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!
