LUXGetaway

Top Things to Do While on The Big Island of Hawaii

Michael — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 08:30:45 +0000

While you aren’t lying by the pool and enjoying the resorts and all they have to offer, The Big Island has a lot to keep you occupied. Below are the top things to do while on The Big Island:

Helicopter Tour – Helicopter tours allow for the most spectacular views on the island. This will likely be the most memorable experience for you while in Hawaii.

Hilton Waikoloa Village – This resort is an experience not to be missed. There is something for everybody at The Big Island’s largest hotel.

Kona Brewing Company Tour & Restaurant – Complimentary brewery tours at 10:30 and 3:00pm seven days a week. When finished eat lunch or dinner at the 2,000-square-foot outdoor lanai, surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and tiki torches.

Snorkeling – Most luxury hotels offer complimentary snorkeling gear – be sure to take advantage of this.

Sunset Cruise – Sunset cruises can be a great way to experience the coastline, and if you get lucky you can even see dolphins in the ocean.

Kona Joe’s Coffee Tour – Visit Kona’s premium coffeemaker and learn about how the coffee is produced.

Eat Pineapple – You will never eat Pineapple better than what’s grown on The Big Island of Hawaii, so eat as much as you can!

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park & Lava Flow – This is on the Hilo side of the Island, so if you are coming from Kona you will want to plan for a few hour drive. Seeing the Lava Flow is suggested to best be viewed at night.

Pololu Lookout Point – A popular lookout point with gorgeous sweeping views of the north coast.

Visit Downtown Kona – There are several great shops, and restaurants, a favorite is Huggo’s.

Golfing – This list wouldn’t be complete without golfing. There are several breathtaking golf courses on The Big Island. Take a look depending on where you are staying for the closest courses.

The Big Island Hawaii: The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows

lea — Thu, 26 Aug 2010 08:04:13 +0000

Our last hotel spotlight is on The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows. The Mauna Lani is situated on the Kohala Coast on acres of gorgeous Hawaiian land. The hotel can best be described as classic luxury. It has maintained its clean look and feel over time; not over done or understated, The Mani Lani boasts its tropical elegance through its open-air hotel architecture, lush gardens, and sandy beaches on the property’s oceanfront.

The experience at The Mani Lani extends from the cushioned lounge chairs poolside to the turndown service guests receive each night. Every guest room has a lanai, and the hotel is constructed so that each room captures as much ocean view available. The interior of the hotel is highlighted by plants and ponds, which are inhabited by baby sea turtles and fish.

If you’re one that prefers more seclusion from other hotel guests, the bungalows are only a short walk away. Each bungalow has its own private beachfront and driveway access, providing a truly exclusive experience. With 4,000 square feet of living space in each bungalow, more than a few people can stay comfortably in them.

A lot of the activities at The Mauna Lani are free of charge and the kids program focuses on exploration of the natural grounds. With so many sea creatures and ancient petroglyphs close by, the family will never run out of things to see and do. For those that want to relax, there is a spa that features a Vichy shower and natural lava sauna and also a fitness center.

If you’re a golfer, The Mauna Lani is the place for you. There are 2 18-hole golf courses on the property with sweeping views of the ocean’s expanse. They were carved out of lava formations and are rated within the Top 10 Eco-Friendly Courses. Words cannot begin to describe the breathtaking views one gets to experience when playing on a Mauna Lani course.

The Mauna Lani has 3 restaurants to choose from, and dinner at the CanoeHouse is a real treat. Fresh island-sourced ingredients, a chef that combines wonderful flavors, and an expert sommelier make dining at the hotel an experience not to be underestimated. Breakfast at the Bay Terrace is delicious as well, featuring tropical twists on American standards like French toast and waffles.

Complimentary activities, while staying at the Mauna Lani:

Floral Lei & Tropical Fruit Juice upon arrival
Complimentary Internet access
Fitness Club Lap pool
Snorkeling Equipment
Morning Coffee & Tea
In-room Kona Coffee & Tea
Local Newspaper
Hawaiian Entertainment
Valet & Self-Park
Bicycles to explore the resort
Joggers Amenities
Beach Amenities
Guest Laundry Room
Resort Shuttle Service
Fish & Turtle Feeding Tours
Ukulele & Hawaiian Weaving Lessons

Rates at The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel start at over $200.

The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows
www.maunalani.com
68-1400 Mauna Lani Drive
Kohala Coast, Island of Hawaii 96743

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The Big Island Hawaii: Four Seasons Hualalai

Michael — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 07:22:27 +0000

Our next stop on The Big Island is as ‘LUX’ as it can get. The Four Seasons Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu on the North Kona Coast was recently voted the #1 hotel in all of Hawaii by Travel & Leisure Magazine.

The 243-room resort went through a recent renovation and now upholds a standard as one of the nicest hotels in the world. All guest rooms are extremely spacious, with 32 of them bungalows. The Four Seasons Hualalai does not have a central tower so the resort is no higher than 2 stories in height throughout the grounds, allowing the natural elements to be the main feature. As a guest you have the opportunity to enjoy 5 unique pools, plus a snorkeling pond, 4 restaurants, and a spa that’s quality is unmatched on the Island. If you’re looking to golf, the resort features a Jack Nicklaus signature 18-hole, 7,100-yard golf course.

Complimentary services for guests include scuba lessons, valet parking, and twice-daily maid service. Kids will have just as much fun as adults at the Four Seasons Hualalai; they can enjoy the complimentary Kids for All Seasons program, featuring a dedicated kids room with video games, TV, toys, and more. The resort draws celebrities and other well-known guests, so don’t be surprised if you end up bumping shoulders with some of Hollywood’s best.

The resort can best be described as authentic luxury. Paradise does come with a price tag – guest rooms start at $775.

Four Seasons Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu
www.fourseasons.com/hualalai/
72-100 Ka`upulehu Drive
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
808-325-8000

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The Big Island Hawaii: Kona Village Resort

lea — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 07:24:17 +0000

Our next LUX Destination spotlight is Kona Village. Kona Village is located in, well…Kona, on The Big Island. This 82-acre resort encompasses everything the beautiful Kohala Coast has to offer – palm trees swaying, glistening lagoons, piled lava rocks, black sand beaches, and the ocean. Focused on traditional Polynesian culture, the resort is made up of 82 oceanfront hales, or bungalows, that come free of phones, TVs, radios, or internet, forcing the overworked traveler to really relax into the aloha spirit.

Upon arrival at Kona Village, expect to be greeted with a traditional Hawaiian lei of orchid flowers. After check-in, one is swept away by a golf cart to one’s hale. Each hale is cooled by the breeze of the tradewinds blowing through its slatted doors from the sea; only ceiling fans are used for extra circulation, and there’s not even a lock on the door. As unconventional as it may sound, there’s something very quaint in having to write messages to your resort staff on a clipboard outside your door or placing a coconut on your front porch as a sign of do not disturb.

Appropriately named, Kona Village was once a fishing village. To preserve and respect the land that was once frequented by the King and other royalty, the resort is set up to resemble a Polynesian village. The hales are elevated by stilts to protect from high tide and the roofs are thatched; some hales even come with a private hot tub on the deck – not authentic, but a luxurious necessity.

Kona Village is Hawaii’s only ‘inclusive’ resort and offers many resort dining options. Much of the Hawaiian cuisine served is sourced from local farms on the island. You can taste the difference in freshness from the fruit alone – it’s colorful and sweet, as if it were just plucked off the tree. In fact, more than 70% of all the produce consumed at Kona Village is from The Big Island. As authentic as its culinary presentation, Kona Village also puts on an island-renowned luau.

Along with the dining, many water sport activities are included in the daily ‘inclusive’ rate. You can snorkel, canoe, kayak, or use a paddleboard to explore the ocean. Since the property has such an expansive beachfront, there is plenty of space for guests and turtles to bask in the sun. On a stroll along the beach, one is sure to spot a Hawaiian Sea Turtle lounging on the sand or feeding near one of the many natural tide pools.

The most spectacular thing about the resort is really the authentic Hawaiian experience it has maintained for its guests. From the accommodations, to the food, to the entertainment, and the natural setting, there is an ancient story told through the hospitality at Kona Village.

Rates start just under $300.

Kona Village Resort
www.konavillage.com
Kona Village Resort
Kohala Coast
Kailua Kona, Hawaii 96745

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The Big Island Hawaii: Hilton Waikoloa Village

Michael — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 18:51:37 +0000

Hilton Waikoloa Village is the largest hotel on the Big Island of Hawaii with 1,240 guest rooms and suites and a wide array of activities and amenities. The Hilton is located on the Kohala Coast of The Big Island of Hawaii, just 20 minutes north of Kona International Airport.

What makes this hotel more unique than any other on the island are its on-property transportation systems. (Yes, that’s right – there are multiple transportation systems within the property…it’s that big!) Right upon entry into the resort you will find an option for either a sleek air-conditioned tram or a leisurely canal boat ride. Of course you can walk to your room as well, but if you are further away a tram is always fastest.

One attraction that sets this resort apart from others is their Dolphin Quest, an opportunity to swim with dolphins. A marine mammal expert guides the experience with these intelligent creatures, with encounters of 30 minutes to over 5 hours. Packages to swim with dolphins start at just over $200. This can be a memorable adventure, even if you’re not a guest at the resort.

While walking through the hotel it is apparent that the pools are a highlight of the resort. There are pools everywhere; the pools feature waterfalls, waterslides, and flowing rivers. There is also an adult-only pool if you are looking for a more private and relaxed experience.

As a guest on your trip at the Hilton, you’ll never be hungry. There are 9 restaurants available on the property. For a special experience, try the authentic Japanese cuisine at Imari. The restaurant is The Big Island’s only teppanyaki dining. You will be seated around an 8-person table where the chef will make the food you order right in front of your eyes. This provides great entertainment, as the chefs are not only great cooks, but culinary performers as well! Imari’s spectacular food, coupled with the entertaining experience makes it a staple dining treat at the Hilton. We strongly recommend eating at Imari when visiting.

The Hilton Waikoloa Village property is a dream come true for children…It’s the Disneyland of Hawaii; but, it shouldn’t be underestimated for adults. With 62 oceanfront acres there is something to do for everyone. Are you a golf pro or tennis nut? You’ll be happy with their pro-standard facilities for both. With its many activities, attractions, shops, restaurants, and amenities, the resort employs over 1,000 people to keep everything running smoothly.

The Hilton Waikoloa Village is ideal for the family that wants a resort with everything at their fingertips and no reason to leave the property. The resort is also a ‘can’t miss’ for those that are visiting The Big Island or Hawaii.

Prices start just under $200/night.

Hilton Waikoloa Village
www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com
69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive
Waikoloa, WI 96738
808—886-1234

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The Big Island Hawaii: The Fairmont Orchid

lea — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 19:32:19 +0000

First up in our LUX Destination spotlight is The Fairmont Orchid. It is located on the Kohala Coast, north of Kona, in the resort area of Mauna Lani. Sitting on 32 acres of beach and black lava, this Hawaiian hotel is complete with a swimmable lagoon and breath-taking views. The feeling one gets upon arrival at The Fairmont Orchid is one of anticipation, when seeing its grand elegance for the first time. Expect to be escorted from your car with a lei greeting of Kukui Nuts, which symbolize enlightenment, protection, and peace. These 3 values are exemplified through the elevated level of service one receives at The Fairmont Orchid.

The Fairmont Gold Floor is something unique to The Orchid, as only a limited number of Fairmont properties throughout the world offer this level of service. The Gold Floor takes the already exceptional service of The Fairmont to an elevated level. At The Orchid, Gold Floor guests check in at a private reception on the 6th floor where 45 rooms and suites are reserved only for Fairmont Gold guests. Many of the guestrooms have sweeping views of either the ocean or beautiful Fairmont grounds.

The most appealing thing about the Gold Floor at The Orchid is the dedicated Gold Floor staff that can assist you with any need and the complimentary continental breakfast and afternoon happy hour that’s offered daily. Being able to relax in an oversized chair in the Gold Lounge or outside on the private Gold Lounge lanai (patio), while enjoying a cocktail or working on one’s laptop, is a luxury any traveler can enjoy. Fairmont Gold guests also have access to free wi-fi.

The Fairmont Orchid went through a multi-million dollar renovation in 2006 and maintains its timeless Hawaiian luxury when one steps foot in it today. Each of the 540 guestrooms has its own lanai with a view of the ocean, gardens, golf course, or mountains. With 10 tennis courts and many beach activities, there’s something for everyone. Another guarantee is the visit from a native Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle or 2 on the shores of The Fairmont’s expansive beachfront.

The Orchid also features 3 restaurants, a deli, and a cocktail lounge. Cuisine ranges from Island-inspired dishes at Brown’s Beach House to sushi at Norio’s. On Saturday nights is “The Gathering of the Kings,” a luau that tells the story of 4 ancient histories from Somoa, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Hawaii. It’s a contemporary production with a plentiful feast to match.

Spa Without Walls is another highlight that’s not to be missed at The Fairmont Orchid. Take advantage of a spa treatment like a lomilomi massage or Kona Coffee exfoliation in 1 of 8 private outdoor waterfall hales (huts) or in 1 of 6 oceanfront cabanas. The breeze of the gentle tradewinds paired with the tranquility of waves crashing or the trickle of a waterfall is an experience only to be had here.

The Fairmont Orchid property is beautiful, delivers tremendous service, has a high standard of quality, and is well priced.

Accommodations start at over $200.

The Fairmont Orchid
www.fairmont.com/orchid/
1 North Kaniku Drive
Kohala Coast, Hawaii, Hawaii
96743

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LUX Destination: The Big Island of Hawaii

Michael — Tue, 10 Aug 2010 19:31:22 +0000

Welcome to The Big Island of Hawaii. The Big Island is the largest island in the Hawaiian chain at 4,038 sq. miles and has the most diversity in not only climate and terrain, but in activities it offers as well.

Over the next several days we will reveal our experiences at the best hotels and resorts on The Big Island of Hawaii, specifically on the Kona side of the island – the “Golden Coast.” We will also share the top activities and adventures you won’t want to miss upon your next visit!

Ames Boston – Historic, Yet Modern Luxury Hotel

Carmen — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 09:07:43 +0000

Ames is located in located in Boston in the beautiful and unique Ames building. The building is coupled with both historic and modern style. It is conveniently located close to the airport and near historic Faneuil Hall and Beacon Hill. Ames Boston has 114 rooms, with a vibrant restaurant, and bar.

Rooms at Ames provide a contrast of history and modernism. The luxury guest rooms are designed with both comfort and style in mind. From standard rooms to one bedroom all are designed in a unique way that provides comfort and luxury to all guests. Guest rooms at the hotel feature walk-in glass showers with rain showerhead or large soaking tubs, flat screen HDTV, Mini Bar, iPod Docking Station, & Wireless internet. Also special to this hotel is that they offer in-room spa services to guests.

Woodward restaurant serves unique and freshest local food for breakfast, lunch and dinner and offers vibrant beverages. The Fitness Center at Ames Boston is located on the 4th floor and is open 24 hours.

Ames Boston is part of the Morgans Hotel Group. Room rates start just over $200.

Ames Boston
www.ameshotel.com
1 Court Street
Boston, MA 02108

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Breathtaking Views in Singapore at Marina Bay Sands Hotel

Michael — Thu, 22 Jul 2010 05:41:35 +0000

The Hotel at Marina Bay Sands is located in Singapore offering remarkable views of the city skyline and the peaceful sea. The hotel offers several types of rooms including Atrium Rooms, Horizon Rooms, Orchid Suite, and more.

The rooms offer easy access to shops, casino, entertainments, dining, and the Sands Sky Park when it is complete. The Horizon rooms, which feature the best views, are located on near the top of the 55-story hotel.

The Club at Marina Bay Sands room once open will offer guests access to the most unique and luxurious club found in any hotel. Guest rooms offer outstanding services such as in-room media, in-room dining available 24 hours a day, daily turndown service, access to The Club at Marina Bay Club, and access to The Club at Marina Bay Sands.

Business travelers will fall in love with this property. Guests have access to the Internet, Apple MacBooks laptops, complimentary printing services and more. The Sands Expo and Convention Center is available for all types of meetings, product launches, trade events etc. Limousines or private cars can also be arranged for special occasions.

Experience bliss in the sky at Sands SkyPark that features landscaped gardens with 250 types of trees and 650 types of plants, luxury rooftop restaurants and lounges and serve gourmet meals, cocktails etc. The Sands SkyPark is a structural masterpiece located 200 meters in the sky on top of Marina Bay Sands hotel towers. It has 12,400 square meters of space that host up to 3,900 people at one time. SkyPark offers breathtaking panorama views. Enjoy the 150 meter infinity swimming pool and a public deck that hosts hundreds of people at a time.

Rates start at just over $300/night.

The Hotel at Marina Bay Sands
www.marinabaysands.com
10 Bayfront Avenue
Singapore 018956

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Toronto’s Trendy Thompson Hotel

Michael — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 07:28:13 +0000

Thompson Hotel in Toronto is located in the trendy area of Central King West. This area is known for its art and design, as well as the boutiques, galleries and restaurants. The luxurious 102 guest rooms are beautifully designed by Studio Gaia and feature floor-to-ceiling windows with extensive views of the city.

The luxury hotel includes a heated rooftop infinity pool, a private rooftop bar and event space with great views of Toronto skyline and Lake Ontario. The hotel also includes a theatre with 40 over sized seats and writing tables, ideal room for seminars and presentations.

Other hotel amenities include has 24-hour concierge and room service, daily delivery of domestic and international newspapers, and twice daily housekeeping service. The event room has the latest technology and business needs, yet is still stylish enough to arrange weddings and receptions.

While at Thompson Toronto enjoy fine dining at the upscale Italian restaurant, Scarpetta.

Rates start at just over $200/night.

Thompson Hotel Toronto
www.thompsonhotels.com/
550 Wellington Street W
Toronto, Ontario M5V 2V4

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