HAWAII~ The Big Island!

Aloha and Mele Kalikimaka to Everyone!

In November I spent a glorious two weeks on this very unique and special of the islands~ Hawai'i! One of the first things I really wanted to share; Hawai'i is the island, the nickname "Big Island" refers strictly to it's actual size.  Not to be confused with the "Main Island- or- Gathering Place", which is O'ahu, and a very different place!

The first part of my visit was in the Keauhou/Kona area, on the west side of Hawai'i.  Living and staying with a friend there I felt like a "local", and it was very nice!  I enjoyed some great dinners in Kailua-Kona, did some shopping, and sat with a coffee watching the world go by!  This island is the perfect place for relaxing and letting your worries slip away!

My adventures really began the next week with the arrival of my good friends from Minnesota! They had not yet experienced Hawai'i, and I was eager to show them this island "my way"!  I met them at the airport and off we went to the Kohala Coast, and our home for the next nine days... the flawless and breathtaking Fairmont Orchid!  Upon arrival we were promptly escorted directly to the "Gold Floor", and our private check-in.  Now this is the type of service you all deserve, and I highly recommend it as the "only way" to truly pamper and spoil yourself!

The first  part of our first day was spent in the Waikoloa area, and introducing my friends to my precious "babies"- the dolphins at Dolphin Quest.  I was blessed to share with them the granddaughter and daughter, of my very first dolphin experience the wonderful "Pele".  She swam behind us, while the trainers showed off some of the new moves of "Lehua"- her granddaughter! This is an extraordinary experience, one I have taken part in many times. They are amazing, smart, and very unique creatures these dolphins, and my memories of them are very special.

Our next adventure was one that I was eagerly awaiting!  It was time to visit the east side of this island and the very active volcano~ "Kilauea".  The only active volcano now in the Hawaiian Islands, and has been (almost) continuously erupting since 1960!  Most recently this volcano has started a flow towards the town of Pahoa on the east side. The Hawaiian people have great respect for this site, and the Goddess of Fire~ "Madame Pele"~ who is in control of it! Often people travel to the area for prayer and gifts, in the hopes she will be pleased and stop the flow.  The story and culture of this place is very special, and the beliefs are strong.  It's one of the many things that keep me close to these magical islands.

On our next great adventure we went to the stars! Almost 14,000 feet elevation and the top of Mauna Kea!  Our tour was with the most amazing and experienced people; the guides of Hawai'i Forest  & Trail. We started through the "Saddle Road", a gorgeous landscape and area between the two great mountains of this island... Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.  After a brief stop on one of the lava fields, we started up towards the visitors center. Before there we did stop at one of the herding stations in the foothills of these great mountains for a delightful picnic dinner!  Once we had reached the visitors center at 9,000 feet, it was time to start the climb to the top and all the famous telescopes! After four miles of unpaved road- and very bumpy- we headed the final four miles!  Very smooth and clean, and it was I was told to protect all the equipment on top.  (I never could figure out why it was not just paved the entire way... but I guess that was all a part of the experience!) What I can say for sure is, it was all quite worth it! If you are planning a visit to Hawai'i~ you must do the "star gazing"!

The next thing I really wanted to share is our day with "Fair Wind", aboard their beautiful catamaran of the same name!  We left the Keauhou Bay location at 830AM, with a lovely deluxe continental breakfast.  Then cruised onward to Kealakekua Bay just about 12 miles south of Kailua-Kona Town for some snorkeling. The bay is famous because of Captain James Cook; said to have found it first, although many say others had been there long before him.  He was welcomed at first by the villagers living there.  But after a situation over one of his boats, he also died there.  The history of this place may not be crystal clear~ but the water is spectacular, as is the snorkeling!  After a while in the water we began to smell the barbeques, and our lunch being prepared for us!  This company has been around for a very long time~ and it's no surprise to me!  In Hawai'i (for me anyway) it's all about the people and the aloha.  These are the nicest, most experienced, friendliest and fun people~ and you would be crazy not to share one of your days on his island with the folks from "Fair Winds"!

 

After traveling to these islands four to fives times a year- every year- for twenty plus years, and every year since I was only nine... one might think I would be bored with it. This latest adventure and time spent on the island of Hawai'i only reinforced my passion and my love for these islands and the people!  I learn and experience something new and wonderful every single time!  It only makes me feel even stronger about the fact that using the expertise of a true Certified Master Hawai'i Specialist is definitely in your best interest! Why wouldn't you...?

Just the experienced and educated opinion of this Travel Professional!

Beautiful Kauai...

I must admit I am a little behind on my blog posts, as I have been very busy in the office, as well as traveling!  But making sure I get to share every new adventure with you is always super important to me!

My next trip was to my "home away from home", the beautiful Island of Kauai!  This island is the "oldest" in the Hawaiian chain, and therefore home to the most gorgeous beaches!  Beaches come with age, the older the island the more beaches, and Kauai is millions of years old!

This visit I called the southern resort area of Poipu my home.  My friends at Starwood made sure I was very happy at the lovely Sheraton Kauai!  This resort does sit right on the beach, the picture above was taken from my room!  There are only a few resorts in all of Hawaii that have this privilege, to be this close to the water.  But there are several on this island.  The reason; they were built originally before the laws prevented construction of buildings so very close to the water.  Staying here is special, and the staff made my time with them extra memorable!

Most resorts these days have a "signature" restaurant, and at the Sheraton Kauai that is "RumFire".  It was the perfect end to each day!  Right on the water, amazing sunsets, and spectacular food!  But for me again it was the people!  The wait staff was excellent, and I made two very special friends in "Benjie and Noel".  Two of the most talented, master "mixologists" I have ever met! When you are traveling alone, having extra special people greet you each evening makes it all worth while!  Mahalo nui to my friends and ohana at "RumFire"!

My visits to Kauai would never be complete with out a day in the North Shore.  This is with out a doubt the most stunning place in all of Hawaii.  The majestic beauty of Na'pali (the cliffs) are something you will never forget!  In the rainier months; you can look up at Na'pali and at times see eight, nine, ten waterfalls all in one close area.  The Kalalau Trail and Valley begin at the "end of the road", and is visited by hikers from around the world!  You also find here the amazing beach known as Ke'e.  No one should come to Kauai~ with out this place being on your "must see" list!

Kauai is more than another Hawaiian island for me.  I have called it my home since 1991, and have always hoped one day to stay forever!  The serenity, the sense of place... no where in Hawaii are these feelings as strong.  I have many wonderful memories from this island, and hope it will be a part of my life for years to come.  I was reminded on this trip of the value of my knowledge and expertise. I was almost brought to tears when a couple I was chatting with asked the question; "We have not driven up to the North Shore yet, should we take the time?" At first I thought they were joking.  Then I realized... they just didn't know.  I spent the next hour sharing with them, and made sure they were excited about seeing this spectacular place!

I just hope that when you start thinking about your next vacation, you will consider this; there are truly many reasons for using the services of a Professional Travel Consultant!  Especially when you seek out one that offers years of experience in the destination you are about to visit!


Just the opinion of this Professional Travel Consultant!  A hui hou... (until next we meet!)

Disneyland 2014

Hey there, hi there, ho there!

So I have been pretty busy with DreamCatcher, planning great vacations, and traveling myself!  My first outing after the summer was of course "The Happiest Place on Earth"~ Disneyland!  Now some may think; "Why do you go again, and again, and again?"  I think the best way to answer that is with a quote from Walt Disney himself!  "Disneyland will never be complete, not as long as we have imagination!"

This year my visit back served a dual purpose; one- it was my birthday! (Thank you!) The other was to catch up on all the changes and new things, so that I in turn would be able to share them first hand with my guests!

My check in at the Disneyland Hotel was not the beginning this year!  But in fact; the theme of this visit was "All About Walt".  A very good friend picked me up at the airport and we went directly to the Stanley Ranch Museum in Garden Grove.  A truly wonderful little place with many very interesting things to see.  But for me and this visit; it was all about the "garage", the very first home of the Disney Studios! When Walt first arrived in Southern California from Marceline, Missouri he stayed with his Uncle Robert Disney.  It was in his uncle's garage that he began the great beginnings of what we know as Disney today!

After a really special visit here, and spending time with my friends (Mahalo nui loa again- Marilyn and Rhonda for giving me such a great birthday!) I was on to Disneyland, and my stay at the Disneyland Hotel!

I started my visit with something that many people sadly do not take time for, and that is a "character breakfast"!  I went directly to Disney's California Adventure Park the next morning, and enjoyed a feast with my princess friends at Ariel's Grotto!  The food is really very good!  But the time spent with those princesses- priceless!  This is not just for "kids" folks... but for kids of all ages!

Besides enjoying all of my favorite rides- multiple times!  I wanted to do, and experience some things that would be especially fun and interesting for my "veteran" Disney guests!  Many people, especially those who live in California, feel like they have done it all.  But I'm pretty sure these next experiences have not been a part of most itineraries!

The next morning I checked in at the "Tour Garden" in Disneyland for a very special tour called "A Walk in Walt's Disneyland Footsteps"!  This three and a half hour tour included; private guide and audio equipment, back stage entrance to several spots and rides, a very special tour of the "Dream Suite", and a marvelous lunch at the end.  Along with all the amazing information, we also received a very- very exclusive "pin" to commemorate this tour!  I was so glad to have taken this time, and encourage everyone to consider it on your next visit to Disneyland!

My next special Walt memory experience... a brand new tour that only started this July!  This is the California Adventure version of the Disneyland tour!  This one is called; "Walt's California Story"! It was really very special, and a part of Walt's life that has not really been focused on before.  With so much information unknown to even myself!  Lots of backstage entrances on to the very best rides!  Access to the California Adventure Park version of the infamous "Club 33", that is "Club 1901"!  What an amazing once in a lifetime experience that was... not just in the door!  But we got to walk all around inside, and learn and hear even more wonderful stories!  Our tour again ended with a marvelous lunch, and a very special "pin"!  This was a great tour folks, and you should absolutely experience it for yourselves the next time you visit Disney's California Adventure Park!

I continue to visit Disneyland and Walt Disney World, and always will!  But I just sincerely hope that people will consider; there is so much more to these special places than just the rides!  The history, the stories, the parades, the shows!  Even if you think Disney is not "your thing"?  I encourage everyone to reconsider... it's not called the "Happiest Place on Earth"... for nothing!

Just my passionate and educated experiences- and thoughts from this Travel Professional!

Planning in Advance... It's a GOOD Thing!

Happy Summer Everyone!

So many of you who follow me on Facebook may have heard this once or twice in the past weeks... PLAN IN ADVANCE.  It is the way the best deals are reserved, while you the traveler and consumer still get choices!

You (and I) have heard over the past years; "Oh, wait until just before you want to go~ you'll pay so much less!"  That may have been true from 2008 - 2010 during the worst part of our "Great Recession".  But it's just not true anymore! And has never been true regarding the airlines!

The cruise lines are the worst offenders, and to a degree still perpetuate this bad advice!  So I will say this; if you have nothing else going on in your life, and can leave for a week at the drop of a hat- then for you this bad advice may apply.  Every once in a great and rare occasion a ship, on a particular date, may not be filling up as they need it to be.  Only then will they offer some lower rates to generate last minute interest. But today as our economy begins to strengthen, people are feeling more comfortable again going on vacations. So there is no longer a 'need' for these last minute tactics.  The ships are full, so they don't need to give them away!

Next area where I still see this "last minute theory" thrown at you~ the internet of course!  For the travel industry in particular, those huge "do it yourself" booking engines.  They have people so incredibly convinced, I almost do not know where to start!  Specifically with regards to advance bookings vs. last minute, again if you are able to leave this Friday, they sometimes do get some insane deals!  But who of us really has that level of freedom?  If not because of the money, the kids, the house, or the pets?  The other huge thing about these very large websites, they have been "called out" by those of us in the industry many times!  I myself have found pricing for "garden view" hotel rooms, next to pictures and descriptions for oceanfront "club level" rooms!  When this was brought to the attention of my hotel partners- well they almost had a heart attack!  Within one hour, that very large and well known site was forced to remove that information completely!  So I just ask that people be aware.  Do some research and get ideas of what you want... then call an expert!

Another topic that is near and dear to this Travel Professional's heart... Disney!  Disneyland and Walt Disney World are more popular than ever!  Even Disneyland is a "must have a reservation- destination"!  Many times I have heard this comment; "Oh, it's only Disneyland, I'll just do it myself!" But it's so much more today than it was in years past!  It costs you no more~ and by using a Disney Travel Professional, you get so much more!

Then there is Walt Disney World in Florida!  If you have been there before, and recently, then you understand.  But for those whose only experience is Disneyland or you have not been to "the World" in some time, you have a BIG surprise coming!  Walt Disney World is 42 square miles big!  There are four theme parks; Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.  You will also have access to two amazing water parks and four golf courses!  Not to mention the lakes and all the water craft available for you!  Then of course there is the excitement and shopping and dining and nightlife that is DownTown Disney!  Walt Disney World has also become a dining destination... did you know that?  The restaurants and specialty dining is so poplar that reservations are made starting six months- 180 days- in advance!  Many of the most popular are literally sold out- minutes after the clock ticks on that six month mark!   So again what I am trying to say... let an expert, someone who spends time there for a living help you!

In closing; there are some of you saying, "but if I book in advance- I'm going to miss out on the sales that are coming!"  My first reaction is always- you do not know for sure, none of us do, if there is even going to be a sale! But here's the guarantee; all the vacations I plan are in fact "guaranteed".  If the rates go down- you still get that rate!  Making a deposit on a vacation six, nine, twelve months from now does not "lock you in"- you can still change it!  So you are taking zero monetary risk, because in many cases your deposit is also completely refundable!  So what are you waiting for?

I hope you will consider these points, and I strongly encourage your questions and comments. Sharing my expertise, working hard on your behalf, looking out for you and your family... it's why I am here!

Just my thoughts and opinions... from this Travel Professional!

Maui Nui... May 2014

Aloha from Maui Nui~ AKA The County of Maui!

Many folks do not know that in fact Maui, and the County of Maui, is made up of four islands!  The Island of Maui, Lana'i, Moloka'i, and Kahoʻolawe. So my focus for this visit was to re-introduce myself to the 'ohana'!

I started my stay in the south area, at the beautiful Makena Beach Resort.  This is with out question, one of the most quiet, beautiful, and peaceful resorts on Maui. The people here have been through a lot.  But stood firm and worked through some pretty lean years!  The result; the resort is gorgeous, and the welcome you receive comes from warm and fun people, who love their resort ohana!  My sincerest mahalo nui loa to everyone at Makena~ especially my dear friend Cindi Rosete!

While in the south part of the island I visited several favorites - of course.  But again wanted to focus on a long awaited day, and the return to a resort known today as... "Andaz".  This very modern, clean, and truly unique resort was refreshing!  Starting with the option to sit in the "sand box", for your private check in!

The staff here is all about service!  It's very truly a five star experience if we are talking about service- and I loved that!  I was their guest for one of the most spectacular breakfast buffets I have experienced in Hawaii in a very long time!  We then saw all the different room types, and found even their standard rooms to be far from "standard"!  The grounds are meticulous, and the pools- three infinity- are extraordinary. I am eager to return to the fine dining restaurant- by one of my favorite chefs- "Morimoto's". I send my thanks- and deep appreciation to the lovely Jessica Wheatley at Andaz for her time and expertise.

My next experience was more than a year in the making!  Last time I was on Maui (early March 2013), I had a very special appointment to return to the Island of Lana'i.  Sadly the weather was not cooperating, and my ferry was canceled!  But the waters were on my side this time, and I enjoyed a glorious and smooth ride from Lahaina to Lana'i.  I was greeted by my newest sister and ohana from Four Seasons~ my friend Kristina Silvia.  Who was there waiting for me with a beautiful new Mercedes SUV for our day of adventure!  We began with the lovely drive though the little town of Lana'i City, on our way to the Four Seasons Lodge at Koele.  This resort found in "up country" Lana'i is one of the most special and different "Hawaiian" experiences in Hawaii!  Surrounded by lush gardens, pastures filled with horses, and the graceful tall Cook Pines!  One day you must consider this breathtaking place, a part of your visit to Hawaii!

We reluctantly left the Lodge, first with a quick visit at the stables, and then a better view of Lana'i City. This little town is prospering!  Many improvements, and the opening of new local businesses. The island is experiencing a most uplifting and promising time.  Not too long ago this island was purchased by the owner of "Oracle", Mr. Larry Ellison.  Now many folks were fearful that this meg-billionaire would take over and destroy this peaceful and historic place.  But I'm here to tell you~ far from it!  The first influx of money from Mr. Ellison went towards this little city and it's residents! Improving the schools, community center, even giving grant money to many local people to start new businesses!  I can't wait to see this island again in the coming years, and the progress that will come from all of this, it's all a 'good thing'!

Our next stop was the long awaited lunch, at the completely remodeled golf club!  The views were just crazy good!  But the food... well, I get hungry all over again thinking about that lunch!  Everything was so fresh and the presentation unforgettable... and it was lunch!  Everything made from scratch, including the fresh mango lemonade I had to drink!  My entrée was recommended by even the caddy I was talking with at the front entrance as Kristina parked the car!  It was what they called a "shrimp BLT"... but that just did not do it justice!

Our last stop after lunch was the very special Four Seasons Manele Bay.  No where have I seen such enthusiasm, and pure joy from hotel employees!  This resort is being completely remodeled, and will not be completed until 2015.  But the people here are so incredibly happy because of all these spectacular changes!  The excitement is everywhere, and I can not wait to return and see the completed project!  But for those who can not wait- don't!  Because the rooms that are open, I always thought were some of the finest in all of Hawaii!  Nothing is missing here- nothing.  You will forget all else when you become the recipient of this truly 'six star' service and attention!

I spent the next day moving~ from south Maui to north.  My next six days were spent in Ka'anapali!  I was the very-very happy guest (and really spoiled) of the Hyatt Regency Maui.  Mahalo nui loa to my dear friend David MacLean, and Cherie Hoshino for making my stay truly special.  I had the most amazing views from my ocean front room!  I dined at "Japengo" with my dear-dear friend Heidi Denecke, we had so much fun and the food was excellent!  I was their "VIP" guest at the luau, "the Drums of the Pacific", where I was truly entertained by some great dancers.  I did also want to give a shout out to the room service staff~ you guys are the best!

 

My next project, and focus of this visit was to return to the island of Moloka'i.  So much has happened here, and yet- nothing at all!  The last time I stayed on Moloka'i, it was in the honeymoon suite (I was not on my honeymoon) at the Lodge.  Sadly because of disputes between the "land owners" and the people of Moloka'i, all of this ranch area and the lodge were closed down.  But the people and the history of this island is so very important and needs not be forgotten!  This is the place where all the "lepers", the people with "Hansen's Disease" were exiled in the late 1860's.  The place known as Kalaupapa, on the peninsula of Makanalua.  They were cared for by Father Damien (now Saint Damien) and his staff, until they themselves perished from this horrible disease.

The County of Maui~ is truly a very special place, rich with history and culture.  So much more than beaches and people!  When you think about going to Maui, consider there is more to it all than what your 'friend' experienced a few years ago!

Working with a Certified Master Hawaii Specialist... is a very good thing!  Hoping to share this and much more, when helping you to plan the perfect Hawaii experience very soon!

The expert opinion of this ~ Professional Travel Consultant...  a hui hou!

A "different" way to think about Walt Disney World...

Hi Everyone!

Wow... I really slipped up on this one!  I had so much fun at Walt Disney World earlier this month, I totally forget to write my 'report' and share it with you!

My stay started at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, in the "Aruba Village"!  This is one of Walt Disney World's "moderate" resorts. While the rooms are very similar to others I have stayed at, I did have my issues with this one I'm afraid.  It's just too big!  I was also very surprised and disappointed to find that unlike the other moderate resorts this one was not very well planned.  The front desk and concierge is located in a completely different area from the stores and restaurants.  This was really inconvenient and not very practical.  Though extremely well priced- not worth it by comparison.

For me this trip had a theme and purpose!  The purpose; to experience Walt Disney World's new "Magic +" program!  The theme... much different from others I have done, and that was "Dining the Disney Way"!

My first day was of course spent in the "Magic Kingdom"- Walt Disney World's version of Disneyland.  Now I had already experienced the amazement of my "Magic Band" going in and out of my room at the Caribbean Beach Resort.  But this was only the beginning!  Just tap- and I was in the parks!  Tap again- and I had paid for my breakfast!  Once more- and I raced to the 'head of the line' at Space Mountain for the "Fast Pass" reservation I had made earlier in my room!  This newest advancement by Disney is truly "magical"- and just darn fun!  LOVE it!

My dining experiences for today were at the "Liberty Tree Tavern" for lunch and the Kona Café at Disney's Polynesian Resort for dinner!  I must say the Liberty Tree was very good, the service was excellent, and the clam chowder- not to be missed!  After spending a busy first day in the Magic Kingdom, I boarded the Monorail for my ride around the 'Seven Seas Lagoon' for my dinner at the Kona Café.  I was super impressed with the service, and the food was exceptional.  I had fresh sea scallops, and they were perfect!  But I must stop and make sure you know about the "bread and butter" served here before dining.  Watch out~ it's too good and easy to fill up on!  They serve "Hawaiian Sweet Bread", and macadamia nut butter.  OMG, my mouth is watering even now thinking about it... so ono!

On to EPCOT; "Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow", did you know that was Walt's idea?  He sadly did not live to see the result of his initial planning.  But I think he would be proud today!

I started this very raining day with an early lunch at "Via Napoli". Though my plan was to go to places not yet tried- I could not resist!  I did however experience what may have been the best Eggplant Parmesan I have ever tasted!  As you may know; Disney brings all the Chefs, and wait staff from the Naples area on two year contracts. Everyone there is from this region and the authenticity is wonderful!  You will experience Naples at this wonderful restaurant!

Now dinner was also a repeat visit- but I had not been there in years... Nine Dragons!  This Chinese dining was as wonderful, and maybe even better than I remembered!  By then too the weather had vastly improved making for a really great night at Epcot!

Over the next few days I had several exceptional dining experiences!  But two stand out in particular, and I must share!

While at Disney's Hollywood Studios, I had the chance to do something I had not done in years- but in fact have had all of my Disney guests experience!  The "Dine and Show" package for "Fantasmic". This offer gives you a complete dinner (appetizers, entrée, and dessert), plus preferred seats at the presentation of "Fantasmic".  I chose to dine at the Hollywood Brown Derby!  I will say only this; if you love and appreciate 'fine dining', you must go to this restaurant!  The atmosphere- with the fine china and silver and white table clothes, was exceptional!  The service was truly as good or better than you could ever imagine... what?... at Walt Disney World?!  I have eaten at many great restaurants, and this experience is in the top five!

There are two more actually I really want to share.  First the very special magic of the "Be Our Guest" restaurant in the Magic Kingdom.  This new (a part of the Fantasyland expansion) dining experience is... worth the wait!  Yes; during the day it is  a 'wait in line', sort of quick service (not exactly) situation.  But the amazing way Disney has created this all is a must see!  The food is good- not fine dining during the day.  But it's like living inside the Beast's Castle, and you will be sorry if you do not try it!

My final very special experience took me back to my childhood- for sure!  I had breakfast at "1900 Park Faire", located at Disney's Grand Floridian.  This exceptional and special morning is shared with Mary Poppins, Alice and the Mad Hatter, Pooh and Tigger!  I was carried back to when I was a little girl and Mary Poppins was all I could talk about!  The food was very good of course- it's the Grand Floridian!  But the time there with these special characters was the perfect way to end my "dining extravaganza" at Walt Disney World!

The "magic" of Disney is never ending!  No matter your age, your time spent at Walt Disney World will always be special.  Walt Disney World (like Disneyland) is so much more than just the rides!  So the next time you are thinking about a visit... please let a Disney Travel Professional, plan the "magic" for you!

Just some thoughts and experiences to share~ from this Professional Travel Consultant.