HAWAII- The Big Island

Aloha Everyone!

My November update is all about my latest adventure on the "Big Island"~ Hawaii.  Not to confuse everyone, but the official name for this place is Hawaii~ The Big Island, as of recently!  It seems that too many visitors were using the name "Big Island", and thought it was referring to the "main island" of O'ahu.  (For the record; O'ahu is the "gathering place", the place of the state capital of Honolulu, and the resort area famous for the beach by the same name~ Waikiki!)

Hawaii~ comes by it's nickname honestly, being 4,067 square miles of lava, beaches, farm and ranch land, waterfalls, orchids, macadamia nuts, and that oh so famous- coffee!  For me though the love, passion and 'connection' came with the history of this special place.  Hawaii is the birthplace of the first- King Kamehameha.  The ruler of these islands that brought all the people together as one.  This island is also shared by the Goddess of Fire- "Pele", and she's making her presence known everyday here!

For the past four years I have made Waikoloa my home, and it feels more like that each year I return. My first stop this year was with my friends at the stunning Fairmont Orchid.  Many people ask me; "Teri, why do you return so often- weren't you just there?" True; but by visiting often and regularly I build friendships I treasure, and relationships with the resorts that make all things better for my clients!  I have also never had one regret about frequent visits, as every time I learn something new!  This year the Orchid is especially proud of their latest renovation, and they should be!  The resort is gorgeous and the rooms are perfect!

From this fabulous retreat I went just to the other side of the resort area to the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows.  They have always been a favorite of many of my clients, and currently in the final phases of a very large renovation themselves!  The pool area is being completely refinished, and a very large in-ground hot tub being added here.  The rooms are almost finished, and the bungalows are spectacular! This resort will be again (very soon) absolutely pristine!

My next visit was with my friend Jacque at the impeccable and flawless Four Seasons Hualalai.  I must admit I had not stopped here in a couple of years, and I was very wrong for that.  This resort sits on one of the most powerful, beautiful, and historic areas of this island.  The 'sense of place' here is strong, and they have a huge respect for it here.  The staff are truly 'ohana' and have all been there together for years!  That sense of pride is strong, and is reflected in the service levels here like at very few other places in all of Hawaii.  I was honored to be a guest, even if only for a few hours!  The food is fabulous, and the views are simply not to be compared!  But this special place also has given space and time to the culture, history, and traditions of the Hawaiian people at their own "Cultural Center".  This very special place is cared for by a wonderful man we simply call "Uncle Earl".  He and his staff  work hard to carry on the traditions, and share the culture and history of the people of Hawaii.  Even if you do not stay here- but you should- take the time to visit Uncle Earl and the cultural center at the Four Seasons Hualalai!

I had many wonderful days, and made yet more fabulous memories on this visit.  But really wanted to share in this last segment my time over in Hilo!  No longer the tedious and long drive of the 'old days'.  The state has completed a huge project, and now opened an all 'new version' of the infamous "Saddle Road".  Now I may drive a little fast; but I left the Waikoloa area at 805AM, and was dropping down into Hilo Town at 915AM!  The road is amazing, and should be experienced by all!  My purpose was not only to spend some time in Hilo.  But a very old and well established hotel here has just undergone a huge renovation project... the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel!  Now for those of you who know me well~ I am a five star kind of girl!  But was extremely impressed with this hotel and what they have done!  It's absolutely worthy of a few nights stay, so you can really explore the east side of this very large island!

As my friend Uncle Earl taught me; "you do not pick the island, it chooses you." I am happy and proud to say that Hawaii~ The Big Island has chosen me. I'm proud of my connection here and strive everyday to learn more.  With every trip, and every bit I learn, I have more passion and information to share with  my clients.

Hawaii is not just a destination... it is an experience.

Just some thoughts I wanted to share from this Travel Professional

Fall is here~ and I'm gone!

Aloha!

Now that summer is over I am so excited- sorry summertime lovers!  But since my priority is of course~ my clients~ and always has been.  The summer months are a time frame that I must always be available and at the ready!  We have made it through another great summer of vacations, and everyone had a great time!  YAY!

But now it's my turn!  I have always felt that my own travel and personal experiences are what makes my services ... better. My time spent at all the places we all love so much, on a regular basis means my clients can always trust in the information I provide during their planning.  Recent, accurate, reliable details, is always what people are 'researching' for when they plan anyway~ right?  So why not combine all that, with the years of working in the travel industry, and get your vacation planned by an expert?

This year my travels have taken me to; Disneyland, Walt Disney World, aboard the Disney Cruise Line, Maui, and now Kauai!  My "home away from home", I have been visiting this magical place every year since 1989!  (I was of course just a baby~ but still remember!)  I have also had a vacation home there in Princeville since 1990, and always thought of Kauai as my second home!

My first thought goes to my beautiful ohana at the Grand Hyatt Kauai! This spectacular resort has been one of my favorites since it was built in 1990.  Sadly only opened 18 months when the infamous "Hurricane Iniki" destroyed it, and put the entire island out of work!  But the spirit of aloha has always been very strong here, and the Hyatt's own employees were there the next morning to start the clean up!  The Grand Hyatt (then the Hyatt Regency) was the first resort to reopen on the island.

Today this gorgeous resort is alive and better than ever!  I was blessed to be there all eight nights of my stay.  I was sad to leave, but I know I will always find a way to return. Mahalo nui loa to my dear friend Cindy Kauanui, my favorite valet team in Hawaii- big hug to you, Victor!  I also must mention the best bartenders in the business... my friends Glen and Mike at the Captain's Bar, a hui hou!

 

 

My appointments took me all over this island, I always try and see as much as possible!  I wanted to give a shout out to my new friends at the beautiful Koloa Landing in Poipu!  This is the only 'new' condo resort in the South Shore area and is really lovely!  It's not quite finished.  But the units are gorgeous, and the pools absolutely perfect!  A big plus is the adorable deli/market on site, and they have an incredible full service spa!  I really liked it a lot, and the people there truly are proud of their new home.

My next appointment was one I was really excited about~ a personal tour of the all new and refreshed Pride of America!  This very special ship docks every Thursday and Friday in Nawiliwili Habor, in the town of Lihue.  I was honored to go aboard and not only see all the fresh new public areas.  But was the first (besides the crew) to view the new 'concierge deck'.  The rooms and suites are spectacular, absolutely loved it!  Great job Norwegian Cruise Lines!

My next stop was the North Shore and my beloved Hanalei and Princeville.  Two of my top ten resorts are here in this special place; the St. Regis, and the Westin Villas at Princeville.  Looking out over the peace and beauty that is Bali Hai~ the St. Regis (formerly known as the Princeville Hotel), has one of the most impressive and breathtaking views of any resort in Hawaii!  The rooms are with out question the most spacious and luxurious anywhere.  If you are sincerely searching for peace, serenity, luxury, and lots of pampering... you must stay at this resort!

Next stop the Westin Villas at Princeville.  This resort sits at the cliffs, over looking the unforgettable Pacific Ocean.  The special thing about this condo resort is that it's completely "self contained".  From the lovely front entrance and lobby, out to the relaxing and fun atmosphere of their "resort style" pools.  They have their own market and coffee house (yes~ Starbucks folks!), and the fabulously delicious Na'nea Restaurant. The units are really nice, and they are getting a complete renovation and all new furnishings, and after only five years being opened!  This is a place that is very well taken care of~ imagine how they take care of you?!

On my "day off" I wanted to experience a long time favorite again~ Captain Andy's!  There are no words~ just the pictures! (Okay a few words; GREAT boat, awesome crew, terrific food, and a view to die for- it just does not get any better than Na'pali!)

My birthday; I have always wanted to see the historical and special place we know on Kauai that is the Coco Palms Resort.  So for my birthday I did treat myself to a walking tour they are doing of the entire resort right now. This resort was made famous by many films and celebrities, not the least of who were Elvis Presley, Frank Sinatra, and Eva Gardner!  Still best known for it's part in the Elvis movie "Blue Hawaii".  Now for those familiar you know this historical place was completely destroyed by Hurricane Iniki in 1992.  After twenty-one years of maybe she will reopen, yes it's going to happen, this time for sure... I can tell you from first hand experience and having been there just a week ago, this time it is happening!  I am excited to report this once spectacular and special hotel will be rebuilt!  The demolition permits are in hand, and the building permits were approved the day I was there!  The plan is to rebuild with the same "foot print".  But to make this memorable place glorious once again!  Stay tuned for all the updates at my Face Book page at DreamCatcher Vacations!

Whew! This was a long chapter- but I really hope you enjoyed it all!  It was a great trip for me, and I have so much more to share.  I won't lie; I do this because I love Hawaii so very much.  But I share so that all of my friends and clients will always have some great information and first hand knowledge.

Some thoughts from this Travel Professional... on Kauai!

Vacation Planning with an Expert

So this time of the year for my lifetime anyway, has always been known as vacation time!  These months June, July, and August the time of families, and getting away.  Originally started of course because this is when school always let out for the year end.  You always graduated in early June, and went back to school in early September, most specifically the Tuesday after Labor Day!

Now ~ not so much!  Some schools operate year round, with time off every couple of months.  Others let out in June, but kids are back at it again in August!  Either way the subject I begin with because it just further justifies the absolute need for advance planning!  More specifically with a Certified Travel Consultant, and Vacation Planning Expert!

With most households two income- Mom and Dad working- fulltime jobs, school schedules both during the day and after school activities!  My gosh isn't that enough?  WHY spend your evenings until the late hours of the night with your face in a computer searching for something you do not really know anything about?  Control.

 

 

I had a very interesting conversation with a great client and friend last week.  She was one of those people who was doing it all herself.  The research, the reservations, the logistics- all while caring for a husband, household, and three kids.  I asked her why... control... was the first thing she said.  It made sense I guess.  But it also made me very sad.  I believe that people who must have control, even when they do not know what they are doing (really), just have zero trust!  Maybe they have had problems in the past, or had things happen to them that caused that lack of trust.  I get that- it's pretty common for us all I guess.  But it should not change the way you do some things in your life forever!

My business at DreamCatcher Vacations has always been unique, and long before it's time!  I strive to prove to all my clients old and new; their trust is something I value like gold, and I have no problem 'earning it'.  Showing each and every new client, one great vacation at a time that allowing a real Travel Professional- an expert- to plan their vacations for them is the best experience of all!  To sit and consult with someone who knows and understands; what your dream trip is to you, what you expect to see and do, this is actually the beginning of the trip itself!  When you are not spending hour after hour searching endlessly for something you are not even sure of... it makes even the planning more fun! I have always said; "The trip should begin from the first phone call!"

Now here is my most important point of all; with everyone so intensely 'price driven', why would you risk your hard earned dollars doing it yourself when working with a Travel Professional costs you no more!  Yes... zero extra dollars!  Even more to that point; a great travel consultant knows where to buy for you, places you do not have access to, that will save you hassle and money!  We focus on the details that you often do not see- because you are still looking for the 'cheapest price'.  Perfect example; it's scary to me how many people miss their 1230AM flight (as in midnight Sunday night- Monday morning) because they have only been looking at the price and show up at the airport on Monday night!  OR; buy a ticket because they finally found one for $200, not noticing the flight arrives six hours after their cruise ship left the dock!

I realize this is a much different type of posting then I usually post- no trip I have just returned from, but a topic I am very passionate about.  Planning vacations is what I do- it's all I do- and I'm very good at it.  Earning my clients trust- I do with honesty, expertise, and sharing. I take every single vacation I plan very seriously, as if it were my own.  The success of each trip matters to me- I care.  I don't want to just 'sell you something', and never hear from you again!  I want to become... "your travel consultant".  I literally am asking each person I come in contact with... "trust me".  Release the control, tell me what you want, allow me to do what I do- and watch the amazing and wonderful results!  After twenty years in this business I can promise you- many people have, and they never planned their own vacations again!

Whether you are wishing for some "magical" time at Disneyland, or a honeymoon on the beaches of Hawaii!  If it's a private tour through Europe, or a spectacular cruise in the Mediterranean.  Share your wish list with an expert (hopefully me!), and I promise you~ you will be really glad you did!

Some thoughts from this Travel Professional about planning vacations.

The "Magic Kingdom"... just got more magical!

HI there everyone!

So with summer vacations upon us I have to ask the question... have you planned your trip to Walt Disney World?!  I actually hope the answer is no.  But only until after reading this new posting about my latest visit to Walt Disney World in May!

My number one point to all of my readers; whether you have been there before, or thinking about going back is please allow me to assist with the planning.  THAT is the most important point and keyword- "planning".  With over 40 square miles, four parks, two water parks, golfing, a massive sports center, race car driving and track, and the list goes on!  If your time there is not pre-planned, you may be headed for trouble!

But back to the title and theme of this posting; the all new expansion at the "Magic Kingdom"!  It is truly magical (sorry).  But now when you walk through the castle you are truly sent back to the pages of your favorite fairy tales!  The star attraction right now (a couple of things are not yet complete) would have to be the "Beast's Castle", this is where you will find the "Be Our Guest" restaurant.  Even the check-in process is amazing!  With three very special dining rooms, and taste sensations designed for 'royalty', you will be ceratin to enjoy this experience!  Then near by in the Enchanted Forest in "Maurice's Cottage" a wonderfully enchanted visited with Belle herself, and several of her castle friends!  The new Fantasyland area has only added even more story, and detail to one of my very favorite places at Walt Disney World!  I know you will be as impressed as I was... but you must get there first!

One of the greatest values in planning for Walt Disney World in the past few years are the variety of dining plans.  A proven value, not just a convenience!  With plans to fit every style of visit, and every preference you simply must include one for your family as a part of the package!  Then of course in September; well they are completely free, and you can't go wrong with FREE!  But I digress.  The very cool part about these dining plans are that they are zero work for you!  All the details, and the meals already used are all tracked by Disney for you. What many people do not know though is that making a reservation is an absolute must- and - they are booked as far out as six months in advance!  So I make ALL the recommendations and reservations- for you!  Not only do you get a great value- there is no extra work for you!

My last thoughts in this post are about the times, and distances involved in this destination.  It is in my opinion one of the main reasons for my point about 'great planning'.  Let me give you an example; you start your first day at the "Magic Kingdom" (most people do), and you have reserved dinner that evening at Via Napoli (one of my favorites!).  But that restaurant is in Epcot, and at the very least a Monorail ride, and long walk through the entire length of Epcot to get there!  Your time spent will be roughly one hour!  My recommendations would have been for you to dine that evening in the park- maybe at "Be Our Guest", or even near by the Magic Kingdom at the "Wave".  (The Wave is at Disney's Contemporary Resort, and you can Monorail or walk.)  With out a doubt this is an amazing place.  But if you are unaware of these things, you would have probably missed your dinner reservation.

So with even more magic at the "Magic  Kingdom", the endless exploration and fun at Epcot, the entertainment and excitement of the Hollywood Studios, and the mystic adventure into Africa and Asia at the Animal Kingdom... you could see possibly the value of planning your time well?  I hope so!  I am also hopeful you will think about this vacation in the future for your family~ and call me!

Just some thoughts from this Certified Master Disney Specialist, and Travel Professional.

This year- my travels... better late than never?

HI Everyone!

I am embarrassed to finally be writing today... since it has been a little while!  I fully understand my words are just a lot less powerful when it's so far between them.  Please enjoy and hopefully you will return to read again, and the next time I will not be so long in my return!

After my amazing visit to O'ahu in September, I was fortunate to return to the beautiful Island of Hawai'i~ The Big Island. If you have not visited this island, or maybe just not lately~ you really must go back!  Besides the obvious (a golfer's paradise) this island is simply saturated with the most amazing history!  You will also experience the broadest range of activities; from beaches to water falls, and of course the powerful "Pele" at work in the volcano "Kilauea".  Many people shy away from this special place, and that is a shame.  But one day you must spend some time here and get an understanding of the spirit of this island.

My next adventure took me to... Disneyland in Southern California!  It's like returning home for me, Disneyland and I sort of 'grew up' together.  My time was intense and for great learning, as I was there for what we call an "Agent Education Program".  Walt himself was concerned that Disneyland might not continue to evolve because of the lack of space.  But I think he would be very proud to see it today!  Walt always said; "As long as there is imagination, Disneyland will never stop growing!"  It has not stopped, and is better than ever today! 

The newly re-imagined California Adventure Park is spectacular!  It took five years, but the newest edition of this park will amaze! Now 'themed' to be the Hollywood and Southern California that Walt Disney found in the 1920's and 30's.  From the art deco style front entrance to the Red Car Trolley, and the Carthay Circle Theater (where Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was premiered).  The Buena Vista Street entrance is now presenting this park the way it should be.  Then of course there is the all new 'land'... Cars Land!  A huge success, which literally walks you right on to Route 66 and into the movie!  You meet and greet Mater and Lighting McQueen, and it just could not be more fun!  But of course Disney always trys to out do themselves, and Cars Land does not fail!  Many (including myself) say the newest "E-Ticket" ride Radiator Springs Racers... is the best ride of all time!  You really need to visit- return to Disneyland and the California Adventure Park and see for yourself!

My most recent travels took me back to Maui.  I try and return each year (when I can) during the whale season!  I never can get enough of these awesome creatures and this year they did not disappoint!  My stays were in the Wailea area, and then Ka'anapali and Napili.  It's always a strict part of my trips to experience different resorts and see as many as possible, so I am able to share these recent experiences with all my guests!  The gorgeous and welcoming Fairmont Kea Lani- never disappoints, so very beautiful!  But I re-discovered the truest and most important thing to me in all of Hawai'i in a place called Napili... the aloha spirit.

I must be honest; until I arrived for a site inspection at this very special place, I thought the 'spirit' had left Maui.  I was sad and very disappointed in what I was seeing here.  Then I arrived at the Napili Kai Beach Resort, and was re-introduced and spent time with a beautiful and loving woman named Faith.  The history of this magical place is rich and long.  The 'ohana' that takes care of it, they do it with love and life long dedication, and you do feel it when you are there.  Like most people at the Napili Kai, Faith has been working there for lots and lots of years!  But what was special; she saw I was sad, and asked me why.  With the most sincere and heart felt words she asked me to come- stay with them.  It was the most loving gift of aloha, and exactly what my heart needed.  I was blessed that day, and did accept her gift.  I spent the remainder of my stay at the Napili Kai Beach Resort... and can not wait to return 'home'.  Mahalo Nui Loa to you Faith, and everyone at this special, special place in north Maui.

I hope this quick trip- but long blog- was fun and enjoyable for you.  I know to some these two very different places are odd partners.  But they are the two places in the world that always make me smile!  Both are rich with history, and very special for very different reasons.  But if you ever have questions, are muddled by the internet, or thinking about going... contact this Travel Professional and make every moment of your next vacation very special!