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Virtuoso Travel Week wrapped up recently, a huge event normally held in Las Vegas, which went virtual for the first time. While I missed seeing my colleagues and travel partners in person, the outcome was the same:  strong connections with the people who have the most influence over my clients’ travel experience, who will hand select their hotel room and VIP them, and who I will call on for support with a special request or a problem.

Suzette Mack with team from Africa

A supplier’s network of contacts and personal relationships with hotels in the destination are my most important consideration when selecting who to partner with for my clients’ trips.

Of course it’s a sales event as well, and I love getting the inside scoop on what’s new and what’s going on behind the scenes that you won’t find on the internet.

Some highlights this year:

  • An adventure tour operator has structured their pricing so 6-7 travelers can take over many of their tour dates as a private trip with no increase in cost. How great for family groups or couples traveling together!
  • A sneak peak at two new resorts: one opening soon in Sonoma wine country, and something completely unique on the Pacific Coast of Mexico.
New hotels in Sonoma Wine Country and the Pacific Coast of Mexico

Exciting new hotels opening in late 2020 – reservations being accepted now!

  • Suppliers are working on vetting more private luxury beach houses, villas, and apartments so we can book them with confidence for our clients.
  • Some resorts have interconnecting 2-4 bedroom options, but they are not advertised on their website because they have to manually block them. We must contact our sales reps to book these.
  • A luxury cycling company has the motto is BIKE – EAT – DRINK – SLEEP.  You can choose your priorities!
Cycling tour in Zion National Park

A Southwest national parks trip includes a visit to lesser known Snow Canyon State Park.

  • Hotels are coming up with creative ways to make the vacation experience special while still social distancing:  private movie nights offered on bungalow patios, mobile bar carts instead of public bars.
  • A Sedona resort is debuting a new adventure center for hikers and mountain bikers. Talk with an expert to pick the right trail, and rent top of the line gear.
  • Several guest ranches are open through winter with fun programs for families.
Guest ranch lodge with christmas tree

Ranches offer a “home away from home” winter experience, with accommodations from lodge rooms to cozy private cabins to multi-bedroom fully-equipped homes.

  • One of the most exciting and innovative developments: A few resorts have announced homeschool packages, where they will provide remote learning space and staff so kids can keep up with coursework while the parents work.

Holiday space is starting to book up, and I can confirm that as I have had two clients this week find out the resort they wanted is not available. But many properties which normally sell out by now do have space.  Cancellation policies are more flexible than usual (some even up 24-48 hours prior to arrival), so planning now is risk-free for at least several months.

St Regis Bora Bora overwater bungalow

Virtuoso exclusives in Bora Bora include 4th night free, daily breakfast (some  with dinner, too), $100 hotel credit, and roundtrip airport shuttle.

Also check out Virtuoso’s recap of the 9 Best Things Learned at Virtuoso Travel Week.

I didn’t attend any cocktail parties, but I did get martini tips from a bartender in London. And I bonded over a love of boxers with the owner of a beautiful Tuscany resort who’s also a Michelin chef. (I don’t speak Italian, but I think  our dogs may be betrothed now??)

Screenshots of meeting with Tuscany resort owner and luxury hotel in London

Il Falconiere, a Relais & Chateaux property in Cortona, and Egerton House, one of only 15 Forbes 5 star hotels in London.

Whether or not to plan travel now is a personal choice, but if you hope to get away in 2021 (or even 2022 for big trips like Africa), we should talk.  Drop me a note or give me a call at 408-223-6155, I’m always happy to talk travel!

Don’t panic if you haven’t planned summer vacation yet. There are still many options available, and you can even get some pretty good deals.  I have many offers in my inbox, I just pulled out a sampling of what’s available around the globe.

Kids Free in the Galapagos

With Lindblad Expeditions’ 50th Anniversary Savings, book a Galapagos trip by July 1, 2017 and the first child travels free, the second at 50% off on select departures!  Snorkel with sea lions, hang out with giant tortoises, hike right next to iguanas and blue-footed boobies and kayak along the most idyllic bays. You’ll do, see, and learn more with the most experienced Expedition Team in the islands! 

Yes you can get this close! 
Bucket list item- check!
Fun for all ages!


And if you can’t make it this year, book any 2018 expedition before June 1, and you’ll be guaranteed the 2017 rates.

I had the pleasure of traveling to the Galapagos with Lindblad in March, check out more of my photos here.  

Cruise to the Great Land

Several lines still have space available for Alaska this summer.  Crystal Cruises is offering Kids’ Sail Free when sharing a cabin with 2 adults on most departures.  That can be combined with their Crystal Clear Choice promotion which offers a choice of savings, including a $600 per person onboard credit!  AND my clients also get an additional onboard credit courtesy of Virtuoso.

From ship to glacier in a few hours

Regent Seven Seas is offering a Book Now Bonus on all sailings, including $250 per person shipboard credit for Alaska.  And if you select a Virtuoso Voyages sailings, you also receive your choice of amenity, either a shipboard credit or an exclusive shore excursion.

Glacier Bay is just one of several locations
where you can see spectacular glaciers

Seabourn’s Extraordinary Opportunity Event runs through June 13, with special savings on select 2017 departures including:
• Three Veranda Suite Category Upgrade
• Veranda for Oceanview category Upgrade
• Onboard credits up to $1,000


Say Aloha to Hawaii

Four Seasons Resorts on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island are offering resort credits of up $200 per night for select dates (credit varies by room category booked).  The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is offering a $1000 activity credit for guestrooms, and $2000 for suites.  Stay longer than 5 nights and the credit increases, and all this can be combined with our Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities.

Maui beaches rock!

Kings Pond is fun for families who like to snorkel
at Four Seasons Hualalai

Hit the Beach in Miami

Acqualina Resort & Spa in Miami is offering a Family Escape Package through Sep 30, including

  • Daily access to the Children’s Center, home to the AcquaMarine program offering educational marine-themed programming for children ages 5-12
  • Access to the resort’s beachfront basketball, soccer lawn, foosball and ping pong tables.
The kids may never want to leave

  • Daily activities for toddlers including bike time on a no-pedal Strider Balance Bike, stretch sessions and relay races on the beach
  • A $40 spa credit for up to two adults 
  • Daily buffet breakfast for two (or four in a two-bedroom suite)
  • Complimentary Valet Parking
  • Complimentary Wifi

Parents may never want to leave, either!


Caribbean Getaways

Ritz Carlton Reserve Dorado Beach is offering a Stay Longer promotion, with 10-30% savings on Ocean View and higher rooms.  The longer you stay, the more you save.  And you receive a $50 per night resort credit, as well as Virtuoso amenities.  No passport needed to visit Puerto Rico! 

Besides these beautiful rooms, they have residences
and a 5 bedroom plantation


Shore Club Turks & Caicos lets you stay for 7 and play for 5 when booking a full size suite or penthouse. Rates include breakfast daily, free calls to the USA & Canada, Kids Club for 4-12, use bicycles, tennis court, fitness center, and non-motorized water sports, and wifi.  And of course you can enjoy their four pools: Adults Pool, Family/Resort Pool, Colonnade Pool and lap pool.

An exclusive retreat on Long Bay Beach

Nicaragua Ecolodge Package

My “go-to” Central America supplier is offering an amazing program that includes two of the most authentic and luxurious ecolodges in Nicaragua at a fantastic low price.  You first visit Jicaro Island Ecolodge, one of National Geographic’s Unique Lodges of the World, located on a private island on Lake Nicaragua.  

You don’t have to rough it at an ecolodge

Then you are transferred to Morgan’s Rock Hacienda & Ecolodge, a Virtuoso property located right on the beach.  You can choose from a wide selection of tours in each location, including visits to volcanoes, artisan markets, and colonial towns.  Rates include 3 meals a day at Jicaro, and breakfast at Morgan’s Rock, plus other value-added amenities.

This beach!

Don’t let summer slip away without making some fabulous family memories! To get started, contact Suzette at suzette@family-treks.com.

Travelers in California have more options to cruise with ease and avoid airport headaches next year.  Crystal Cruises is offering two sailings roundtrip out of San Francisco aboard the Crystal Symphony in 2018: 

You can even see the parking garage from here.
Hawaii Sojourn 
July 15 – 31, 2018
17 days Roundtrip to Hawaii
  

Coastal Collection
July 31 – August 10, 2018
11 days Roundtrip to Cabo San Lucas

Guests who book with me are automatically enrolled in the complimentary Virtuoso Voyages program, which include these amenities: 

> An Exclusive Shore Experience
            ~or~ 
   $200 – 250 Shipboard Credit Per Person
> A private cocktail reception
  
Crystal offers a true all-inclusive luxury cruise, including:
  • Gratuities
  • One evening of specialty restaurant dining
  • Champagne, fine wines, premium spirits, non-alcoholic beverages
  • Other drinks like specialty coffees and smoothies 
  • 24-hour room service and in-room minibar
  • Wi-Fi/Internet
  • Special events like wine or cheese tasting

and much more!

Silk Road Specialty Restaurant
Silk Road Menu
ANYTHING you order at this bar is included

I was able to tour the Crystal Symphony in San Francisco last fall, and I was impressed with her elegant decor, the quality of the food, and the variety of public spaces, which means it never feels crowded.


Lots of room to gather, bring some friends!
Outdoor dining is the best.
I love these colors!

Learn photo/video editing or web design at Computer University@Sea


Here are recent testimonials from 2016 travelers:
Wow. Our trip was FABULOUS, Suzette! Crystal Cruises = perfection. We will never be able to cruise on any other line because of how spoiled we are!!! I can’t recommend Crystal enough. The service is impeccable. The boat is beautiful. The food is amazing. We never waited nor wanted for anything. We loved it!!!” 
Alaska Honeymooners
“We laughed harder than we have in years and spent quality time together that you just can’t get when emails and texts are coming in every minute. We can’t wait for our next adventure at sea!”
– Haisley Smith, Brownell Vice President of Marketing and Development
The comforts of home

Crystal has also extended their Crystal Clear Choice promotion through June 30 on select 2017 and 2018 cruises, including some Alaska sailings! Receive your choice of:


– Fare reduction up to $1000
– Air credit up to $1100
– Onboard credit up to $1250

And it’s combinable with Virtuoso Voyages amenities! 

Email me for more information, and to be sure you get the best fares and amenities.
Bon Voyage!
It’s not too late to plan a spring break trip! And you don’t even need a passport, check out these great options:

ARIZONA

You have to forego a beach, but not beautiful resorts with fabulous pools!
I love the desert scenery.

A serene retreat at the base of Camelback Mountain, a “hotel within a hotel.”   Families will appreciate the kids’ club for ages 5-12  and access to The Phoenician’s 7 pools and 165-foot water slide as well as a private infinity pool. 
Making a splash with young kids. 
Special Offer: 4th night free April 5 – December 24, 2017

Virtuoso Amenities
– Room view upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– Full breakfast daily for 2
– $100 Food & Beverage credit (Additional $100 food and beverage credit when staying 3 or more nights in a Canyon Suite, through March 5)
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
– Complimentary Wi-Fi

HAWAII

Even if you’ve been before, remember that each island is unique and offers activities not found anywhere else.

Unscheduled stop at a roadside market
My recommendation:  Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui

Every room  is an 800 sq ft 1 bedroom suite, which normally goes for premium pricing at other resorts.   So families get space & privacy, plus a beautiful, quiet beach, two level pool with waterslide, and adults only pool. It’s one of my personal favorites.

Special Offer: 5th night free through March 31

Virtuoso Amenities
– Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– Daily buffet breakfast for 2
– $100 Spa Services credit
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
– Complimentary Wi-Fi

PUERTO RICO

A Caribbean gem that has it all:  beautiful beaches, culture, historic military forts, street art, and unique natural attractions like El Yunque rainforest and bioluminescent bays.

What kid doesn’t like seeing cannons up close?

This luxurious island sanctuary has only 115 oceanfront guestrooms spread across 50 acres and one mile of beach.  Larger families can book a residence on the beach or even a 5-bedroom hacienda.  Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program offers exciting and memorable adventures, such as snorkeling, hiking and exploring an archaeological site on property. 

One of the US’s pretties beaches!
Special Offer: Stay Longer promo with discounts of 10-30%. The longer you stay the more you save!

Virtuoso Amenities
– Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– Full breakfast daily for 2
– $150 Resort credit
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
– Complimentary Wi-Fi
AMELIA ISLAND

The northern coast of Florida offers southern charm, as well as miles of unspoiled coastline, pristine beaches, and even some pirate history!

Barrier island bliss
My recommendation:  Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island 

One of the most popular beach destinations on the East Coast, this luxurious barrier island hotel is surrounded by 13 acres of island beachfront.  Activities abound, including 18 holes of PGA championship golf, 4 tennis courts, and charming Fernandina Beach just 10 minutes away with boutiques, antique stores, and excellent restaurants.

Elegant, classic, and oceanfront
Special Offer:  Book an Oceanfront Suite for at least two nights  and receive a connecting room for only $149 per night, through April 30.

Virtuoso Amenities
– Full breakfast daily for 2
– Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– $100  Spa Services credit
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
– Complimentary Wi-Fi
 
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

One of the most accessible destinations, with lots of nonstop flights from around the country. A Mediterranean climate means outdoor activities are available year-round, and it offers incredible diversity: mountains, desert, and coastline a short drive from Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and Disneyland! 

Butter beer at Universal Studios!

My recommendation:  Terranea Resort
Active families will love this luxury eco-resort’s Aqua-Terra Adventures program, staffed by naturalists, ornithologists, and artists.  Activities range from kayaking, tidepooling, and surfing to cycling, painting, and hiking.  They even have a falconry program!

A private playground just outside LA
Special Offer: Save 30% on reservations 5 nights or longer through Feb 28.

Virtuoso Amenities
– Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
– Full breakfast daily for 2
– $100 Resort credit
– Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability– Complimentary Wi-Fi

For help with planning a spring break getaway, contact suzette@family-treks.com

You could be here soon!

“I don’t really care about saving money on my vacation.”  Said no one ever.

If you want to plan a spring break getaway, NOW is the time to book. I have been able to find some great early booking values, most of which are only available  because of our agency’s preferred status with a particular resort, or through a tour operator who only works with travel professionals.

Here is a recap of the savings I found for clients in the past week:

$11,000 savings on a multi-gen family vacation – Grandpa wanted to take his kids and grandkids to Florida in April, so he needed to book a combination of rooms and suites.  This was the amount saved over the rate published on the resort website after applying a Virtuoso discount and an exclusive 4th night free offer.

One Bedroom Oceanfront Suite
One of the beautiful oceanfront pools
Lucky kids!
This same family could have stayed at another resort offering a 50% discount on ALL junior suites booked in combination with a 1 BR suite. It would have totaled to >$1000 per night savings over the published rates. What a great deal for families who want a connecting room for the kids, and suites have kitchenettes as well!

This beach!
Hawaii Villa Savings – I found a Book Early offer for March on 2 and 3 bedroom Maui villas through a supplier who only works with travel advisors.  The client is saving thousands of dollars since they needed multiple villas for their party.
Space, privacy, and your own plunge pool

Views of Lanai from a practically private beach.
Haleakala – One of Maui’s spectacular natural wonders.
$1500 savings on a 1 Bedroom Suite – The same tour operator also has Book Early rates on hotel rooms and suites at many resorts.  This luxury resort is my favorite for families on Maui!
A waterslide, swim-up bar, adults only pool, huge spa,
award-winning restaurants, and a gorgeous beach.
And this view!  What more can a family ask for? Well…
…How about complimentary breakfast every day?
(A Virtuoso amenity exclusively for my clients.)
I was even able to find a great deal for a client traveling to Europe over the holidays:  a 200£ savings per room per night for New Year’s Eve. And they will get the Virtuoso amenities which include daily breakfast and a 100 USD equivalent hotel credit.

This room is worthy of a special occasion.
This place will be hopping on NYE!
To be frank, there generally there aren’t a lot of Christmas “deals” to be found.  I do have the advantage of knowing suppliers that often have rooms blocked at a below market rates.  But inventory is limited, so the early bird has the best chance to score one of those rooms.

Even if you end up paying the published rates,  remember that you still get a better value when I book you, because of our preferred agency amenities, such as daily breakfast for two, upgrade on arrival if available, and resort credits.

It’s understandable that many travelers want to wait until after the holidays to start planning trips for next year. But it’s likely the best offers will be gone by then.  Imagine how relaxing it would be to not only have your spring break travel planning out of the way, but also know you have saved yourself a lot of money

So give yourself the gift of a more restful holiday season by sending an email to suzette@family-treks.com, and from there I’ll do all the work!

I’ll take this image over sugarplum fairies dancing in my head any day.
This summer our family vacationed on the Big Island of Hawaii. We had not been there in many years, so we were eager to go back now that the kids were old enough to do some of the more adventurous activities.
Zodiac snorkel tour
There are so many great resort choices that it can be quite overwhelming to decide where to stay.  And even though I had it narrowed down to a Virtuoso resort, there were four from which to choose. They are all unique in style, location, and amenities,and understanding these differences helped determine which was the best fit for my family.
I know we would have had a fantastic trip no matter where we stayed, but here are a dozen reasons we chose The Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows.

1) The coral reef in front of the hotel offers easy access to great snorkeling.  And turtles are seen frequently near shore.

Maui visible in the distance
Coral in front of Mauna Lani
Getting underwater video of a turtle
2) Connecting rooms are practically guaranteed due to the number of them available.
Queen beds!

3) There are natural lagoons throughout the grounds, filled with fish, turtles, eels, and even a shark!

The resort was built around the original fishponds.
4) Their resort credit is one of the most inclusive in Hawaii, including use of snorkel gear, spa and gear rental discounts, 10% discount on lunch and dinner at two of the restaurants, self-parking, 30 min of long distance and international calls daily, wifi, cultural activities, and more.

Family favorite: Macadamia encrusted mahi mahi over fried rice
5) They are devoted to preserving the cultural history of Hawaii.  A self-guided tour over 27 acres of historic parks visits ancient shelter caves, petroglyphs, and a prehistoric fishing village.  Or guests can go on a tour with the resident historian.

Interesting history lesson about Mauna Lani
Petroglyphs hidden in plain sight
6) The Mauna Lani Beach Club is a easy walk or short shuttle ride away, offering a great swimming beach, another beachfront restaurant and more excellent snorkeling.
The Beach Club is visible in the top left,
an easy 10 min walk along the waterfront
.
7) It has authentic Hawaiian ambiance including a large,open air atrium with lush vegetation and ponds filled with their youngest turtles waiting for their turn to be released.  Kids gather to watch the turtles get fed in the afternoon.

What a welcome sight! Live music here each evening, too
8) The grounds are compact, so it’s easy to get from room to pool to beach to poolside restaurant and bar.   And there is plenty of lawn space and uncrowded beachfront with cabanas included in the resort fee.

View from our room (could see fireworks from here, too).
It was never hard to get one of these cabanas.
9) A quiet black sand beach is just a few minutes drive away within the resort complex, which also has great snorkeling.

Practically have the bay to ourselves
10) The Mauna Lani Resort shopping center has a full service grocery store, several restaurants, coffee and ice cream shop, Snorkel Bob’s, and complimentary activities like a weekly Polynesian hula show.

Lei making class!
11) They have a reputation for warm hospitality and great service. The staff is well-trained and genuine, they treated us like guests in their home.
Soon an attendant will be by with ice cream
12) And by timing our visit over the Fourth of July holiday, we got to experience their signature event:  Turtle Independence Day!  Young turtles raised in their ponds are released to the ocean in a traditional ceremony.  

This little guy is getting his freedom soon.

The days leading up to the event are fun and educational for families, as they can watch researchers measure and inspect the turtles to ensure they are ready for release. Children staying at the hotel are chosen by lottery to escort the turtles from the pond to the ocean during the ceremony.

Making sure this guy is big enough to have a fighting chance in the ocean.
The entire community comes out for this annual event. 
Let me go, let me go!

And did I mention the snorkeling?? 

My clients receive these Virtuoso amenities:

  * Upgrade one category at time of booking subject to availability

  * Daily buffet American buffet breakfast two
  * $100 resort credit 
  * Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability

Loco moco breakfast!
They also have five 2700 sq ft bungalows, great for larger families, multi-generational groups, or couples traveling together.  They all have two master bedrooms, a private kitchen, and plenty of living space. Outdoors is a 1,300 sq. ft. private terrace with a Jacuzzi and heated swimming pool.  And through Dec 20 they are offering one of the best all-inclusive values in Hawaii.
Spacious and bright living and dining area.
A lagoon provides separation from the beachfront path.
The Bungalow Inclusive Experience includes:
* Transportation to and from the airport and/or a premium rental car 
* Daily $500 Credit for Mauna Lani golf or spa 
* Pantry stocked on arrival with non-alcoholic beverages, fruits & snacks * Welcome bar set-up
* Daily afternoon amenity
* Breakfast, lunch and dinner for up to 6 guests (excluding alcohol)

Canoe House oceanfront dining 
A great sunset on our last evening
For assistance with planning a fantastic vacation to Hawaii, and to receive the Virtuoso amenities, contact me at suzette@family-treks.com.
There can never be too many sunset pictures!

I recently vacationed on the Big Island of Hawaii with my family which includes two teens.  We had not been there since they were very young, so this time we got to experience some more active adventures.

This island has a large variety of unique activities, so if you are looking for more to do than just lay on the beach or by the pool, it could be the perfect destination for you.  Check out some of the fun things we did:
Stargazing at Mauna Kea
While looking through telescopes is not a high energy activity, getting to the top of the volcano does take some effort.   The Visitor Information Center is at 9200 ft, and at nightfall temperatures drop into the 50’s or below.  So we packed long pants, hats, gloves, and sweatshirts along with our bathing suits.   If you have a “true” 4WD drive vehicle you can drive to the  14000 ft summit on a steep gravel road (check safety guidelines first). 
Setting up the telescopes
Here you have one of the clearest night sky views on the planet, we could easily see the Milky Way with the naked eye.  We also  saw Jupiter, Mars and Saturn through telescopes, and watched deep space images on video monitors.
 

The Milky Way seen from Mauna Kea


Zodiac Raft Trip to Kealakekua Bay
Inacessible by car, Kealakekua Bay is one of the most protected harbors on the island and has exceptionally clear water. It is also the site of the Captain Cook Monument, the only foreign-owned land in the United States.  The crew will fill you in on the whole story.  You can also book catamaran trips and kayak trips, but if you like speed and watching dolphins surf next to you, the zodiac boat is the way to go.
Chasing a fish off a volcano
Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
There is a lot to see here, and I generally recommend my clients spend a night or two at the summit. (I review the pros and cons with my clients as we design their itinerary.) 

Checking out a steam vent with a GoPro
Walk through a lava tube
We powered through a full day trip from our resort, and were still able to drive the entire length of Chain of Craters Road, have dinner, then go back to see the glow in the caldera after dark.
Kilauea by day and night
What’s exciting right now is a new lava flow which started right before our arrival.  It does require  advance planning as views are only accessible from a parking area about 45 minutes outside the park entrance, and you must hike a few miles along an emergency road.
Note: Lava conditions can change in hours, so visitors need to read the current updates on the NPS website, and talk to rangers before heading out on any hikes.
Lava arches at the end of the road

Night Snorkel With Manta Rays

This was not only the highlight of our trip, but could very well be one of the most amazing wildlife encounters we will have in our lifetime. Because of the particular tour we booked, we had at least a dozen huge manta rays (3-10 ft. wing span) swimming within inches of us.  Yes, it was scary at first, but it didn’t take long to relax, realize we were safe, and enjoy the experience.  You can see a video my son took with his GoPro here.

This isn’t a spaceship, it’s the underside of a manta ray!


And More Snorkeling!
The Big Island is known for some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii and we were not disappointed.  This is one of our favorite activities (we call ourselves “snorkel snobs”), so we chose a resort that had good snorkeling on site and several good beaches nearby, including one with black sand.  There were also lots of turtles at our resort, so it was not unusual to see them in and out of the water. 

Great snorkeling right at our resort
Lots of coral reefs and fish like this Moorish idol
Naptime!
There are many other fun adventures on the Big Island that we didn’t have time to fit in our trip:


Waterfall zip line ~ ATV or horseback riding at Waipio Valley ~ Swim with dolphins

Akaka Falls


Helicopter flightseeing  ~ Lava hike ~  Bicycling tours ~ Scuba and SNUBA


Lava fields

For more information about how to plan a fun Hawaii vacation for your family, send an email to suzette@family-treks.com.

There are so many great resorts in Hawaii, how do you pick one? Hopefully this guide will help you find the best value for your money!

Oahu: The Modern Honolulu
A member of the Ritz Carlton hotel group, The Modern is cosmopolitan and chic, with a splash of Hawaiian whimsy.  It’s luxurious and intimate, yet has all the amenities one expects of a luxury hotel including spa, nightclub, and two pools.  The oceanfront location is close to great beaches, shopping, and restaurants.
If you book an ocean view room through a Ritz Carlton STARS agency, you are automatically upgraded to a Studio Suite if available, which has a king bed, sofa bed, and a private terrace.  And there are no resort fees, even high speed internet is included!
 

Modern rooms at The Modern Honolul

Insider Tip:  Several Daybed Experience Packages are offered which include unlimited use of a daybed for the entire day,a 3-5 course tasting menu, and wine or cocktails.  You can upgrade to add a 30 min couples massage.
Pearl Harbor
Kauai: St. Regis Princeville / Grand Hyatt Resort & Spa
Frankly, there are limited 5 star options on Kauai, so the rates don’t vary dramatically, and they offer the same Virtuoso amenities:  daily breakfast for two, amenity valued at $100, upgrade on arrival if available.  But they offer two different experiences.
The St Regis Princeville is perched on Hanalei Bay, boasting one of the most scenic views in the world, perfect for a romantic getaway.  The north shore is known for its spectacular unspoiled scenery, which is why many movies have been filmed here (and many celebrities have made it their second home).  It also offers some of the best adventure activities and snorkeling on the island.
 

Hanalei Bay

The Grand Hyatt Resort and Spa has a slight edge if traveling with young children, with its lagoon style pool and fun waterslide, plus they will guarantee connecting rooms in advance.  There is plenty of on-property entertainment, and a luau is offered twice a week.   It is not on a swimmable beach, but they have a sandy lagoon, and are only a few minutes from Poipu Beach.  The island’s south shore is a good location in the winter months, as the north shore beaches are not safe for swimming with the high surf. 

Grand Hyatt waterslide
The island is not that big, so no matter where you stay, it’s not a long drive to any activity or attraction
Insider Tip:  Take a snorkeling cruise to the Napali Coast in the morning, then drive up Waimea Canyon in the afternoon to get a birds’ eye view of the same coastline.
 

Napali Coast

Big Island: Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows

This low key resort on a beautiful white sand beach is a lesser known gem, but guests tend to return over and over because of the great service and authentic Hawaiian ambiance.  Rates are some of the best for a resort of this caliber, and Virtuoso clients are upgraded at time of booking if possible, making it an even better deal.  Daily breakfast and $100 resort credit are also included in the Virtuoso amenity package. The resort fee is also one of the most inclusive to be found.
 

One of the nicest Big Island beaches

They recently announced the Bungalow Inclusive Experience which includes accommodations in a 2 bedroom bungalow, private roundtrip airport transfers (or a rental car), daily $500 spa or golf credit, and 3 meals a day for up to six people!  The bungalows are 2,700 sq. ft. including two master bedrooms, wet bar and full kitchen, and a large private outdoor space with jacuzzi and heated swimming pool.
 

Snorkeling with turtles is always a highlight

Insider Tip: Baby turtles are raised in salt water ponds on the property.  If you visit during the Fourth of July holiday, you can watch them be released into the ocean.

Maui: The Fairmont Kea Lani
This is not only the best value on Maui, but possibly the best value in all of Hawaii.  Suites command premium rates at most resorts due to limited availability.  But every room at the Kea Lani is an 800 sq ft one-bedroom suite!  With huge bathrooms, entry foyer for stashing gear, queen size sofa sleeper, wet bar, and spacious lanai, they are perfect for families.  Larger groups or couples traveling together will appreciate the space and privacy of villas near the beach, which have a full kitchen, dining area, and private plunge pool.
Virtuoso guests receive complimentary daily breakfast, $100 spa credit, and upgrade on arrival if available.
 

Two level family pool with water slide

Insider Tip:  If you have young children, book one of the twelve poolside suites which is just steps from the family pool. 

Haleakala
You may be thinking “What about Lanai?”  Well, you really don’t have much choice there, but what a choice it is!  The Four Seasons Manele Bay is re-opening on Feb 1 after a renovation, and they are celebrating with a 4th night free offer and guaranteed upgrade at time of booking (through April 30), exclusive to clients of Four Seasons Preferred Partner agencies. Four Seasons resorts are always a great value, because they include so much in the rates, such as internet, snorkeling gear, and the Kids For All Seasons program.
 

Four Seasons Lanai beach


If you’re ready to head to Hawaii then click here!
If you’re planning a trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, you need to know about the great values being offered at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.  If you have flexibility in your schedule, you can time your trip to get the lowest rates of the year, a resort credit, and Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities if you book through me.
The absolute lowest rates of the year are for travel in September and October, if you book by June 30 for at least 5 nights.  (Other value dates are June 20 – 30 and November 7 – 20.)
  

Beautiful views from all the rooms

In fall, Ocean Golf rooms start at $645/night, and this deal can be combined with the Resort Credit Promotion, also requiring a minimum 5 night stay.  Here are all the dates the resort credit is available for the various room categories:
Suites – $1000 credit
Apr 20 – Jun 30, 2015
Aug 22 – Nov 20, 2015
Nov 28 – Dec 18, 2015
Ocean-View Room, Prime Ocean-View, Oceanfront – $500 credit
May 03 – May 31, 2015
Jun 20 – Nov 20, 2015
Nov 28 – Dec 18, 2015
Ocean-View Golf, Poolside, Partial Ocean-View – $250 credit
Aug 22 – Nov 20, 2015
Nov 28 – Dec 18, 2015
Lava rock shower!
Families can get 50% off a second room on these dates:
Apr 20 – Jun 30, 2015
Aug 22 – Nov 20, 2015

Nov 28 – Dec 18, 2015
And don’t forget that the Kids for All Season program, for ages 5-12, is complimentary!

Want to golf every day?  Then check out the Unlimited Golf package, which requires a 3 night minimum stay:

Unlimited daily golf for two guests with each night purchased, including access to the driving range and a shared cart, and daily buffet breakfast for two.

Apr 20, 2015 – Dec 18, 2015
Jan 03, 2016 – Apr 30, 2016

Having fun on the Jack Nicklaus
signature golf course
Children are welcome on the course, too!  Juniors 13-17 pay reduced fees, and kids 12 and under play for free, with a paying guest.

No matter what promotion or room type you book, as my client you also receive these exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner amenities: 

  • Daily full American breakfast for two people per room
  • $100 food and beverage credit 
  • Upgrade based on availability at time of check-in
If you’d like to know more about the amazing resort, or would like me to find the best rates for your family, just send an email to suzette@family-treks.com.  My contacts will personally oversee your reservation to make sure you have an amazing room and an amazing time!

Wish you were here?

One of the most interesting places to visit on Maui is Haleakala, the 10,023 ft. volcano which makes up the east side of the island.  There are two facts that surprise many visitors:  it is not a dormant volcano, it just doesn’t erupt very often, only every 200-500 years.  (The last one was 200-250 years ago.) And the moonlike depression in the center is not a true crater; it’s simply a product of erosion.  But everyone refers to it as a crater because that’s so much easier to say!
The moon or Maui?
Astronauts actually did lunar landing training here.
Haleakala is not a quick side trip to be checked out on a whim.   The drive one way takes 2-3 hours depending where you start, and the last hour is spent on 25 miles of twisting road and switchbacks.  It’s not a difficult drive, as the road is wide, paved, and well-marked.  And the views are spectacular.  But you have to take your time, and watch for cyclists.  Anyone prone to car sickness might want to give it a second thought.

Here we go!
One of the straighter sections
And you need to know what to expect.  Here are few tips before you head up to the summit:
Bring your own food and drink – It’s at least an hour drive back down the mountain to get to any restaurants or other services. 
Prepare for high wind – I suggest women bring a scarf they can tie around their chin, especially if they have long hair that will poke them in the eye or get stuck in their mouth.  A knit cap works if it fits securely.  Even a hat with a chin strap can get pulled off easily in the strong gusts.
Wishing I had a scarf right now!
Wear sunscreen – The sun’s rays are especially damaging in the thin atmosphere.
Bring layers to keep warm, and raingear or a water repellant jacket – It can be hot & sunny at sea level but wet & misty at the summit.  Even if it’s a clear day, the temperatures are much lower and the wind makes it feel much colder.
Bring binoculars – You will have panoramic views of the entire island, and can even see all the way to the Big Island on a clear day.

Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa in the distance
Watch the time if heading out on a trail into the crater – Distances are deceiving because of the lack of perspective, and a landmark may be much farther away than it appears.  Also remember that it will take twice as long to climb back up as it does to go down, and it will feel more strenuous due to the elevation.   Once the sun goes below the rim to cast shadows, temperatures drop very quickly, so don’t head out too late in the day.  (This one I can vouch for from experience!)
The trails down there are much further away than they look!
If you want a truly memorable experience, watch the sunrise from the summit.  This takes an especially hardy traveler, as you have get up insanely early while on vacation, and withstand temperatures that can dip below freezing.  But it’s worth one of the most beautiful and unique sunrises you will ever see.  And to add to the adventure, ride back down on a bike with one of the tour companies!

Sunrise circa 1988. I don’t expect it’s changed much.
A van full of thrill-seekers parked at the summit.
A nice stop on the way back to sea level is Grandma’s Coffee House, a family-owned business that has been roasting coffee on the premises for four generations.  It’s small and simple, but the food is good and reasonably priced, including  large sandwiches, homemade desserts, banana bread, and of course, excellent coffee.

Lots of Grandma’s pies in that case
For helping planning a fun and memorable trip to Maui, contact me at suzette@family-treks.com.