Thank you for the wonderful honeymoon in Hawaii!

Hello Teresa,

It was great fun in Hawaii!  I didn’t like to start our day with work here (: after a nice, long vacation. I am really glad that I booked my vacation with you as after talking to you few times, you understood my needs and personality. Based on the information I gave, you prepared a perfect vacation and all the activities!

Everything was awesome and wonderful! We really enjoyed our honeymoon at both in Royal Kahana and the Wailea Beach Marriott. The Marriott was outrageous!  I can’t described how much I loved that place, it was the perfect place for us even comparing it to all of its neighbor 5 star hotels.  Also, the Old Lahaina Luau really is THE BEST in the Island!

Thanks a lot to you!! I will sure make my next vacation reservation with you.

PS: Only thing is I upgraded my rooms at both the places - you were right! Even in Marriott, I upgraded for better view but I think it was worth it.

Thanks,
Maulik

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Life on Maui - Kaanapali North Beach is the place to be…

Last Sunday I ventured outside my 4 walls and drove the 3 miles to Kaanapali North Beach or as the locals call it from days gone by “Airport Beach”.  This is the original West Maui Airport, there was a single landing strip as well as a bar that served the best bloody mary’s on the island. We are talking about the 80’s now so I am really dating myself.

After enjoying a quiet ½ hour watching the keiki (children) play in the water and attempt to build sand castles, dogs catching sticks and frizbees with their masters, pregnant moms waddle into the water and teenagers boogie boarding, I strolled down the beach, cooling my toes at the waters edge.

The beach is a great “equalizer” of mankind. It doesn’t matter if you are rich or poor, young or old, the waves will treat you just the same, guaranteed they will slam you up the beach if you don’t respect the water.

On any given Sunday you will find every kind of water craft, from jet ski’s (when its not whale season) to kayaks, sailboats and canoes, but the favorite was the blow up floating mat. There were several of them in all colors of the rainbow.

The lucky tourist that just happened along this beautiful stretch of sand has stumbled upon a taste of the “local life” as there were 2 or 3 birthday parties in progress, one of them a “baby luau” with hot food carted in as well as barbeque and games. The Hawaiians do know how to throw a barbeque! In old Hawaii the keiki’s 1st birthday was a grand celebration due to the fact that many infants never lived to see their first birthday. It was a celebration for all to enjoy - its nice to see the tradition lives on.

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Thala Beach Lodge - Luxury Treehouse Living!

When considering a cruise vacation to the Great Barrier Reef, Australia - be sure to save a few days to visit Thala Beach Lodge located near Port Douglas, in North Queensland. Thala Beach Lodge is a family owned 5 star luxury hideaway, boutique resort set spectacularly atop a headland with breathtaking views of the Coral Sea and provides the perfect location to explore the world-famous Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.

An island on the mainland!

Located just 45 mins drive north of Cairns (where International and Domestic Airports are located) and just south of Port Douglas, Thala Beach Lodge is the only beach nature lodge providing Port Douglas accommodation on a private headland between Cairns and Port Douglas.

Guests of Thala Beach resort relax in one of 83 deluxe timber bungalows are built high on stilts and nestle in a forest canopy. Talk about a luxury treehouse! All bungalows have either ocean views or forest views. Thala Beach Lodge features a restaurant, 2 bars, coffee shop, pool and jacuzzi.

Why vacation at Thala Beach Lodge?

1. Thala IS AN EXPERIENCE, rather than just accommodation, due to the complimentary onsite guided nature tours included in all rates.

2. Rainforest & beach experience in ONE location - saves packing bags & changing hotels to get both North Queensland experiences.

3. An ISLAND ON THE MAINLAND, the resort is surrounded by water on three sides so you get the feel of an island vacation however saves the inconvenience & additional cost of ferry transfers.

4. Value: The all inclusive rate consists of breakfast, lunch & dinner daily plus roundtrip transfers between Cairns and Port Douglas as well as In room mini-bar with spirits, wine, beer, soda, snacks, tea and coffee.

Our opinion: This boutique coastal sanctuary is an experience to remember. Unique, tranquil and secluded, with your own private beach and close to the town of Port Douglas.

Thala Beach Lodge provides memorable experiences that capture the essence of the diverse North Queensland region from the thrill of exploring the secrets of the Great Barrier Reef, ancient tropical rainforest, wild expansive outback and ancestral rock art of Aboriginal tribes - to viewing the grandeur of it all by air. Or simply visit this paradise to step away from the crowd, take some time out for relaxation and marvel at the natural world.

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All-Inclusive Safari Explorer Yacht arriving in the Hawaiian Islands soon!

We are getting so excited!!! Countdown has begun for our newest (and most fabulous) weeklong yachting experience to set sail for our shores here in Hawaii!  The American Safari Explorer is due to arrive October, 2011 - don’t miss the boat!  She caters to only 36 lucky Guests at a time.

Right now the only weekly cruiseline we have is NCL which is a large cruiseship and its my opinion its not the best way to see the islands and learn about the local culture.

The Safari Explorer will be cruising inter-island with a flexible itinerary that will not be based on a “set timetable”. Instead, it will feature a cruise thru the islands at a slower pace, allowing the guests to enjoy extra time snorkeling in a quiet cove or kayaking to a secluded beach. Guests will be able to explore the islands by foot, kayak, sailboat and motor launch.

Along the way, the Guests will experience traditional Hawaiian culture with opportunities to meet the locals on their land and in their homes. Each evening, the yacht sets anchor in a different sheltered harbor or inlet.
While onboard the Explorer, guests enjoy an “all inclusive” experience and will be pampered with excellent local seafood dishes, just-baked breads, hearty soups, fresh fruit salads, exquisite entrees, sinfully delicious desserts, as well as fine wines and spirits. Everyone is served at one seating, family-style; dress is always casual.  Of course, they will be happy to plan for any special dietary needs, and if there’s something you’ve got a craving for, let them know. Milestone events are celebrated in great style onboard.

With the exception of a gratuity for the crew - which is a personal decision - everything is included on the cruise:

• Gourmet meals
• Premium wine, beer and spirits
• Kayaking and shore boat exploring
• Snorkel gear
• Exclusive shore excursions
• Onboard Expedition Leader/Naturalist or wine expert
• Airport transfers
• Port Charges, taxes, fees
• Massages
• Visits with local residents - “talk story”

Stay tuned as the Explorer charts its course for the Hawaiian Islands.

Me ke aloha pumehana,
(With warmest aloha)
Teresa

Teresa Nelle
Luxury Hideaways - Affiliated with Park Avenue Travel - A Virtuoso Agency
Extraordinary Luxury Travel by Land - Sea - Air
Toll free 800 644-6659      fax (888) 337-9102   skype- hawaiibound22
www.LuxuryHideaways.net       E:Teresa@LuxuryHideaways.net
www.OnlyCruisesTravel.com    Blog with us at: http://SeeTheSouthPacific.com
Rated A+ by Hawaii Better Business Bureau!

“Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover.” - Mark Twain

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Haumana Cruises - For a limited time only!

The Haumana will begin cruising the spectacular lagoon of Rangiroa in French Polynesia from July 09 until October 1st 2011.

There are two cruises from which to choose - but after I read them both - I would want to stay on for the entire week! Plan your dream vacations around either of the Haumana cruise itineraries listed below:

The Blue Lagoon Cruise - 3 nights, from Wednesday to Saturday

Wednesday : Haumana Base - Embarkation

Meet & greet at the Rangiroa airport
Polynesian welcome onboard, with flowers and tropical drinks, and check-in
Snorkeling tour at the Rangiroa’s natural Aquarium
Pre-dinner cocktail hour & presentation of the next day’s program
Dinner followed by fishing from the aft platform
Departure during the night for the Blue Lagoon area

Thursday : Blue Lagoon & Faama

Morning excursion to the Blue Lagoon of Rangiroa, stunning chain of islets within the lagoon of Rangiroa : swimming, sunbathing, shark feeding adventure.
Lunch onboard while the Haumana navigates towards Faama, also called the Reef Island
Afternoon at leisure in Faama : snorkeling, kayaking, “farniente” on the beach, fishing
Pre-dinner cocktails, presentation of the next day’s program and pareo tying class
Dinner followed by night fishing from the Haumana platform for those interested
Overnight in Faama and early morning departure the next day to Motu Ai Ai

Friday : Motu Ai Ai

Full day tour on Motu Ai Ai, starting with the exploration of the islet, and reef outing to get acquainted with the different species of fish, shells and sea urchins that can be seen in Rangiroa
Discovery of the “feo” fossilized coral formations, a lunar landscape typical of the Tuamotu archipelago
Swim in these natural pools, refreshed by the ocean’s waters
Coconut demonstration & BBQ lunch feet in the water
Afternoon at leisure on this Robinson Crusoe paradise islet : kayaks, snorkeling, fishing, “siesta”
Pre-dinner cocktails & Tahitian dancing, followed by dinner
Overnight in Motu Ai Ai and early morning departure to the base the next day

Saturday : Haumana Base - Farewell

Or, stay onboard and continue the adventure…..

The Pink Sand Cruise - 4 nights, from Saturday to Wednesday

Saturday : Haumana Base, Embarkation

Meet & greet at the Rangiroa airport
Polynesian welcome onboard, with flowers and tropical drinks, and check-in
Departure during lunchtime for Onetere
The Haumana will anchor in Onetere in the afternoon
Time at leisure in Onetere
Pre-dinner cocktail hour & presentation of the next day’s program
Dinner followed by fishing from the aft platform for those interested
Departure during the night for the Pink Sand area

Sunday : Shells Islet, Pink Sand Islet and Birds’ Islet

Morning visit to a local family on their private “motu” islet, the Shells Islet : discover their way of life, away from civilization. This family is one of the only ones still digging Rangiroa’s hostile grounds to find those very precious orange shells used in the islands to make the beautiful shells necklaces.
Snorkeling at the Coral Garden and lunch onboard
Afternoon at leisure at the Pink Sand islet, a beautiful natural sand bank floating above a crystal-clear lagoon Participate in a shark feeding adventure or relax on the beach
On the way back to the yacht, stop by the Birds’ Islet, a natural birds’ sanctuary
Dinner under the stars, on the beach, to the sounds of ukuleles and Polynesian drums
The Haumana remains at anchor overnight

Monday : Motu Teu & Kiroria

Early morning departure for Motu Teu
Morning excursion to Motu Teu explore the islet at your own pace. (Possibility for troll fishing early morning)
Coco demonstration and tasting followed by lunch feet in the water at Motu Kiroria
Afternoon at leisure : walk to the reef, snorkeling, kayaks, fishing or “farniente”
Pre-dinner cocktails, presentation of the next day’s program and pareo tying class
Dinner and fishing from the aft platform after dinner

Tuesday : Otepipi & Mauahatea

Morning excursion to Otepipi ancient village
Reef outing and discovery of the island’s fauna and flora
Lunch onboard and navigation to Mauahatea
Afternoon visit to Mauahatea : discover Rangiroa’s interesting landscape of “feo”, fossilized coral formations sculpted by time. Take a refreshing dip in one of the natural spa pools.
Overnight in Mauahatea and early morning departure to the Haumana base the next day

Wednesday : Haumana Base - Farewell

Today, it will be time to say farewell to the magic of Rangiroa and end your “paumotu” dream and your barefoot chic adventure in Tahiti and her islands.

Contact the Travel Gal for the best deals!!

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Haumana Cruises-barefoot chic cruising in the Tuamotus

Located in the center of the South Pacific, less than one hour from the islands of Tahiti, lies the beautiful atoll of Rangiroa, which means “Immense Sky”.
Nestled in the Tuamotu Archipelago, this chain of emerald islets, secluded pink and white sand beaches and turquoise lagoon is the base to the “Haumana” catamaran.
In this pristine environment, Haumana Cruises offers a unique style of cruising, off-the-beaten paths, in a true and authentic Polynesian atmosphere, the comfort and intimacy of a 12-cabins catamaran.

With Haumana Cruises, enjoy life at your own pace, leave away the hustle and bustle of your daily life and dive into a world of peace and tranquility, surrounded by the paradise colours of Rangiroa, simply the “Polynesian art de vivre” …
Get acquainted with the local population, learn about the local island culture and traditions and all what makes Tahiti and her islands so special, so unique, so mythical …
The Haumana experience is ideal for beach and nature lovers, snorkeling fans and fishing enthusiasts.

Vessel

The Haumana welcomes a maximum of 24 guests in 12 cabins, offering the intimacy & hospitality of a yachting experience.

Yacht’s Specificities
Built in Australia
Length : 36 meters or 110 feet
Beam : 13.8 meters or 45 feet
Draft : 1.8 meter or 6 feet
Cruising speed : 10 to 12 knots
Engine : Diesel powered
Stabilizers
3 tender boats for tours and transfers
French flag, registered in Mata Utu, Wallis & Futuna

The Haumana features
12 guests’ cabins
1 restaurant
1 outdoor lounge bar
1 main lounge with panoramic views
1 jacuzzi and sun deck
1 marina platform with kayaks and 2 waverunners

If you are interested in cruising the Tuamotus in style

contact the Travel Gal at 800 644-6659 or teresa@luxuryhideaways.net

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Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa named in Top 10 Spas of the World

The world’s largest spa marketing company, SpaFinder USA have named Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa as one of the Top 10 Spas in the World in the Best Boutique Hotel and Best Environmental Spa categories.

Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa owner Cathy Maloney says,”To have been chosen in the Top 10 Spas in the world is really quite a feat. We are one of only three Australian spas to win in this years Reader’ s Choice World Spa Awards. Shangri-La Sydney and Gwinganna Health Retreat were the other Australian winners.”

While planning a trip to Australia, be sure to add in 4 or 5 days to visit the world’s oldest rainforest (65 million years older than the Amazon), and experience the world’s oldest culture.  Wake to the gentle sounds of nature in your rainforest “tree-house” at the small (just 15 room accommodation), personal private boutique resort.

Location
Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa exudes a sense of exotic remoteness, but is easily accessible.
* Located only 90 minutes drive (113km) north of Cairns International Airport
* Only 40 minutes north of Port Douglas (45km), gateway to the Great Barrier Reef
* 3 kms south of Daintree Village
* Only lodge on the Daintree River
* Sealed road runs to property - no 4WD required
* South of the Daintree River - no ferry crossing required

Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa has also been awarded the 2010 Luxury Travel’s Gold List award for BestLuxury Eco Tourism and World’ s Leading Eco Lodge at the prestigious World Travel Awards late 2009.

Walkabout Cultural Adventures
GO WHERE OTHER TOURS DON’T… EXPERIENCE WHAT OTHER TOURS WON’T…

Complete your Daintree Eco Lodge & Spa experience with a day touring the local region with a local Aboriginal guide. In a relaxed and very interpersonal environment which is intimate.
Half or Full day 4WD tours; Personalised tailor-made charters
With tours including…
* Learn about the Kuku Yalanji Rainforest Aborigines & Visit Aboriginal cultural sites
* Learn the history of the region & Taste some bush tucker
*Discover the Rainforest  & See spectacular waterfalls
* Learn about marine life & Swim in freshwater streams
*Try traditional hunting & Spear throwing

Minimum 2 passengers, Maximum 6 passengers
Pick ups from Port Douglas, Mossman and Daintree areas
(Cairns, Northern Beaches and Cape Tribulation can be arranged)

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