Disney names new Hawaii resort

The highly anticipated Disney resort that’s currently under construction in Hawaii finally has a name — Aulani — which means, "the place that speaks with deep messages," Walt Disney Parks and Resorts announced today.
"We want this resort destination to reflect the vibrant culture that surrounds it," Joe Rohde, senior vice president of creative for Walt Disney Imagineering, said in a statement. "The name ‘Aulani’ expresses a connection to tradition and deep storytelling — and its roots are here in this land. We’re so grateful to the local Hawaiians who led us to the discovery of this name, and our goal is to live up to its meaning."

The Disney resort, which has a new Web site that also was unveiled today, will open its first phase in fall 2011. Located in Ko Olina, on the island of Oahu, it will have 360 hotel rooms and 481 two-bedroom villas, as well as a 14,545-square-foot conference center, an 18,000-square-foot spa and 48,685 square feet of outdoor venues for activities such as snorkeling and golf.

"We are looking forward to welcoming guests to Aulani to share the fun, immersive family vacation experiences Disney is known for combined with the beauty and culture of Hawaii," said Disney Vacation Club and Resort Vice President Djuan Rivers. "We are turning to the Hawaiian culture for inspiration in everything we are doing at Aulani, and we hope our guests will not only enjoy the Disney experience, but will also embrace the unique culture of Hawaii and its diverse people."

Disney’s new Aulani Web site offers a preview of the new resort, complete with conceptual art and descriptions of resort highlights, and will be updated regularly with construction reports and photos. Follow us on twitter

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Published by Bruce Fisher

Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.

Entry Filed under: Fun Stuff,Oahu

January 20th, 2010