Owner- Teri J. Young

Owner-  Teri J. Young
With warmest aloha...

Saturday, November 26, 2011

Beautiful Kauai...

Aloha from Kauai!

For my last adventure of this year I went home. Home to my beautiful Island of Kauai! My special place of aloha, of peace, of wonderful memories.

Kauai is the one island I have always described; "As the island that looks like you think Hawaii is supposed to look like- if you have never been there before!" It is very, very old, so lots and lots of beaches! It is very green, and we have many water falls- everywhere!

This visit I stayed at a place very dear to me... The Grand Hyatt Kauai in Poipu. This resort is truly 'self-contained'. Acres of gardens and water. Several restaurants to choose from, and don't forget the shopping! The pools (yes multiple) make this amazing resort so special. From the adult pool area, to the lazy flowing canals, to the family pool and water slide! You will also find a fresh water- and -salt water lagoon. (Just in case the ocean is more then you care for.) This magnificent resort sits on the famous Poipu Bay Golf Course, and an excellent riding stable is just down the road!

But most important of all is the way this special island makes you feel. At peace, happy, and okay just being there. The sense of 'place', the spirit of aloha lives here. Oh there is plenty to do if you want! People come from around the world to hike some of these trails! But if you really want to find serenity... come to Kauai.

Just some special thoughts... from this Travel Professional.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

Travel Pink, Travel O'ahu...

Aloha ~

I have just returned from another amazing and deeply moving experience on the beautiful island of O'ahu. As I do every October; I went to celebrate life, and help make a difference in the fight against breast cancer! We had a spectacular turn out with over seven thousand in attendance!

My stay began at the wonderful Hyatt Regency Waikiki! Currently going through some very special changes; new terrace restaurant called 'Shor', and now open 'Japengo'! Both are very, very good, and I will go again! Mahalo nui to my ohana; Renee and Kaitlin you are both so good to me, and my clients are never disappointed!

On Thursday evening we started our Travel Pink, Travel O'ahu events with a bang! Our spiritual and beautiful Iwalani spoke with passion of her own fight against cancer, and of her healing gardens on the island. We then were entertained by the awesome talent of Danny Couch! Both of these very special people brought me peace, joy, and hope. I truly look forward to seeing them both again very soon!

On Friday we spent a gorgeous day at Kualoa Ranch, Auntie Iwalani's Gardens, the Waimea Valley, and the royal "birthing stones' in the north shore. It would take three postings to explain the absolute breath taking beauty of these locations. But I will say this; anyone who tries to say, "Oahu is just a big city...", has never been out of Waikiki, or have really seen this special island!

Saturday afternoon we enjoyed a very special event. After all these years- a first even for me! We had high tea at the Moana Surfrider, on the verandah, under the banyan tree! It was great fun, all our ohana in attendance and all dressed up in our finest aloha attire. I highly recommend this old style tradition and event to everyone!

Sunday morning came very early, and our race/walk for the cure did begin at 615AM! The Travel Pink, Travel O'ahu team met early and walked together to Kapiolani Park. Spirits were high, and everyone (over seven thousand strong) all felt as one. This year's efforts were a learning experience for us all. But we are hopeful for great success and an even bigger turn out next year!

By choice I left the Waikiki area after the race and spent my last four days at the gorgeous Kahala Resort. My beautiful sister Shannon, and our Cici- you both deserve the world! Your special attention to detail and endless desire to make things as perfect as possible, well... still astound me. My days spent watching 'my dolphins', who I could sit with for hours! My walks on the beach, and the food! It was needless to say the perfect end, to a perfect stay on O'ahu.

Until you have these types of experiences, or at least hear about them first hand (from someone like me!), then you must return to this special island! The spirit of aloha is strong here. The history and the culture deserves your time, and exploration.

Just a few heart felt thoughts- from the Travel Professional!

Friday, September 30, 2011

September at Disneyland!

Hey there everyone!

There is just so much so tell! My recent trip to Disneyland was absolutely spectacular! Not only was it my annual "Agent Education Program", a requirement for my continued education with Disney. But I also celebrated my birthday!

My trip began with my flight to Orange County. My coach awaited- the Disneyland Express! Took me directly to Disney's beautiful Grand Californian! I checked in right away, to my awesome king room, overlooking the courtyard! Then proceeded to the Storyteller's Cafe downstairs. My favorite dish awaited... their famous 'corn chowder'! A perfect lunch before a quick trip into Disney's California Adventure Park. I was there of course to experience for the first time... "The Little Mermaid". It was truly adorable. But most important- wow- the animatronics! Huge advances since the days of "Mr. Lincoln" for sure! Loved this ride!

The days ahead were filled with learning, sites of hotels, and walking our bottoms off! But no company educates and keeps you interested like Disney!

My special, "magical moment", it happened in front of the outstanding new- "Star Tours- the adventure continues". Truly an amazing accomplishment! This ride has progressed from the once fun, and exciting ride to "Endor" (same one for 25 years!). To the now over the top choices of 54 different adventures! Anyway; I had ridden the ride the first time on Friday, ended up on Sunday having to wait for a very long time for my second adventure! Low and behold, after 50 minutes... the same tour! Leave it to me, 54 possibilities, and I get the same one twice!! So I asked the Cast Member out front of the ride, just what is the rotation, or method for selection. She explained it was truly random, and done by computer. I told her my story, and that I had stood for so long to see my second tour, only to have it repeated. At that moment, she pulled a "Fast Pass" from her pocket, and told me I should not have to wait... go now and enjoy! So I did! It was awesome and wonderful, and not the same tour! Such a wonderful thing, and I could not have been happier!

There is 'magic' everyday at Disney- you just have to believe!

My thoughts- on this very special topic- from this Travel Professional!

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Summer Fun at it's Best!

Hi Everyone!

Here we are in the middle of summer! Traditionally still the times of our childhoods. The spaces in our lives where the best memories wait for us! It's time you made more of those memories happen. Whether for yourself, your kids, maybe your parents. Having those special times when we laughed hysterically, or was touched by emotion, is when life is at it's best!

Disney helps make those kind of memories for everyone! Young or old, it is about the 'kid' in us all. From where it all began... Disneyland, to the excitement of all there is to offer at Walt Disney World! As an "Authorized Disney Vacation Planner", I am able to make these experiences a part of your special memories.

Every summer Disney makes all things new again! From the newest parades and fireworks, to spectacular stage productions! There is always something new waiting for you, no matter how many times you may have visited these exciting destinations! The all new "Little Mermaid... Ariel's Adventure", in Disney's California Adventure Park. How about the 50+ flights scheduled for "Star Tours... The Adventure Continues"!

Then there is the most exciting "new" opening of all... Aulani! The Disney resort experience set to open August 29th! Located right on the beautiful beaches of Ko'Olina, thirty minutes north of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki! This destination promises the sun, fun, and fine dining of all the best of them! From the luxury of a gorgeous spa, to the meandering pools and waterways. From the Hawaiian 'Hale' style entrance that welcomes you home, to the traditional breakfast with Mickey and Minnie! (Only they too are on vacation... so fun!) This time spent in Hawaii also promises to be one of those very special memories!

I always said;..."When my two favorite things in the world collide- I'm going to be one happy girl!" That is about to be a reality! So contact me today, and let me help you plan your next memory of a lifetime!

Just my summertime thoughts... from this Travel Professional.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Aloha from the Islands...

Aloha Everyone!

So my latest visit to Hawaii in May was pretty special! I don't usually visit three islands in one trip, it's against my own recommendations! But this trip was a bit different, and for very special reasons! I was honored by my wholesaler, Classic Vacations, for having a pretty great year in 2010! Mahalo nui loa, to all of my wonderful clients and friends for the support and continued trust in DreamCatcher Vacations.

My adventure began on Hawaii, "The Big Island". Magnificent and powerful as always. I was blessed with a deluxe ocean view room at the beautiful Fairmont Orchid. It felt like coming home! I was pampered, I ate great food at Brown's, and relaxed! My favorite server anywhere took awesome care of me... Aloha Tremaine! I look forward to returning very soon!

Next stop... Maui. I was equally spoiled at the spectacular Fairmont Kea Lani. I stayed in a deluxe ocean view suite, and did not really want to leave it! Between the spa, the amazing restaurants, the wonderful service. You could honestly just check in at the Kea Lani, and not ever leave! To my beautiful Tiare, mahalo nui loa for making me feel so special!

From Maui I was home... to O'ahu! I was excited and eager to check in at my single most favorite resort in all of Hawaii... The Kahala. The rooms and services are flawless. The resort is on the best beach, in the most perfect setting anywhere in Hawaii. It's romantic, quiet, relaxing, while being only minutes from the electricity and excitement of Waikiki! The fact that my dolphin friends at Dolphin Quest swam and played right below my lanai... did not hurt either! A special aloha to my sweet friend Shannon, you are so wonderful!

Please visit my FaceBook page for DreamCatcher Vacations, and for me (Teri Young) I took some really great photos on this trip. I would love to share them, and hear your comments!

This trip was all about renewal and relaxation for me. Something I do not get enough of these days! But staying at these magnificent resorts reminded me of the value of this experience! When you are this well taken care of, and pampered, you truly relax! This trip was for me, as they say... priceless!

Just some thoughts from this Travel Professional.

Wednesday, April 13, 2011

Just a few updates and such...

Hi Everyone~

I was just looking through some emails, and thought a few "housekeeping" details would be beneficial today!

HAWAII; the islands are beautiful, thriving, and ready to welcome all visitors! There has been some negative conversation because of the tragedy in Japan. Now initially there was some damage, mostly on Hawaii, The Big Island. In Kailua/Kona Town the newly renovated King Kamehameha did sadly incur some lobby damage- but they are open! The beautiful Four Seasons Hualalai did also get hit pretty hard I'm afraid. But they are working very hard to re-open by the end of April. The worst hit is the very special, and truly unique Kona Village. It is truly heart breaking to report the damage there from the tsunami is severe. Our hearts go out to the 'Village', and her ohana. The Kona Village will be closed... indefinitely.

DISNEY; so much to report, and so much going on! The Disney Dream was successfully launched in late January, and selling out like crazy! If you are planning, or thinking about this experience... think 2012! Also her "sister" ship the Fantasy will be delivered in late March 2012... so you should reserve your staterooms now! At Disneyland the news is fast and furious! All of the changes to Disney's California Adventure Park are becoming a reality! The World of Color is an amazing hit! The newest ride..."Ariel's Adventure" is scheduled to debut in June, along with the all new version of Star Tours in the Disneyland Park! Also the landmark- Disneyland Hotel, is in the last stages of room renovations, and they are stunning! The final phase of the project is the transformation of the Neverland Pool... stay tuned for a water park spectacular! There has also been some incorrect information floating around about dining reservations at Walt Disney World... let's set that record straight! Dinning reservations are highly recommended, whether you have the dining plan in your vacation package... or not! All dining is reserved 180 days in advance... and I promise you for some of the special character meals they sell out- that far in advance! Let's not forget about the gorgeous Aulani Resort on O'ahu! They are right on schedule there too, and opening late August! Have you made your reservation yet?!

My final thoughts are on cruising! Now I don't speak about cruising too much. But I do have some very, very good sources these days for cruises. I bring this last point up because of one very, very bad rumor- that really needs to be silenced! That would be "last minute deals"! People, people they do not exist! They are rare at best, and honestly who has the flexibility to leave this weekend?! Bottom line though; in today's market they are hardly ever used any more, simply because they are not necessary! During 2009 and parts of 2010, some departures were reduced because not as many people were traveling due to the economy. It's no longer an issue, and so the cruise lines simply do not need to do it- they are selling out! If you wait for that rumored "last minute deal", you probably will not go!

When your business and reputation are based on providing great service and accurate information, then staying on top of these rumors is vital.

Just a few thoughts from this Travel Professional.

Saturday, March 12, 2011

HAWAII- The Big Island

Aloha~

Once again my special time on the island of Hawaii, aka The Big Island, did not disappoint! From magnificent resorts on the Kohala Coast, to whale watching, and the power of Madame Pele herself! I am always glad to be there, and always see and learn new things!

My trip started with some spectacular resorts! The beautiful and special Mauna Lani Bay Hotel, home of the turtle breeding and release program. A very special resort on a gorgeous beach! Spent some time at the always lovely Waikoloa Beach Marriott. Revisited the outstanding and pristine Mauna Kea Resort, such amazing history, and quite possibly the "best ever" bathrooms you will see!

I have to single out a couple of very special places and moments! Hilton Waikoloa Village... a truly unique resort! Extremely large, but a little piece of paradise. Self contained and you could easily stay there your entire visit! But for me... my single most unforgettable moment was meeting the gorgeous, six month old daughter of my favorite dolphin Pele- baby Noelani! Born there in the Dolphin Quest lagoon, she's little Miss Personality! Mahalo nui loa Mark and Theresa!!

Then there is... The Fairmont Orchid. Simply put, this may be the perfect resort, at least it is for me on the Big Island! Gorgeous grounds, spectacular rooms, great food! But what makes this place really special... are the people! The Spirit of Aloha lives strong here. You will not just visit once, you will return again and again! My warmest aloha Susan, Emily, Stacey, and my new friends at "Browns"!

Over the weekend I had more fun then should be legal! The perfect rainy day with a great friend. Followed by a HUGE show by the ever active Volcano- Kilauea! Lava shooting up from the tubes in several places! Then on Sunday; the single most amazing and active day whale watching ever! I was the lucky one that sighted the first "spouting", and it was only ten minutes out! There were so many, and so much activity, well I stopped counting somewhere around thirty! Please go visit DreamCatcher Vacations on FaceBook... I'm not a professional photographer, but I got some good ones!

HAWAII... so much more then the average visitor understands or knows! A clear and real reason... to allow a Certified HAWAII Specialist to help you plan your next trip! Just some things I wanted to share~ from this Travel Professional.

Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Walt Disney World and the "Disney Dream" 2011

Hey there!

In January I was privileged to experience one of the 'inaugural' sailings of the Disney Dream! The "Dream" is Disney's third cruise ship, with another to arrive in 2012!

My adventure began at Walt Disney World. I stayed for five days at the amazing Contemporary Resort on the Seven Seas Lagoon! We had a beautiful room with a view of Bay Lake. Our visit started of course at the "Magic Kingdom". I was so excited to have reserved breakfast with Cinderella- in the castle! Our "Royal Table" event was spectacular! As we dined with Aurora, Snow White, Ariel and Cinderella! Excellent service and the food was quite good.

On Friday night we 'pillaged and plundered' with the pirates! For the "Pirates and Pals" Fireworks Extravaganza! Absolutely the best time ever, and no better viewing experience for the fireworks then from our boat in the Seven Seas Lagoon! You must all try this at least once... so fun!

On Saturday morning we enjoyed breakfast with Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, and friends! A lovely dining experience at the Crystal Palace, just off Main Street USA.

On Sunday morning, excited and eager, we left for Port Canaveral to board the brand new ... Disney Dream! She is a beauty! Almost double the size of the first two ships (the Magic and Wonder), she carries 4,000 passengers. The stateroom was gorgeous, a verandah with big king bed and sitting area. The dining rooms; Animators Palette, Royal Palace, and Enchanted Garden all were really fun. The specialty restaurants Palo and Remy... stunning! The entertainment on board was pure Disney story telling at it's best! The theater is exquisite, and not a bad seat in the house. Then of course... the "AquaDuck"... you have to see it and experience it! The water coaster at sea, that at one point actually goes out over the side of the ship! Like I said... you gotta see it!

Anytime spent with Disney (for me) is truly 'magical'. This experience was quite possibly the best ever!

Just some magical memories... from this Travel Professional!

Monday, January 3, 2011

Happy New Year!

Happy 2011 Everyone!

With a difficult year behind us, I look forward to all things good! Positive attitudes, and lots of happy travelers in the months to come!

My next adventure is in just a couple of weeks. I will visit Walt Disney World for five days, and be staying at the beautiful Contemporary Resort on the Seven Seas Lagoon! Followed by the most amazing privelege ever! I will be cruising on board the brand new- Disney Dream- the days just before her "maiden voyage"! The third ship for Disney, and the first of the two new and larger ships! With several special plans and events reserved... my anticipation is extrordinary! (Stay tuned for all the details at month's end!)

It is important here in the very beginning of this new year to remind everyone of my services and expertise. First and most important; I am a Certified Travel Consultant, and I plan vacations! ALL types of vacations! My two specialties of course... HAWAII, and all things Disney! But also (and equally important) Caribbean, Mexico, Tahiti and the South Pacific, and Europe! Whether you have a special resort or hotel, a cruise ship or yacht! I plan extrordinary, special, detailed and personalized vacations! All your travel needs, customized for you and your family!

Trust in a Professional ~ Go back to the experts! These days more then ever before, you simply can not afford to risk your hard earned dollar, and vacation time! With out great information, cutomer service... and of course guaranteed rates? You are quite simply... on your own.

These reminders and thoughts... from this Travel Professional.