Category Archives: Hawaii

Don’t Miss Out on Halloween Activities at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii

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Don’t Miss Out on Halloween Activities at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii

If you’re heading to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, this month, Disney has a few tricks (and treats) up their sleeves for guests to celebrate the Halloween season at this incredibly family-friendly Hawaiian resort.

Some of your favorite Disney friends can be found dressed in their Halloween-best costumes throughout the resort! There is also an exciting lineup of special entertainment and activities leading up to our annual trick-or-treating event on Halloween night. Here are a few highlights to check out:

‘Ohana Pumpkin Carving Contest: For guests looking to show off their pumpkin-carving skills, families are invited to take part in our ‘Ohana Pumpkin Carving Contest. After picking the perfect gourd, you will be provided with tools to carve your unique creations. Sculpted masterpieces will be placed on display in the Pau Hana Community Hall for resort guests to view and cast their votes! (October 25 and 26)

*Premium Experience at additional charge. Advance reservations strongly recommended.

Halloween—Aloha Style—Party: The Halawai Lawn will transform into a frightfully fun party, perfect for the entire family.
 Adults and keiki (kids) are encouraged to dress up for a spirited monster bash of craft activities, game stations, face painting and a lively dance party with Disney friends. (October 27 and 31)

Keiki Pumpkin Decorating: Little ones can pick their own mini pumpkins from the Pau Hana Pumpkin Patch and enjoy no-carve decorating. The team at the Pau Hana Community Hall will supply crafting tools, art supplies and fun! (October 29 and 30)

Hallow“Teen” Pumpkin Sand Sculpting
: Teens can meet up and head to the beach for an afternoon of friendly competition in the sand. It will be a howling good time with new friends and sculpted sand creations! (October 21, 23, 25, 28 and 30)

Be sure to check the Daily ‘Iwa for times and locations of all Halloween activities at Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Experience a New Luau at Aulani and Meet Moana Beginning in November

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Experience a New Luau at Aulani and Meet Moana Beginning in November

As Hawaii’s top family beach resort celebrates its 5th anniversary this year, Disney recently announced new guest experiences that will debut later this year at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa! You will have the opportunity to experience a new luau at Aulani and even meet Moana from Disney’s upcoming film “Moana” beginning in November.

Starting in November, KA WA‘A, a luau at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa will bring epicurean dining and imaginative entertainment to guests. Luau guests can feast on a sumptuous, local island buffet, and enjoy lively music and traditional Hawaiian dance, including hula kahiko and modern hula ‘auana. Before the luau, you will have the opportunity to enjoy special pre-show entertainment, family activities, traditional crafts and more.

MOANA is an adventurous, tenacious and compassionate 16-year-old who sails out on a daring mission to save her people. Along the way, she discovers the one thing she's always sought: her own identity. Directed by the renowned filmmaking team of Ron Clements and John Musker ("The Little Mermaid," "Aladdin," "The Princess & the Frog") and featuring newcomer Auli‘i Cravalho as the voice of Moana, Walt Disney Animation Studios' "Moana" sails into U.S. theaters on Nov. 23, 2016. ©2016 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

MOANA is an adventurous, tenacious and compassionate 16-year-old who sails out on a daring mission to save her people. Along the way, she discovers the one thing she’s always sought: her own identity. Directed by the renowned filmmaking team of Ron Clements and John Musker (“The Little Mermaid,” “Aladdin,” “The Princess & the Frog”) and featuring newcomer Auli‘i Cravalho as the voice of Moana, Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana” sails into U.S. theaters on Nov. 23, 2016. ©2016 Disney. All Rights Reserved.

Also in November, Moana, from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ film “Moana,” will arrive at Aulani Resort to meet with guests and recount tales of adventure. The animated feature film is about an adventurous teenager who, with help from demigod Maui, sails out on a canoe for a daring mission to prove herself a master wayfinder and save her people.

Both new experiences are inspired by Hawaii’s deep cultural roots in canoe exploration—a voyage which brought Hawaiian ancestors to the beautiful ‘Ewa Loa plains surrounding Aulani Resort. As you may have seen in Aulani Resort Ambassador Janelle’s post from earlier today, we also debuted a one-sixth model of the Polynesian voyaging canoe—the Hokule‘a—in the Maka‘ala Lobby.

What are you looking forward to on your next vacation to Aulani Resort?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Call her at 734-771-1290 or email her at siera@destinationsinflorida.com for your free, no obligation quote. 

Top 10 Vacations for 2016: #1 Hawaii

Happy New Year! Now is the time to start thinking about your vacation and getaways for 2016. What is on your bucket list? What memories do you want to create with your family this year? I have picked the Top 10 Vacations for 2016. These are my favorites for this year.

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#1 Hawaii

Aloha! Once you visit Hawaii, you will want to come back again and again. The beauty, adventure, culture, food and atmosphere makes Hawaii one of the Top 16 places to visit in 2016. There are so many places in Hawaii to visit. For families, Maui is our top pick with great resorts, shopping, excursions, and dining.  It is a great island to experience Hawaii for 1st timers!

Where do you want to go this year?

Contact Siera today to book and plan your 2016 vacations at 734-771-1290 or siera@destinationstoexplore.com

12 Days of Christmas Travel Deals

Would you like to get the rest of your Christmas shopping done quickly and easily? Give your loved ones the gift of a trip! Parents often spend lots of money on toys that their kids will quickly outgrow. Why not give the gift of memories that will las a lifetime instead this year? To help inspire you to find the perfect vacation for your family, check out these 12 days of Christmas travel deals:

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You can visit the incredible state of Alaska by boat or by land (or both!) to experience the amazing wonders of wildlife, glaciers, and scenic beauty. Whether you are looking for relaxation or adventure, there is a great opportunity for you to have the vacation of your dreams in Alaska.

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With the weather getting colder, a warm, tropical cruise may be just what you and your loved ones have been dreaming of. From sandy beaches and palm trees to world class cuisine, a cruise offers something for every member of the family. Plus, your kids will love having their own areas to play and explore on the ship.

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What child or family wouldn’t love the gift of a vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort? When you book with us, you will receive complimentary itinerary planning, help with dining reservations, free gifts, and more! Plus, you are guaranteed to get the best deal possible!

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Hawaii is a bucket list destinations for so many people! Why not send mom and dad or take the whole family to paradise? You can check out Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, on Oahu or try a Norwegian Cruise to visit a few islands in a week! You can also plan to island hop and spend a few days on each island to truly enjoy the unique activities and scenery on each island!

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like to stand on top of the Eiffel Tower, watch the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, or ride in a gondola in Venice? All of these dreams can come true in Europe! From guided tours to cruises and individual explorations, you can see first hand the rich history that you’ve learned about for years!

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You can visit the Bahamas, Caribbean, Panama Canal, California, Mediterranean, Alaska, Hawaii, Mexico, and more with Disney Cruise Line! With spacious accommodations, the best children’s programming, and amazing food, the whole family will love a Disney Cruise Line vacation!

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Explore the City of Lights when you book a vacation to Paris, France. You can shop at some of the world’s best known retailers on the Champs Elysees, wonder at the Eiffel Tower, take in the Mona Lisa at the Lourve, and more! You can venture into the city on your own or enjoy it with the help of a guided tour to help you see and do the most during your vacation!

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Do you want the ultimate relaxing vacation? Book an all inclusive getaway to Mexico (or anywhere in the Caribbean)! You truly don’t have to worry about a thing on these vacations because your food, drinks, entertainment, and more have already been paid for! You can enjoy a week in the sun on the beach for probably less money than you ever expected!

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Would shopping in Times Square or watching a live Broadway performance be more your style? Book your trip to New York City to enjoy the hustle and bustle of the big city. You can head to the top of the Empire State Building, watch Good Morning America, or just explore the streets of New York City.

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When you book a Royal Caribbean Cruise by December 31, you will receive 50% off the second guest’s fare, up to $300 in onboard credits, and 50% reduced deposit. You can sail to destinations all over the world with Royal Caribbean without having to pack up and move each time you visit a new place! Plus, you can enjoy incredible dining and more!

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If you or your kids love Harry Potter, then the Wizarding Worlds of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort will be the vacation of a lifetime! You can actually ride Hogwarts Express, drink a butterbeer, cast a spell, and so much more here. There is more than Harry Potter though, too! You can cause some mayhem with the minions or battle with Transformers at Universal Orlando!

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Could you and your special someone use a short getaway? If you don’t have a lot of time, a long weekend to Las Vegas may be just what you need! You can enjoy incredible buffets, nightlife, and more in Las Vegas. Plus, there are some great add-on excursions if you’d like to visit the Grand Canyon, the Hoover Dam, or California during your visit.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations to Explore. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Plus, you will receive lots of other perks and gifts! Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for more information. 

4th Night Free and Free Breakfast at Aulani in Early 2015

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Whether we’re ready or not, the air is getting cooler and winter is quickly approaching. After the brutal winter and polar vortex much of the country experience last year, you may be thinking about a tropical getaway this year! A great way to escape the cold is with a tropical vacation to Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa, in Hawaii. There’s a special offer this winter to make it even more affordable to visit! You can get the 4th night free and free breakfast at Aulani in early 2015.

The longer that you stay at Aulani to enjoy snorkeling in Rainbow Reef or relaxing in the infinity pool at Ka Maka Landing this winter, the more that you will save!

When you book a four night stay at Aulani, you will enjoy the fourth night free as well as a complimentary daily breakfast at the Ulu Cafe. If you think that your family could use a little extra time at Laniwai Spa or Aunty’s Beach House, then you will enjoy 30% off a minimum five night stay as well as complimentary daily breakfast at Ulu Cafe.

You can book your Aulani vacation with one of these offers through February 23, 2015 for travel most nights between January 4, 2015 and March 23, 2015.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations to Explore. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for more information. 

Get Up to $1,500 Onboard Credit with Royal Caribbean

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You can get up to $1,500 onboard credit with Royal Caribbean Cruise Line when you book your next cruise by November 16, 2014! You can use your on board credit however you’d like!

If you book a 3 or 4 night Bahamas or a 4 or 5 night Caribbean Royal Caribbean Cruise Line sailing by November 16, 2014, you will receive the following on board credit, based on your room category:

  • Suite- $400 on board credit
  • Balcony- $200 on board credit
  • Oceanview- $100 on board credit

If you book a 6+ Night Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, Dubai, Hawaii, Panama Canal, Transatlantic, Repositioning, or Asia Royal Caribbean Cruise Line sailing by November 16, 2014, you will receive the following on board credit, based on your room category:

  • Suite- $1,000 on board credit
  • Balcony- $600 on board credit
  • Oceanview- $400 on board credit

If you book a Europe, Alaska, or 7+ night Australia Royal Caribbean Cruise Line sailing by November 16, 2014, you will receive the following on board credit, based on your room category:

  • Suite- $1,500 on board credit
  • Balcony- $1,000 on board credit
  • Oceanview- $600 on board credit

This on board credit offer does exclude Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, and all China departures.

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations to Explore. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for more information. 

Save up to 35% on a Hawaiian Vacation in Fall 2014

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You can save up to 35% on a Hawaiian vacation in fall 2014 or early 2015. There are some great deals available at properties on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. You can take advantage of these exclusive savings when you book by August 28, 2014.
Kaanapali Beach Hotel on Maui
  • Exclusive 10% savings plus daily breakfast for two
  • Travel now through December 20, 2014

Hyatt Regency Maui on Maui

  • Exclusive 30% savings
  • Travel now through March 31, 2015

Grand Hyatt Kauai on Kauai

  • Exclusive 30% savings
  • Travel now through December 20, 2014

Hyatt Regency Waikiki on Oahu

  • Exclusive 10% savings plus daily breakfast for two
  • Travel now through March 31, 2015

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort on Maui

  • 10% off plus daily breakfast
  • Travel now through March 6, 2015

Waikiki Beach Marriott on Oahu

  • Exclusive 35% savings
  • Travel now through December 24, 2014; January 4, 2015- March 31, 2015

Waikoloa Beach Marriott on The Big Island

  • Exclusive 35% savings
  • Travel now through December 21, 2014; January 2, 2015- March 31, 2015

Wailea Beach Marriott on Maui

  • Exclusive 35% savings
  • Travel now through December 21, 2014; January 4, 2015- March 31, 2015

Kauai Marriott Resort on Kalapaki Beach on Kauai

  • Exclusive 35% savings
  • Travel now through December 21, 2014; January 2, 2015- March 31, 2015

JW Marriott Ihilani Resort and Spa on Oahu

  • Exclusive 35% savings
  • Travel now through December 18, 2014; January 1, 2015- March 31, 2015

Please note that the above offers are available for new reservations made by August 28, 2014 and are subject to availability. 

Would you like to save up to 35% on a Hawaiian Vacation in fall 2014? We can help! Email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for more information or a free, no obligation quote.

Top 5 Hawaiian Words to Know for Your Family’s Hawaiian Vacation

Aloha! Are you planning a Hawaiian vacation or would you like to? There is a beautiful Disney Resort and Spa in Hawaii called Aulani. Aulani is in Ko Olina on the island of Oahu. If you are visiting the Hawaiian islands, it’s a good idea to learn the top 5 Hawaiian words to know before your family’s vacation!

The Aulani Cultural Advisor, Kahulu De Santos, has recommend the five most useful expressions that every Aulani guest should know.

1. Aloha – “Hello”

mickey and minnie at aulani splash pad

Aloha is the Hawaiian word that you will use most during a visit to Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa or any Hawaiian island. From the moment you arrive, the spirit of aloha is alive in every cast member interaction. The cool thing about this Hawaiian word is that it also can mean “goodbye.” So, aloha can be used to both begin and end a conversation!

2. E komo mai – “Welcome”

lei welcome at aulani

Just as Walt Disney said when Disneyland park was dedicated, “To all who come to this happy place: Welcome,” a welcoming spirit is the foundation for all Disney Parks & Resorts. Aulani is no exception and a truly beautiful example of that spirit.

3. ‘Ohana – “Family”

family surfing at aulani

If you have seen Lilo and Stitch, this one may already be familiar to you! There is a plethora of activities available for your entire family to enjoy at Aulani. A few guest favorites include Disney Family Fun Animation, ‘Ohana Hula and of course, the Aulani Starlit Hui.

4. Keiki – “Child” or “Children”

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Disney Characters, Aunty’s Beach House and Keiki Cove are just three of the options available for your kids, or keiki (pronounced kay-key), to enjoy during your vacation at Aulani. Even as keiki grow older, there are daily tween and teen activities that allow every member of your ‘ohana (family) to meet new friends and take home treasured experiences.

5. Mahalo – “Thank You”

chip and dale at aulani

Mahalo is another Hawaiian word that is used frequently during visits. Cast members at Aulani often thank guests for visiting Aulani by saying, “Mahalo!”

Hopefully these expressions help you and your ‘ohana feel at home during your Aulani vacation!

Would you like to plan a Hawaiian vacation? We can help!

Siera is a Hawaii Destinations Specialist. She would love to help you plan your next vacation at no cost to you. Email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for your free, no obligation quote or more information. 

Travel Deals at Hilton Hotels in Hawaii in 2014

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Would you like to visit the beautiful Hawaiian Islands? You can now take advantage of some spectacular travel deals at Hilton Hotels in Hawaii in 2014. The Hilton Hotels and Resorts in Hawaii can be found on O’ahu and Hawai’i, the Big Island. These hotels offer world-class spas for pampering, water excursions, shopping, dining, and authentic activities for your whole family. Hilton Hotels and Resorts are the perfect destination for your tropical, island getaway!

Hilton Hawaiian Village® Waikiki Beach Resort – O’ahu

Hilton Hawaiian Village is located on Waikiki’s widest stretch of beach. This unique getaway offers a wide selection of 90 shops and boutiques, nightly live entertainment, weekly fireworks, award-winning restaurants, lounges and bars, 5 pools including a 5 acre salt-water lagoon and the Paradise Pool which features a ’77 foot waterslide, Camp Penguin® – children’s activity program, Waikiki Starlight Luau, Mandara Spa and much, much more.

TRIPLE VALUE
When you stay for at least 4 nights, you will receive:

  • Special Daily Rates
  • Mandatory Resort Charge is included
  • One Category Upgrade

This offer is available for travel through January 3, 2015.

Honeymoon Package
Honeymoon guests staying a minimum of 4 nights will receive:

  • Special Daily Rates
  • Mandatory Resort Charge is included
  • One Category Upgrade
  • Coupon for 2 Tropical Drinks
  • Coupon for 2 Golden Circle Tickets to the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Starlight Luau

This offer is available for travel through January 3, 2015.

Kids Stay FREE
Guests are allowed to have up to 3 kids 17 and younger stay free of charge when sharing a guestroom with an adult and utilizing existing bedding. This offer is available for travel through January 3, 2015.

Hilton Waikoloa Village® – Hawaii, The Big Island

Hilton Waikoloa Village is located on the Kohala Coast of the Hawaii, The Big Island. This impressive property is nestled within 62 oceanfront acres, offering breathtaking tropical gardens and abundant wildlife. Explore this waterfront resort by air-conditioned trams or mahogany canal boats. You will also enjoy award-winning dining, world-class shopping, and an array of activities ranging from golf, tennis, 3 pools including a 175-foot twisting waterslide and the only interactive dolphin program on the island.

TRIPLE VALUE
When you stay at least 5 nights, you will receive:

  • Special Daily Rates
  • Full Breakfast Buffet for Two Daily
  • Mandatory Resort Charge is included

Valid room categories:

  • Resort View
  • Ocean View
  • Deluxe Ocean View
  • Ocean Tower Ocean Front
  • Ocean & Dolphins (Lagoon Tower)

This offer is available for travel through January 3, 2015.

Paradise Made Simple with Breakfast
Guests will receive FREE Breakfast Buffet daily for two.

Valid room categories:

  • Resort View
  • Ocean View
  • Deluxe Ocean View
  • Ocean Tower Ocean Front
  • Ocean & Dolphins (Lagoon Tower)

This offer is available for travel through January 3, 2015.

Would you like to take advantage of one of these spectacular travel deals at Hilton Hotels in Hawaii in 2014?

Siera is a travel agent with Destinations to Explore. She would love to help you plan your Hawaiian vacation at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for more information. 

Kids Stay Free, Free Breakfast & More at Hyatt Resorts and Spas in Hawaii

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You can plan a tropical Hawaiian vacation and take advantage of a fabulous offer at one of the Hyatt Resorts and Spas in Hawaii. You can explore everything that the beautiful islands of Hawai‘i have to offer when you stay at one of the Hyatt Resorts and Spas in Hawaii. You can choose from three all-inclusive resorts on three magnificent islands and treat yourself to paradise paired with an incredible value.

Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa

This upscale resort, located over Waikiki Beach, provides families and spa-lovers with the perfect getaway.

  • Kids eat free (ages 12 and under)
  • Kids stay free (ages 18 and under)
  • Hyatt Gold Passport members receive 1,000 Gold Passport Points for each paid night of their stay
  • Couples celebrating their honeymoon or anniversary will receive a flower lei greeting, keepsake gift, complimentary bottle of sparkling wine and a 20% discount in a 50-minute couples massage

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa

Spanning over 40 acres of lush tropical gardens, this inviting resort provides the perfect blend of first class service and attentive hospitality.

  • Kids eat free (ages 12 and under)
  • Kids stay free (ages 18 and under)
  • Hyatt Gold Passport members receive 1,000 Golf Passport Points for each paid night of their stay
  • Honeymooners will receive a special lei greeting, a keepsake amenity, invite to honeymooner culinary class and a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine
  • Couples celebrating an anniversary will receive a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Reminiscent of the grand hotels from Hawaii’s golden age, this premiere resort offers a world of invigorating lava rock showers, sparkling pools and manicured gardens in a welcoming open-air setting.

  • Kids stay free (ages 18 and under)
  • Hyatt Gold Passport members receive 1,000 Gold Passport Points for each paid night of their stay
  • Honeymoon — receive a special lei greeting, a keepsake amenity, invite to honeymooner culinary class and a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine
  • Anniversary Gift — receive a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine

Please note that couples celebrating a honeymoon or anniversary will be asked to present proof of marriage.

Siera is a Hawaii Destinations Specialist. She would love to help you plan your Hawaiian adventure at no cost to you. Request your free, no obligation quote on the right side of the page or email siera@destinationstoexplore.com for more information.