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Just back from a whirlwind trip to French Polynesia, with stops in Tahiti, Moorea and Bora Bora. It's tough to know where to start, but Le Meridien in Bora Bora, famous for its over-water huts, an interactive turtle preserve and an incredible lagoon, is a resort that jumps out for all the right reasons. Look for more updates from my trip to be posted shortly.
 The main island of Bora Bora is in the background, encircled by a protective lagoon enclosed by numerous outlining motus (small islands). Le Meridien is located on a motu exclusive to itself, which provides guests ample privacy and a spectacular view of Bora Bora's most famous landmark shown here, Mt. Otemanu.
 Sunrises are worth the early wake up at Le Meridien. Just don't expect to see many others -- especially if you're staying in the over-water huts, which are favored by honeymooners.
I was told that the water color changes daily, and can get much bluer (and lighter) than this, though its clarity rarely wavers. Note the private porches on the over-water huts, and the staircases into the water. Snorkel off your front porch or just cool off with a quick swim.
 Here's a peek inside an over-water hut at Le Meridien. Watch fish from the comfort of your bedroom, or enjoy the water's natural light filter through the room with an ever-present reminder that you're in Bora Bora. To be sure, you can walk on the glass floor without fear.
 This is the inner lagoon of Le Meridien. Located between the ocean and the main lagoon encircling Bora Bora, this area allows guests to swim with turtles and other marine life. Families typically favor the huts along the lagoon for their convenience and sandy beaches.
 Le Meridien's protected inner lagoon is home to its Turtle Sanctuary. Guests can feed, swim with and learn about Green and Hawksbill turtles being raised and rehabilitated. Guests can even adopt a turtle, track its progress within the inner lagoon and take part in its release into the wild.
 Green turtles like these are common in the inner lagoon. Their name comes from the color of their body fat, which is light green due to their diet of sea grass and algae. These turtles start their lives as meat eaters -- eating fish and other marine life -- before becoming vegetarians as they mature.
 Here's the main beach at Le Meridien. Jetskis, kayaks, outrigger canoes, windsurfers, volleyball -- they're all accessible, and included in the nightly rate.
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