Winter is upon us with a vengeance, and parts of the country are already enduring frigid temperatures and driving snowstorms. Even here in Berkeley, California where I live, this week has seen unseasonably cold temperatures with a slight accumulation of snow on Monday and temperatures in the 30's. It's enough to make a winter-weary traveler start thinking about warm-weather getaways to
luxury tropical resorts in Hawaii, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
I am most familiar with Hawaii, being based on the west coast. Non-stops are available from SFO and LAX, as well as many secondary airports, to the major Hawaiian islands. Step on the plane at 8 a.m., and by 11 a.m. you'll find yourself in the warm, sunny tropics.
Where to stay in Hawaii? There are lodging options to match most budgets, but these are my choices for
the best of the best.
Big Island — Four Seasons Hualalai. Land in Kona, drive a few minutes through the lava fields that remind one of a lunar landscape, and you will find yourself in this lush tropical resort that is the epitome of what a luxury vacation should be. No high-rise towers here — just two story buildings around four crescents, each with its own lawn and pool. Rooms are large and comfortable. Choose a second floor room for the best ocean views or, as many guests prefer, a ground floor room with its own outdoor lava shower.
Families will appreciate the complimentary kids program, and adults will enjoy the challenging 18-hole championship golf course as well as Hualalai's renowned spa (with both indoor and outdoor options for relaxing massages).
Oahu — The Kahala Resort. I love this hotel. There's a warm, relaxing, and comfortable feeling to this resort. 15 minutes away from the hectic, crowded madness of Waikiki Beach, I much prefer walking down the nearly empty beach in Kahala. If you're an early riser, you'll enjoy the beautiful sunrise (which is pictured at the very top of this blog as well as on my website).
Kauai — St. Regis Princeville Resort. Recently renovated and now under the management of St. Regis, one of my clients who just stayed at Princeville reports that the property is stunning and has a great general manager. Once this newly re-opened and re-branded hotel gets its service organized, this will be
the luxury choice on Kauai. My favorite part of Hawaii - and a great destination for active travelers - Kauai is small enough to explore the entire island ... and varied enough to maintain your interest. Hike the Waimea Canyon (the "Grand Canyon" of Hawaii) or the beautiful Napili coast (wear shoes you don't mind getting muddy). Visit colorful botanical gardens or gaze at Kawaikini, the highest point on Kauai at 5,243 feet and the wettest spot on earth.
Maui — Four Seasons Maui or
Ritz-Carlton Kapalua. These properties will appeal to different families. The Ritz-Carlton, in the Napili area of Maui, is a large resort set on an immense property. If you want lots of space, acres of green lawns, a beautiful beach, an award-wining children's environmental education program, and a challenging golf course, consider the Ritz-Carlton. Or, for a more compact setting with a complimentary kids program, you can't go wrong with the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea.
Enjoy value added amenities at any of these properties simply by booking through a Four Seasons Preferred Partner or Virtuoso luxury travel consultant. You will receive complimentary daily breakfasts, room upgrades if available, and other amenities that can include free lunches or spa credits.
luxury tropical resorts (search here on Google)copyright (c) 2009 by David J. Ourisman. All rights reserved. If you have comments on this column, or questions about booking travel, email me or visit my website..
