My Travel Experiences in 2015

I was pretty embarrassed when I realized my last post was the end of September!  My travels have kept me pretty busy!  But I should have taken the time sooner.  I hope I will be forgiven~ and you will keep on reading!

My year personally was not so great.  But my passion for travel, and my two specialties (Hawaii and all things Disney) really kept me going!  It is my undying love for Hawaii, it's people, the culture and history that have kept my interest, and my endless desire for more!

In May I revisited Lanai and Maui. The first four days were spent on the very special little island of Lanai, followed by five days on Maui.  Lanai has really endured a lot in the past years!  From the loss of it's purpose (growing pineapple), to obscurity, to a rebirth no one saw coming!  In February this special place will "re-open", and I am telling you people it will be a whole new experience!  Most importantly... it will be about the people, and their pride and love for their home!  If you have never been to Lanai, you will feel the "aloha spirit" strong here, and you will not have to look for it!  If you have been before, you must return.  As the difference will amaze you!

I then spent the summer busy working at my desk, and planning a lot of wonderful vacations for my clients.  In early September it was time for me to experience the 60th Anniversary celebration at Disneyland!  It also happens to be my birthday gift to myself every year, a tradition I will not soon relinquish!  No one throws a party like Disney!  This years' visit was spectacular, and I had more fun than I have in years!  If you have not yet been there yourself, please give yourself this gift too!  (The party is going on until September 5th!)

The next four months flew by... as they included Kauai, Hawaii~The Big Island, and Waikiki!  I have always visited each island at least once every year, for many years now!  I have been asked many times; "Why do you go so often?"  That is an easy answer for me, it's because number one I love Hawaii so very much!  They say that "home is where the heart is", and for me that has always been Hawaii!  But it is also because like most places it is also and forever changing!  I was certified by the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau many years ago... Certified Master "Loea" Hawaii Specialist. Simply put; I really have learned more, experienced more, and continue to receive education every year!  I also combine that education with personal "on island" time every year~ I believe the title deserves it!  Plus; today's traveler is very savvy, and spends many hours sometimes doing their "research".  I happen to respect that, and know it means that I better know more than they do!

This year in Hawaii has also been very emotional for me.  It brought to my attention the simple truth... family is not always "blood".  My ohana in these islands means the world to me!  My "sisters" on Hawaii, Maui, Kauai, and especially on Oahu (and Florida!) will always be a part of my heart.  I realized that there are just some people in your life, that are meant to always be there.  To my special ohana; I love you, I thank you, and I hope you know I will always be there for you, as you were for me.

My final thoughts on this year 2015... it was a year of learning and understanding!  More than ever before my message to my guests, clients, and potential clients; Vacations are a very special time in your lives.  Very special moments happen, and memories you hold in in your heart forever happen there!  This time should be treasured, and the way you choose that destination and the details should be handled with care and experience.  Planning a vacation should never be about the price.  But about the memories and experiences that happen there!  It is my hope that the next time you are going to plan a vacation you will remember these thoughts and consider planning your visit with a Professional Travel Consultant.

Happy New Year!  Thank you for your business, and the honor of planning your special vacations!  I hope to hear from you again... or for the first time~ in 2016!

Fall Has Arrived... and the DreamCatcher Travel Season Begins!

In today's travel business; if you are not more experienced, more knowledgeable, and have something extra to share with your guests, then you may as well give it up! I believe that this and more applies to those of us that are "Certified Destination Specialists"!

I have always specialized in vacation planning~ and do nothing else!  But my "specialties" are Hawai'i and all things "Disney".  So I make it my business to visit these places; often and regularly, as well as, to continue with my education. So once the busy summer months end, I am back on the road!

At the beginning of September I took my "traditional" birthday visit to Disneyland!  This year is even more special then usual, as they are celebrating the 60th Diamond Anniversary!  No one throws a party like Disney, and you really need to go to appreciate all that has gone into it!

I was the guest of the always lovely Disney Grand Californian!  Located right in the heart of the Downtown Disney District and the Grizzly Peak area of Disney California Adventure Park. This resort makes your stay at Disneyland so easy, and just makes you feel a part of the "magic". With the most exciting and fun pools, the beautiful Mandara Spa, and several dining options, you couldn't ask for anything more!

Often I have guests ask me the question; "Why should we stay at one of the Disneyland Resort Hotels?"  I think it's the best part of your Disneyland vacation!  You know what they say; "Location, location, location!" Once you have checked in, you are only a short walk away from the comfort and services of your beautiful room!  But all the extras are important too!  All guests of the resort hotels have "Extra Magic Hours", or early admission daily into both parks!  (Disneyland resort guests are exclusively allowed early admission into California Adventure Park- no one else!) Another great perk is the package delivery service.  You never have to wait to buy that special souvenir because you do not want to carry it!  Just have it sent directly to your resort, they let you know it's there, and even bring it up to your room! A real favorite of mine (and Disney Moms everywhere!) is the character wake up call!  You simply can not explain the joy and look of amazement on your child's face when Mickey calls to say it's time to wake up!  Priceless!

But the most magical time of all during this celebration of sixty years at Disneyland... is at night! The always special fireworks, "Disneyland Forever", is a show you must see from Main Street, USA, or in front of the castle! Then there is the all new nighttime parade extravaganza called "Paint the Night"! Which I believe may be the best parade Disney has ever created!  Not to be forgotten is the all new version of the "World of Color", in Disney's California Adventure Park.  Get the tissues~ some of us will need them!

There is always magic, memories, and fun happening at Disneyland!  It's just that right now, and until September 5, 2016~ they are just a little more exciting then usual. Then there is of course the "news", Disney is always imagining even bigger and better experiences for their guests!  Starting in January 2016; We will say good-bye to "Aladdin", and make welcome Anna and Elsa in the new presentation of "Frozen", which will start in the summer of 2016!  Maybe even  more exciting is the news that Disneyland will be adding an entire "land".  Construction will begin in  the "Thunder Ranch" area of Disneyland on a 14 acre project... "Star Wars Land!"  Stay tuned for updates!

When ever you decide to visit; it is my hope you will consider the expertise and passion that is incorporated into every Disneyland vacation planned at DreamCatcher Vacations!  We live by the philosophy; "The very best Disney vacation, is the one well planned!"

Just a few thoughts from this Disney Travel Professional~ and Vacation Planning Specialist!

Summertime...

Aloha Everyone!

I can't believe that it's already almost the end of June! With all kinds of craziness going on for me personally, it's also way past time for sharing my latest experience in Hawai'i with you!

This visit was Maui Nui... the county, not just the island!  The county of Maui is made up of four islands actually; Maui, Lana'i, Moloka'i, and Kaho'olawe. I started my stay at the stunning Four Seasons Manele Bay on the Island of Lana'i!

Their story is very unique, and the "end of the story", promises to bring jaw dropping results! Last year under the new ownership (Mr. Larry Ellison of Oracle fame) and what was to be the "first phase", renovation for Manele Bay began. The plan was to close down half the resort while complete renovations occurred. By the time that half re-opened, the new plans had grown tenfold, and the decision was made to close the entire resort for the remainder of the project. At the same time; the stunning and peaceful Four Seasons Lodge at Ko'ele was also closed, and is "housing" all the workers on these projects!  (How'd you like to be working there... ending the job each evening and returning to a five star resort that is home for the next year!)

 

I can't speak highly enough about the Four Seasons, and the people I met during this visit.  It opened my eyes to "true service" offered at an entirely different level!  From the moment I arrived and was greeted and then escorted by my personal "Ambassador" directly to my room! To the fabulous and indescribable meals we enjoyed at OneForty and Nobu! This island, these people, and this resort you must experience to understand!  It just does not get any better... unless maybe you are at another Four Seasons!  My sincerest aloha, and mahalo nui loa to my amazing friends and business partners; Lenora Yuen and Leighton Kitagawa, you are the best!

After some serious pampering, and crazy good food, we said aloha to Lana'i, and headed to Maui! The first stop was the lovely Four Seasons Wailea.  We had a marvelous breakfast, and was given an exciting "preview" of what's to come here!  All the rooms will be renovated, and the project is scheduled to begin very soon!  (Stay tuned for updates on this Maui resort!)

I said good-by to my new friends as they left for Hawai'i~ The Big Island, as I was on my way to Ka'anapali!  My time was to continue with several visits to resorts there on Maui. First stop; I was welcomed home at my always beautiful Hyatt Regency Ka'anapali.  They take such great care of me~ and of my guests! The views at this resort are simply breathtaking, and the resort has so much to offer!  From the many animal friends that call this resort home, to the world class dining!  This Hyatt Regency is always a great choice!

One of the stand-out meetings for me was with the Sales Manager at the "Montage".  I have to admit, I was avoiding this resort for many reasons. They all seem quite unimportant now, and I can only say; "This is an outstanding addition to your condo choices on Maui!" The location is of course perfection, as it sits right on Kapalua Bay!  When you first pull in it seems quite large.  But they have managed somehow to keep it personal, quiet, and stunningly beautiful!  The condo units each have their own private entrance, and the floor plans are just right! They all seem to have spectacular views, and are all appointed with all the "bells and whistles" we have all come to expect!  If you are looking for a quiet Maui experience, while still being close to the excitement of Ka'anapali and Lahaina~ this is a perfect choice!

During my "down time" I always try and experience activities and places that I want to share with my guests. My services have always included complete itinerary planning~ for those that would like me to do that!  So making sure I get to see and be a part of the excitement and different places that are Maui is extremely important!  I really want to mention briefly a very special evening in Lahaina Town spent with the "Feast at Lele". This is a truly unique and far more traditional "luau type" of dinner and show. Please do not call this one "just a luau"!  The food is absolutely terrific, and presented in phases, along with the entertainment and "island nation" it comes from!  This evening is an event... not just s dinner!  I also wanted to share; for those of you that may have experienced the "Feast at Lele", they are moving to a new location!  (Stay tuned on that also!)

One of my favorite places on this island is the "Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm", in upcountry Maui!  It's simply beautiful, and a great sense of peace for me whenever I am there.  The gardens are endless, and quite interesting!  I think it's the perfect place to explore, especially on those sticky hot days, as it's always at least ten degrees cooler in Kula!

It is always hard to say "aloha" to the islands for me!  They are endlessly sharing their stories and culture with me, and I am honored. It's said that "home is where the heart is...", and for me Hawai'i will always be my home!

Just some thoughts from this Professional Travel Consultant~ and Certified Master Hawai'i Specialist!

"It's Just Disneyland"... so you think!

I have really wanted to post this for a long time!  It's something I am so passionate about, and just want people to really think about!  Disneyland~ do it yourself vacation, or not?

Now I will be the first to say; there are lots of people, we are referred to as Disney "fanatics", that are perfectly capable of reserving a visit/stay at Disneyland. But I truly believe that there is just SO much more to Disneyland, and that planning deserves a little more attention to the details!

 

 

One of the first things I like to share about what I do for folks is my education, and experience directly with and from Disney!  Every year I attend something we call an "Agents Education Program", or AEP.  This is four days of classroom and parks interaction, at a level most will never experience.  You will never understand the passion connected to these places until you share it with Cast Members!  There  really is a "magic" we all share, and it's one of the most important things I try to give every one of my Disney guests!

It's my responsibility to not only reserve the right resort hotel for the right guest.  It's also a big part of what I do to "get the magic started".  Your Disney experience (done right) should begin from the first email- or phone call!  When given the chance; I am able to help people visualize each special day before they get there!  To bring exciting and "new" experiences to their attention, so they will not miss anything after they arrive!  I have always said; "the very best Disney experience, is the one well planned!".  So assisting guests plan even on a "day-to-day" level, is something a really get excited about doing!

Yes~ that is me in the front seat of the Radiator Springs Racer!  Did you know that even after almost three years (hardly can believe it!) the "FastPass" for this ride is not even available after a certain time of the day... because they are all distributed so early?  Were you aware that Disney's California Adventure Park, which opened on February 8, 2001, has recently finished a complete "re-Imagineering"?  That the entire "theme" was changed to "Walt's California Experience" in the 20's, when he first arrived in Southern California.  There is a great tour you should take- yes- even those Disney fanatics!  It's called "Walt's California Story", and even I learned so much!

I just feel very strongly that knowing the stories, and understanding how things happened, makes your experience at Disneyland so much more complete!  When I plan a visit to Disneyland I use my education, and share my stories, so that every visit for every guest is more magical!

This year it's even more important to plan your visit with a Disney Travel Professional as we will be celebrating the 60th Anniversary~ The Diamond Celebration of  Disneyland!  Starting on May 22, 2015, with all new shows, parades, fireworks, and so much more!  Space will be even more limited than usual, especially on specific dates~ the opening day, the exact anniversary day (July 17, 2015).  So consider planning with an expert~ I know you will be very glad you did!

Experience the "magic"~ let this Disney Travel Professional plan the party for you! 

The Last Visit of 2014...

Happy New Year Everyone!

Normally I would (like so many folks) be posting my "year in review" about now.  But I have one final visit I want to share with you from 2014!  I spent ten glorious days on my beautiful O'ahu, and I hope you will join me as I reminisce!

My time started once again with my friends and ohana at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki!  This hotel has so much to offer, and just one of the best locations in Waikiki!  But the truly exciting news; they are in the final phases of a major renovation, this last stage remodeling all the rooms!  Having already refreshed and updated all the public areas, this renovation makes my favorite place in Waikiki just "sparkle"!  But the really big news; these latest changes make the Hyatt Regency one of the only places in all of Waikiki with rooms that have two "queen size" beds!  Now four people can comfortably stay in one room!  Mahalo nui to Hyatt Regency Waikiki, to Renee Nakashima, and to my ohana there, that always make me feel so special!

 

 

My first official visit was to the outstanding, five star, home to the stars~ The Kahala!  Located just minutes south of Waikiki, in a very upscale area shared by the truly beautiful Waialae Country Club.  This resort also happens to be the home to my sweet friends~ the dolphins of "Dolphin Quest"!  I have been visiting Hawai'i since I was a young girl, and I am often asked; "What is your favorite resort?"  This is the one I always come back to; the perfect honeymoon spot, the perfect wedding location, the best place for relaxation~ all while being only minutes from the fun and excitement of Waikiki! The service levels are extraordinary, and all while being so very comfortable.  Some people might think this type of place to be too expensive, or to "stuffy".  But I'm telling you it feels like coming home!  Thank you Aimee Graham for sharing lunch with me, and taking the time to welcome me back!

After a few days in town, it was time to head out to the country and visit the Turtle Bay Resort in the north shore of O'ahu!  I always look forward to this drive, and getting out of the city for a while, especially during the winter months!  The surf is always pretty exciting, and it is in fact when we see all the big surfing championships!  On the very day I has scheduled to get out to the north shore, they were holding the finals of the "Van's World Championship"!  Even if you are not a surfer, this type of competition will shock and amaze you!  The talent and total lack of fear is something this girl still doesn't get!  But it's sure fun to watch them!

Upon arrival at the Turtle Bay Resort, I met with my good friend and Sales Manager, Lauren Rawlins.  We had a beautiful lunch by the pool, as we watched the waves and enjoyed the great weather that day!  This resort is really special, and is the perfect combination of quiet remote Hawai'i, and lots of wonderful amenities.  With three fine dining restaurants, two gorgeous beaches, great pool area, an outstanding spa... there's really no reason to ever leave!  This place is the reason I still find it so easy to convince people to return to O'ahu!  It's not just a "big city"!  O'ahu has everything; from the excitement of a great city, the fine dining, the night life, to the most pristine country side and quiet living!

But the most important thing I wanted to share with this last blog for 2014~ is my "aloha", and "ohana" from O'ahu and how much they all mean to me.  I have visited this place all my life really, and the one thing that just gets better, and stronger is the aloha spirit.  The more I know, the more I learn, the more powerful and meaningful this word~ this sense of place and spirit in me, the more I feel the connection. This is what I want to share with you most of all!  O'ahu is the "gathering place".  But also this special place offers peace, and gives you back your well being.  Some may not think of this island, in this way.  That is why I do what I do~ and love it so much! Because I take great pride and "aloha" in making sure my clients understand the difference!

 

Aloha 2014~ a hui hou Hawai'i!