Archive for the ‘Hawaii Vacations’ Category
The Big Island “Hawaii”
The island of Hawaii, commonly called the Big Island, is the youngest and the largest of the Hawaiian Islands. Five massive volcanoes built the Big Island and in the fires of creation formed an island twice as large as all the other islands combined. The Big Island continues to grow as Kilauea Volcano, the worlds most active volcano is constantly adding acres of lava to the island’s shoreline. Geographically it’s the most diverse island with deserts, rainforests, volcanoes and surprisingly, snow-capped mountains. The mountain create a huge barrier that block the northeasterly trade winds and makes the leeward, western side of the island the driest region. This coast has the best beaches and water conditions. The windward, eastern coast is predominately rugged, with pounding surf, plenty of rain, tropical rainforests, deep ravines and majestic waterfalls. Kona, Waikoloa and Hilo are the main centers for accommodation and restaurants.
The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is hands down the most unique park in the US National Parks system. The park represents life and growth and creation of the most natural, basic kind. This exceptionally large park encompasses two active volcanoes, a still-steaming sunken crater and geologically awesome landscape of cinder cones, pumice pillars and hardened rivers of lava. Its terrain ranges from tropical beaches to the subartic summit of Mauna Loa, and includes lovely rainforests and fern groves. It is a fascinating, exciting place to visit. Plan to spend at least two days in the area, exploring the hiking trails, the unusual attractions and the scenic points.
The lush, coastal Waipio Valley is the largest and most spectacular of the series of valleys on the windward side of the Kohala Mountains. It is enclosed by near-vertical 2000-feet-high cliffs and is accessible only by a narrow, excessively steep 4WD track, making hiking in the best option. The valley is a fertile tangle of jungle, flowering plants, taro patches and waterfalls; this is a magical place to experience the spirit of the “old” Hawaii.
Puuhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park encompasses ancient temples, royal grounds, burial sites and a place of refuge. Take time to check out the carved-wood representations of ancient gods; the stone board for playing konane, an ancient form of checkers played with black lava and white coral; and the wonderful snorkeling found off the natural lava steps just north of the place of refuge. The beautiful stretch of white sand at Hapuna Beach is the island’s most popular beach. It has good snorkeling, swimming, diving and bodysurfing. Avoid the winter surf, which can pound the shoreline and get unsuspecting swimmers in trouble.
The Big Island is a perfect adventure for everyone; there are accommodations for every price range, great adventures, great beaches, and amazing scenery. Give the experts at James TravelPOINTS a call and we’ll take care of the rest, 1-800-538-7461, www.travelpoints.com.
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In the Heart of Paradise-Halekulani, Waikiki
Most of us share a periodic urge to escape to a land of paradise to be pampered beyond our wildest dreams. My wife and I recently visited such a place in the land of sun, sand and clear blue water where hospitality, serenity, and service were daily hallmarks. Upon arriving in the lobby of this luxury resort we immediately noticed several large floral displays with exotics such as huge heliconia and rare orchids. After providing just my name we were immediately escorted to our ocean front room where we were informed that all guests received in-room check-in service. Fifteen minutes later we were actually standing alone on one of 2 balconies enjoying a fresh ocean breeze.
During our stay, on a daily basis we received fresh flowers, including orchids, from the in-house flower shop, fresh fruit and decadent chocolates from the on site bake shop, and two newspapers hung on the door in a specially treated canvas bag that you could take to the beach. This premier luxury resort is one of only 22 properties in the United States, Mexico, and Canada to earn AAA’s five diamond rating for both lodging and dining. The name of this romantic getaway is Halekulani, on the beach at Waikiki. Halekulani is the only hotel in Hawaii with a five-diamond restaurant, LaMer. You may have recently seen LaMer featured on the popular TV show Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous. We can personally vouch for the Lobster Galette of Basmati Rice with roasted Opakapaka Sausage (yum, yum). Other luxuries we didn’t realize we needed were a bedside switch that adjusted the soft Hawaiian music from specially installed closet speakers. My wife especially enjoyed the terry-covered stool in front of the vanity and the effervescent tub tablets the size of eggs. How about your own doorbell and a light switch inside the door that tells those outside not to disturb you or fresh ice delivered twice a day. The closet doors were fully mirrored and opened into the bedroom on one side and into the bathroom on the other side allowing access to your clothes with returning to the bedroom. We even had our own personal Lovebirds who woke us up each morning with soft cooing from the balcony. Also impressive was the ability to sneak out for pizza in style in a long white limo that was actually our cab, at cab rates!
I would recommend this property for an extended week of pampering or just a 2 to 3 day layover. You might depart the pampered environment long enough to visit some of Oahu, Hawaii’s top attractions such as Hanauma Bay Beach park, on the best snorkeling locations in the world. Or perhaps take an excursion out to the U.S.S Arizona War Memorial, which honors those who perished during the bombing of Pearl Harbor. You might also enjoy a scenic ride along the windward coast of Oahu to the world famous Polynesian cultural center, which is a perfect fit for visitors with limited leisure time.
We, at James TravelPOINTS, can help arrange your memorable stay at Halekulani in Waikiki or help you chose another resort that meets your needs. Just give us a call at 1-800-538-7461, www.travelpoints.com.
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Kaua’i
Kaua’i where incredible natural beauty abounds- from the breathtaking heights of the verdant Kokee forests to the magnificent Na Pali coastline, from the ever-changing colors of Waimea Canyon to the romance of moonlit Hanalei Bay, the beauty of the Garden Island overwhelms your senses.
Only 3% of the land area have been developed for commercial and residential use leaving the remaining 97% divided between agriculture and conservation. The majority of the island’s approximately 50,000 residents live and work in the coastal areas leaving the interior of Kaua’i spectacularly beautiful and pristine.
There are so many opportunities to observe Kaua’s natural beauty that surrounds you. Bring your binoculars so you can spot some of the colorful forest birds in Kokee State Park. Get a fish identification card from a snorkel rental shop so you can spot the state fish, the humuhumunukunukuapuaa.
The National Tropical Botanical Garden has sites on Kauai’s south and north shores and Limahuli Gardens near Haena, give you the opportunity to view rare and endemic plants.
Rare Hawaiian monk seals have been known to bask along the beaches and green sea turtles sometimes swim near the shore. During the months of November to April, humpback whales play offshore, and various boat companies offer whale-watching adventures.
How about seeing the island from high in the air with your own private helicopter excursion. Where you can view the Menehune Fishpond, Kipu Kai Ranch and its secluded beach, and the famous Tree Tunnel. Further inland discover Hanapepe Valley, Manawaiopuna Falls as seen in Jurassic Park, Olokele Canyon, Waialae Falls, breath-taking Waimea Canyon and Koke’e State Park. Just as you think the view couldn’t be more spectacular, you catch your first glimpse of the Na Pali Coast, and then soar over the lush valleys and magnificent waterfalls, which tumble thousands of feet. To leave you completely awestruck, you next fly over the world-famous surf spot Hanalei Bay, Lumahai Beach, Namolokama Mountain and waterfall, Kawailewa Falls, and the tropical rain forest of Hanalei Valley. The finishing touch towards Mt. Wai’ale’ale Crater, the wettest spot on earth, and over the Wailua falls of Fantasy Island fame.
Next it’s time to saddle up for a horseback adventure across Princeville Ranch and enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the Hanalei Mountains, the Pacific Ocean, Hanalei Valley and Bay. Weather permitting, guests can swim in the waterfall pond.
Whether by helicopter, horseback, boat, kayak, hiking, or via car, Kaua’i is truly Hawaii’s Island of discovery. James TravelPOINTS can help arrange your Hawaiian vacation. We have experienced travel consultants who know the area to help you select the right hotel property for your budget, activities to choose from and recommended excursions to take. Stop by or call one of our professional travel consultants at James TravelPOINTS 1-800-538-7461, www.travelpoints.com to arrange your next trip to Hawaii.
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Golf Resort Preview
Between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, about 1,600 miles southeast of Miami lies a little group of 30 plus islands called St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The Carenage Ba, Beach and Golf Resort nestles up to the ocean, flirting with it by placing what is perhaps the largest pool in the Caribbean right on the water’s edge.
Along that sea front you’ll find some 60 acres dedicated to the Carenage Golf course (18 holes, par 72, 6300 yards) facing a magnificent coral reef. Every shot is different than the last, and despite uphill challenges and twisting fairways, the real hazard is the distracting view.
Canouan, where the resort is located, is also an ideal spot for windsurfing, sailing, SCUBA diving in the sea, tennis, volleyball or simply walking. Once you’ve tried all of those, why not take to the water in one of the resort’s boats or the air in one of their small planes.
Gleneagles Scotland
The highlands between Edinburgh and Glasgow contain a Scottish national treasure, the venerable Gleneagles. Golf enthusiasts worship here on three of the world’s fines courses laid out on an 850-acre estate in Perthshire. Gleneagles is a world-class resort offering its famous golf courses plus the Golf Academy, the club and Spa, the Equestrian Center, the Gleneagles Jackie Stewart Shooting and Fishing School, the British School of Falconry, off-road driving and the list is endless. Your stay includes a variety of complimentary sporting and recreational activities, plus access to the resort’s golf practice range and putting greens.
Lanai, “The Experience” at Koele, Hawaii
In the highland of the forgotten Hawaiian island of Lanai, you’ll long remember a splendid course designed by Greg Norman, “the Shark,” and renowned fairway architect Ted Robinson. The Experience, at Koele’s par-72 championship course measures 7,014 yards from tournament tees. The first seven holes sit atop a forested plateau 2,000 feet above sea level, where morning mists rise to provide panoramic views of the islands of Maui and Molokai across the deep blue channel. They say the 8th hole is the “most spectacular hole in all of Hawaii,” a 396-yard par-4 with a 250-foot drop through ravines wooded with pine, koa and eucalyptus. The back nine at The Experience at Koele feature undulating, links-style play. Water features are in full evidence, from flowing streams and cascading waterfalls, to the lake, which completely surrounds the number 17 green. The course culminates in the par-five 18th, where the green is rimmed by waterfalls.
The Lodge at Koele is one of Hawaii’s most luxurious inland hotels. The 102-room Lodge, reminiscent of a fine country estate, features an upcountry Hawaiian setting with an extensive collection of pacific art.
If you are considering a golf getaway or vacation this winter, give James TravelPOINTS a call at 1-800-538-7461/303-442-2340. We can help you arrange your unique vacation.
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