BEYOND LUXURY TRAVEL

Lenora Yuen, Senior Sales Manager for the Four Seasons resorts in Hawaii (Maui, Hualalai, Manele Bay and The Lodge at Koele), and probably my longest time and most favorite travel partner (we go back to Irvine in the 80s), sat down with me when I was in Hawaii a few weeks ago.   I asked her what was new with Four Seasons in Hawaii and about the differences between the resorts and how to choose which one to go to!    This post is part of our series on various Four Seasons hotels and resorts along the West Coast, and now Hawaii.

Josh: Lenora, this is the 3rd time I’ve stayed at the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea and I think it’s heaven on Earth.   For my partner and I, it’s the service levels, the location and the contemporary Asian feel.  Why is this place always so popular?

Lenora:   Thanks Josh…that’s really great praise coming from someone like yourself who’s travelled extensively around the world and stayed at many top hotels.  I feel our popularity in Maui can be attributed to our staff and their warm, personal and truly genuine way of taking care of guests.   In Hawaii we say “E Komo Mai”..which means “please come …we invite you into our home”.   We want our guests to relax and feel at home with us and we realize how precious your vacation time is.

Four Seasons Resort Maui has been fortunate to receive many awards and accolades over the years – we are the only AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star Hotel on Maui and last year  #1 Luxury Resort in the USA on TripAdvisor…all because of direct guest feedback.    So many guests love to post on TripAdvisor or Facebook or tweet before, during and after their stay.   We’re really into social media at our Maui resort and I know of so many guests who have visited as a direct result of wonderful guest comments they’ve read online.

We’ve had some fun recognition lately as well…Maui was named one of the “Coolest Beach Resorts in the World” and Forbes selected our Serenity Pool cabanas as one of the top five in the World!    I’m sure you enjoyed the adults only Serenity Pool with the underwater music, cool bubble loungers,  swim up bar and an amazing view of the Pacific Ocean and West Maui mountains.   Two of our six luxury cabanas are new Missoni design by the acclaimed Italian fashion house.   They include a long list of luxuries such as an espresso machine, 42″ flat screen TV, Pellegrino waters, WI-FI, chilled towels, hourly pool treats and Veuve Clicquot to toast some truly lavish pool time!

Josh:  We’ve also stayed at the Four Seasons Hualalai on the Big Island which is totally different. The rooms there are very Hawaiian and it’s a much quieter, and much more spread out.  Is there one type of traveler who would prefer that over Maui, or Lanai which we haven’t spoken about yet?

Lenora:  Yes… our four resorts in Hawaii are on three Hawaiian islands – not only is each resort different but each island has a unique personality.  One of the advantages Four Seasons offers – you can  select your favorite or combine islands  and have a different experience all in the same vacation.

Maui is probably the most popular island and Four Seasons Maui is often described as “contemporary chic” but our enchanting Hualalai resort on the island of Hawaii is a luxurious sanctuary reminiscent of Hawaii’s Golden Age.

Hualalai was named as  Hawaii’s #1 Resort by Travel + Leisure and Conde Nast Magazine and also the #1 Spa in Hawaii.    The accommodations are in one and two story bungalow style buildings…grouped around a pool by the ocean.  Very different design than most hotels in Hawaii and the lower level rooms and suites offer an outdoor garden shower which is very popular especially with honeymooners!

Each grouping of bungalows is around a different pool – there’s Palm Grove -our new tranquility adult pool, Beachtree - an infinity edge pool centrally located, Seashell - more of our family pool and Kings Pond a very unique lava rock pool where guests can snorkel with 3,000 Hawaiian fish and an eagle ray!  We also feature a lap pool at The Sports Club & Spa and of course our biggest pool of all…the “Ocean Pool”…aka  the Pacific Ocean!

Hualalai also came out with a pretty cool new app - Huaka’i which means journey and it’s available as a free download in the ITunes store.

Josh:  I book a lot of honeymoons to the Four Seasons Hawaii. What special services do you offer to newlyweds?

Lenora:   All of our resorts are ideal for honeymooners as well as couples celebrating a special occasion such as an anniversary or birthday.  We recognize these guests with special welcome amenities and also have “romance” amenities that are often sent as a surprise gift by family and friends.  We can also arrange weddings (small and large) and vow renewals as well as private romantic dinners on the beach and couples spa treatments, picnics and many other fun activities.

Josh:  Tell me more about the 2 resorts on Lanai. And what’s the best way to get to Lanai in your opinion?

Lenora:   The island of Lana’i is really Hawaii’s best kept secret!  It’s a privately owned island, with only 3,000 residents and closest to Maui.  To me, the easiest way to get to Lana’i is by ferry from Lahaina, Maui.  It is run by Expeditions Ferry and operates 5 times a day each way – a short 45 minute crossing for $30. per person.  You can fly nonstop from many cities directly into Maui, then arrange a transfer to Lahaina, hop on the ferry and be enjoying a mai tai on the beach in no time!

The other way to get to Lana’i is on Island Air, a commuter airline that operates several flights a day from Honolulu.  It’s a good idea to combine Lana’i with a visit to another island and it makes the most sense to do so with Maui.    When people say “Hawaii has become too commercialized”…my suggestion is to go to Lana’i.   There’s no traffic lights, no commercialism whatsoever…no Starbucks but there’s the Blue Ginger Cafe!

We have two wonderful hotels on the island – Manele Bay which is an ocean paradise that sits above Hulopo’e Bay, a protected marine preserve with superb snorkeling and ocean activities…informal or as we say “barefoot luxury”.   Then a short 20 minutes in the cool central highlands of Lana’i, where the temperature dips 10 degrees we have the enchanting Lodge at Koele.  It’s the most idyllic, tranquil, untouched spot surrounded by wonderful gardens and spectacular scenery.

So you can see how different our 4 resorts are – Maui is contemporary chic, Hualalai is a sophisticated sanctuary, Manele is barefoot luxury and Koele is a relaxing hideaway.

Josh: What type of promotions will we see for 2012? Also, we have a Preferred Partner relationship with Four Seasons. What specific and exclusive benefits does that offer our clients in Hawaii?

Lenora:   Maui and Hualalai are offering a $1000 resort credit for suite bookings this year and Lana’i has a fun golf or 4×4 Adventure package.  I would suggest if anyone interested in staying to confirm their reservation through you as soon as possible for the best rates and availability.    Rates fluctuate so it’s always a good idea to grab the space when you see it before it slips away or the rate goes up as occupancy builds.

Guests who book through you receive exclusive Preferred Partner amenities – reserved for our top producing travel partners.  Your clients will enjoy daily breakfast for two (in the restaurant or room service), an $85. lunch credit and an upgrade to the next category if it’s available on arrival.   It’s a huge advantage that you don’t get by booking  direct or through any other channel!

Josh, thanks so much for giving me the opportunity to share with everyone all that we have to offer in Hawaii!  Mahalo nui loa!

To contact Lenora  with any questions or comments, please leave a comment by clicking the link above. 

Josh Friedman is a travel agent specializing in luxury travel for small groups and individuals – particularly ultra-luxury cruises, customized vacations and food & wine inspired journeys.  Based in San Francisco, and with clients throughout the USA and abroad, his business is focused on 24/7 personalized service to the sophisticated leisure and business traveler.  His personal  relationships with the world’s top hotels, cruise lines and local agencies often allows for exclusive amenities and VIP status. 

If you’d like to learn more about luxury travel and our services, please contact Josh Friedman Luxury Travel in San Francisco’s Financial District via phone at 415.987.0372  or email: josh [at] joshfriedmantravel [dot] com. Follow him on Twitter and Facebook, too.

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415.987.0372 The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) are one of nature’s most incredible spectacles. To see them is to be awed. The power and beauty of the shimmering curtains makes one gaze up the sky for hours, completely and utterly spellbound. The emotions that are drawn from within that well up in your chest at the sheer majesty of the aurora as they dance across the sky are indescribable. Early spring and early Autumn are the two best times to see the northern lights. The northern skies are dark at night, the nights cold clean and crisp – perfect conditions for prime time viewing of the northern lights. During the day while you wait for darkness to fall observe and photograph polar bears, newborn cubs, or a herd of caribou. We have designed four trips for 2012 that combine incredible wildlife viewing experiences, Inuit culture, in locations that are in the prime northern lights viewing band at the 60 degree latitude mark. Choose from one of these four trips in 2012 where you can experience the northern lights yourself! Polar Bear Mother and Newborn Cubs Early March – 9 days From Winnipeg, fly to Churchill and take the train to a refurbished navy communications base that is serves as the polar bear and northern lights lodge. Witness newborn polar bear cubs emerging from their dens as their mother introduces them to the world. View the northern lights spectacle at night. Dates: March 14 – 22nd 2012 Availability: 2 of 10 spots remain. Book now! Price: $7,900 + tax and flights from Winnipeg to Churchill What our clients say: "The aurora borealis at the lodge were amazing!" - Andy Brandy Casagrande – Emmy Award winning National Geographic filmmaker MORE DETAILS >> Polar Bears and Northern Lights of the Torngat Mountains Late March – 9 days Our premium safari for polar bears and northern lights. This very intimate four person trip is set in the foothills of one of Canada’s remotest mountain ranges – the Torngat Mountains and directly at 60degrees latitude, in the prime northern lights band. Day trips by helicopter and snowmobile safari to see polar bears, the Torngat caribou and nightly northern lights make this one of the worlds best northern lights trip. Dates: March 24 – April 1, 2012 Availability: 2 of 4 spots remain Price: $25,000 + tax. Includes flights from Montreal What our clients say: "Congratulations on the comfort of the camp, the professionalism of your care and the excellent cuisine…The evening Aurora Boreale (Northern Lights) were truly exceptional" - N & JP, – Paris, France MORE DETAILS >> NEW! Autumn Caribou and Northern Lights Photo Safari Early September – 7 days Caribou migrating photographed from the air and at eye level on the ground, combined with blazing autumn colours and shimmering northern lights. This is an experience you will never forget. From Inuit guides who know the traditional migration corridors of the caribou, shimmering northern lights in the evening, to the silence of the tundra broken by passing caribou, this autumn Arctic photography safari will surprise and delight at every step Dates: Sept 5 – 11 and Sept 11 – 17, 2012 Availability: 6 of 8 on both trip departures Price: $8,885 + tax and flight from Winnipeg to Arviat What our clients say: "Caribou were never far off in any direction and sometimes strolling right behind the camp. Incredible!" - J. P. Toronto, Canada MORE DETAILS >> Polar Bear Migration Fly-In Safari Oct / Nov – 5 days An intimatepolar bear viewing experience like none other. Fly by private plane directly into the heart of the Hudson Bay polar bear migration path. From your comfortable cabin and beyond, enjoy up-close polar bear viewing and unprecedented access. At night watch the vibrant northern lights dance overhead. Dates: Oct 23-27, Oct 27-31, Oct 31 Nov 4 & Nov 4 – Nov 8, 2012 Availability: Available for booking Price: $7,900 + tax and flight from Winnipeg to Arviat What our clients say: "We have been to the north col of Mt. Everest by helicopter, and this trip tops that!" - T & C Freitag, Vancouver, BC MORE DETAILS >> We can also arrange private experiences. Call or email me directly to find out how we can tailor design the perfect northern lights getaway Warm regards, Arctic Kingdom and josh friedman luxury travel in san francisco’s financial district 415.987.0372 | joshfriedmantravel.com with casto, a virtuoso member agency yelp! Twitter Facebook Flickr You Tube[sign up for exclusive offers!] casto travel, 500 sansome st., san francisco, ca 94111 cst#1008439-10 our safaris why choose us who chooses us about us gallery gear store blog If you prefer to no longer receive our emails, please Unsubscribe here. To ensure that you receive your Arctic Kingdom emails, please add info to your Address Book now. ARCTIC KINGDOM POLAR EXPEDITIONS INC. Tel +1 (416) 322-7066, Fax +1 (416) 887-0529, In North America 1-888-737-6818

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FIND A CRUISE | EXPLORE SHIPS | PROMOTIONS | REQUEST BROCHURE | MY OCEANIA Blog Update: ABHYANGA MASSAGE FROM CANYON RANCH Home at Sea Explore Riviera’s Suites and Staterooms Bon Appétit Culinary Center Immerse yourself in the joy of cooking. La Reserve La Reserve by Wine Spectator may be the most inspired. Artist Loft Riviera offers a hands-on program for budding artists. Red Ginger Red Ginger makes an immediate and powerful statement. Mediterranean Tapestry Athens to Barcelona 10 Days onboard Marina Sail Date: 05/02/2012 Veranda from $4,235 per guest* $3,000 Bonus Savings per stateroom* Request Quote | Book Online Enchanted Journey Rome to London 15 Days onboard Marina Sail Date: 05/22/2012 Inside from $5,329 per guest* $2,500 Bonus Savings per stateroom* Request Quote | Book Online Northern Interludes London to Copenhagen 14 Days onboard Marina Sail Date: 06/18/2012 Inside from $5,021 per guest* $2,500 Bonus Savings per stateroom* Request Quote | Book Online Greek Glory Istanbul to Venice 10 Days onboard Riviera Sail Date: 08/03/2012 Ocean View from $3,937 per guest* $3,000 Bonus Savings per stateroom* Request Quote | Book Online Accent on Italy Venice to Rome 10 Days onboard Riviera Sail Date: 08/13/2012 Ocean View from $4,172 per guest* $2,500 Bonus Savings per stateroom* Request Quote | Book Online Call Josh for details, excellent pricing, the ultimate in service & complimentary amenities with Voyager Club. And read my luxury cruise ship reviews with photos josh friedman luxury travel in san francisco’s financial district 415.987.0372 | joshfriedmantravel.com with casto, a virtuoso member agency yelp! Twitter Facebook Flickr You Tube[sign up for exclusive offers!] Read my review of Seabourn Sojourn Read my review of Silver Cloud Read my review of Oceania’s Marina casto travel, 500 sansome st., san francisco, ca 94111 cst#1008439-10

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CRUISE FARES FROM $3,299 PER GUEST ON SELECT SAILINGS* Blog Update: Scenic Highlights of South Africa Home At Sea Explore Marina’s Spacious Suites and Staterooms Bon Appétit Culinary Center Immerse yourself in the joy of cooking. La Reserve La Reserve by Wine Spectator may be the most inspired. Artist Loft Marina offers a hands-on program for budding artists. Red Ginger Red Ginger makes an immediate and powerful statement. Pearls of the Aegean Venice to Athens for 10 Days Sail Date: 04/22 & 08/08/12+ onboard Marina Mediterranean Tapestry Athens to Barcelona for 10 Days Sail Date: 05/02 & 05/14/12+ onboard Marina Polynesian Paradise Papeete to San Franscico for 21 Days Sail Date: 05/03/12 onboard Regatta Viking Expeditions London to London for 21 Days Sail Date: 07/03/12 onboard Nautica Radiant Riviera Venice to Barcelona for 12 Days Sail Date: 07/07/12 onboard Riviera Glories of the Ancients Istanbul to Rome for 10 Days Sail Date: 07/17/12 onboard Regatta Lands of Time Barcelona to Istanbul for 15 Days Sail Date: 07/19/12 onboard Riviera Italian Interludes Rome to Venice for 12 Days Sail Date: 07/27/12 onboard Regatta Greek Glory Istanbul to Venice for 10 Days Sail Date: 08/03/12 onboard Riviera Mediterranean Splendors Istanbul to Lisbon for 12 Days Sail Date: 08/30/12 onboard Regatta Call Josh for details, excellent pricing, the ultimate in service & complimentary amenities with Voyager Club. And read my luxury cruise ship reviews with photos josh friedman luxury travel in san francisco’s financial district 415.987.0372 | joshfriedmantravel.com with casto, a virtuoso member agency yelp! Twitter Facebook Flickr You Tube[sign up for exclusive offers!] Read my review of Seabourn Sojourn Read my review of Silver Cloud Read my review of Oceania’s Marina +Operates onboard a different ship. *Please click here to view complete terms and conditions associated with this email.

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Call Josh for details, excellent pricing, the ultimate in service & complimentary amenities with Voyager Club. And read my luxury cruise ship reviews with photos

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If you are unable to view the offers below, click here. Experience cruising the way it was meant to be — aboard an intimate, club-like ship where the staff knows your name and preferences, and always serves you with a gracious smile. Explore storied shores across Europe while enjoying exclusive privileges, simply for booking through your Virtuoso travel advisor. View More Details >> Fares, schedules, Virtuoso exclusives, Virtuoso Voyager Club amenities and events are subject to change without notice. Virtuoso Voyager Club events require a minimum/maximum number of participants and may not be combinable with other offers. Space is limited, black-out dates and restrictions may apply. See your Virtuoso travel advisor for more details and applicable restrictions. Unless otherwise stated, prices are in U.S. dollars, per person and based on double occupancy. Virtuoso is not responsible for any errors in pricing. The trademarks VIRTUOSO, the Globe Swirl Logo, SPECIALISTS IN THE ART OF TRAVEL, WE ORCHESTRATE DREAMS and VOYAGER CLUB are registered trademarks of Virtuoso, Ltd. Virtuoso, Ltd. has a U.S. copyright registration for the Globe Swirl Logo, © 2000. All rights reserved. Virtuoso CST #2069091-50 360059 01/12 © 2012 Virtuoso, Ltd. | 505 Main Street, Suite 500 | Fort Worth, TX 76102

Call Josh for details, excellent pricing, the ultimate in service & complimentary amenities with Voyager Club. Read my luxury cruise ship reviews and photos

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415.987.0372 | joshfriedmantravel.com
affiliated with casto | a virtuoso member agency

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