My Review in Travel for 2018

After having missed posting my experience at Disneyland in October, I had mentioned it would be following soon! But I think the better idea for this post is a "review" of my experiences, destinations, and thoughts that I wanted to share with all of you from 2018!

My travels for this year included; the beautiful island of Kauai in March, Maui in May, Oahu and Hawaii Island in September, back to Oahu in December... and that very, very special visit to Disneyland in October!

First a very strong point that needs to be made; if you have not heard, the crowds at Disneyland are horrific! The quick answer as to why, is that Disneyland has issued too many "Annual Passes". (I would be happy to elaborate~ contact me direct anytime!)

Did I still have a magical visit... 100% yes- I did! But as a Certified Master Disney Specialist - I did all the planning! These days for all my guests it is my mantra. "The very best Disney vacation~ is the one well planned!" One of my all time bucket list items happened, and that was my third time doing the tour a "Walk in Walt's Footsteps". The reason this time stands out is the photo above. I was finally able to access Walt's apartment above the firehouse on Main Street, USA! It was sincerely one of those very emotional and special "magical moments" for me! I highly recommend this tour to everyone!

Now back to Hawaii! In late February and early March was my return to my home~ Kauai! The one stand-out thought about this "Garden Isle", is something I have always said about Kauai. "It's the one island that looks like what people think Hawaii is supposed to look like~ if they have never been there before." If your dream is walking hand-in-hand on a gorgeous beach with just that special someone (and not hundreds of your closest friends) then Kauai is your perfect choice!

May took me to Maui! Whenever I think of Maui (as a Travel Expert) I think about all the people that have gone to this island~ because someone they know, recommended it. Please do not get me wrong; I know everyone gets the opinions and advice of friends and family! But I also have learned many times from asking the right questions, they were not going to experience what they wanted. Maui is special and unique (as are each of the islands) for all it's own reasons! But these islands are all very different, and not every one is right for every body! This island paradise is still (after 30 years) the #1 Island Destination in the World! Very often the number of visitors reflects that fact. I want everyone to experience this "magic isle"... but contact me, and let me help you make it all you are hoping for, and much more!

Then in September I returned to the Island of Hawaii, aka "the Big Island". It's funny how over the years thoughts and opinions change. Many years ago, even I must admit, I did not "get" this island. Man~ was I wrong! If you are into history and the culture, and really getting to know and feel the "aloha spirit"... this is your best choice! This is the birth place of King Kamehameha the Great, and that alone kept me busy for a week! But this island is also very unique in that you could literally snow ski in the morning, hike a rain-forest in the afternoon, and watch the sunset from a stunning beach! With 11 of the Earth's 13 climactic zones present here, you will never lack for something fun and exciting to do!

Last, but certainly not least in my mind and heart~ Oahu! Many people are shocked, even offended, when I say; "This s still my favorite island!" The island has everything, except a "live" volcano! But I think the most important thing to share about Oahu; it is SO much more than the city (and state capital) of Honolulu! I am saddened and surprised at how many people visit Oahu, and all they ever see is the city. Personally I love this city, so many amazing restaurants and shopping. But the beauty and history on this island is unmistakable! No visit to Oahu is complete without spending at least two days in the "country". Sharing this beautiful island, and all it has to offer, is one of my great joys!

In closing this year of travel and planning amazing vacations, I feel even stronger than ever before about my place in this industry. It's very important that each of you know; planning with a Travel Expert is 100%... your best deal! Whether your dreams are taking you to Hawaii or some place Disney~ on a fabulous cruise or to the South Pacific! I plan vacations... hope to hear from you in 2019!

Fall Travel ~ My Favorite Time of Year!

Well... I am sincerely grateful if you are taking the time to read this blog post! I was embarrassed when I realized that I had never posted my travels for September... or October! (October to follow in the next week!)

So usually I take my first trip of the season in September, and it is traditionally for my birthday to Disneyland! But my entire travel schedule seemed to get moved around this year, and instead I made a very different visit this month! Traveling with my dear sister/friend and colleague (Leslie Darga) we stopped by first at our "home away from home" (Waikiki) for a very brief, but still very fun stay!

Our time was packed with site inspections and very special dining! But first I must send out a big ALOHA and Mahalo Nui Loa to my ohana at the always stunning Hyatt Regency Waikiki! The photo above was the view from our perfect room! But more important for us both are the people. To our dear friend of years and years (too many to count) Mrs. Renee Archer Nakashima, you are the BEST! To my amazing ohana that takes such great care of me in the Regency Club Lounge (Mark Omori and Carey just to name the evening crew!) you make the difference between; staying at a hotel and returning home! We love you! I have obviously developed a very "personal" connection with this hotel. But I still recommend it to all; the best Waikiki location, biggest rooms, and the staff here always make it great!

After only two nights we headed over to Hawaii Island~ "The Big Island". For a much longer stay and new experience at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort! Now many of you will know this resort from it's former incarnation the Hapuna Beach Prince Resort. But believe me this hotel is nothing like it once was... still the best location on this island! But the "re-creation" of this resort is very clear as soon as you get out of the car and look into the lobby area.

After some challenges at check-in, we ended up in a stunning room with a beautiful ocean view! Our home for the next eight days. I have always judged resorts not by the mistakes (or lack of them), but how quickly they fix a problem when something does come up! The staff at the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort did a very good job.

But the thing (besides the obvious amazing location) that I loved here was the food! We ended up eating here several times, and although it is "resort pricey", it was well worth it! Our one fine dining experience was the "Meridia". Open air dining with spectacular sunsets and excellent service! The food was very good, and I would return to the restaurant even if I was not staying at the resort.

During the business days we of course visited several of our favorite resorts to check-up on them and see what is new and exciting. One special mention; both sad and very exciting at the same time! The long time favorite Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows closed on October 1st, just after we stopped by to say aloha. It will be closed until the end of 2019, undergoing a total transformation! Everything from the front desk and lobby, to the hallways and rooms. The entire exterior and pool areas will be redone, this resort will emerge a completely different experience.

A visit to the Island of Hawaii would not be the same with out a stop at the exclusive and always very special Four Seasons Hualalai! Every time I visit this place I am reminded of the way I felt about it the very first time. "There are five star resorts... and then there are Four Seasons"! This location has always been one of my #1 picks in all of  the Hawaiian Islands. There is simply nothing about this resort that I do not love!

Despite all the negative news these past months because of the volcano and several horrible storms. This island is beautiful! In fact; the weather (other than too humid for this girl) was spectacular! The skies were as blue as ever, and the air quality was as clean as it's been in years!

If you have been thinking about a visit to the islands, I urge you to contact me at DreamCatcher Vacations. Let's talk about "the Big Island"! Too many people these days seem to be planning their Hawaii vacations online. To them, and to anyone thinking about visiting Hawaii, I ask you to reconsider! I have been planning vacations (and nothing else) for the better part of my 25 year career. I'm told by the "marketing experts"~ that point does not matter. But I completely disagree. My experience in planning, and my personal visits every year make planning your vacation with DreamCatcher a very smart choice! I will save you a ton of time, and I can guarantee; you will get what you asked for... and usually a whole lot more! My guests are never "surprised", and always come home very~very happy!

When your experience before, during and after the vacation is the priority... contact Teri at DreamCatcher Vacations! You will be very glad that you did!

Summer 2018...

Hi Everyone!

With our summer coming to an end (OMG ~ kids have been back in school for two weeks already!), I am reminded this means... here come the holidays! Planning for them (be it Christmas or the ever popular Spring Break) is super important, and I hope to show you in this post some reasons why you should do that with a Professional Travel Expert!

Whether your thing is Europe, Hawaii, or the Disney Parks, they ALL require advance planning! Now I love a challenge! But it's important to keep in mind that no Travel Expert is a "magician"! Space remaining is very expensive, and many situations are already completely sold out! However I still believe 100% that using the expertise of a Professional Vacation Planner is absolutely your best deal!

This brings to mind the recent scare in the Islands of Hawaii with Hurricane Lane. Now as you already know, this turned out (like most) to be in the end, nothing more than a horrible rain storm. But I bring this up because these are the situations that do ruin a vacation... if you have no help! When you work with an expert, you have someone looking out for you through the duration of your trip. I know that all of my clients' vacation packages include a very comprehensive travel protection. Now many people do not really understand the value of this protection, and that is a shame! You see not only does it protect your investment, it provides you with 24/7 customer service! If at any time my clients have a problem, concern, changes, they have either myself (of course) ~ or my wholesaler's customer service people at the ready! My clients never worry, or wait anxiously "on hold"! They always have an expert available to help them, and often we are able to completely turn around a bad situation!

Now the thought has come up; what if you did not make reservations way-way in advance... what do you do? That is a great big... contact a Professional Travel Advisor, people! (The theme of this post BTW~ ...LOL) One of my go to points on this topic are the theme parks of Disney! No place is this more true than at Walt Disney World in particular! Are you aware that dining reservations for restaurants across the "world" are made 180 days in advance? Yes, you read that right~ six months! Many of the most popular (Cinderella's Royal Table, Be Our Guest Restaurant, both at the Magic Kingdom) will be gone within one hour of the six month window opening! Then of course there is the "MyDisneyExperience" app. Do you know it, have it downloaded? Did you know that you are now able to check-in and go straight to your room? Please believe me, this is the tip of the proverbial "iceberg"! But if you work with an expert, none of these things will be an issue! #AskMe

Let's address for a moment, the always popular... internet! Now what I have to say here may seem odd, after all you are reading this blog because you are on the internet! For most of us in this industry, it's a "love/hate" relationship! I have always said it's a great place to get the "basics". For people who decide all of a sudden at 11:00pm they are going to go to Hawaii, and need to know right this second what it will cost! But after the dust settles, do you take what you have learned to an expert? You should, it costs you nothing to ask, and I know that I have always been able to impress people with information they never found! After 25 years in the travel business, and a life time of destination experiences I have a lot to share! There is so much more to planning a great vacation, and often I have had people completely change their decisions after talking with me! I truly, sincerely care about my guests and every detail of their experiences!

People have been told in recent years that the internet is the only place to get the best deal. Have you heard that? Well here's the thing; if you are free to travel in the next 3 -5 days, it may be! But most of us have responsibilities, jobs, family, homes, and we need to plan for being away! A great Travel Advisor has your back, uses their expertise to get you what you need and want for your vacation! Even more; we care about you, and your experience, and use all the years and education we have gathered to make sure you come home with a big smile on your face! My goal for my guests has always been to exceed their expectations. After opening DreamCatcher in 1996, I feel confident in saying today~ I have been able to do that... most all of the time!

In closing I want to say... mahalo nui loa~ thank you very much! For reading this blog, and considering the value of my words. There are not a lot of people in this crazy business with the education, or the passion for the planning still intact! But I do, and I hope this is something that matters to you!

A hui hou! (Until next we meet.)

Do You Cruise?

Hi Everyone!

This blog will be a bit different, especially if you have read my blogs in the past! But it was an amazing experience for me, and worth sharing!

Back in October of 2017 I was honored with a very exclusive invitation from Norwegian Cruise Lines. It was for a special event called an "inaugural celebration", to be held in late May 2018. It's a tradition in the cruise industry. When a brand new ship is "introduced" to the world, it is presented to the travel industry, media, etc. with these short events, so that we can get familiar with the vessel, services, food, and entertainment!

This ship had four of these events; first one in New York, then Miami, Los Angeles, and the final one in Seattle. All of these lead up to the "maiden voyage", and the Bliss' first season with passengers (not in the industry or media!) in Alaska. The ship and all four events were hugely successful, and the ship is stunning!

There was so much to see and do, and so little time! But once on board, I unloaded my belongings in my lovely "balcony" stateroom, and I was off to explore! I think I need to step back for a moment and share my story of how I became so very interested in this new ship!

As many of you know, I am a "Hawaii Girl" by heart. I have spent most of my life visiting, working, and living in the islands! One of my passions; the artwork of a "local boy" we all call "Wyland". He is most famous for his gigantic murals on the sides of some now very famous buildings of whales and dolphins! So when I learned that Wyland would be doing the artwork on the hull of this new ship... I was hooked!

Needless to say; when I found out that he would be on board for the inaugural event, I thought I had died and gone to heaven! (Come on ladies~ he's really easy on the eyes... and speaking of eyes, he has the most beautiful blues!) Sorry I digress!

Norwegian Cruise Lines is best known for "Freestyle Cruising". This concept has been adopted (sort of) by other cruise lines. But none of them do it as well as Norwegian! Basically the idea is; you are free to dine, when you want, where you want, and with who ever you want! They offer the traditional dining, as well as, many individual restaurant experiences. These days NCL also offers the most exciting concept of all... ALL beverages are included (a small service fee applies). But seriously there is nothing more "freeing" than to walk up to a bar, order the beverage of your choice, and then just walk away!

The dining is exceptional, and the choices seem to be endless! But for me the best part was; I felt very comfortable and relaxed not dressing up! Don't get me wrong, I was wearing a very nice blouse and Capri slacks, hair and make-up in place! Some people, especially those dining at the specialty restaurants will dress in more formal attire. But it's not mandatory for anyone, and for me that makes for a more relaxing cruise!

The entertainment on this ship is outstanding! Most well known for "The Jersey Boys", a musical stage production, to the "speakeasy", comedy club, and even "The Beatles"! (Okay~ not the actual Beatles! But SO much fun!) Don't forget the "usual"; several amazing pools and spas, and oh~ the go cart race track! Even in a full week cruise, you will run out of time!

Norwegian has out done themselves... and most of the "other" cruise lines too with this spectacular cruise ship! I did not want to leave, but sadly I did. I love this ship so much, I went back to my office and secured some VERY special balcony staterooms for my guests! If you would like the chance to experience this ship for yourself~ contact me today! (But don't wait~ the rates have gone up dramatically since I secured my space, so my rate is pretty special!)

Although cruising has sort of taken a back row in my life and business. I did love my time aboard the Norwegian Bliss, and will do it again! Let me know if you would like to try it for yourself~ and at the lowest and best value available today~ from DreamCatcher!

Maui... The Valley Isle 2018

Aloha from the "Valley Isle"... Maui!

This island is a special place, and has some incredible history attached to it. From the Road to Hana, and all the beauty of a tropical rain forest, to the panoramic views from Mt. Haleakala! Maui was once two islands, and one final and very large volcanic eruption brought the two islands together! It is also one of the most popular locations in the chain to see the whales up close and personal!

My home away from home on this visit was the stunning Honua Kai Resort! This condo resort is located just north of Ka'anapali, right on a beautiful beach! The one, two, and three bedroom units are beautifully appointed and comfortable. It's easy to feel at home here, and always very hard to leave!

I spent my first full day on Maui traveling on that famous "Road to Hana" to visit the equally as famous "Travaasa", formerly known as the Hotel Hana Maui. Though the weather was not cooperating (lots of rain), the drive was well worth it! This resort is the last thing you would expect, and everything you hope for in an authentic Hawaiian experience. The rooms are very large, nicely appointed, and yet very understated. They pride themselves on offering a relaxing and quiet environment, and that means... no technology! There are no TVs, no radios, no A/C, and they like it that way! Once upon a time, there was also no WiFi! But today's guest sadly seems to demand that connection, and so Hana has now installed a very good tower. Stay connected ~if you must! But many guests embrace the freedom of being "unplugged" after a very short time!

I also spent some time in the Kapalua resort area, north of Ka'anapali. After several years, I really wanted to revisit the Ritz Carlton Kapalua, and was not disappointed! The grounds are perfection, and the rooms are even better than I remembered! They have an amazing beach here, and the pool area is one of the most photographed on Maui! The service is still "stand alone", no comparison, and you will never go wrong in choosing this location for your next vacation!

Also in Kapalua is a very luxurious and beautiful resort known as "Montage". This five star condo resort is truly spectacular. Located on the most perfect bay and beach. These are condos you will never want to leave! The spa here is exceptional, and the very best way to spend a day! One thing I really love; each unit has a private entrance, it makes the experience feel very special and exclusive!

I love my five star resorts, and Maui has lots of them! But I really also want to share a couple of the "activities" I experienced too! Now some people (who have become jaded, or too critical) may not agree with me. But I still love the "idea", and entertainment value of a good luau! There are of course several on island, this year I visited the "Drums of the Pacific" at the Hyatt Regency Maui on Ka'anapali Beach! For those of you who have been before~ go again! The food has always been excellent and still is very good for a large luau. But some folks were complaining about it becoming a bit "cheesy", and I do not disagree. However they have changed the program, and involved a wonderful story that pulls the sets together. It is a truly memorable location with some of the very best sunsets! Now the entertainment is more authentic, and quite enjoyable!

Another very fun and unique evening was spent in downtown Lahaina with "Warren and Annabelle"! This theater was started 19 years ago, and is still sold out~ every single night! Warren (still performing), Chris Blackmore, John Shyrock, and others... are the BEST "slight of hand" artists in the world! As if that was not enough; they are some of the most hilarious guys on the planet, like crying until you think you've lost it~ funny! I have been there before, but not for several years, and I was SO glad I went back! I highly recommend advance reservations, and the "Royal Package"! Contact me... I'd be happy to set it up for you!

Last but certainly not least is something that many of you probably will find unexpected from me! My dear friend Heidi Denecke, who I first met in my crazy industry many, many years ago, is now the owner/operator of the "Maui Animal Farm"! Her beautiful farm is just "up country" from Lahaina Town, and yet feels worlds away! She has given home, sanctuary, and lots of love to a menagerie of critters! From an array of bunnies, three miniature horses, chickens, and much more! But the big attraction for me... the goats! She has big goats, little goats, and every one of them adorable and entertaining! I fell in love that day, and I have never seen my dear friend so happy!

Whether your dream vacation includes beaches, fine dining, rain forests, whales, or even goats! The island of Maui is a great choice. I do strongly advise (especially if you are not working with a travel expert) to be diligent and very thorough in your research. Maui is the #1 Island Destination in the World, and has been for decades. It is really feeling some "growing pains" these days, and that may be a disappointment for some people. It is crowded, and you need to plan for that.

My passion for the Islands of Hawaii only gets stronger every year. I never "tire" of being there, and discover something new and important on every visit! But these days it's more about the experience, and the new adventures to be a part of on each island. It's why I do what I do~ so your time on these islands are as memorable and special as it should be!

The Garden Isle... Kauai

It seems this first part of the year is flying by! I myself just returned from the beautiful island of Kauai, and my first visit in 2018!

This island, the oldest of the chain, just seems to get even more breathtaking every year! I have been a part of this special place since 1989, not to age myself or anything! So I have many memories here, as well as, "ohana"~ family. Kauai is to me; the one island that looks and feels, like what people think Hawaii is supposed to be... if they have never been here before!

My home on this stay was the spectacular Koloa Landing Resort in Poipu! Now that the final phase has been completed this wonderful peaceful place is a resort you will want to return to again and again. My condo-style unit was expertly appointed, and beautifully decorated! I must say; one of the most outstanding beds (king size of course) I have ever slept in, and wishing it was in my own room in California! The amazing resort style pools (yes, more than one!), and the gourmet delights of the "Holo Holo Grill", make it hard to leave the resort at all!

My visits though to "other" resorts are what my trips are all about. I return to my islands, each one every year. As an expert I think it's important to stay up to date, so that I am able to share accurate and recent information with all of my guests!

One of my favorite resort hotels is the Grand Hyatt Kauai! Located in the Poipu area, it is a fully self-contained five star destination! The hotel sits on a spectacular beach. But the even more attractive options are all the pools and water areas. The "multi-level" resort style pool is connected by a lazy river, has a great water slide, and it's own fresh and salt water lagoons! But not to be forgotten is the world class spa (Anara), with yet another more private pool, and all the finest amenities and services. Along with the five star service all guests will receive, this very special resort has it all!

Also in this same area is a very nice resort, the Sheraton Kauai Resort.  Now this hotel has had it's troubles over the years. It was devastated by hurricane "Iniki" in 1992, and had a very hard time recovering. But this latest visit shows some extraordinary changes, and they are all happening now very quickly! The "ocean front wing" has completed a stunning remodel of all the rooms. With the same changes going on for the beach front wing right now! While the "garden wings", which always seemed to be somewhat neglected, are being transformed into beautiful condo units! This is a resort I will encourage guests to consider once again!

I was also very excited and blessed to share a few moments with one of Kauai's very special and protected friends... the Monk Seal! If you have ever been to Kauai, you know this, but I will repeat for emphasis! Do not approach them, or startle them! They are protected by the state and you will generally find the area they occupy to be roped off with yellow tape. If you are very lucky (as I was that day), they will wake up for a few moments to check-out their admiring fans!

Now some of you may know... I'm a foodie! On this visit I experienced a place new to me, and I love that about Hawaii! Representing one of the most important "food groups" in my opinion~ chocolate! I spent an incredible and very tasty morning at "Steelgrass Farm". When I first learned the tour there was three hours, I did think that seemed rather long. But I can promise you at the end, you will be sad it's over! The farm itself is gorgeous, located in a very lush part of the island. It's "up country" from the Wailua River, a little tricky to find, but worth the effort! I have been visiting these islands for a very, very long time! But I tasted fruits grown here that I had never even heard of before! They were outstanding! But the hi-light of the tour was of course all that yummy chocolate! I was captivated and entertained~ but also learned so much!  Mahalo to everyone at Steelgrass Farm, I and all of my guests will be visiting soon!

I am often asked the question; "Which of the islands is your favorite?" I must be very honest, I've never found the perfect answer to that question. Each of these islands is different, unique, with something special to offer. But the one thing they all have in common is this thing we call "aloha". The love, respect, and feelings of aloha are strong on this island. I am at peace here on Kauai. One day these islands will be my home permanently. Until that time; I share all I learn and continue to learn with my guests, so that their stay will be truly special and filled with "aloha".