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!
The very best vacation... is the one well planned!
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