French Polynesia vs. The Maldives: Which Overwater Escape Is Right for You?

French Polynesia (Bora Bora, Moorea, Tahiti):

Luxury doesn’t come cheap, but it can be more approachable than the Maldives depending on your travel dates.

Expect higher airfare (especially from the East Coast U.S.), but resort pricing can vary — from boutique luxury to ultra-high-end.

Keep in mind: most resorts in Bora Bora and Moorea do not include meals or drinks unless you're booking a package, so budgeting for food & beverages is key.

💡 Advisor Tip:

Did you know you’re allowed to bring up to 2 liters of alcohol per adult into French Polynesia?

Many travelers bring a favorite bottle of wine or spirits from home to enjoy at the resort — especially since alcohol on-property can be quite expensive.

Maldives:

Often more affordable to fly to from Europe or Asia, but resort costs are generally higher — especially at 5-star private island properties.

That said, many resorts include half-board or full-board, which helps streamline the budget once you arrive.

Seaplane transfers (typically $400–$900 per person) and add-ons like spa treatments or private excursions can significantly increase the final cost.

💡Tip:

A 7-night luxury Maldives trip for two, including flights and full-board, often starts around $10–15k+ depending on travel season and resort category