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

Fun Things to do on Maui, Hawaii October 2009

Written by Marie Glodt, Hawaiian destination specialist at Travel to Maui.

There are many things to do while you are here on Maui. Besides the typically activities (luau, snorkel trip, dinner cruise, zip line tours, scenic helicopter tours) there are also many seasonal tours & excursions to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.

Highlights for 10/15-10/31/09 include:

Aloha Team Classic golf event being held 10/18-10/21/09.

Aero smith in concert at the Maui War Memorial on 10/20/09
For tickets or times please contact the Maui Arts & Cultural Center http://www.mauiarts.org/

10/24/09 9am-3pm Harvest Gymkhana Fundraiser at the Haku Baldwin Center in Makawao, Hawaii. Horses, petting zoo, food and more!For details contact:http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendId=149772002&blogId=510013563l

10/31/09 Halloween on Front Street, Lahaina, Maui Hawaii. This event is a must see!It is nicknamed the Mardi Gras of the Pacific

The weather in October is dry, sunny and about 80-85 degrees during the daytime, 70- 75 at night. At higher elevations it will be about 10-20 degrees colder.
With this type of weather it is easy to enjoy many outdoor activities.

Maui Polo club has 2 seasons. The first season is at the smaller field. This is known as the “indoor field.” This usually starts in late April or early May.

The larger field called is the “fall outdoor field.” The season for this field is generally September- early November.

Attending a Maui Polo game is a perfect way to enjoy your Sunday outdoors in the “upcountry” area of Maui. Make sure and bring your own food, drink and sunscreen to this event! For times and directions please contact the Maui Polo club. http://www.mauipoloclub.com/index.htm

The Humpback whales will be returning back to Hawaii soon! Whale watch tours normally start around mid December- April. Prices range $25.00-75.00 depending on the size of the boat, length of trip, how many people it carries and what is included in the cost (drinks, food, and transportation). Kid rates are also available. This is a great way to spend a couple of hours on the water with the whole family!

For travel packages and more great insiders tips please contact Travel to Maui at www.traveltomaui.net
We are a Hawaiian based travel agency.

photo credit to Grand Hyatt, Kauai

Fun things to do on Maui, Hawaii October 2009

Written by Marie Glodt, Hawaiian destination specialist at Travel to Maui.

There are many things to do while you are here on Maui. Besides the typically activities (luau, snorkel trip, dinner cruise, zip line tours, scenic helicopter tours) there are also many seasonal tours & excursions to be enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Highlights for 10/15-10/22/09 include:
• Aloha Team Classic golf event being held 10/18-10/21/09.
• 10/17/09 First annual Rise up Music Festival with the Wailers & special guests Third World being held at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC).
• 10/18/09 The 4th annual Maui Ukulele Festival. This free event is held at the MACC.
• Aero smith in concert at the Maui War Memorial on 10/20/09
• For tickets or times please contact the Maui Arts & Cultural Center http://www.mauiarts.org/

Maui Polo club has 2 seasons. The first season is at the smaller field. This is known as the “indoor field.” This usually starts in late April or early May.

The larger field called is the “fall outdoor field.” The season for this field is generally September- early November.

Attending a Maui Polo game is a perfect way to enjoy your Sunday outdoors in the “upcountry” area of Maui. Make sure and bring your own food, drink and sunscreen to this event! For times and directions please contact the Maui Polo club. http://www.mauipoloclub.com/index.htm

Whale watch tours normally start around mid December- April. Prices range $25.00-75.00 depending on the size of the boat, length of trip, how many people it carries and what is included in the cost (drinks, food, and transportation). Kid rates are also available. This is a great way to spend a couple of hours on the water with the whole family!

For travel packages and more great insiders tips please contact Travel to Maui at www.traveltomaui.net
We are a Hawaiian based travel agency.

photo credit to Grand Hyatt, Kauai