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
