Brittany on the beach of the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort.
Photo Credit: Julie Rosendo

Let’s face it… vacationing in Tahiti can be downright expensive and there aren’t many ways to save big. You can try to buy a package deal, use your air miles to help get you there or try to eat at local eateries, which if you are on the island of Bora Bora can be quite hard to do without having to spend money on a water taxi. I know. You still have your heart set on seeing paradise on earth for your honeymoon or trip of a lifetime. Fortunately, there is one money-saving tip that can help out a lot.

Overwater bugalows at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort.
Photo Credit: Brittany Pierce

Are you ready for it? The key is to limit your stay in the ever so romantic overwater bungalows. You’re probably giving me the side eye right about now, but here’s the real. Although picturesque, the overwater bungalows can often times be double or triple the cost of a garden suite or hotel room. But here’s the upside, often times the garden suite offers more space and is just as beautiful in its own right. I stayed at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort on the island of Bora Bora. For just one night I stayed in an overwater bungalow. I had to have the experience if even just for a few hours. Waking up to the sound of tranquil water, enjoying the sunrise and breakfast out on the terrace, counting all the different species of fish spotted and joining them for a swim whenever desired should definitely be a part of everyone’s Tahitian experience. But after a night or two, pack your bags and move to a different room or if you are island hopping book a hotel room or a garden or beach suite for the remainder of your stay.

Garden suite at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort.
Photo Credit: Julie Rosendo

My garden suite was privately enclosed with a terrace, private pool and lounge. It also had an outdoor shower in a tropical garden setting. It was beautifully decorated in iconic Tahitian style and the air conditioning made it a pleasant stay during the hot, tropical nights. On top of that, it was 200 square feet larger than the overwater bungalow, so I had plenty of room for all of my luggage and production gear.

Garden suite’s private lounge and pool at the Bora Bora Pearl Beach Resort.
Photo Credit: Brittany Pierce

So do yourself a favor, book the garden suite! Your wallet will certainly thank you.