With Pineapple Painting Tours, clients don’t stop to smell the roses; they stop to paint a picture. But the end result is the same, as visitors take the time to appreciate the beauty of Hawaii’s nature through art.
Professional artists Linda Kane and Jinni Mitchell run the creative company. Kane is an established professor at the University of Hawaii, while Mitchell — who took her first painting class with Kane — is an award-winning artist whose skills also include sculpture and jewelry. As the two became friends, they started talking about how to parlay their love of painting into a profitable business, moving away from academics and toward tourism. After months of fine-tuning their ideas, they started Pineapple Painting Tours in May of 2005. Today, it’s the only company of its kind in Hawaii.
I joined the duo for one of their morning sessions at Honolulu’s Magic Island, which provides classic views of Diamond Head. Kane and Mitchell explained how they make their tours accessible to everyone, from beginners to practiced artists. It starts with the tools, said Mitchell.
“Working with high-quality materials makes a huge difference in watercolor,” she said. “Even if you’ve never painted, you get a beautiful end result.” Each of us used a Russian squirrel brush , chosen because it holds a lot of water and comes to an amazingly sharp point; and French cold press watercolor paper, which feels at once durable and luxurious. Participants worked on self-centering tripod easels, on top of which sat our pochade (wooden box) holding a watercolor tray, extra paints and brushes, water and paper. Donning aprons, we primed our paper with a wet brush and began our excursions into plein air (outdoor) painting, well-suited to Hawaii’s climate. Luckily, each participant had a cut-out of Diamond Head’s distinctive profile to trace around, if they desired. “It’s not cheating,” Mitchell explained. “It simply relieves non-artists of the pressure to create that line.”
From there, we began interpreting the scene however we wanted, while our gurus gave us personalized attention. Kane and Mitchell provided tips for putting the watercolors to their best use. They showed us different techniques, like dabbing a paper towel on wet paint to lighten or soften hues, and using strokes of different colors for texture and movement.
I’ve looked at Diamond Head hundreds of times, but during the painting class, I noticed for the first time just how quickly the light changed, altering the look of the volcano and the landscape around it. That’s why Kane hopes clients will take the tour at the beginning of their visit to Oahu.
“Painting helps you relax, slow down and look at nature more clearly than you would normally,” she said. “We’re sharing our love of the great outdoors. Sometimes we hear back from clients who say they picked up more watercolor materials
after going on our tour and continued painting throughout the rest of their vacation.”
As we painted, Mitchell handed out snacks: fresh-baked blueberry scones, ice coffee, bottled water and pineapple chunks. Her Pomeranian, Trouser, browsed the group, ready for pats. Taking a break, fellow artists compared artworks, delighted over how different each perception varied from the next.
Clients can also book Pineapple Painting Tours’ excursion to a hibiscus farm on the North Shore. Each participant picks a flower to paint while sitting under a mango tree, followed by lunch at Wailua Bakery, a local favorite.
Along with their two standard tours, Kane and Mitchell can customize sessions for individuals and groups, such as executives who need an artistic break between meetings.
“We have equipment for up to 30 people,” said Kane, “but we like to keep the tours smaller and more intimate, so that people can meet each other and chat while they’re painting.”
Agents will do well to pitch Pineapple Painting Tours to nature lovers, retirees, return visitors and less physically active travelers. At the end of the morning, Kane and Mitchell provided protective sleeves for our masterpieces, each a one-of-a-kind vacation souvenir. My panoramic Diamond Head watercolor now sits on my desk, reminding me of a relaxing — and eye-opening — morning of painting in paradise.
When the acclaimed, off-Broadway hit, "Altar Boyz" comes to Honolulu’s Hawaii Theatre this month, guests at Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk will have first dibs on some of the best seats in the house. The show, which is scheduled for six full performances, is part of the production’s very first national tour and will run April 18-22.
"Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk is proud to help bring our guests and local residents a production that has received such warm reviews and garnered such a religious following," said Bob Yeoman, general manager of Embassy Suites-Waikiki Beach Walk. "Altar Boyz’ is a great show that families and audiences of all ages will be able to enjoy and appreciate."
The hotel is offering a limited number of exclusive hotel and ticket packages for the show’s Honolulu engagement, starting at $269 for one night in a one-bedroom suite and two tickets to the show. "Altar Boyz" is the story of a struggling Christian boy band riding the wave of America’s fascination with religion. The band consists of the self-anointed apostles of pop — Matt, Mark, Luke, Juan and Abraham — and boasts catchy melodies, unexpected moves and interesting hairstyles. The show is known for original songs including "Girl, You Make Me Wanna Wait" and "Jesus Called Me on My Cell Phone." "Altar Boyz" made its world premiere at the New York Musical Theater Festival in 2004, where its limited run received high acclaim and sold out every performance.
The show was nominated for four Outer Critics Circle Awards in 2005, and received an award for Best Musical Off-Broadway. The show also received seven 2005 Drama Desk nominations — the most for any show on or off Broadway that year — and was also honored with two Drama League Awards.
Outrigger Enterprises Group announced an agreement with investment group WB-LCP Kuhio Owner LLC, to manage the newly designed Wyland Waikiki Hotel. The property, which offers 400 plus rooms and suites, is nearing completion of a multi-million dollar transformation and is expected to resume operations this month.
"The Wyland Waikiki Hotel is a gem," said David Carey, President and CEO of Outrigger Enterprises. "The extensive renovation has created a unique boutique-style hotel with chic interiors inspired by the iconic artwork of world-renowned marine life artist Wyland. We are confident that it will become a popular choice for visitors seeking a very comfortable, contemporary and friendly place to stay in the heart of Waikiki."
The Wyland Waikiki is a first in many ways — the first artist-themed hotel for Hawaii and the first hotel to showcase marine artist Wyland. The property features ocean-hued color schemes accented by Wyland paintings, photographs and sculptures throughout the grounds, lobby, hallways and guestrooms.
Guest amenities include a contemporary lobby with full bar, large flat-screen TVs, computer workstations and a "chill" room where guests can relax, read or watch TV. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the lobby, with Internet access hard wired in all guestrooms. The property also offers two renovated pools and whirlpool spa. A signature restaurant, specialty coffee shop, day spa and fitness center are slated to open over the next few months.
All guestrooms and suites offer comfortable beds with designer wood furnishings, high definition flat-screen plasma televisions, in-room safe, refrigerator, coffeemaker and furnished balcony. Many rooms also include a microwave and sink.
The hotel’s location at Kuhio and Royal Hawaiian Avenues makes it central to the activity, entertainment and shopping of Waikiki.
Last month, after spending hours exploring Waikiki’s new restaurants, retailers and accommodations, I checked into Halekulani. The 455-room hotel felt like a luxurious mirage, unruffled by the progress of the destination around it. The stimulation of the surrounding streets immediately dissolved, as if I were walking through the door to a bygone era.
But as dreamy as Halekulani feels, travel agents should know that the iconic resort is making real and significant changes.
“As Waikiki upgrades around us, we understand the need to remain competitive,” said Halekulani spokesperson Erika Kauffman. “The challenge is to move forward with the product while retaining the timeless old-Hawaii feeling so prized by our guests. We don’t want to risk authenticity as we evolve the brand.”
Case in point is Halekulani Living, a lifestyle series introduced last May to accentuate the guest stay with memorable culinary, cultural and wellness programs.
“We want to educate and enlighten clients, so that even our most sophisticated guests can still try something new,” said Kauffman.
Upcoming special events include chocolate and yoga during a summer sunset; an evening presentation by Harumi Kurihara, Japan’s answer to Martha Stewart, in September; a cooking class with the hotel’s chef de cuisine Yves Garnier in October; and a workshop with master aromatherapist Denise Diamond in November.
Another innovation comes with the appointment of Kazu Takaoka as Halekulani’s first-ever director of guest experiences. In his new job, Takaoka works closely with guest history data to provide returning clients with a sense of consistency. He’s charged with not only fulfilling expectations, but doing so with innovation and creativity.
“Kazu is continually offering assistance, keeping an eye on everyone’s needs,” said Kauffman.
Closely monitoring dining trends, Halekulani has eliminated trans-fats from its menus and now partners with individual vendors and suppliers who provide healthy alternatives. Similarly, its on-site SpaHalekulani keeps fine-tuning its menu, launching teen spa packages, vegan nail care and an all-organic product line.
In the swing with the sports scene, Halekulani has struck a partnership with Nike. Instead of carrying their own clubs from the mainland, guests can rent Nike’s top-of-the-line Slingshot irons and SasQuatch woods ($50 per day). If they book the hotel’s three-night golf package, they can try out the latest technology during a free Nike golf club demo.
While Halekulani officials come up with ways to stay a step ahead and a cut above, Kauffman assured me that it will retain the longstanding touches so evident during my visit.
As always, all arriving visitors get a box of signature Halekulani chocolates and a plate of fresh fruit in their room. Breakfast popovers in Orchids restaurant come with rare island-made poha berry jam, and servers in elegant long blue skirts still serve daily afternoon tea.
But I want to return to Halekulani for more ethereal reasons, like the heady fragrance of white lilies outside La Mer restaurant; the silkiness of the water in the swimming pool; and the way Kanoe Miller makes eye contact with every guest as she dances hula at the outdoor House without a Key restaurant.
As the rest of Waikiki keeps getting better, your clients can count on Halekulani to improve as well.
With a “ding ding,” the Waikiki Trolley’s Pink Line announces its comings and goings as distinctively as its counterpart in San Francisco. Festooned with pink flags, the shuttle provides a fun and carefree way for clients to explore Waikiki.
From the main depot at DFS Galleria Waikiki, the Pink Line rolls down Kalakaua Avenue to Waikiki Beach and the ResortQuest Waikiki Beach Hotel, followed by pauses at the Prince Kuhio and Ohana West hotels on Kuhio Avenue. The Kalakaua Plaza stop proves popular with shoppers thanks to its proximity to Niketown, Banana Republic, Tiffany and Chanel.
After passing the construction site of the future Trump Tower Waikiki, the driver pulls over at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, then Aqua Palms, across from the Ilikai Hotel. Following the busy drop-offs and pick-ups at Ala Moana Center and Ward Center, it heads back to the heart of Waikiki. Throughout the ride, the 35-seat trolley’s open-air design provides natural air-conditioning courtesy of Hawaii’s comfortable tradewinds.
Considering the high cost of overnight hotel parking, using the trolley for Waikiki transportation makes better sense than renting a car. But don’t recommend the trolley to impatient clients. A one-way ride on the Pink Line lasts 40-50 minutes from start to finish, depending on traffic. For visitors with time, however, it’s a good way to experience the highlights of Waikiki while leaving the driving to someone else.
Shall we have breakfast by the jungle waterfall? That’s one of the big decisions your clients will have to make as they begin their day at The Falls at Reed’s Island, an exceptional vacation rental in Hilo.
Hilo, of course, is the fine, funky town on the east coast of the Big Island. Reed’s Island is on the edge of town, and yes, it really is an island on an island — a lush lava rock knoll about a mile long carved by the Wailuku River. Its one narrow road is lined with beautiful old homes.
At one end of Reed’s Island, a promontory overlooks the two-tiered waterfall. This is where The Falls is perched on more than two acres of manicured lawn, natural walls of living rock and giant tropical fronds and flowers that fall away to the river some 85 feet below. On the opposite bank, profusions of more palms, plants and vines spill down into the gorge.
With so much beauty surrounding the house, it’s hard to turn your gaze inward. But The Falls offers its own version of architectural beauty.
The style is modernist Scandinavian. Unpainted cedar walls frame large screened windows (this is mosquito country). A long screened lanai supported by native ohia wood logs connects the building’s three sections: an entry hall with a bedroom on either side; a third, central bedroom; 3½ baths and the kitchen. The home accommodates parties of up to six people.
If there is a single design theme that permeates the property, it’s simplicity. There is very little art in the house. Each room features only a glass vase overflowing with fresh orchids attached to the wall. But the large windows serve as frames for the wild art of the outdoors.
The Falls was completed in 2002 by San Francisco architects David Morton and Thomas Cordell.
“The idea of making a tropical garden had great appeal for Tom, just as learning about tropical architecture had for me,” writes Morton in his book about his career.
Morton describes the evolution of the house’s concept as a series of practical, economical solutions to architectural problems presented by the location. As the problems were solved, the design unfurled naturally, he said.
Morton and Cordell built the house as a getaway. In 2003, Jane and Jack Stevenson bought the property and recreated it as a vacation rental. They had learned about the business by operating a cottage on Kauai and knew that the Reed’s Island house and grounds had the makings of a stunning rental property.
From the looks of things, their instincts were correct. One big difference between a bed & breakfast and a vacation rental, of course, is that in the former, breakfast is served, and in the latter, you make breakfast (and lunch and dinner) for yourself.
The kitchen at The Falls is well equipped enough to prepare gourmet meals if you like. It boasts a variety of quality cookware and tools, including a food processor. The Stevensons can also recommend a private chef who is available for clients who really want to indulge.
The kitchen also features a big dining table, two upholstered chaises (on wheels) and a gorgeous view of the waterfall.
Sitting with a morning mug of coffee or an afternoon glass of wine, gazing out the window at the jungle and gushing falls, clients will find it hard to tear themselves away.
As I surrendered my hands to a manicure, I caught the eye of my daughter one chair over, ankle deep in warm water during a pedicure.
“I’m in heaven,” she grinned, and I readily agreed.
Even on vacation, such mother-daughter bonding is a precious commodity, so the news of the Hilton Hawaiian Village’s YSpa program deserves two big polished thumbs up.
YSpa, with body treatments designed for younger travelers, is a relatively new addition to the offerings at the 22-acre Waikiki resort’s Mandara Spa.
“The interest in kids and teen spa programs has really grown in recent years,” said Hilton Hawaii regional director of marketing Lora Gallagher, a mother herself. “Not only do mom and dad need a relaxing rejuvenation while they are in Hawaii, but the kids want to be a part of that process as well.”
Whether the adolescent client is dealing with dating blues, exam anxiety or an acne attack, YSpa’s menu of services has been tailored to help make those worries disappear. Treatments include the 25-minute Heavenly Massage, focusing on aromatherapy back work which can address the pain caused by school backpacks. During the Surfers Scrub, a 25-minute exfoliation process, a mixture of fresh limes, lemon and ginger re-energizes growing clients after a tiring day of play.
YSpa’s ear-to-ear services include the 50-minute Fabulous Fruity Facial, which calls on an organic mixture of nature’s bounties to clean and moisturize young faces. Meanwhile, the 50-minute Acne Attack blasts away blemishes courtesy of a revolutionary oxygen facial.
The YSpa Menu caters to teens 16 years and older, but that doesn’t mean little sisters can’t tag along. Mandara Spa’s salon presents services for all age groups, including the 25-
minute Magical Manicure and the 45-
minute Sole Mate, a pedicure with pizzazz. Girls, pre-teens and teenagers alike can indulge in hair care like the Beach Babe (a deep conditioning hair ritual followed by a French braid) and the Stylin’ Session (a funky cut and color after a personalized consultation with the stylist).
Of course, Mandara Spa offers extensive menus exclusively for adults. But take it from this mom: An intergenerational trip to the spa creates memories that last long after the nail polish has chipped away.
You spoke and we listened. Based on overwhelming demand we are pre-introducing our exclusive ALL INCLUSIVE 7 DAY OAHU VACATION PACKAGES !From 1579.00 per person
Check out our Hawaii "Carefree" flexible packages. The experience we offer allows you to keep busy, but not too busy that you can’t relax. Unlike high end expensive "tour packages" our all inclusive packages use affordable properties which are carefully selected to make sure they meet our customers needs. We do not use low end dumpy properties, or give you gift certificates to all you can eat cheap buffets. We offer you great restaurants located in the Hotel or nearby, it’s your choice where to eat. We want you to explore and enjoy the islands at your own pace.
Oahu "Carefree" All inclusive Package
DAY 1 - FLOWER LEI GREETING & AIRPORT ASSISTANCE - PRIVATE LIMO TRANSFER to your Hotel, Get picked up in style from the airport in a private Limo. Personal welcome; HAT team member will contact you personally when you arrive. Welcome pack with goodies to help you get started on your vacation. (FREE Afternoon & Evening depending on your flight times.) Maybe an evening walk along Waikiki Beach to begin your love affair with Hawaii. (Optional arrival dinner available)
DAY 2 BREAKFAST at hotel RESTAURANT Morning-afternoon: Circle Island Oahu Tour, Evening: Dinner at the hotel or Genuine Chinese Cuisine Restaurant nearby the hotel.
This tour is ideal for first-time visitors, but regulars love it, too. On your journey you will see “the best of the best” of Oahu. From the lush, green mountains to the clear blue waters, across the pineapple fields, and beyond. There’s no better way to experience the diversity of this beautiful island. The sights are accompanied by live narration from our friendly tour guides, with interesting cultural and historical information along the way. (And don’t be surprised if you find yourself laughing and singing songs. This tour is anything but boring.) You’ll go to the 1,186-foot Pali Lookout, where King Kamehameha the Great fought his last battle, for a view that will blow you away. Or it may feel like it anyway, with robust winds that often sweep through the mountain pass, so hold on to your hat. World-famous North Shore surfing beaches are also on the tour, along with breathtaking Waimea Bay where giant waves break right on the shore, leaving behind their salty mist. You’ll also catch sight of Aloha Tower, which you may recall from the TV show “Hawaii Five-O,” and the familiar profile of the 750-foot Diamond Head volcano that has become a symbol for Hawaii throughout the years. This Oahu tour is grand indeed, and will not disappoint.
* Diamond Head * Pali Lookout * Exclusive Kahala Estates * Hanauma Bay (closed Tuesdays) * Halona Point (Blow Hole) * Byodo-In * North Shore surfing beaches * Waimea Bay * Pineapple fields * Mormon Temple
DAY 3 BREAKFAST at hotel RESTAURANT Morning-afternoon: Morning- afternoon: Star and Strips tours, Arizona Memorial OR Jeep/Convertible w/ picnic basket Evening: Dinner at the hotel or Genuine Chinese Cuisine Restaurant nearby the hotel
This tour is moving in more ways than one. From the moment you board the bus, you’ll hear interesting facts about World War II, and its devastating effects. You’ll visit legendary Pearl Harbor where U.S. involvement in the war in the Pacific region both began and ended. At the USS Arizona Memorial, you’ll see footage of the Pearl Harbor attack and pay respects to the hundreds of American servicemen entombed in the battleship below. Next is a guided tour of the USS Missouri battleship, followed by a no-host lunch. From there, a volunteer veteran will take you on a exclusive tour of beautiful Punchbowl National Cemetery, where those who lost their lives in the Pacific naval war are buried. As you follow the walkway to Pouwanina lookout, you will hear about the memorials that are dedicated to battalions, companies and ships from various states and countries. From the lookout, you’ll take in one of the most amazing panoramic views of the coastline and Honolulu on Oahu. Look in one direction and you see Diamond Head. Look the other, and you see the Waianae mountain range, while the Koolau Mountains rise up from behind. After a moment of peace, you’ll make your way back to the Oahu - Hawaii State Capital Board the motercoach coach and continue your tour through downtown Honolulu for more sightseeing. Among the ornate state buildings and churches, you’ll also see Iolani Palace, the one and only royal palace on American soil. This exclusive tour is very popular, and appreciated by American and International visitors alike.
* Pearl Harbor’s USS Arizona Memorial tour * Guided Tour of the USS Missouri Battleship * ($14 admission included) * Personalized tour of Punchbowl National Cemetery by a volunteer veteran * Hawaii State Capitol/City Hall * Iolani Palace * King Kamehameha Statue * Kawaiahao Church and Mission Houses
Or A JEEP-or-CONVERTIBLE w/ Hawaiian picnic basket and Oahu guidebook.This is a chance to explore the island of Oahu at your leisure. we provide you everything you need for your journey and offer tips for places y ou can visit. You will also enjoy a wonderful picnic basket, prepared especially for you to take with you on your journey. You can eat it on the beach or take it on a hike, or just eat in in you room!! It’s y our vacation you’ll decide or do WHATEVER!
DAY 4: BREAKFAST At The hotel RESTAURANT Afternoon-Dinner: Polynesian Cultural Center Ambassador VIP Luau service w/Trans
You’ll receive the royal treatment with the Ambassador Luau Package as you enjoy a personalized guided tour of the island villages. Experience firsthand, the cultures of the islands as well as the canoe pageant, IMAX Theater, Laie tour and canoe rides. You’ll witness the traditional uncovering of the imu (underground oven) where the main entree, kalua pua’a (roast pig), has been cooking most of the day. Then "eat until you’re dizzy," says Cousin Benny the Center’s Ambassador of Aloha, as you enjoy many traditional and modern luau favorites in the Alii Luau.
But the highlight of your visit is sure to be "Horizons" the largest Polynesian revue of song and dance in the world featuring over 100 native performers from all corners of the Pacific. Dressed in traditional native costume, these Polynesians share their history, traditions and spirit through song and dance the same way their ancestors did. With the Ambassador Luau Package you’ll receive premium seating for this one-of-a- kind show!
DAY 5 SPA DAY, BREAKFAST At The hotel RESTAURANT OR car rental w/picnic basket, Dinner cruise This is a perfect day to relax. Enjoy a wonderful relaxing spa treatment at your hotel. In the afternoon you will be treated to a Hawaiian made picnic basket (delivered to your hotel) prepared especially for you to enjoy. Take it to the beach to the beach or just enjoy it in your hotel room. WHATEVER! It’s your vacation, eat when you want too!
Or Substitute Jeep/Convertible rental with Hawaiian picnic basket (same as above)
Dinner: Ali’i Kai Sunset Dinner Cruise - Set Sail On The World’s Largest Polynesian Catamaran The Ali`i Kai Makahiki Dinner Cruise is one dinner party you’ll never forget. Step aboard this amazing 170- by-50-foot "Ruler of the Sea" for a casual, fun-filled sunset sail and delicious island flavors. Take in panoramic views of the Pacific, world-famous Waikiki and the city of Honolulu as you cruise down the coast. After the sun sets, dine buffet-style and watch a captivating Polynesian show with dancers, drummers and chanters. When the show ends, it’s your turn to take to the dance floor as the Ali`i crew encourages passengers to play games and shake their own hips to the live music. Party your way back to shore, and by the night’s end, you’ll be part of the Ali`i ohana (family).
Alii Kai Buffet Dinner Assortment of Fresh Nalo Greens with Choice of Dressings, Italian Pasta Salad with Sun Dried Tomatoes, Carved Roast Sirloin of Beef with Cabernet Sauce and Creamy Horseradish Sauce, Grilled Chicken with Shoyu Ginger Glaze Garnished with Oriental Vegetables, Sautéed Island Mahi-mahi with Macadamia Nut Butter Sauce, Garnished with Spring Vegetables, Pasta with choice of Marinara or Pesto Cream Sauce, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Rice, Sweet Rolls and Butter, Sliced Tropical Fruits, Assorted Desserts, Kona Coffee Blend or Tea, and one complimentary cocktail or soft drink.
DAY 6 BREAKFAST At The hotel RESTAURANT HANAUMA BAY, DIAMOND HEAD & MANALUA BAY Dinner at the hotel or Genuine Chinese Cuisine Restaurant nearby the hotel
A minibus will pick you up at your hotel and take you to Koko Marina, where you will be given snorkel snorkel equipment and then driven the rest of the way to Haunama bay (snorkeling optional, you can still go for the ride!). Once you are at Hanauma Bay, you will spend a few hours at the beautiful marine sanctuary snorkeling with thousands of tropical fish and gorgeous coral formations. Once you are finished snorkeling, a van service is provided to take you back to Koko Marina at 1:30pm, just in time to hop on the "DUCK" for a return scenic trip back to Waikiki. SPLASHDOWN! in Maunalua Bay with a 30+ minute amphibious cruise in the ocean followed with a fully-narrated drive along the shoreline on Diamond Head Road and through the prestigious Kahala area with plenty of stories, local facts and fun history.
DAY 7 BREAKFAST At The hotel RESTAURANT, FREE DAY Approx. Noon Check-Out. Hotel Will Store Your Luggage if you need before being Escorted with TRANSFERS TO AIRPORT
Child age 3-11 : add $500.00 to package (no SPA treatment for children) Child age 12-17: add $900.00 to package (includes SPA treatment or adult substitute)
After a harrowing first trimester of nausea, unexplained aches and pains, headaches and insomnia, I breathed a huge sigh of relief when I began to enjoy being pregnant by the end of the third month. The true beauty of this time — the second trimester — is that many women are able to relax during this exciting time of their life without the inhibitions of pesky pregnancy symptoms. It’s like the honeymoon phase of a relationship. And so, when a trip to Hawaii for a friends’ wedding came up, I jumped at the chance to jet off to tropical paradise, and many of your clients may want to do the same.
Traveling can be a great way to refresh expecting couples, and for clients in the West, Hawaii is a particularly attractive locale. When the comforts of home are almost as important as a tropical getaway, as is common during pregnancy, Hawaii’s exotic beauty and familiar convenience make it a perfect destination, without being too long of a flight. Before booking clients on a “babymoon,” however, there are a few tricks of the trade.
Spa days are a great activity for clients on any trip, but your expecting moms are going to love you for setting up a day of pampering at a spa where they know how to treat a mom-to-be. The Grand Hyatt Kauai in Poipu is a perfect option. Although many of the usual spa amenities are off-limits to expecting mothers — Jacuzzis, saunas and steam rooms — the Anara spa has a beautiful 25-foot private lap pool ideal for cooling off before or after a spa treatment. Loungers alongside the pool offer the ideal spot for an afternoon nap, and their beautiful outdoor rain showers give the experience an added tropical feeling and almost make up for not being able to dip into the hot tub.
The spa’s maternity massage addresses specific areas of stress created during pregnancy with a variation of lomi lomi and shiatsu massage techniques. Ladies rest belly down on a specially designed support pillow while their aches and pains are rubbed away during the hour-long treatment.
In addition to pregnancy massage, a multitude of facials and other beauty treatments are available including seaweed body masques, ti leaf wraps, botanical baths, mango manicures and soothing pedicures.
The Grand Hyatt Kauai is currently renovating their first-class Anara spa, but this shouldn’t make agents hesitate to send clients there. Their maternity massage is worth it regardless of any discomfort. And while I was there, the only notable difference was the use of several guestrooms that filled in for treatment rooms while the renovation was in progress. I actually liked the guestroom, which made the experience homey and even more comfortable.
Currently, phase one of the renovation — which added a Vichy treatment room, an enlarged fitness area, a movement pavilion and more — has been completed. Still to come are more treatment rooms and five garden hale (thatched roof huts) with private showers and steam grottos.
A spa day can occupy clients for part of a trip, but what comes next? For expecting parents up for an adventure, the Na Pali Coast offers some of the most rugged beauty in the world. Unreachable by motorized vehicles, the 17-mile coastline is most easily reached by boat. Still, many visitors hike, bike or charter a helicopter to get the most intimate views of the stunning scenery. Aside from its untouched land beauty, the coastline is also home to an abundant marine population, making it a snorkeling hot spot for island visitors. And snorkeling is a tame, pregnancy-friendly activity for babymooners.
Several different companies operate snorkel cruises to the Na Pali Coast, but some are hesitant when booking expecting women. Be sure to ask the operator in advance if they accept pregnant passengers.
Captain Andy’s Sailing Adventures, located in Eleele, takes moms-to-be. Clients set sail early in the morning on a 55-foot catamaran. The journey begins with breakfast onboard as the boat makes a course for the Na Pali Coast and lunch is served after snorkeling.
True to Captain Andy’s commitment to educational, safe and eco-friendly business, the cruise balances education with relaxation and fun. On our cruise, there was a lot of up close sealife viewing. A highlight was the spinner dolphins that swam alongside the boat. We slowed in a known sea turtle viewing area and caught a glimpse of these majestic creatures before they headed for the safety below.
There are but a few drawbacks for pregnant women on a snorkeling excursion. All of Captain Andy’s excursions offer bathrooms and comfortable facilities onboard, but beware, although modern stabilizers prevent the boat from rocking too much, boats do sway and seas can be rough. Clients are advised to bring Dramamine, which may not be advisable for expecting moms.
Other land-based adventures could include a hiking/kayaking trip. Outfitters Kauai recommends their Hidden Valley Falls Picnic Kayak Adventure. The journey includes a downwind kayak trip on the Huleia, a historic jungle stream; a three-quarter-mile hike to waterfalls and swimming holes where a picnic lunch takes place; and a ride back in a twin-hulled powered Hawaiian canoe.
More and more moms-to-be are craving a last adventure before baby arrives, so it’s important for agents to know how to plan a pregnancy-safe vacation.
The Kapalua Villas’ latest package — Stay and Play Your Way Daily Golf/Massage — makes it easier for clients to book and create a custom package with a variety of golf rounds for any length of stay. If your clients prefer to relax rather then tee off, guests also have the option to book a 55-minute in-villa massage instead of a round of golf.
Each package includes accommodations, one round of golf daily at either of the two 18-hole championship golf courses (Bay or Plantation) or a 55-minute in-villa massage daily, per person, based on double occupancy for a one-bedroom villa, quad occupancy for a two-bedroom villa and six-person occupancy for a three-bedroom villa.
Available through Dec. 19, prices start at $225 per person, per night.
For an additional $31.25 per day, excluding tax, clients can upgrade to a Hertz mid-size rental car daily, with a choice of a convertible, mini van, SUV or luxury car.
The package’s main sell is its flexibility.
For example, if two clients want to stay six nights in a one-bedroom and they each only want to golf three days, agents can book three nights in the Stay and Play Golf Package and three nights villa-only and take advantage of the golf rounds any time during their stay. If only one client wants to take to the greens, book four nights in the Stay and Play Golf package and two nights villa-only, and one person can golf each of the four days while the other can get the in-villa massage each day. Or agents can book two nights in the Stay and Play Golf package and four nights villa-only, and one client can take advantage of all four rounds of golf any time during their six-night stay. The Kapalua Villas at the renowned Kapalua Resort on Maui’s northwest shore, offers vacation packages with activities for extreme adventure or sun-seeking travelers. Creature comforts include world-class golf courses, an award-winning tennis complex, three white-sand beaches and a myriad of restaurants and shops.
