November on Hawai'i

Aloha!

At the end of October, and into the first half of November I made my home on Hawai'i. It was for so many years referred to as "The Big Island".  But in recent years the Hawai'i Visitors Bureau has encouraged us all to respectfully call this island by it's true and correct name... Hawai'i!

It is one of the most diverse of all the islands with 11 of the 13 climatic zones on Earth found here! It's the only island where you could snow ski in the morning, and surf away the afternoon!  You can hike in the rain forests, or ride horseback over the rolling foothills! It is by far the most interesting and strikingly beautiful island, and yet the least well known!

My visit was quite different this time, as I stayed with friends, and combined my own work with some house sitting!  But it was truly a relaxing experience, and I felt like a "local".

I started this visit by checking off one of my own "bucket list" items!  We went to the Hilo side (east side) of this island to board the "Lava Boat", and see the Kilauea lava flowing into the ocean! This volcano has been flowing actively for many, many years.  But I have never seen this level of activity in all my years, and it was breath-taking! This is without a doubt, one of the most jaw-dropping experiences ever! It's a bit on the "pricey side".  But I would do it again in a heartbeat!

My first resort visit was the always gorgeous and very special... Four Seasons Hualalai. There is simply nothing to compare this place too. It is in a class all it's own.  The service is at a level that other resorts strive to achieve.  The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed. The dining is spectacular, and the location is simply perfect!  I am proud to work directly with this resort, and all of my guests are definitely VIPs!

Another favorite of mine was my next stop... the Fairmont Orchid!  Located in the Mauna Lani Resort area, this experience never disappoints! My favorite choice for my guests is the "Gold Floor". This exclusive club on the 6th floor offers extra special services and amenities! From your arrival you know you are a welcomed special guest!  You and your luggage are taken directly from curbside to the sixth floor for a private check-in with the amazing folks of the concierge lounge.  You are from that point forward always referred to by name, and they provide you with anything you need and want! Staying at the Fairmont Orchid is something that should be on your "bucket list"!

Another spot I never miss on my visit to Hawai'i is the little town of Hawi! Located about 45 minutes north of the Kohala Coast.  This quaint little village will keep you intrigued all day!  From the "original" statue of King Kamehameha the Great, to the many little restaurants and shops. It's definitely worth the drive to explore this gem!

I love Hawai'i... but my love for Hawai'i Island has easily tripled in the past few years!  The history and the "sense of place" are very strong here. This is the island where the Great King Kamehameha was born and raised. It is the home to the powerful Madame Pele, and her Kilauea volcano!  At the same time; this is where the very famous and much loved "Kona coffee" is grown too!

This island is very- very big!  But I say; all the more reason to plan the experience you want, by using the expertise of a Certified Master Hawai'i Island Specialist! (That would be me of course!)

Just the opinions of this Professional Travel Consultant~ Aloha!