Fabulous Four Seasons Service Bora Bora

There are times I am completely astounded by excellent service – and on multiple occasions at a Four Seasons Resort  I’ve been the recipient of an extraordinary effort by a hotel team member.

My first afternoon in Bora Bora, I hopped aboard one of the hotel boats to explore the village of Vaitape, Bora Bora’s largest town and wharf. It supplies the villagers with groceries, local commerce is transacted at the Banque de Tahiti, colorful stamps can be purchased at the Post Office, and besides a black pearl emporium on every corner, there are a few interesting tourist shops and small cafes, and a Protestant church. Lots of dogs, actually more free roaming dogs than I have ever seen – all friendly and curious, no nasty snarling.

Many more interesting sights were discovered on the local lanes swarming with young friendly children who wanted to see their images on my camera. Kids whose main apparel seemed to be undies or swimsuits – hot humid weather certainly reduces  clothing needs. The scene was so not home – when was the last time you saw kids untethered and undressed with not a care in the world other than who could scurry first to the top of a dirt pile?

On my travels, I frequently look for local art as my son and my daughter-in-law decline hats, bracelets and exotic salt and fragrant spices from my travels. My last stop on the fleeting circuit was at a home design shop that yielded an oil painting of a striking Tiki face – a Picasso-esqe Cubist rendering of a Tiki…and in my favorite tones. Black and silver with a dash of red…it spoke to me and just as importantly, it would fit in my suitcase. I had already been lectured by Tahiti Nui air on my bags and forced to downsize a carry-on for the short hop…small acquisitions were imperative.

Happy with my treasure, I strolled back to the idling Four Seasons motorboat. I was early and the two boatmen welcomed me aboard, as I stepped across the rail, I handed them my camera bag and accidentally dropped my purchase into the sea…. barely a block away and my one prize was in the drink….Tea, quickly reached down between the boat and the pier and fished out the dripping wet bag… unfolding the bubble wrap we both smiled as we discovered Tiki power withstood the sea, it was barely damp. His boat Captain, Apera, said let me go back to the shop and have it repackaged – just like that- not even a moment for me to ask for help or shed a tear; they both jumped to action beyond the call of kindness and responsibility. Moments later he appeared with a freshly wrapped bag with my Tiki Picasso ready for airline inspection.

Tea & Apera- Four Seasons Heros

Tea & Apera- Four Seasons Bora Bora Heroes

These random acts of kindness don’t materialize at every hotel property – trust me; the Four Seasons team members are truly courteous, kind and exceptionally interested in providing sensational service.

That evening, I emailed their photos to Michel Volk, the hotel GM,  with my highest praise. My Tiki is in my office watching over me, reminding me a gorgeous day on the beautiful Bora Bora seas, in a lovely port and the generous spirit of two delightful and caring Tahitian boatmen.

Maururu Roa Tea & Apera! Apera