Spas on Maui

Spas on Maui Written by Marie Glodt of Travel to Maui.

Looking for a spa and romance package in Hawaii?

As a so called “spa junkie” I have made it a point to check out as many spas as possible during my 20+ years as a travel agent. While I am not able to visit every spa here in Hawaii on a yearly basis, I do my best.

This year I have been concentrating on the ones here locally on Maui.
You will find most of the spas are located at deluxe or luxury hotels.
Moderate hotels generally have minimal spa services on property, done in a hotel room type setting.

Here is a list of my favorite top spas on Maui. I have included websites that take you directly to the spa services menu when possible. Some of these websites may take a few moments to load due to all of their photos.

When checking out spas I like to make a day out of it. I especially enjoy bringing a friend or loved one with me. This makes the experience extra special.

A tandem massage in your own private hale is one of the most romantic things you can do here on your honeymoon in Hawaii.

Having your destination wedding here in Hawaii? A spa day with “the girls” is a wonderful way to relax just prior to your big day!
I like to try out the spas special for the month or their signature treatment when possible.

For example at the Spa Grande at the Grand Wailea I just had a lavender scrub and massage. That was so relaxing. I love their terme prior to your treatment. It is a great way to start your day of pampering!
Spa Grande at Grand Wailea
http://www.grandwailea.com/spa-grande/spa-programs.cfm

At the Kapalua Spa I had a wonderful tandem massage in their beautiful outdoor hale.
Kapalua Spa
http://cms.kapalua.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=213&Itemid=1084

The Fairmont Kealani Spa has a monthly special. The month I went it included a hydrotherapy bath and a 50 minute massage. The hydrotherapy bath was scented and had flowers floating in the biggest tub I had ever seen.
Fairmont Kealani Spa
http://www.fairmont.com/kealani/guestservices/SPA


The Ritz Carlton recently renovated their spa. The result is the luxury spa you would expect at a Ritz Carlton property.
Ritz Carlton http://www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/KapaluaMaui/Spa/Menu.htm


The Spa Moana at the Hyatt Maui wins my award for the best view at any spa in the state of Hawaii. Prior to your treatment you can enjoy the steam room, Jacuzzi and then sit in the relaxation room and look directly at the ocean! Or you can have an outdoor massage in their oceanfront cabanas.
Hyatt Maui Spa Moana
http://maui.hyatt.com/hyatt/pure/spas/index.jsp?_requestid=1357607


The Four Seasons Maui Spa is known for all of their signature treatments. Some you will find only here in Hawaii.
http://www.fourseasons.com/maui/spa.html


At the Westin Maui Heavenly Spa the first thing you will notice at this 15,000 square feet spa is the wonderful smell of lavender.
http://www.westinmaui.com/spa/overview


While staying at the Westin Kaanapali Villas make sure and check out the Helani Spa. I am sure you will enjoy this wonderful spa within your condo setting.
http://www.westinkaanapali.com/spa/


My next spa visits will be on the island of Kauai, followed by the Big Island of Hawaii.

Travel to Maui is a Maui Travel agency and a Hawaiian Destination Specialist.
www.traveltomaui.net

Maui and Lanai’s Golf Courses

Written by Marie Glodt
Hawaiian Destination Specialist at Travel to Maui

Hawaii has some of the finest golf courses in the world. Today I would like to focus on golf courses on the islands of Maui, Lanai, and Moloka’i.


All have countless panoramic views of the ocean and island scenery.

Kaanapali Golf Course is host to Champions Skins Game. It is located in the resort area on the west side of Maui. The 2 courses here are the Kaanapali Kai and the Royal Kaanapali Course. Built in the 1963, these courses have been home to some of the most renowned players on the PGA, Senior PGA and LPGA tours. The signature hole on the Royal course is the 5th hole. While the Kai’s more notable hole is the #11 with its picturesque view of Lanai.

You will know you have arrived in the famous Kapalua Resort by the 200’ Ironwood trees lining the drive. Since 1982 millions of television viewers have enjoyed watching professional tournaments like the PGA Tours like the Mercedes-Benz Championship.
The 18th hole is known as the favorite for its view.

Wailea has 2 clubhouses and has three 18 hole courses (Blue, Emerald & Gold). Both Golf Digest & Golf Magazine named Wailea one of the nation’s finest golf resorts.

Makena is known for its seclusion and a place of escape from urban life. Many holes make me feel like you are on the big island of Hawaii instead of here on Maui.

The island of Lanai is home to two world class golf courses. The Challenge at Manele and the Experience of Koele were designed by legends in the golf industry.


Maui:
Dunes at the Maui Lain 808-873-0422

Elleair Golf Course 808-874-0777

Kaanapali Golf Course 866-454-Golf (4653) or 808-661-3691

Kahili Golf Course 808-242-golf (4653)

Kapalua Golf Course 877-kapalua or 808-669-8044

Makena Golf Course 808-879-3344

Wailea Golf Course 888-328-maui or 808-875-7450

Waiehu Municipal Golf Course 808-234-7400





Lanai:Challenge at Manele Golf Course 808-565-2222

Experience at Ko’ele Golf Course 808-565-4653

Moloka’i:
Ironwood Hills Golf Course 808-567-6000


Golf tips:
Rent your clubs when once you arrive on Maui. Many airlines are charging upwards of $50.00 to take your clubs with you.

Golf carts are required when playing Maui Courses.

Many courses offer a “twilight times” if you plan afternoons or “off peak times.”
Some of the courses even offer special rates for golfers staying within the resort area. Make sure and ask when you make your tee times if they offer any further discounts or golf packages.

For rates and tee times please contact the golf courses directly. Most courses allow tee times 30-45 days prior to arrival.

The average temperature is 75-85 degrees year round here in Hawaii. Make sure and bring a hat, sunscreen and drink lots of water to offset our “tropical weather” here in the islands.

For travel packages including to Hawaii please contact the travel professionals at Travel to Maui. We are a Maui travel agency and Hawaiian Destination Specialist.
www.traveltomaui.net

Why should you hire a professional travel agent?

Written by Marie Glodt Travel to Maui

In the age of the internet I am frequently asked “do people still use a travel agent?”
My response is “the smart ones do!”

In my years in the travel industry I have found just because something looks good online doesn’t mean that it is going to actually look like that when you check in.

I found that the photos you see online are seldom what you can expect when you check in! Internet photos are frequently taken at “low tide” (when the beach looks empty of people and is at its largest point) or when the room has been recently renovated (but they don’t tell you that not all the rooms look like that, or that last renovation was 5 years ago).

As a travel professional I make it my job to actually tour, inspect and stay at every property we offer our clients.

Working with a travel expert who specializes in your destination will make your travel plans stress free and the vacation of a life time!

“Being a Hawaiian Destination Specialist, and a resident of Maui, Hawaii allows me to know the best properties to fit your tastes and budget.”

“When creating your customized quote we work with the top rated discounted wholesalers to get you the best value on your travel package to Paradise.”

The extra benefit of working with a Hawaiian Travel agent would be our contacts with the management of the property you will be staying. We can also provide tours and excursions to complete your travel plans prior to your arrival in the islands.

Still thinking of shopping online? Please check out these quotes below!
• "The time an agency spends on your behalf may be worth any fees you'll have to pay." Frommer's Hawaii
• “A competent agent takes the time to listen to what you want, and then makes recommendations based on your needs. In fact, good travel agents don't consider themselves agents at all, but "specialists in a destination or travel type.” "They can get you information that can't be found on the Web. They listen more than they speak and then wow you with the perfect trip!”
• “The right travel agent that will save you the most money will have a few distinct traits. First, the travel agent will ask you tons of questions about your plans, travel itinerary, preferences, and flexibility. The travel agent that asks these questions will have a better chance of finding you deals that you can work with!”
• “Without a travel agent you are on your own!” “Asta”

For more information on travel packages to Hawaii and beyond please contact Travel to Maui at www.traveltomaui.net

Photo credit to Grand Hyatt Kauai

5 reasons to have your honeymoon in Hawaii

Written by Marie Glodt
Hawaiian Destination Specialist at Travel to Maui

1.) Hawaii is one of the most romantic places in the United States, and one of the top honeymoon locations in the world!

2.) Customize your honeymoon package by including a “romance package” in your travel plans. This varies depending on hotel and costs. A few examples would be a dinner for two under the stars, tandem massage in an ocean front cabana, and more!

3.) The Hawaiian Islands offers an array of ocean activities to complete your holiday. The most popular water sports would be: a dinner cruise, snorkel trip, whale watching (December-April), and scuba diving.

4.) Hawaii has some of the best beaches in the world. Here is a short list of the most popular beaches here in Hawaii: Waikiki (Oahu), Wailea & Kaanapali Beach (Maui), Poipu (Kauai), Manele Bay (Lanai), Punaluu & Kauna’ oa Bay (the big island of Hawaii).

5.) Hawaii is a great value for your travel dollar! Book early and save. It is suggested you book your honeymoon 6-12 months in advance if possible.


For assistance with your travel plans to Hawaii please contact the experts at Travel to Maui. www.traveltomaui.net

You do not marry someone you can live with; you marry someone who you cannot live without

Photo credit to Four Seasons Hawaii

Upcoming events in Hawaii for January 2010

Here is just a sample of the fun things to do while you are in Hawaii.

For details including times and costs please contact the website or phone number listed below.

Oahu:

1/1/10 & 2/5/10 First Friday. Located Downtown Honolulu Galley Walk 5-9pm. www.firstfridayhawaii.com

1/6/10 Elton John in concert at the Blaisdell Arena. 866-448-7849

1/23/10 Al Green in concert at the Neal Blaisdell Arena 866-448-7849

Ongoing through 7/17/10 The inspiration of Hula. Free at the Hawaii State Art Museum 5-9pm. 808-586-0900 www.state.hi.us/sfca

Maui:
Calendar of events on Maui http://www.calendarmaui.com/

1/1-1/31 “A Whale of Fun!” For details contact Maui Ocean Center 808-270-7000 www.mauioceancenter.com

Jan. 4th-10 SBS Championships held at the Plantation Course in Kapalua. 888-665-9160

Jan. 13-15 The Wendy’s Champions Skins Game ProAm Golf Tournament. Kaanapali Golf Courses 866-454-4653

Big Island:

Jan.2-30 Volcano Awareness Month celebrating 27th anniversary of Kilauea’s ongoing eruption. 808-967-8844 http://www.nps.gov/havo/index.htm

1/20-1/24 PGA Championship Tour at Hualalai Golf Course 800-417-2770

1/30, 2/27 Islandwide Hawaii’s Sanctuary Ocean Count for details contact www.hawaiihumpbackwhale.noaa.gov


Kauai:
Jan. 2nd Lihue Narcissus Bulb Demonstration 11-1pm www.kauaimuseum.org

Ongoing (Friday’s and Sunday’s) Hanalei Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concerts
www.hawaiianslackkeyguitar.com

1/24 Classical pianist Alpin Hong in concert. www.kauai-concert.org


Lanai:

Four Seasons Resorts Lanai will host a spectacular Penfolds wine dinner on January 23

Paired food and wine will make for an amazing night.
For travel and accommodations please contact travel to Maui at www.traveltomaui.net

Written by Marie Glodt. Hawaiian Destination Specialist and Maui travel agent.

For more travel tips and frequent asked questions (FAQ) please visit our website at http://www.traveltomaui.net/php/travel-faq.php

Hawaii Travel tips or Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF ACCOMMODATIONS AVAILABLE?

Condo: Condominiums are a great option for people who enjoy cooking while they are on vacation. They will offer either a kitchenette or full size kitchen depending on the size of your unit. Some properties will also have a shared BBQ on premises. All of the condos we offer will also include daily maid service.

Hotel: A hotel will offer more in the way of amenities or services than a condo. A few examples would be: high speed internet access, room service, a restaurant and/or bar on property, food & beverage service available by the pool.

Other amenities offered at select properties in the deluxe-luxury category would be: fitness center, luxury day spa, a more deluxe swimming pool and jacuzzi, a business center on property, and a concierge floor or club level. All hotels include daily maid service. Hotels do not offer a kitchenette or cooking facilities.


Home Rentals or Villas:This luxury option will be offering the finest in furnishings and location in the Hawaiian islands. They generally allow from 4-10 people depending on the property and size of the unit. Normally a week stay is the minimum requirement, in addition to cleaning and security fees.

Hawaii has a state fire law about the maximum people allowed in any condo/hotel. All properties follow this law as they can be fined if they have more than the maximum allowed in that particular unit. Everyone is included in this head count including infants.

What do the various accommodation levels mean?

Budget: Geared towards those seeking the lowest prices possible. 1-2 star rating.
Moderate: A modest property with comfortable rooms and simple amenities, 2-3 stars.
Deluxe: Accommodations that offer upgraded furnishings or amenities within a resort and/or a condo. This will be a 3-4 star rating.
Superior-Luxury: The highest level of service and amenities found within the best locations. This rates 4-5 stars.


What is the difference amongst the differet view types?
View types will vary depending on the location, but here are the most common types you will encounter:

Standard: Generally the least expensive option. This would be a very basic view, including parking lots, nearby buildings, etc.
City: This view type is offered only on Oahu (Waikiki). Not advisable for light sleepers as you will likely hear road noise.
Garden: Within a tropical setting of plants and/or flowers, usually on the ground floor.
Mountain: A glimpse of the mountains.
Partial Ocean View: The view of the water is normally from the balcony (or lanai) and there will be some type of obstruction (tree, building, across the street from the beach, etc) limiting the view.
Ocean View: An ocean view room will offer a better view than a partial ocean view, usually from a higher floor.
Oceanfront: An oceanfront room will be directly facing the water. This is also the most expensive view. It is normally $100-400 more per night than the least expensive view.
Overwater Bungalow: This option is available only in Tahiti where whole resorts are built on stilts over the water.

Are some travel days better than others?
Monday to Thursday are the least expensive days to fly. Friday-Saturday-Sunday are the heaviest travel days making lower fares harder to find. Plus the airlines also impose a weekend surcharge. It is good to be flexible, but in order to give you an accurate quote we will need exact dates of travel.


What size of car do we need?
Economy: This is a small 2 door vehicle that will hold a maximum of 2 adults & 2 children with very limited trunk space. Kia Rio or similar.
Compact: This 4 door will hold 2 adults & 2 children. Dodge Caliber or similar.
Mid Size: Four adults will fit comfortably in this 4 door vehicle. Chrysler Sebring or similar.
Full Size: Four adults and 1 child will fit in this 4 door. Dodge charger or similar.
Convertible: Two adults and two children will fit comfortably in this Chrysler Sebring or similar. It has very limited trunk space.
Jeep: Two adults and 2 small children. This Jeep wrangler has no trunk space.
SUV: 5 passengers maximum in this Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo or similar.
MiniVan: 7 passengers max, but if it is 7 adults with luggage you won't all fit.

The car agency will advise you regarding the maximum number of passengers allowed per car type. Hawaii state law will require a seatbelt for each passenger. Child seats are mandatory to a certain age/height.

For more information or a travel quote to Hawaii please contact us at Travel to Maui http://www.traveltomaui.net/php/travel-faq.php
Written by Marie Glodt Travel to Maui. A Hawaiian Destination specialist and Maui travel agent.
We provide quality travel packages to Hawaii & beyond!

You are engaged, now what do you do?

Written by Marie Glodt at Travel to Maui, Hawaiian Destination Specialist

The holidays have begun, you have just gotten engaged, and the families have been told of your upcoming wedding plans. Now what should you do?

The next step is to hire a wedding coordinator and a travel agent who specializes in your desired destination.

Choosing your wedding consultant is the first step toward the wedding of your dreams. It is important to choose a coordinator that shares your vision of the wedding and can make that vision into a reality. Your wedding consultant should have an excellent reputation with both the wedding vendors, and past clients, unique ideas and creativity to share.

Hiring a professional travel specialist with these same qualifications will make your romantic honeymoon or destination wedding “the vacation of a lifetime!”

Planning a honeymoon? Hawaii & Tahiti are among the top honeymoon and destination wedding locations. They also provide a wide range of resort and activities or excursions. Some of the most popular tours would include: a luau (great for rehearsal dinners), snorkel trip, a scenic helicopter flight over an active volcano, swimming with the dolphins, romantic sunset sail, and more.

Planning a destination wedding? It is advisable that you plan at least six to twelve months prior to your wedding. This allows your guests ample time to arrange their travel reservations and coordinate with your plans. It is customary for guests to pay their own travel costs for destination weddings, but many couples provide transportation for the wedding party, or host a special event for their guest other than the wedding itself.

We here at Travel to Maui will assure you of the quality vacation you looking for without the stress and time involved while trying to arrange things on your own.

• "The time an agency spends on your behalf may be worth any fees you'll have to pay." Frommer's Hawaii
• “A competent agent takes the time to listen to what you want, and then makes recommendations based on your needs. In fact, good travel agents don't consider themselves agents at all, but "specialists in a destination or travel type.” "They can get you information that can't be found on the Web. They listen more than they speak and then wow you with the perfect trip!”
• “The right travel agent that will save you the most money will have a few distinct traits. First, the travel agent will ask you tons of questions about your plans, travel itinerary, preferences, and flexibility. The travel agent that asks these questions will have a better chance of finding you deals that you can work with!”

Are you ready to start planning your vacation of a lifetime? We are here to help make your dreams come true. We here at Travel to Maui look forward to serving all of your travel needs to Hawaii, Tahiti, and the South Pacific!

Travel to Maui
Secializing in Hawaii, Tahiti & South Pacific
http://www.traveltomaui.net