Apr 17

Apr 17 HUTs Is How We Do It!

Over-water Bungalows Closer Than You Would Think

The infamous Overwater Huts that scream paradise, that we ALL dream of, and we have added to our mental travel bucket list a billion times, began in a way you might find interesting.

Condé Nast Traveler shares the story in, “The Secret History Behind Those Overwater Bungalows You Love So Much.” It all started as the brainchild of a trio of American expats longing for paradise in 1959. They decided to quit their lucrative jobs as lawyers, stockbrokers, and sales reps to open up a series of hotels in their beloved Tahiti. When they realized that the small Tahitian Island of Ra'iātea didn’t have a beach, but wanted tourism and publicity, they came up with the first ever Overwater Bungalows surrounding the beautiful reefs. They modeled them after native fishing huts and the rest is history. 1962 was their big break, when Life magazine depicted Island living in Tahiti. The tourism boom ignited and helped this trio gain the attention needed to expand their hotels to Moorea. Popularity grew and now there are over 170 resorts, 2/3 of which are in the Maldives, which have these glorious accommodations.

Once $30 per couple per night including meals in the 1960’s, these Overwater Bungalows are now pricing up to $5,000 per night in these locations. While we are all saving for this epic vacation so we can be amongst the likes of honeymooners such as Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, perhaps we can find something very similar closer to home so flights and accommodations will be easier on the purse strings.

Whether it is over a tropical sea or a pristine bay, here are my suggestions if you are looking to quench your Overwater Bungalow thirst.

THE CARIBBEAN

ST. LUCIA

Sandals® Grande St. Lucian Spa and Beach Resort All Inclusive