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.
