One thing I always get asked by tourists is, "Where is a great place to watch a Hawaiian Sunset here on Maui?"  I always reply to them that the BEST locations for watching sunsets here are South Maui (Kihei/Wailea/Makena), Upcountry Maui (Kula/Makawao/Pukalani/Ulupalakua/Keokea/Haiku/Paia) and the West Side (Lahaina/Ka’anapali/Napili/Kapalua/Olowalu), and if you wish head up to the summit of Haleakala to watch from there.  Watching Sunsets here in Hawaii especially on Maui are great back drops for photo taking, painting, Hollywood Sunset video taking for shows and movies for when they can’t film on location, and even weddings on the beach.  Yes I have seen weddings take place in the evenings on the South Shore numerous times.  The best time to head on down to the shoreline to watch is probably around 5:45 PM (1745 if your in the military).  Hawaiian Sunsets especially here on Maui are breath taking and if you are lucky, you may get to see the infamous green flash.  Make sure to bring a camera and video camera with you when you go watch the sunset.  Here in Hawaii sometimes people have sunset meet ups and take pictures and have a beach party, but subtract the alcohol from that mix.  Here are some tips I usually give to people on Sunset watching:

Parking Lot Tips:
-Check your surroundings
-Take Anything of high value with you (Utilize your hotel/condo’s safety deposit)
-Lock your Rental/Loaner Vehicle
-Park where it is well light once it does get dark (Preferred location right under a light pole or near one

Beach Tips:
-Remember no alcoholic drinks allowed on the beach for fines are pretty stiff
-Use caution if your going to be using a grill for a sunset Barbecue
-Throw all garbage in the trash cans

Haleakala Summit Tips:
-Test your rental vehicle’s breaks
-Test your " " " " Lights and hazard grid lights
-Make sure you had enough rest before making the trek up there
-Park in Visitor stalls only for Federal Fines are stiff and may include State and County fines also
-Walk slowly for the air is thin up there
-If you experience a medical emergency please contact the Ranger Station or County of Maui 911

Over all enjoy the sunsets here in Hawaii.  Little Known fact on Hollywood Filming you may never know when they are filming here and you may even be included in a shot or multiple shots (It has been done before).  So enjoy and have fun.  If you have any questions or concerns, contact us here at Hawaii-Aloha.com or contact your hotel.

Posted by Jake Smookler follow on twitter Hawaii_Vacation

Hawaii enhances every cuisine it encounters, but the really interesting dishes are created in the cultural stew that originates on these islands.  This week finds me explaining a "Loco Moco" to international visitors.  It is a staple on breakfast menus in Hawaii, with each restaurant boasting its own variation.

I was back on the mainland when I first heard stories of this legendary feast.  A fellow student learned I was traveling to Hawaii.  He said a colleague of his had studied in Hawaii and returned with tales of a breakfast meal that included rice topped with hamburger patties, fried eggs and gravy.  I’m pretty sure my mouth gaped open and I think I remember saying "No way!" or OMG!’

He smiled and shook his head.  "I haven’t seen it, but he described it in detail," my friend said.  "You can buy it right on campus in the dorm cafeteria."  At this point, other students were eavesdropping.  "A hamburger for breakfast?"  I challenged, "AND an egg and rice?"  He was grinning by now.  "No" (pause for effect) "TWO hamburger patties on top of rice with fried eggs on top of them."  He took a breath.  "AND you forgot the gravy."  Whatever it means to "boggle", my mind did it right then.

Of course when we arrived in Hawaii, I told Rick it was a traditional Hawaiian breakfast dish so he would order it.  (think : the old commercial "Mikey will try anything!")  I am usually an adventurous eater, but I was fully willing to pawn this particular experience off on Rick.  I kind of had a mental picture of what the ingredients were but I totally underestimated the volume of this dish.  Even in its most meager presentation, this is a LOT of food!

Fortunately, Rick loved it.  We’ve since seen a variety of different presentations — it’s a point of pride for each restaurant to have its own version of the Loco Moco.  But even after almost two years here, and watching Rick consume a variety of versions of Loco Mocos, this is my confession:  I still haven’t consumed the dish myself.  I’ve experienced it vicariously and I believe it to be tasty but I still haven’t gone there.  Some day ….
 

Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner
 

The Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa on the Kona coast of Hawaiis Big Island recently announced plans to begin in-room enhancements at the 521-room, 22 acre oceanfront resort.

During the first phase, nearly two-thirds of the guest rooms will receive new carpeting, 37-inch flat screen panel televisions, and fresh wall paint including an accent wall color. It is anticipated that the first phase will be complete by the end of summer. The last third of the rooms will receive the same upgrades shortly thereafter.

Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spas renovation is part of a $6 billion brand-wide global revitalization effort, which includes upgrading 100 Sheraton hotels in the U.S., renovating 70,000 guestrooms, and re-designing 300 Lobbies, explained Sheraton Keauhou Bay General Manager Tetsuji Yamazaki. Weve been working on these plans for sometime and were excited to be moving forward to provide an excellent experience for visitors.

A key component of Sheraton Keauhou Bays renovation is a redesign in the area fronting Keauhou Bay Coffee Company Café that will feature the brands signature hotel offering: Link@Sheraton experienced with Microsoft®, a unique lounge that enables guests to stay connected using Windows-based computers that feature Microsoft Office, Bing, Microsofts new decision engine, Bing Maps, Internet access and Microsoft LifeCam webcams for emailing video postcards. The Link@Sheraton enables travelers to stay connected with instant access to information and technology for work, leisure and social networking. Adding to the social aspect of the new design will be a communal table at the center that allows several guests to work independently of one another within the same space, while game tables and oversized chairs encourage playful interaction or rest and relaxation.

Posted by Bruce Fisher follow on twitter @alohabruce

Colorful sails skimmed across the water in Kaneohe Bay this weekend as the racing season got underway.  Two different races were taking place near one spot, making it appear as though the boats were running into one another.  They were taking slightly different patterns in their wind-powered circuits.  We were close enough to wave but no one collided.

Several bright yellow buoys are placed around the bay with big, black letters on them (A-F).  Each race involves a different order of which buoys to go around and an indication of whether you pass on the port or starboard side.  Over the summer, races are held several times a month.  The races are an opportunity to practice boating skills while enjoying an afternoon on the water and the companionship of other sailors.

Because this was the first weekend of racing, the yacht club had a boat blessing.  A local minister led boaters in a prayer for safe travels then visited individual boats to bless them with water from a koa bowl with palm leaves.  Club members have both sail and power boats that were blessed if the owners wished.

Blessings are customary at many beginnings in Hawaii: ground-breakings, building moves, or season openings — even government projects.  Rather than a conflict between church and state, they are considered a sign of community.  Boaters don’t have to agree on theological matters to join in a common wish that everyone returns to safe harbor with vessel and crew intact.

  Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner

Oahu
The Maile Sky Court is extending their introductory Special City View  for just $76 per night with FREE upgrade based on availability! Valid now through-6/30/10. The Miramar at Waikiki is offering Superior rooms from $79 per night from now through 05/23/10. The  Waikiki Resort has a new Surf Special with reduced rates in their Surf category starting at 89.00 per night Valid until 6/30/10. 

Maui
The Castle Kamaole Sands is running their Springtacular Sale and has slashed their prices which are starting at 108 per night  Valid now through 6/30/10.  The Honua Kai Resort & Spa has a manager’s special right now with reduced Rates in Studio and 1 & 2 Bedroom units starting at 199.00d for NEW bookings thru 4/15/10 for travel 2/1-6/10/10. The Plantation Inn – Special Promotion Reduce rate in the Lanai Room category! Valid now thru 3/31/10. Blackout dates apply.  New bookings only. Book as a package and save even more!

Kauai
The Castle Kaha Lani Resort has a springtacular Sale running now  and is offering reduced rates in all categories staring at 99.00 per night Valid 4/1-6/30/10.  The Grand Hyatt Kaua’I Resort & Spa is still offering their Stay More, Play More Aloha Rate and $50 Daily Resort Credit Valid 1/4-3/17/10 for Travel 1/4-1/15/10 & 1/27-4/30/10

Big Island
Waikoloa Beach Marriott has a Paradise Plus with Breakfast package available and also new lower rates staring at 1279 per night Valid Now through 6/25/10. Book as a package and save even more! The beautiful Mauna Lani Bay Hotel has book early bonus offer with discounted rates when booked at least 14 days or longer prior to arrival call us at 1-800-843–8771 for pricing.
Valid now through -12/23/10. New bookings only. The Keahou Beach Resort has a 3rd Night Free promotion valid now thru 3/31/10.

There are lots of deals to Hawaii, just give us a call at 1-800-843-8771 and any agent can help you.

As clocks change this weekend, many parts of the globe look for signs of spring — some anxious for a relief from winter, others dreading the advent of hot summers.  My family in Texas holds on to the cool weather for as long as possible, while the Kansas kin have had quite enough of snow by now.  In Hawaii the clocks never change, birds never leave and trees are always lushly green, but there are more subtle signs of a seasonal change.

Daylight is coming a little earlier in the mornings and lasting a little longer in the evenings.  It is still fairly rainy but that will become less frequent soon.  The winds have been blustery lately, but they settle into a more predictable pattern for summer that is conducive for sailing.  Most recreational sailing activities take a winter break.  Boat owners do maintenance, taking turns hauling their boats out of the water for a few weeks.  A spring sail is planned for this weekend to start off the weekly races that will continue until fall.

The first time I ever visited Hawaii was in late March.  Coming from the mainland, I didn’t notice any of the signs of spring just mentioned.  It was so sunny and warm compared with what I had left that I thought there was the same postcard weather all year.  I remember being happy that the water wasn’t too cold to play in.  Now I would probably say that it is, but only because I can wait for perfect days to walk to the beach instead of watching the return plane flight creep up on me.

I enjoy having the perspective of a year-round resident. I also remember my visits as a tourist.  From both points of view, there are no bad days in Hawaii.

Posted by Cindy Scheopner  Follow me on Twitter @Scheopner
 

Ok a ton of questions I get daily are, "Where are the BEST beaches here on Maui and have life guards?"  I answer mostly Kamaole Beach Parks 1-3, Ka’anapali Beach, Black Rock, Kanaha Beach Park, Baldwin Beach Park, Ho’okipa Beach Park, and Makena State Park Beach.  These beaches are beautiful and you can see a ton of interesting sea creatures.  I like the Kam Beach Parks because they already have grills, nice beach layouts, and perfect conditions for the keiki (kay key meaning children).  I try and avoid the beach parks with out life guards due to the fact that if I get in trouble of have a medical emergency, there is no one to help me out.  Make sure to bring a bottle of sunblock/sunscreen with you for the sun out here is very strong UV Rays wise.  On your way to the beach of your choice, stop on by a store and pick up some drinks (No Alcohol Drinking allowed at the Beach Parks per State/County Laws), BBQ stuff, and snacks.  Make sure to please throw your garbage away in the trash cans the County has provided to you.  A majority of the beach parks here on Maui include grills!  YES I said it grills!  Sometimes folks here Host their own "Iron Chef Competitions" at the beach park to show their latest Southern/Hawaiian BBQ.  Also if your at a hotel ask the Customer Service desk or pool officials for a towel or a whole stack for the entire group.  Make sure to double up on towels though, 1 for laying on the sand and 1 for using when you shower off.  Hotels and Condos should have the towels for you to use.  If not just bring the towels you have from your room then call room service to bring you a fresh stock when you get back or right away.  Please read up on the tips Below for your Maui Beach Experience

Parking Lot Tips:
-Check you Surroundings
-Always Lock your rental car
-Take everything with you when you go to the beach
-Always leave things of high value at the hotel/motel/condo (Utilize the safety deposit box)
 
BBQ/Cooking Tips:
-Use Fire wood/Charcoal/lighter fluid in a safe manner
-Do not use gasoline to start any fires
-Be careful when igniting the fire.
-Sanitize the grill grate for about 15-30 minutes before use after lighting the grill.  The Heat will kill off any leftover bacteria and viruses
-Please throw your garbage in the trash cans for if Lifeguards catch you littering you don’t want to pay a $275 fine.
-Enjoy your grilling on the beach experience

Beach Tips:
-Swim at your own risk (Like I stated in my Iao Valley Swimming tips)
-Always Face the Ocean for conditions change without notice
-Do not swim or enter during flash flooding
-Do Not Enter when it is unsafe to do so (Look at the Red Flags and Posted Warnings on the beach from the lifeguards)
-Comply with all Lifeguard requests for they not only save lives, but are also the beach police here on Maui.

Also try these fun beach activities out.  They are not only fun, but you will learn a lot about the traditions of each ativity!  I always enjoy Canoe Paddling and Snuba Diving. Try it for yourself folks!  Even the kids will enjoy it.

Here some activities you can sign up for with from us here  Hawaii Aloha Travel:
-Standard Surf Lessons
-Canoe Paddling
-Paddle Boarding
-Wind Surfing
-Snuba Diving
-Scuba Diving
-Snorkeling

Over all the beaches here on Maui are all very safe to go and relax at.  Most beaches here like I said have grills and tables for you to use.  That covers Beaches here on Maui with Lifeguard protection.  More blogs on Maui to come soon.  Enjoy your vacation and remember to always book with us here at hawaii-aloha.com!  A Hui Hou!

Posted by Jake Smookler follow on twitter Hawaii_Vacation

Here’s another reason to book your Hawaii cruise now. Norwegian Cruise line announced today that as a result of "unprecedented year-to-date increases in bookings" they will be raising the price on the Pride of America 7% on April 2, 2010. This comes as no surprise because we have seen an increase in cruise bookings and have been discussing the possibility that prices would be going up because of the high demand. This news comes on the heels of an announcement just last week the NCL Pride of America showed a profit of the $121 million last year in tough economic times.

"Our first quarter wave season promotion definitely persuaded consumers to book a Norwegian cruise vacation as we saw heavy call volumes translating to exceptional bookings," said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line chief executive officer. "As we move out of wave season, consumers and travel partners can expect to see our prices rise across the fleet, especially for our new, highly anticipated ship Norwegian Epic."

If you’re even thinking about booking a Cruise remember you can put a deposit down which is 100% refundable up until 75 days before you travel. For more information just give us a call at 1-800-843-8771 and any agent can help you.

Posted by Bruce Fisher follow on twitter @alohabruce

If your Hawaii vacation includes visiting the island of Oahu, chances are you’ll be visiting the Pali Lookout. It’s part of the Nuuanu Pali state park and is located at the very top of the Pali Highway which connects the East and West side of the island. You’ll find spectacular views of the Koolau mountain range and the west side of the island from this amazing vantage point. The Pali lookout is one of the most visited state parks with more than 900,000 visitors a year.

Up until recently this was completely free for both residents and visitors alike, however, that recently has changed. There is now a three dollar parking fee to visit the lookout for non HAwaii residents. This new parking fee is part of a program that has been implemented by the Department of Land and Natural Resources to help support maintenance and repairs at state parks. Funding for these kinds of repairs have been cut back over the years with the budget challenges created by budget deficits.

Fees for once free activities seem to be on the rise here in the islands. Guess it’s just a sign of the times. It wasn’t too long ago that Hanuama Bay and Diamondhead crater were free so we should probably expect more of these in the future.

I wouldn’t let the three dollar fee discourage you from seeing this great attraction. You may even want to consider spending more time here because there is a great hiking trail that goes along the Old Pali Highway which gives you a perspective that not many see. If you’d like more information about what to see here just give us a call at 1-800-843-8771 and any agent can help you.

Posted by Bruce Fisher follow on twitter @alohabruce