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Thursday, December 9, 2010

What are the benefits of using a travel agent to book my vacation to Hawaii?



I see it all the time in blogs, comments online and chat rooms?
Why should I use a travel agent if I can book it online?

I find all too often people only post comments on online or write letters when they have something negative to say. Our clients at Travel to Maui make it a point to write us and rave about their vacation packages to Hawaii! There are many reasons why our clients rave about their holiday in Hawaii!



1. Our travel agents are trained as a specialist in your desired location. Not only have our travel agents passed the required tests to become a Hawaii Destination specialist, our Hawaiian travel experts have first hand knowledge of the location you are visiting.
2. Our client’s expectations are fully addressed during your consulting appointment. Our consulting appointments generally last up to 60 minutes. During this time we will be covering the pros and cons of every property we offer that fits within your requested budget.
3. We will show you real life pictures during your consulting appointment! We will show you “current” pictures taken by a travel expert at Travel to Maui. Not some stock photo taken at “low tide” or a photo taken 20 years. I like to joke with folks it is a lot like online dating. You don’t always get what you see when you shop online!
4. When you book with Travel to Maui you are not just another honeymooner in Hawaii or a confirmation number of someone who booked online. Travel to Maui is a leader in the Hawaii vacation packages. We work closely with our local travel partners to make your stay extra special!
5. When you book your travel package with Travel to Maui we offer a “risk free cancellation policy” to protect your travel investment.
6. Travel to Maui is a Hawaii travel agency located on the island of Maui. This speaks volumes when you are looking for insider tips on where to stay, the current weather conditions in Hawaii, the best beaches in the Hawaiian Islands, what to see and do when in Hawaii, and so much more!

Need more reasons to hire the experts at Travel to Maui?Please read the comments below from a few of our 2010 clients.



My experience with Travel to Maui was nothing short of exceptional.For our wedding we had guests flying in from a three countries in addition we had planned several events over a few days. Logistically, it could have been a nightmare. Luckily, we had Marie! She provided a very high standard of service to all of our guests, even the tricky ones! Her knowledge of the islands and quality service providers is second to none.

The amount of effort and genuine desire to ensure that our wedding experience was more than what we dreamed; was obviously in every encounter with Marie.

I highly recommend Travel to Maui, we will be using their services repeatedly in the years to come. Mr & Mrs Darrin Geddes Edmonton, Canada


Nikki and I got back home yesterday and wanted to say thank you for the excellent job you did in planning our trip to Hawaii. The entire honeymoon was phenomenal, we loved both Maui and Kauai. We especially appreciated the special touches including the printed menus at Mama's Fish House and the other extras you arranged. We will definitely recommend you to our friends that are coming to Hawaii and will call you to plan our next visit, which will hopefully be in the not-too-distant future.
Thanks again. Nikki & Matt Darin Boston, MA


Thank-you Marie for your personalized and attentive service!You have gone above and beyond for me in all that I've asked of you.
Your candid advice and prompt responses are so appreciated, especially when coordinating travel and accommodation for such a diverse group. You are a true professional who clearly has passion for her work!****Thanks Tamera for recommending Marie @ travel to Maui, it was a pleasure to work with her!***
Mahalo Nui Loa,
Lisa and Matte Gillard,
Calgary, Alberta. Canada


I cannot say enough good things about Marie Glodt with Travel to Maui. She is always quick to respond and so helpful with my clients. I get rave reviews from my honeymoon couples even before they head to the islands! I look forward to working with her more in the future!
Jennifer Lackey Storybook Wedding Consulting Atlanta GA
http://bit.ly/g06GFG


Well we are back at home in Canada and all depressed - its hard to believe we have gone from bathing suits to parkas! The temperature today is about 30 ° F so that is quite a drop from Hawaii weather.

In any case, we just wanted to thank you for arranging a great vacation for us - we all had a really good time and the accommodations were perfect! Well thanks again for the great vacation - we are definitely planning to go to Hawaii again (hopefully within the next 5 years) and will contact you to make arrangements.
Sue Fleming Edmonton, Canada



We enjoyed exploring little beach areas around the north shore and some funky, off-beat surf towns along the highway. The Polynesian Culture Center was a "must" if you're going to be on Oahu.

Thank you Marie for knowing us so well and what we love and helping to make so many wonderful things happen!

We had such a fabulous anniversary trip! Thank you for all you do to make things special!

We can't wait to come again! Next time....longer! Best wishes, Amy & Brent Christensen Utah



I just wanted to let you know how fantastic both hotels were to us. The view from our room was spectacular, and the staff was very friendly, and the service was A+, while we relaxed by the pool staff constantly made sure we had all we needed comfort wise, and the spa was great too.
Thanks for all the work and help, my trip was fantastic, and couldn't have gone any smoother! Joe & Stephanie (Valentine) Litzinger Columbus, OH



Are you ready to start planning your vacation of a life time?
If so, please take a few minutes to fill out our Travel Quote Request form. http://bit.ly/9qMu4Q


Once this form is entirely filled out, we will have all the information we need to create the custom package that will perfectly fit your tastes and budget. All travel packages must originate in the United States or Canada.

Providing quality travel packages to Hawaii and beyond! www.traveltomaui.net



Photo credit to the Hawaii Visitor and Convention Bureau

Written by Marie Glodt a Maui travel agent with Travel to Maui and Hawaiian Destination Specialist with the Hawaii Visitor Bureau.

Travel to Maui is a Hawaiian Destination Specialist with the Hawaii Visitor Bureau and a Maui Master with the Maui Visitor Bureau


Hvcb link for blogs etc
HVCB Member


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Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Fun things to see and do in Hawaii in 2011



As the weather starts to cool in the United States and Canada many folks start thinking of a vacation or holiday in a warmer climate.



With year round weather in Hawaii averaging 75 degrees it is no wonder a Hawaiian vacation is most people’s first choice.

One of the benefits of booking your travel early is you get the best travel promotions.
It also allows you time to plan what you are going to see and do when you are in Hawaii.


As a Hawaii travel agent and resident of the island of Maui I like to promote events that may not be in any guide book or online website.

Listed here for your convenience are a few of my favorite events upcoming in Hawaii for 2011.


Starting in December the humpback whales start arriving from the cooler waters in Alaska. Whale watch tours are done on all of the islands, but I find that Maui has the calmest waters and best conditions for viewing whales.

In addition to our seasonal whale watching tours you can also enjoy a festive luau, a beautiful snorkel sail, romantic dinner cruises or just hop in your car and drive around the island checking out the local events.

Kauai:
Friday 2/11/11 Come join us at the 11th Annual Waimea Round up Rodeo for information contact Chelsie at 808-652-3770
Sunday 3/19/11 42nd Annual Prince Kuhio Long Distance Canoe Race. This free event is held from 8-11:00am. Contact Polai Kane at 808-651-2996.
Sunday 4/30/11 It is the 3rd Annual Kauai Loves you Triathlon for details contact Dan at 808-639-8792
Ongoing events for Kauai:

Every Friday and Sunday Hawaiian Slack Key at the Hanalei Community Center
For prices and times please contact Sandy at 808-826-1469


Hawaii aka “The Big Island”


2/17-2/20/11 Ukulele and Slack Key Guitar Institute
For more information contact http://kahilutheatre.org/

4/24-4/30/11 Merrie Monarch Festival
This 4 day event is hula at it’s finest. www.merriemonarchfestival.org


Oahu:
1/10-1/16/11 Sony Open at the Waialae Country Club
This is the first of the PGA tour for 2011 is held on Oahu. For more information contact http://www.sonyopeninhawaii.com

1/30/11 NFL Pro Bowl held at the Aloha Stadium
For ticket information and times contact http://nflonlocation.net/probowl.php



3/11-3/13 The 17th annual Honolulu Festival
Live performances on March 12th and March 13th at four different venues: Hawaii Convention Center, Ala Moana Shopping Center, Waikiki Beach Walk and Waikiki Shopping Plaza. Entertainment and demonstrations are complimentary. http://www.honolulufestival.com





Maui:
January 3rd – 9th: Hyundai Tournament of Champions
The Plantation Course, Kapalua Resort for information: (888) 665-9160.


Saturday 2/19/11 is Whale Day on Maui.
This annual event is held in Kihei, Hawaii and is fun for the whole family. You will find handmade items made right here on Maui, great food, live music, silent auction and more. For information contact http://www.mauiwhalefestival.org

February19th: Maui Humane Society’s Furball
Honoring the service animals and men and women who served our country. http://www.mauihumane.org/


Ongoing events on Maui:

Haku Baldwin Center is looking for volunteers on Maui
Volunteer a portion of your time while you are here on Maui. This nonprofit organization uses pet therapy to assist folks in hospitals and long term facilities. www.causes.com/hakubaldwincenter

First night in Wailuku This monthly event is held the first Friday night of the month.
Join us for food, shopping and lots of fun. For more information contact 808-878-1888

Every Saturday from 7-11am Olowalu Cultural Reserve Community Work Day
The Olowalu Cultural Reserve, a non-profit organization, invites you to participate in a volunteer work day to assist in rebuilding an ahupua'a. Tasks include the removal of non-native plant species, building taro patches, trail restoration and planting Native Hawaiian plants and agricultural products. www.olowalu.net/index.cfm?fuseaction=ig.page&CategoryID=28
Free Hula Shows at 7:00pm every Tuesday & Thursday! Free Keiki (kids) Hula Show 1pm ever Saturday & Sunday at the Cannery Mall in Lahaina. For information call 808-661-5304

Check out Requests Hawaii Maui’s #1 record shop located in Wailuku 808-244-9315

Looking for something romantic to do on your honeymoon in Hawaii or Valentine Day? Try this luxurious Lavender For Two 3 1/2 Hours (250 minutes), $645.00 1 hour in the Terme, 25-minute side by side lavender exfoliation, 50 minute side by side lavender crystal energy body cocoons, 50 minute lavender body butter massage and two lunch vouchers. https://www.spa-booker.com/Customer/MakeAppointment/Search.aspx?AccountName=gwr

All information listed above is subject to change without notice.

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Visit the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau website at http://www.gohawaii.com

Travel to Maui provides quality travel packages to Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand and Australia. If you would like a quote for your vacation to Paradise, or to schedule a consulting appointment with one of our travel experts please contact us at www.traveltomaui.net


Written by Marie Glodt at Travel to Maui

Photo credit to the Hawaiian visitors and convention bureau

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Honeymoons and destination wedding travel packages to Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand & Australia!: Travel deals from Canada to Hawaii

Honeymoons and destination wedding travel packages to Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand & Australia!: Travel deals from Canada to Hawaii

Travel deals from Canada to Hawaii

As the weather starts cooling down in Canada you are probably starting to dream about jetting off to a tropical paradise.

Hawaii is a perfect option with our year round warm weather, secluded beaches, breathtaking rainbows, swaying palm trees, beautiful sunsets, and so much more!






With the exchange rate of the Canadian dollar being almost equal to the US dollar traveling to Hawaii has never been so affordable!

Another great benefit of traveling to Hawaii is the seasonable direct flights from Canada to the Hawaiian Islands!

This would include flights from Vancouver, Calgary, Ottawa, and Edmonton to Maui, Oahu, Kauai or the “Big Island.”

Just think with the money you saved you can treat yourself to a luau, a whale watch tour, or a romantic sunset sail sipping a mai tai!

Are you ready to start planning your Hawaii vacation?

Let the travel experts at Travel to Maui get you the best deals to Hawaii! For a quote request or to schedule a consulting appointment contact Travel to Maui at www.traveltomaui.net


Written by Marie Glodt at Travel to Maui
Travel to Maui is a Hawaii travel agency located on the island of Maui
photo credit to HVCB

Tuesday, October 26, 2010





Hawaii is also a great location for your honeymoon or destination wedding! The key to get the best deals on your Hawaiian vacation package is to plan early!


Here are a several reasons why you should consider Hawaii as an option for your destination wedding or your romantic honeymoon in paradise:

Hawaii is rated as one of the top honeymoon destinations in the world!

The weather here in Hawaii is sunny year round. The average temperature at sea level is 75 degrees.

The Hawaiian Islands are the land of beautiful beaches, lush green valleys, amazing rainbows, cascading waterfalls, world class 4 and 5 star luxury hotels and resorts, plus so much more!

Hawaii is the 50th state and has been for 50+ years
(Buy American and help the economy in the US)!

In Hawaii we use U.S. dollars! That means no worries that the exchange rate may not be favorable, or trying to figure out another countries currency.

Hawaii has one of the lowest crime rates in the world.

The people in Hawaii are amazing! Talk about friendly! Here in Hawaii we call it the “Aloha Spirit!”

We know that planning your wedding is stressful enough. Why not relax and hire the travel experts at Travel to Maui to plan your Hawaii vacation of a lifetime!


Written by Marie Glodt
We are a Hawaiian travel agency. Travel to Maui is located in Maui, Hawaii.
Romance packages are our specialty!



For a quote on your travel package to Hawaii or to set up a consulting appointment with one of our travel experts please visit our website at www.traveltomaui.net

Tuesday, October 19, 2010

Fun Things to See and Do in Hawaii







Fun things to see and do in Hawaii in November 2010Written by Marie Glodt a Hawaiian Destination Specialist at Travel to Maui

Looking for something free to do while you are in Hawaii?
• Are you a returning visitor who wants to do something different this time while you in the Hawaiian Islands?



This list includes websites or phone numbers when possible for upcoming events in Hawaii. This includes: nonprofit functions, volunteering jobs, free events, and more. This will cover the Hawaiian Islands of Maui, Kauai, Oahu, and Lanai.

Kauai: including Lihue, Kapa'a, Poipu, Koloa.

11/13 Old Koloa Sugar Mill RunThe Rotary Club of Kauai is pleased to announce their 8th annual Old Koloa Sugar Mill Run. This is Kauai's premier 5-Km, 10-Km, 10 mile Runs, and non-competitive 5-K Walk. Contact Dick Olsen for more information at 808-822-5092

11/14 Kauai’s Garden Island Range and Food Festival This annual event is modeled after the annual Taste of the Hawaiian Range, which has been growing in popularity for 14 years on the Big Island. Kauai’s festival, subtitled the "Locovore Pa`ina" will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Kilohana Pavilion
Barbara Bennett 808-338-0111 http://www.kauaifoodfestival.com/

11/14 Slack Key Concert 12-6pm at Hilton Kauai Beach Resort
Free, food, crafters, exhibits. Contact Milton Lau 808-226-2697 www.slackkeyfestival.com

11/21 A fundraising golf tournament benefiting Leadership Kauai’s The $125 entry fee for the 3-Person Scramble format will include, green fees, cart fees and lunch. 808-246-8727


Oahu: including Waikiki, and Honolulu.
11/3 & 11/10 Honolulu Farmers Market 4-7pm Blaisdell Center Lawn
http://www.blaisdellcenter.com 808-768-5400

11/15 Peter Frampton 7:30 Blaisdell Center808-591-2211 recorded event information

11/1-4/1/11 Volunteering for the Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary The humpback whales can be found in the Hawaiian waters from November- April. For more information call Christine Brammer, O`ahu Programs Coordinator 808- 397-2651 x 252


Hawaii aka “the big island”
including Kona and Hilo.

At the time of this blog the volcano is very active. For road closures and more information on recent lava flows contact http://www.nps.gov/havo
Ths above picture was taken from Sunshine Helicopters on a flight over the big island of Hawaii.


11/4-11/7 Moku O Keawe International FestivalCelebration of Hula & Hula Arts
For information call Margo Mau Bunnell 808-345-9364

11/5-11/14 Kona Coffee FestivalContact Jeannette Vidgen for details at 808-326-7820 www.konacoffeefest.com


Lanai: including Manele Bay and Lanai City.

One of the things that are always worth mentioning is the spa at the Four Season Manele Bay. This is a wonderful way to pamper yourself while enjoying the luxury of a 5 star hotel in Hawaii.

11/12 Shoot For A Cure - November 12, 2010 Four Seasons Resorts Lana`i and the UFCW 480 South Pacific Union are partnering to bring the annual Shoot For A Cure back to Lana`i again this year. Shoot For a Cure is a charity event to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. For additional information, please call (808) 942-7778

Thanksgiving Buffets on Thursday, November 25, 2010 Four Seasons Resorts Lana`i
The delicious holiday buffet will be available from 3:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. at The Lodge at Koele and from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. at Hulopo`e Court at Manele Bay. The price is $70 per person. Advanced reservations are required for Thanksgiving Day Buffets at 808-565-2335.


Saturday, November 27, 2010 from 6:00-9:00 p.m. Four Seasons Resorts Lana`i Presents a Special Wine Dinner Featuring Drew WinesJoin Executive Chef Fabrice Huet and California's Drew Wines on for an evening of exquisite food and wine pairings, presented in an inspiring five-course dining experience at Manele Bay's Hulopo`e Court. Please call Lea Hennessy, 808-565-2335 or lea.hennessy@fourseasons.com for reservations and more information

One of the things that are always worth mentioning is the spa at the Four Season Manele Bay. This is a wonderful way to pamper yourself while enjoying the luxury of a 5 star hotel in Hawaii.



Maui: including Lahaina, Wailuku, Kahului, Wailea, Kaanapali, Haleakala Crater.

11/4 Bret Ernst McCoy Theater at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center (MACC)
Headliner in the top comedy clubs across the country. For tickets and times contact the MACC http://www.mauiarts.org/Nov.html


11/6 Day of Hope 10K run/5k walk Four Seasons Maui Call 808-891-4100 for start time and location.


11/12 Hiroshima Legacy Tour with Michael Paulo at the MACCThis concert will be a musical experience you won’t forget. 808-242-7469

11/20 The 5th annual Pacific Cancer Foundation Gala Fundraiser Fine wines, great food and wonderful entertainment for a good cause. For Tickets & further information, contact the Pacific Cancer Foundation at 808-243-2999 or visit www.pacificcancerfoundation.org

Ongoing events on Maui:

Haku Baldwin Center is looking for volunteers on MauiVolunteer a portion of your time while you are here on Maui. This nonprofit organization uses pet therapy to assist folks in hospitals and long term facilities. www.causes.com/hakubaldwincenter



First night in Wailuku This monthly event is held the first Friday night of the month.Join us for food, shopping and lots of fun. For more information contact http://www.facebook.com/pages/Wailuku-HI/Wailuku-First-Friday/255519342889

Every Saturday in October 7-11am Olowalu Cultural Reserve Volunteer Community Work Day The Olowalu Cultural Reserve, a non-profit organization, invites you to participate in a volunteer work day to assist in rebuilding an ahupua'a. Tasks include the removal of non-native plant species, building taro patches, trail restoration and planting Native Hawaiian plants and agricultural products. www.olowalu.net/index.cfm?fuseaction=ig.page&CategoryID=28

Free Hula Shows at 7:00pm every Tuesday & Thursday! Free Keiki (kids) Hula Show 1pm ever Saturday & Sunday at the Cannery Mall in Lahaina. For information call 808-661-5304

Looking for something romantic to do on your honeymoon in Hawaii? Try this luxurious Lavender For Two 3 1/2 Hours (250 minutes), $645.00 1 hour in the Terme, 25-minute side by side lavender exfoliation, 50 minute side by side lavender crystal energy body cocoons, 50 minute lavender body butter massage and two lunch vouchers. https://www.spa-booker.com/Customer/MakeAppointment/Search.aspx?AccountName=gwr


Didn’t find what you were looking for? Visit Calendar Maui at http://www.calendarmaui.com/

Travel to Maui provides quality travel packages to Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand and Australia. If you would like a quote for your vacation to Paradise, or to schedule a consulting appointment with one of our travel experts please contact us at www.traveltomaui.net
All information listed above is subject to change without notice.

Future blogs: “fun things to do on Oahu,” “what to see and do while on Kauai,” traveling to Tahiti,” “Honeymoons in Hawaii,” and much more.

Monday, October 4, 2010

What is happening on Maui in October 2010




Written by Marie Glodt at Travel to Maui “Your Maui travel agent.”


Looking for something fun to do while in Hawaii?
• Do you have free time on your hands and would like to volunteer?
• Are you a resident of Maui and want to do something new and exciting?

Here is what is happening on Maui during the month of October 2010.


October 9-12th Volunteer with Friends of Haleakala National Park

A Hawai'i non-profit corporation to support educational, cultural, research, and service activities relating to the park and its ecosystems. For details contact: http://www.fhnp.org/

Sunday 10/24/10 Xterra World Championship at the Makena Beach & Golf Resort

10/23 Hal Sparks, 10/30 Tom Arnold at the Maui Celebrity Series http://www.themauicelebrityseries.com/index.html

Saturday, October 30th, 2010 Harvest Gymkhana Fundraiser- Haku Baldwin Center, Makawao
Mounted Games (horseback) and Un-Mounted games: like Pole-Bending, Pie-Eating; Egg & Spoon Race, Sack Race. Petting Zoo & Pony Rides! Prizes & goodies for the kids. 444 Makawao Ave. Located below Makawao Veterinary Clinic and Boarding Kennel. Contact Robin 808-572-9129 website http://www.facebook.com/hakubaldwincenter

The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum is unveiling a new exhibit titled "Mills, Machinery and Locomotives" that will be on display through October. The museum is open daily, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at 3957 Hansen Road. For more information, call 871-8058 or www.sugarmuseum.com.

Ongoing events:
Every Saturday in October 7-11am Olowalu Cultural Reserve Volunteer Community Work Day
The Olowalu Cultural Reserve, a non-profit organization, invites you to participate in a volunteer work day to assist in rebuilding an ahupua'a. Tasks include the removal of non-native plant species, building taro patches, trail restoration and planting Native Hawaiian plants and agricultural products. www.olowalu.net/index.cfm?fuseaction=ig.page&CategoryID=28

Free Hula Shows at 7:00pm every Tuesday & Thursday! Free Keiki (kids) Hula Show 1pm ever Saturday & Sunday at the Cannery Mall in Lahaina. For information call 808-661-5304

Didn’t find what you were looking for? Visit Calendar Maui at http://www.calendarmaui.com/

Travel to Maui providing quality travel packages to Hawaii and beyond.
Contact us at www.traveltomaui.net for a quote or to set up your personalized consulting appointment
.

Future blogs: “fun things to do on Oahu,” “what to see and do while on Kauai,” traveling to Tahiti,” “Honeymoons in Hawaii,” and much more.