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".
