"The strikingly contemporary InterContinental consists of 80 identical overwater villas, which extend into the warm lagoon like two claws, with the only differences being the views—of the lagoon, the beach, or beyond toward the mythic profile of Bora Bora. Floor-to-ceiling windows, Lucite ceiling fans, big tubs overlooking the water, and bathrooms with black slate floors reflect the clean modern aesthetic throughout, culminating with the Philippe Starck–inspired, all-white Bubbles bar. The atmosphere, too, is more South Beach than South Pacific, down to the stylishly clad reception staff and shirtless tattooed cabana boys by the infinity-edge pool. At the one-of-a-kind Deep Ocean Spa, the first thalassotherapy center in French Polynesia, you’re given a pareu and flip-flops as an alternative to the staid robe and slippers. In a savvy environmental move, the resort pumps in cold seawater to feed the air-conditioning system and for use at the spa."
