeles. Good to know that swimming with turtles and dolphins are included in the price.
Booking & prices The Brando
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