Travel free with your American Express Points!

November 8, 2008

I have great news for you! Book your next vacation and Pay with Points!
Use points to travel where you want, when you want! Pay for all or part of your American Express Vacations package using Membership Rewards points. Or simply use your points to upgrade your vacation package.

American Express Vacations destinations:

* Canada
* Caribbean
* Central and South America
* Dubai
* Eastern Mediterranean
* Europe
* Hawaii
* Mexico
* South Africa
* South Pacific
* USA

Call us today at 800 644-6659 or email at Teresa@LuxuryHideaways.net to Pay with Points and book your next vacation.

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Sail the Islands of Aloha in Style!

October 18, 2008

wedding on island starAre you searching for a private yacht charter, where you have a Captain and Crew eager to indulge your wishes? You need to experience the yacht cruise called the Island Star. Based out of Maalaea Harbor, the Island Star is a sleek 57′ Columbia sailing yacht complete with a full galley and Chef onboard to cater to you.

Your day at sea will be customized to whatever you’d like to do for the day, a little sailing, a little snorkeling, fishing and/or scuba diving, a little champagne, no worries.

The Island Star reserves private charters only - so you choose the guest you want onboard.

The minimum charter is 2 hours, however I would suggest at least a 4 hour charter so you will have time to relax and enjoy the scenery while sailing in between the islands of Lanai, Molokai and Maui. The Island Star is Coast Guard certified to carry 28 passengers however, they recommend no more than 20 for comfort around the deck.

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Hawaii - What is the difference between the islands?

September 14, 2008

Iolani PalaceOahu: is home to Honolulu and the world-famous Waikiki Beach. 95% of the people that live in Hawaii, live on Oahu. Famous Waikiki has a lively nightlife and great shopping. Days can be spent either relaxing on the beach or surfing the huge waves on Oahu’s North Shore.

Visitors may like to take the opportunity to visit the Iolani Palace - A Hawaiian national treasure and the only official state residence of royalty in the United States, `Iolani Palace was the official residence of the Hawaiian Kingdom’s last two monarchs–King Kalakaua, who built the Palace in 1882, and his sister and successor, Queen Lili`uokalani. During the monarchy period, the Palace was the center of social and political activity in the Kingdom of Hawai`i.

Visit Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial - the final resting place for many of the battleship’s 1,177 crew members who lost their lives on December 7, 1941. The Memorial commemorates the site where World War II began for the United States. Experience history through the national memorial’s program tour, museum, and wayside exhibits.

LahainaMaui: is the Valley Isle of white-sand beaches and breathtaking vistas. Maui is the island to visit for the vacation of your dreams. On Maui you can experience the “real” Hawaii, go on a heart pounding adventure, or simply relax on the beach.

Our favorite time of year to visit is between November and March when the Humpback whales make their way to Maui to birth their calves and are frequently sighted offshore enjoying the warm Maui waters.

big islandHawaii: is referred to as the Big Island to distinguish it from the state of Hawaii. As its name suggests, it is the largest of Hawaii’s islands - in fact, it’s twice the size of all the other islands put together. The Big Island has it all - fiery volcanoes and sparkling waterfalls, black-lava deserts and snow-capped mountain peaks, tropical rainforests and miles of golden, black and even green sand beaches. This tranquil island is renowned for its beautiful exotic flowers, especially orchids. Its been described as looking like the inside of a barbeque pit on one side and a tropical rainforest on the other side.

conch shell blowingKauai: is known as the Garden Island and offers a landscape of luscious shades of green. Formed by one central volcano, the sheer height of the mountain means that the peak experiences excellent rainfall and the island has a number of picturesque rivers.

On any list of the world’s most spectacular islands, Kauai ranks right up there with Bora Bora, Huahine, and Rarotonga, you don’t just go to Kauai, you absorb it with every sense. Kauai may get more than its fair share of tropical downpours, but that’s what makes it so lush and green, and creates an abundance of rainbows.

molokaiMolokai: More secluded and less developed than Hawaii’s other islands, Molokai calls itself “the friendly isle.” It’s best known for its former lepers’ colony, now Kalaupapa National Historical Park. The remote park can be reached by hiking, on muleback, or in a small plane.

Those who drive Molokai’s coastal highway encounter St. Joseph’s church and tropical gardens, ancient temples and fishponds, a rainforest, and scenic waterfalls.

lanaiLanai: Get away from it all on Lanai. There’s no public transport on this tiny island, but you can rent a four-wheeler and drive 100 miles of paved and unpaved roads, past uncrowded beaches and pastoral terrain. Despite its size, Lanai offers a large variety of activities, including hiking through ancient ruins, horseback riding, shooting clays, golf, sampling traditional Hawaiian fare, and snorkeling in waters where spinner dolphins frolic. The island is a multifaceted place that’s so much more than a luxury resort. The traveler who comes to discover the island’s natural wonders, local lifestyle, and other inherent joys is bound to have the most genuine island experience.

Kahoolawe: Is an island that was used as bombing practice until recently. At this time there are local volunteer groups traveling to the island to plant vegetation and restore plant life to the island.

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OMG! There was a 40 ton Whale below my kayak today!!

July 30, 2008

maui kayaksOur favorite guests, the humpback whales travel from Alaska to Hawaii every winter to have their young. The Islands of Maui, Lanai, Kahoolawe and Molokai make a bowl with depths of only 300 feet creating a perfect environment for the birthing of the calves.

Our morning began by meeting Kaleo and his 5 yr old son Kahi at Olowalu Beach for a 3 hour guided tour of whale watching. There were 8 of us all together. Kaleo works for Maui Kayaks, he is extremely personable and very well versed in Maui geography, history, culture and sealife. Combined with his knowledge is a true enthusiasm for his job - he really loves coming to “the office” every day! Kaleo is a single Dad so Kahi tags along with him - this is Kahis’ daycare. He is the sweetest little boy, just sits up on the bow of the kayak looking out for the whales.

As we are waiting for Kaleo to get the kayaks ready, the sun was rising and about a dozen turtles were popping their heads up out of the water checking us out on the beach. Meanwhile we could see whales off in the distance breaching and blowing.

The water was as clear as glass, every shade of blue you can imagine and the colors of the coral spectacular.

The whales played cat and mouse with us for the first 2 hours and then they decided to come and visit us. Oh my gosh - they would swim under our kayaks, we could see the white outline of their tails but there wouldn’t be a ripple in the water. Then in a moments notice they would pop out of the water.

Next time you visit Hawaii - you must try kayaking with Maui Kayaks! The whales visit the Hawaiian islands between Thanksgiving and Easter holiday!

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Maui Prince Resort

June 22, 2008

maui prince resortMy sister, daughter and I have returned from our week at the Maui Prince Resort - All was great!
1. The upgraded room to a suite was fantastic! Thank you for getting this for us.
2. Thank you for the $25.00 credit at the resort.
3. We received champagne and choc covered strawberries for my daughter’s law school graduation achievment ~ Thanks for alerting them.
4. We took the snorkel trip that leaves from the Maui Prince and it was wonderful! Saw turtles, eel and dolphins as well as the fish and coral.
5. Took the all day trip to Hana through temptation tours at it was very beautiful and interesting.
6. Went to the Luau at the Marriott.
7. Went to Longhis for dinner
8. Went to Nicks Fishmarket for dinner at the Kealani Resort.
9. I drove us to Iao Needle, Mama’s Fishhouse and Paia (town before Mama’s Fishhouse)
10. We lounged at the pool, I went to yoga, and we swam in the ocean every day.
Thank you so very much! Jennifer and family

If you are looking for a holiday that offers peace and tranquility, then I invite you to escape to this secluded beachfront resort in Makena and enjoy well-appointed oceanview rooms, pristine golf courses and gracious island hospitality. You’ll find glorious white sand beaches, phenomenal tennis, golf courses and endless water-sports. Plus, fabulous dining and all the peace and privacy you desire.

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The Kahala Hotel & Resort is Hawaii’s reigning luxury resort….

June 18, 2008

Kahala dolphinsAloha Teresa -

The Kahala Resort was, in a word, great! We loved the location (away from it all), ambience (inviting, serene, elegant), and incredible pampering (detail upon detail.) That is not to say that the Four Seasons Maui wasn’t absolutely perfect, because it was. Both hotels made us feel very welcome, both were the ultimate in thoughtful attentiveness - excellent but not intrusive. Teresa, your guidance was superb. We definitely would like to consult with you on future travels.

Thank you again! And more “hugs n hulas”, Roelina

The Kahala Hotel & Resort is Hawaii’s reigning luxury resort, set on a secluded beach just ten minutes from the world class shopping and entertainment of Waikiki. This legendary hideaway resort in Honolulu’s plush Kahala district is a favorite with presidents, international royalty and celebrities. From the moment you arrive, you will know that you are truly somewhere special. The readers of Conde Nast agree as the Kahala Resort was just voted ‘The Best Rooms in the USA’ – Conde Nast Traveler, USA.

Kahala Service

  • Subtle. Discreet. Observant.
  • Goose-down duvets and pillows; non-allergenic foam pillows available on request.
  • Many of our staff have been with us for over 20 years, and recognize and address returning guests by name.
  • Beach Butlers to pamper you with cold towels and cool mist services while you relax beside the ocean

Kahala Spa

  • 5 beautiful Spa Suites, each 550 square feet and setting new standards in luxury
  • Each with personal relaxation area, changing area, private shower and signature infinity-edged soaking bath
  • Dozens of superlative treatments for face and body, all carried out by our qualified therapists
  • Voted ‘Best New Hotel Spa in America’ by Departures Magazine in 2003

Kahala Activities

  • Full range of activities, both in and out of the sun
  • Meet the dolphins at our own private lagoon
  • Superb pool and secluded beach
  • Four private pool cabanas available by reservation
  • CHI Health & Energy Fitness Center with state of the art equipment and exercise classes overlooking the ocean
  • Many other sports available, including surfing, scuba and cycling
  • Keiki Club – supervised fun for kids
  • Complimentary classes in Hawaiian cultural traditions
  • Designer shopping arcade
  • Call Me at 1-800-644-6659
    Your ‘See the South Pacific Specialist’ at Luxury Hideaways

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