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!
