On Wednesday we went out to explore the other side of the Island. We headed out a little later then expected, but for the most part we're not on a strict time table. Our main destination was the Waialai Canyon, sort of a baby version of the Grand Canyon. We drove up abotu 3,500 feet to the top in order to get the best view. It was a beautiful site, much more lush then the Grand Canyon (never been but I've seen photos), with rivers and a waterfall. Fortunatley there was a ramp and we were able to get Mom up there in the wheel chair. Even up that high, we saw a rooster and a couple of chickens, something you see every now and then almost everywhere.
We proceeded down the mountain and looked for the Red Dirt Shirt Outlet. We went to the town it was in, but didn't see it. So I took out the GPS, which led us right to it. Jim is not a big fan of the GPS, so I haven't been using it a lot, but without it we probably woulndt have found it. Jim is more into figuring things out for himself. Me I hate to get lost so I love using the GPS, I even have one in my phone.
The outlet wasn't much of an outlet. It was in a warehouse, had about the same things as the retail store, and only had one thing on sale, everything else was regular retail price. Oh they do give you a free cherry flavored shaved ice - wahoo! :-)
We continued on and stopped at the Kuai Coffee Co. Something Mom saw in one of the flyers we picked up. It was mostly a store with a museum in the back, which was about the size of my living room. There was a short video that we watched on how they make coffee. Kind of interesting if you've never seen how it's done. Seems like a lot of work actually, makes you appreciate the coffee a little more. The outside had some coffee plants, something I've never seen up close before.
We went back to the hotel and got ready for dinner. We at on property at the Tidewater restaraunt. Mom and I had the Mahi Mahi and Jim had the Ahi. We lucked out with the Mahi Mahi because I think we got the last of it. The waiter told the table next to use that there was none left just a few minutes after we got ours.
Oh that was a story by itself. It seemed like they just got engaged that night, maybe just before we got there. They spent the rest of the night sitting next to each other texting - ahhh how romantic. We joked that they were probably texting each other.
We had a good spot at the restaraunt, but I'm not sure there were many bad seats. The restaraunt is round and there open (as is many things in Hawaii), so there are several seats on the outside.
We walked back along the scenic path back to our rooms. I decided to take a walk around the property and discovered a hammock situated between two palm trees right by the ocean. While I was laying there looking up at the stars, I could here some music in the backround. About 10pm the music stopped, a lot of the torches went out, and it got more quiet then it was before. Seems 10pm is when everything ends around here, that's the kind of place Kuai is, a quiet retreat. If you want more action, I guess you go to Oahu and a place like Waikiki.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
On Tuesday we decided to stay at the hotel. We are trying to make a day out and a day on property since it's such a beautiful place. Jim actually went out and did laundry while Mom and I toured the property. We had only seen a small part of it until now and Jim has stayed here before. Getting there is a bit of a maze, lot's of zigging and zagging along the hallways. I think every room has an ocean view or is ocean front, so all the hallways are along the back of the hotel. Our hallway is all open in the back.
We finally made it to the other side of the hotel which has several pools. Some of the pools are connected and the design is like a river. One of the pools has a sand entrance and I think it's a salt water pool. Beyond the pools you look at the ocean. The landscaping is beautiful with lots of tropical plants, flowers, and rocks.
On the way back we found a path that went along the ocean and led all the way back to our room, so we didn't have to go through the hotel. Later we went back along that path and ate at a self serve place on property. We each had something light to eat along with what was basically a Pina Colada, but had some other name.
We hit up the club again for dinner (trying to make the most of the free stuff - ya know), and this time they had Baby Back BBQ ribs. I certainly made the most of that one. I found it interesting that Jim never seems to eat with his hands, I mean these are ribs. Maybe he get's that from Dad. I commented about it and he said he does but only at BBQs.
We hung out at the club the rest of the night for cofee and dessert then hit the sack.
We finally made it to the other side of the hotel which has several pools. Some of the pools are connected and the design is like a river. One of the pools has a sand entrance and I think it's a salt water pool. Beyond the pools you look at the ocean. The landscaping is beautiful with lots of tropical plants, flowers, and rocks.
On the way back we found a path that went along the ocean and led all the way back to our room, so we didn't have to go through the hotel. Later we went back along that path and ate at a self serve place on property. We each had something light to eat along with what was basically a Pina Colada, but had some other name.
We hit up the club again for dinner (trying to make the most of the free stuff - ya know), and this time they had Baby Back BBQ ribs. I certainly made the most of that one. I found it interesting that Jim never seems to eat with his hands, I mean these are ribs. Maybe he get's that from Dad. I commented about it and he said he does but only at BBQs.
We hung out at the club the rest of the night for cofee and dessert then hit the sack.
Monday, May 18, 2009
On Monday we decided to explore the Island. We headed off to the North Shore. The island is very dense with vegetation. There are far fewer homes along this drive as opposed to Maui. Only a small part of our drive was along the shore, however the ocean is beautiful everywhere. The water has some turquoise, but much less then we saw at Waikiki.
About half way we ate at a little place along the road. We had 2 Mahi Mahi sandwiches, one blackened and one broiled. The blackened was a little too spicey. We also had lemonade that we thought was real lemonade but ended up being Crystal Light.
Along the way we passed Hanalei -- Yes where Puff the Magic Dragon Lived!
We continued North and to find the beach where parts of South Pacific was filmed. It was a pretty beach with lots of huge waves. I shot a bunch of photos, hopefully I got a few good shots.
We then headed back to the hotel. When we got back, we went to the club room again. The main appetizer was vegetable and pork rolls, and everything else was the same. Open Bar of course, with dessert and liquors later.
About half way we ate at a little place along the road. We had 2 Mahi Mahi sandwiches, one blackened and one broiled. The blackened was a little too spicey. We also had lemonade that we thought was real lemonade but ended up being Crystal Light.
Along the way we passed Hanalei -- Yes where Puff the Magic Dragon Lived!
We continued North and to find the beach where parts of South Pacific was filmed. It was a pretty beach with lots of huge waves. I shot a bunch of photos, hopefully I got a few good shots.
We then headed back to the hotel. When we got back, we went to the club room again. The main appetizer was vegetable and pork rolls, and everything else was the same. Open Bar of course, with dessert and liquors later.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Sunday was a travel day. We had breakfast in the room. Jim got some coffee and fruit, but we still had a papaya and Mango left. Mom decided that it was a waste to have a jacuzzi and not use it. Well I guess she got in OK, but Jim had to rescue her to get her out. She of course decides to do this as we're trying to get packed and ready for our flight - Oh well.
Somehow we managed to get everything packed on time. I was packed early so I helped Mom get packed. She was packing like it was a car trip and not a plane trip. She had a separate plastic bag for all her dirty laundry, well that was just not going to pack well. So I repacked her.
We made it out, but just as we walked out the door I realized I didn't have my sunglasses. Jim went back and found I had left a bag in the room I guess I was so concerned about getting Mom out, I almost left a bag behind. I'm not used to all this fancy bellboy service. If I was taking my own bags I would have realized I was missing a bag.
Getting to the airport was not a problem. Even checking bags was simple as we did it curb side. People here are very accomodating, especially with Mom. They never rush us and give her plenty of time to get through security. We did get a wheel chair as well, and they always let you cut the line, but it still takes quite a bit of time.
We had plenty of time for our flight though, and boarded with no problem. We were able to get Mom a seat closer to the front, but Jim and I had to sit back further in the plane. The only downside to the flight was that we had to take a flight from Maui to Oahu get off the plane, let a new crew board, then re board the same plane to Kauai. You see no flight goes directly, you have to go through Oahu. Not a big deal since we didn't have to go far. We were however able to get seats up front for all 3 of us on this leg.
The flight was short, only 100 miles (same as the other leg). Kauai was a little overcast, in fact there was a light rain in Oahu too. Jim went and got the car as I waited with Mom. While we were waiting, I would see the occasional chicken or rooster walking around. Seems they are wild in this area. We saw chickens all over, on the road, in parking lots, everywhere we went there was a good chance you'd see a chicken.
The drive to the hotel was very nice. Kauai is very lush with a lot of variation in vegetation. You even see cactus in one area. We also drove through a tree tunnel. Trees on each side of the road that cascade over you, quite a site.
We arrived at the hotel and were greeted with leis. The lobby of the hotel directly looks at the ocean, no windows just an open view right to the ocean, quite a grand site. The hotel is large, but seems more cozy then the last one. Our room is on the 3rd floor, but that happens to be ground level in this section. We can walk right out onto the grass and we overlook the ocean, another beautiful view. It is MUCH quieter here as well. Something we all agreed was nice. All you can hear is the ocean waves in the distance with some birds chirping.
We have a resident cardinal that seems to hang around here. The cardinals here are quite different. The male is white, black and gray with an bright red crest.
After we got settled, we went to the club room lounge which had snacks and lamb chops. We couldn't believe it. They were very yummy. I LOVE lamb and probably had a few more then I should have, but they were too good. Needless to say this ended up being our dinner. The also had a server yourself open bar - Wahoo!!!!!! I made a few Mai Tais - they were also yummy.
We spent a lot of time in the club because after snacks they have dessert with coffee and several liqueurs. They had a variety of chocolates too.
At the end of the evening we decided tomorrow was going to be a touring day, so we would head out and see some of the island.
Somehow we managed to get everything packed on time. I was packed early so I helped Mom get packed. She was packing like it was a car trip and not a plane trip. She had a separate plastic bag for all her dirty laundry, well that was just not going to pack well. So I repacked her.
We made it out, but just as we walked out the door I realized I didn't have my sunglasses. Jim went back and found I had left a bag in the room I guess I was so concerned about getting Mom out, I almost left a bag behind. I'm not used to all this fancy bellboy service. If I was taking my own bags I would have realized I was missing a bag.
Getting to the airport was not a problem. Even checking bags was simple as we did it curb side. People here are very accomodating, especially with Mom. They never rush us and give her plenty of time to get through security. We did get a wheel chair as well, and they always let you cut the line, but it still takes quite a bit of time.
We had plenty of time for our flight though, and boarded with no problem. We were able to get Mom a seat closer to the front, but Jim and I had to sit back further in the plane. The only downside to the flight was that we had to take a flight from Maui to Oahu get off the plane, let a new crew board, then re board the same plane to Kauai. You see no flight goes directly, you have to go through Oahu. Not a big deal since we didn't have to go far. We were however able to get seats up front for all 3 of us on this leg.
The flight was short, only 100 miles (same as the other leg). Kauai was a little overcast, in fact there was a light rain in Oahu too. Jim went and got the car as I waited with Mom. While we were waiting, I would see the occasional chicken or rooster walking around. Seems they are wild in this area. We saw chickens all over, on the road, in parking lots, everywhere we went there was a good chance you'd see a chicken.
The drive to the hotel was very nice. Kauai is very lush with a lot of variation in vegetation. You even see cactus in one area. We also drove through a tree tunnel. Trees on each side of the road that cascade over you, quite a site.
We arrived at the hotel and were greeted with leis. The lobby of the hotel directly looks at the ocean, no windows just an open view right to the ocean, quite a grand site. The hotel is large, but seems more cozy then the last one. Our room is on the 3rd floor, but that happens to be ground level in this section. We can walk right out onto the grass and we overlook the ocean, another beautiful view. It is MUCH quieter here as well. Something we all agreed was nice. All you can hear is the ocean waves in the distance with some birds chirping.
We have a resident cardinal that seems to hang around here. The cardinals here are quite different. The male is white, black and gray with an bright red crest.
After we got settled, we went to the club room lounge which had snacks and lamb chops. We couldn't believe it. They were very yummy. I LOVE lamb and probably had a few more then I should have, but they were too good. Needless to say this ended up being our dinner. The also had a server yourself open bar - Wahoo!!!!!! I made a few Mai Tais - they were also yummy.
We spent a lot of time in the club because after snacks they have dessert with coffee and several liqueurs. They had a variety of chocolates too.
At the end of the evening we decided tomorrow was going to be a touring day, so we would head out and see some of the island.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Saturday was a lazy day, not much going on. Jim and Mom spent some time in one of the pools. It was a little too hot for me.
We went to 5:30pm mass at a small local church. A small church that was about half full. The crucifix was interesting, it looked just like an Hawaiin, but I guess that's to be expected. The music leader sounded a little bit like Kermit the Frog, and I swear one of the songs was a rip off of the "Lion Sleeps Tonight". The mass was a bit long, it was special collection time for the diocese so homily was how to fill out a pledge card. He made everyone do it right then and there.
After mass we went to the Fairmont Hotel for dinner. It was only about a mile down the road from us, however mass was in the opposite direction. The restaraunt (one of two on property) specialized in seafood. It was downstairs in the back and like many places inHawaii it was covered but open to the outside. It overlooked the pools which was designed to look something remeniciant of Rome. The lights in and around the pool made for some very nice ambiance.
Dinner was great, we all had fish ( go figure). Everyone said Happy Birthday to Mom, from the Receptionist, to all the wait staff. That was something different and very nice. The fish had a very nice sear on the outside but was tender and moist on the inside. Jim and I had an Asian style and mom had more of a butter sauce. Each dish was delicious. The bread was really great too, I think we had at least 4 baskets. It was so light and lots of flavor. We all had dessert as well. I had a triplle choclate cake, Jim had bananas foster, and mom had custard. The cake was a bit rich, Jims was slightly burnt, but I think Mom had the best dessert. It had lot's of flavor.
We went to 5:30pm mass at a small local church. A small church that was about half full. The crucifix was interesting, it looked just like an Hawaiin, but I guess that's to be expected. The music leader sounded a little bit like Kermit the Frog, and I swear one of the songs was a rip off of the "Lion Sleeps Tonight". The mass was a bit long, it was special collection time for the diocese so homily was how to fill out a pledge card. He made everyone do it right then and there.
After mass we went to the Fairmont Hotel for dinner. It was only about a mile down the road from us, however mass was in the opposite direction. The restaraunt (one of two on property) specialized in seafood. It was downstairs in the back and like many places inHawaii it was covered but open to the outside. It overlooked the pools which was designed to look something remeniciant of Rome. The lights in and around the pool made for some very nice ambiance.
Dinner was great, we all had fish ( go figure). Everyone said Happy Birthday to Mom, from the Receptionist, to all the wait staff. That was something different and very nice. The fish had a very nice sear on the outside but was tender and moist on the inside. Jim and I had an Asian style and mom had more of a butter sauce. Each dish was delicious. The bread was really great too, I think we had at least 4 baskets. It was so light and lots of flavor. We all had dessert as well. I had a triplle choclate cake, Jim had bananas foster, and mom had custard. The cake was a bit rich, Jims was slightly burnt, but I think Mom had the best dessert. It had lot's of flavor.
Friday, May 15, 2009
On Friday we each did our own thing. Jim had made plans to play golf in the morning, which he ended up changing because of some work he needed to do. He first headed off to Sport Authority to get some golf balls, a glove and a hat. You see to pack light he only brought his golf shoes and was going to rent clubs, however he also needed golf balls, a glove and a hat. However the course he was going to play was a little pricey, like $35 for a dozen golf balls. So he economized and went to Sports Authority for what he needed. As it was, the course fees, clubs, and cart was over $200 - sure hope he got his monies worth.
Mom on the other hand had an appointment at the Spa. Another thanks to Naomi for that one! They originally made an appointment for yesterday (on her birthday), but there was just too much going on so I changed it to today. She had a hydro therapy treatment and a Swedish massage. The hydro therapy consisted of spending a little time in a hot tub, then she said they rubbed some stuff on her and washed it off. Afterwards she had her massage. I think this was the highlight of her trip, or at least she seemed to appreciate it the most out of the things we did thus far.
After leaving mom off, I explored the place a bit. It's so large and with all the vegetation, things are hidden all over the place. There is also no straight path to anything, everything is a winding path through vegetation, over small bridges, and several small and large waterfalls. I went back to the room briefly, but then it was time to pick Mom up. It also is a 10 to 15 minute walk to get to the Spa from our room....again there is no direct path to anything around here. If you take the main path inside the hotel, you "always" have to pass by all the shops....I'm sure that's just a coincidence ;-)
After her massage, Mom was feeling great, she was even walking much better. We went back to the room and had some lunch. A little sushi we bought from the supermarket. Jim came back a little later that afternoon, a little sore from not having played golf in about 6 months (he's just getting old...LOL). We went next door (approx 1/2 mile down the road) to a small shopping complex. There was a burger joint there, something like Cheeseburger in Paradise. They each had a Mahi Mahi sandwich and I had an Aloha Cheese Burger. A burger with terryaki sauce and pineapple, it was yummy. Jim ordered a Planters Punch for Mom, but I think the 151 rum in it was a little much for Mom. We share an order of fries which was really good. Big fries, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
After dinner we walked around the shops a bit. One shop had a lot of stuff made from Koa wood, a wood that is native to Hawaii. It's beautiful wood, but pretty pricey. A chair in this place was $1,600.
We then went to an ice cream shop there and had some excellent ice cream, so rich and creamy, and no calories. Well OK, there were calories (probably a lot), but they don't count when on vacation - Right?
Mom on the other hand had an appointment at the Spa. Another thanks to Naomi for that one! They originally made an appointment for yesterday (on her birthday), but there was just too much going on so I changed it to today. She had a hydro therapy treatment and a Swedish massage. The hydro therapy consisted of spending a little time in a hot tub, then she said they rubbed some stuff on her and washed it off. Afterwards she had her massage. I think this was the highlight of her trip, or at least she seemed to appreciate it the most out of the things we did thus far.
After leaving mom off, I explored the place a bit. It's so large and with all the vegetation, things are hidden all over the place. There is also no straight path to anything, everything is a winding path through vegetation, over small bridges, and several small and large waterfalls. I went back to the room briefly, but then it was time to pick Mom up. It also is a 10 to 15 minute walk to get to the Spa from our room....again there is no direct path to anything around here. If you take the main path inside the hotel, you "always" have to pass by all the shops....I'm sure that's just a coincidence ;-)
After her massage, Mom was feeling great, she was even walking much better. We went back to the room and had some lunch. A little sushi we bought from the supermarket. Jim came back a little later that afternoon, a little sore from not having played golf in about 6 months (he's just getting old...LOL). We went next door (approx 1/2 mile down the road) to a small shopping complex. There was a burger joint there, something like Cheeseburger in Paradise. They each had a Mahi Mahi sandwich and I had an Aloha Cheese Burger. A burger with terryaki sauce and pineapple, it was yummy. Jim ordered a Planters Punch for Mom, but I think the 151 rum in it was a little much for Mom. We share an order of fries which was really good. Big fries, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
After dinner we walked around the shops a bit. One shop had a lot of stuff made from Koa wood, a wood that is native to Hawaii. It's beautiful wood, but pretty pricey. A chair in this place was $1,600.
We then went to an ice cream shop there and had some excellent ice cream, so rich and creamy, and no calories. Well OK, there were calories (probably a lot), but they don't count when on vacation - Right?
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Moms 88th Birthday
Thursday was a busy day. We awoke at 1:30am. This morning we were heading to Haleakala. It's the tallest mountain on the island, approx 10,032 feet. So high you are actually above the clouds. The drive is a windy road, speed limit is 15mph. We arrived at the top at about 4:30am, we were one of the first cars there. We sat in the car for awhile, then walked about about 100ft up to the very top. Fortunately there was a ramp, so we could take Mom the wheel chair. While it wasn't a long way, I was quickly out of breath due to the high altitude. Jim and I both felt it, but Mom didn't feel it at all. Funny because I was more concerned about how she would be at this high altitude and she was fine. She did have a bit of a sore throat though, which was gone by the time we were all the way back down the mountain later.
Jim stayed with Mom in the observatory while I went outside to take photos. It was much warmer then last time, about 50 degrees (usually it's below freezing). Even though it was warmer, the winds made it quite cold. I had a sweatshirt on with a fall coat, hood, and gloves and still was a bit cold. There were probably at least 50 people up there with us. While there are no lights up there (I brought a flashlight this time), the moon was pretty bright so you could see a little bit. Last time we went it seemed pitch black and we had no flashlight with us.
The sunrise was gorgeous. We watched it majestically rise above the clouds. When we left, we saw some other people just arrive. One was a commercial van, I'm sure they were not happy customers having arrived after the entire event was over.
Sunrise at Haleakala...
We proceeded down the mountain and ate breakfast at the Kula Lodge. It was cold in the lodge, partly because they had some windows open and partly because they don't have heat- who needs heat in Hawaii?
We all had the pancakes which were the best I've ever had. Macadamia nut pancakes with coconut syrup to go with it. The lodge is still partly elevated and has a great view of Maui.
We went back to the hotel, stopping briefly at Borders so Jim could pick up a Hawaiin CD he wanted. We all crashed, I took the longest nap (a couple of hours at least). We had to rest up because we were going to a Luau later.
We rested a bit then headed out for the Old Lahaina Luau. It was about a half hour ride from where we are staying. A very pretty drive partly along the coast. We arrived a few minutes late, but didn't really miss much, just the pulling of the pig out of the ground. We walked around the property a bit looking at the sunset and settled into our seats. We were the furthest from the stage, but the seats are elevated so there really isn't a bad seat. We were fortunate to be the very first table to go up for food. A good selection of Mahi Mahi, pulled pork, ahi, ch
icken, purple sweet potatoes, and more. We also had a choice of about a dozen different fancy drinks...as much as we wanted. The waiter was pretty attentive and we were never without a drink!The show was entertaining. The dancing was all about the history of Hawaii. Every gesture in Hawaiian dancing has a meaning, so the dance is actually telling a story. It was a total of 3hrs but it certainly went fast. We went back to the hotel and called it a night. It was a long day.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
On Wednesday we decided that we should get some food supplies. We went to Dennys for breakfast. A small one located on the second floor of a strip mall. The nice part is that they have lots of seating outside, so we decided to enjoy the weather and sit outside.
View from the Master Suite at the Grand Wailea...
We then headed to a small Farmers Market that Naomi and I had been too when we were here last time. We picked up some fresh local fruit of strawberry papayas and mangoes, along with some other misc items like coconut candy - something they do locally here on Maui. It's basically shavings of coconut that is baked in the oven - yummy.
Right next to the Farmers Market was and ABC store so we did a little shopping there as well. If you've never been to one it's essentially the Starbucks of Hawaii meaning there is one on every corner (almost). They have everything from souvenirs, to t-shirts, to grocery items, to booze and more. They even sell the all popular SPAM Sushi. Yes it's SPAM on rice - SPAM is very big for locals. We then headed to the grocery store for some supplies.
Carrying everything back to the room was a bit of a trek because the place is so damn big! It's a bit of a maze walking around here too.
One of several scenic areas of the hotel...
The rest of the day was a lazy day. We hung out in the suite and decided to do an early dinner. One of the restaurants on property closes at 5pm due to some renovations going on. The food was similar to the bistro. The view was beautiful though. We were very close to the water looking through some palm trees swaying in the wind while a sailboat sailed along the horizon.
Mom and Jim went back to the room after dinner and I walked around talking some photos of the property waiting for the opportunity to take some sunset photos. It was pretty sunset.
View from the Master Suite at the Grand Wailea...
We then headed to a small Farmers Market that Naomi and I had been too when we were here last time. We picked up some fresh local fruit of strawberry papayas and mangoes, along with some other misc items like coconut candy - something they do locally here on Maui. It's basically shavings of coconut that is baked in the oven - yummy.
Right next to the Farmers Market was and ABC store so we did a little shopping there as well. If you've never been to one it's essentially the Starbucks of Hawaii meaning there is one on every corner (almost). They have everything from souvenirs, to t-shirts, to grocery items, to booze and more. They even sell the all popular SPAM Sushi. Yes it's SPAM on rice - SPAM is very big for locals. We then headed to the grocery store for some supplies.
Carrying everything back to the room was a bit of a trek because the place is so damn big! It's a bit of a maze walking around here too.
One of several scenic areas of the hotel...
The rest of the day was a lazy day. We hung out in the suite and decided to do an early dinner. One of the restaurants on property closes at 5pm due to some renovations going on. The food was similar to the bistro. The view was beautiful though. We were very close to the water looking through some palm trees swaying in the wind while a sailboat sailed along the horizon.
Mom and Jim went back to the room after dinner and I walked around talking some photos of the property waiting for the opportunity to take some sunset photos. It was pretty sunset.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
On Tuesday morning we ate breakfast at Dukes, this time we got a table by the rail (the closest table to the beach).
View of Dukes from the beach.
Our rooms were on the far left of the top floor
Mom on her lanai at the Outrigger
After breakfast we packed up and headed off to the Palace. We just missed the next tour because it was booked up. There was a class of school children which probably filled it up fast. We didn't have time to go on the next tour because we would miss our flight, so we headed into the basement which had various artifacts. We saw the king and queens crown, septer, and a few other items. We also watch a 15 minute movie that described a little bit of the history, it was a good synopsis.
We then proceed to the airport after filling up the tank of the rental car. Our next leg was onto Maui. I think we ended up spending more time in the airport then we did on the actual flight. It was a very quick flight, something like 25 minutes in the air. Since we had the wheel chair for Mom, they let us on first and they also moved our seats up so we were the first seats in economy. While we were sitting there, Mom noticed the people in front of us getting a snack. She asked the flight attendent about it and she explained that they were in first class. Apparently Mom thought we were in first class too. The flight attended was nice and got her the snack - a mix of pretzels and nuts. She opened it up took one look and saw the nuts and said "Oh I can't eat this it has nuts".....after all that...just another mom-ism.
The flight was quick and we waited for everyone to deplane before we did. As we were just landing on the runway, Mom looked out side as we touched down and said "Oh no, there are no flowers" - another mom-ism. Not sure what she was expecting "on the runway" --- Flowers????? Oh well.
Our checked luggage arrived without any problem, although Jim didn't recognize Moms bag right away and we thought we would have another baggage issue. Mom and I stayed at the airport while Jim got the rental car, a small Dodge SUV.
We packed up and headed to the hotel - The Grand Wailea. It's a sprawling hotel, possibly the largest on the island. It has several pools, shops, a spa, etc etc. and is right on the water. Thanks to Naomi, we were able to stay here in a 2 bedroom suite. The suite has, well 2 bedrooms of course, a living room, dining room (w/ 6 chairs), a bar w/bar stools, a fridge, microwave, a huge master bedroom, two large bathrooms each with a separate shower and bath (one with a jacuzzi tub), and 3 lanais (aka balcony's).
We decided to eat a late lunch or early dinner, whatever you want to call it. We ate at a bistro on property. It's a semi self serve where you order what you want at a counter, then they call your name when it's ready. Seating is outside overlooking a garden area. Food was good but a little pricey, I think a hamburger was $12.50. Mom had the burger, Jim had pulled pork, and I had an Asian style box meal of ribs - it was yummy.
After eating Jim asked if she wanted ice cream "Oh no I'm way too full" she said, maybe I'll get a candy bar. Well Jim went off to talk to the concierge while Mom and I went back to the room, but I thought Ice Cream sounded good so I got some. Well just as I got mine Mom chimmed in and said "Oh well if YOUR having some, then I'll have some too" - so much for being too full - another mom-ism.
It was a full day and we decided to spend the rest of the night hanging out in the suite.
View of Dukes from the beach.
Our rooms were on the far left of the top floor
Mom on her lanai at the Outrigger
After breakfast we packed up and headed off to the Palace. We just missed the next tour because it was booked up. There was a class of school children which probably filled it up fast. We didn't have time to go on the next tour because we would miss our flight, so we headed into the basement which had various artifacts. We saw the king and queens crown, septer, and a few other items. We also watch a 15 minute movie that described a little bit of the history, it was a good synopsis.
We then proceed to the airport after filling up the tank of the rental car. Our next leg was onto Maui. I think we ended up spending more time in the airport then we did on the actual flight. It was a very quick flight, something like 25 minutes in the air. Since we had the wheel chair for Mom, they let us on first and they also moved our seats up so we were the first seats in economy. While we were sitting there, Mom noticed the people in front of us getting a snack. She asked the flight attendent about it and she explained that they were in first class. Apparently Mom thought we were in first class too. The flight attended was nice and got her the snack - a mix of pretzels and nuts. She opened it up took one look and saw the nuts and said "Oh I can't eat this it has nuts".....after all that...just another mom-ism.
The flight was quick and we waited for everyone to deplane before we did. As we were just landing on the runway, Mom looked out side as we touched down and said "Oh no, there are no flowers" - another mom-ism. Not sure what she was expecting "on the runway" --- Flowers????? Oh well.
Our checked luggage arrived without any problem, although Jim didn't recognize Moms bag right away and we thought we would have another baggage issue. Mom and I stayed at the airport while Jim got the rental car, a small Dodge SUV.
We packed up and headed to the hotel - The Grand Wailea. It's a sprawling hotel, possibly the largest on the island. It has several pools, shops, a spa, etc etc. and is right on the water. Thanks to Naomi, we were able to stay here in a 2 bedroom suite. The suite has, well 2 bedrooms of course, a living room, dining room (w/ 6 chairs), a bar w/bar stools, a fridge, microwave, a huge master bedroom, two large bathrooms each with a separate shower and bath (one with a jacuzzi tub), and 3 lanais (aka balcony's).
We decided to eat a late lunch or early dinner, whatever you want to call it. We ate at a bistro on property. It's a semi self serve where you order what you want at a counter, then they call your name when it's ready. Seating is outside overlooking a garden area. Food was good but a little pricey, I think a hamburger was $12.50. Mom had the burger, Jim had pulled pork, and I had an Asian style box meal of ribs - it was yummy.
After eating Jim asked if she wanted ice cream "Oh no I'm way too full" she said, maybe I'll get a candy bar. Well Jim went off to talk to the concierge while Mom and I went back to the room, but I thought Ice Cream sounded good so I got some. Well just as I got mine Mom chimmed in and said "Oh well if YOUR having some, then I'll have some too" - so much for being too full - another mom-ism.
It was a full day and we decided to spend the rest of the night hanging out in the suite.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Day Two
We decided that since Dukes was the place to be and we had coupons for FREE breakfast, we would have breakfast at Dukes. It was also a very convenient place since it was in the same hotel. Dukes as a very nice buffet and a great omelet station.
After breakfast, we headed back to the suite to plan the day. Part of the reason for going to Oahu was for Mom to visit a childhood friend that lived there. We contacted her but she was not feeling well enough for visitors. Not a big deal. So we decided to tour Ohau and drive along the coast and up to the North Shore, famous for it's surfing. The drive was very picturesque. We stopped a couple of times when we saw some designated scenic overlooks. I think my favorite areas were those closer to Waikiki. We drove for a few hours stopping only at a 7 eleven for something to drink and again at a small beach that had "facilities". Along the way, we passed the Polynesian Cultural Center, something I've heard by several as a good thing to see, but that it will consume the better part of your day. Maybe we'll get their next time. We also passed the Dole Plantation, pineapples as far as you can see. They have a tour ($7.75 a person for the train tour), but it was getting late and no one seemed interested enough to do the tour.
The Dole Plantation
Well we headed back to the hotel takind the fast route this time, Highway H1 and H2. We hit a little rush hour traffic, but nothing too bad. We had dinner reservations at....yes you guessed it...at Dukes. We thought we would be late, but we actually got there for what we thought was our reservation time, but we were actually about 15 minutes early. We had a similar meal as the previous night, I had something different - the seafood pasta pesto combo - a lovely array of local fish, shrimp and scallops - mmmm yummy. That along with a couple of mai teis.
View from Dukes looking at the ocean.
Mom and Jim called it a night, I took a few photos and went across the street to do some window shopping. While I was there, I got to see a small Hawaiin dance presentation from the Big Kahuna in the mall. I went back to the room and sat out on the lanai (because I could), enjoying the ocean view.
We decided that since Dukes was the place to be and we had coupons for FREE breakfast, we would have breakfast at Dukes. It was also a very convenient place since it was in the same hotel. Dukes as a very nice buffet and a great omelet station.
After breakfast, we headed back to the suite to plan the day. Part of the reason for going to Oahu was for Mom to visit a childhood friend that lived there. We contacted her but she was not feeling well enough for visitors. Not a big deal. So we decided to tour Ohau and drive along the coast and up to the North Shore, famous for it's surfing. The drive was very picturesque. We stopped a couple of times when we saw some designated scenic overlooks. I think my favorite areas were those closer to Waikiki. We drove for a few hours stopping only at a 7 eleven for something to drink and again at a small beach that had "facilities". Along the way, we passed the Polynesian Cultural Center, something I've heard by several as a good thing to see, but that it will consume the better part of your day. Maybe we'll get their next time. We also passed the Dole Plantation, pineapples as far as you can see. They have a tour ($7.75 a person for the train tour), but it was getting late and no one seemed interested enough to do the tour.
The Dole Plantation
Well we headed back to the hotel takind the fast route this time, Highway H1 and H2. We hit a little rush hour traffic, but nothing too bad. We had dinner reservations at....yes you guessed it...at Dukes. We thought we would be late, but we actually got there for what we thought was our reservation time, but we were actually about 15 minutes early. We had a similar meal as the previous night, I had something different - the seafood pasta pesto combo - a lovely array of local fish, shrimp and scallops - mmmm yummy. That along with a couple of mai teis.
View from Dukes looking at the ocean.
Mom and Jim called it a night, I took a few photos and went across the street to do some window shopping. While I was there, I got to see a small Hawaiin dance presentation from the Big Kahuna in the mall. I went back to the room and sat out on the lanai (because I could), enjoying the ocean view.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Mothers Day
It was EARLY on Mothers Day (May 10-2009) that Naomi and I drove to the DCA Airport (aka Reagan National) to begin The Mundy Hawaiin Adventure. A special trip in which Jim and I were going to Hawaii withMom as one of the things on her Bucket List. The other was to buy a new car, which she has already done. The trip was to be "First Class" all the way. First Class air travel, the best rooms in some of the best hotels....a trip to remember.
My flight went off without a hitch. I arrived in Atlanta with about an hour to my connecting flight to Honolulu. I of course arrived in terminal B and had to go to terminal E, which requires a short train ride. I got off the train, headed up the escalator, and found Jim and Mom not far away, they had arrived not long before me. We greeted each other, chatted a bit, and headed onto the plane (a 747-400). This was the first time on a 747. We sat in the second row in First Class, which was in the nose of the plane and had a huge open area in the middle isle (probably at least 10ft). As soon as we got to our seats, we were offered Mia Ti's....what a great start!
The seats were huge as well, and reclined all the way flat. Each had a private pull out screen and probably about two dozen or so on demand movies, plus music, games and more. I watched three movies on the way over. Dinner was a choice of chicken or pasta, I think we all had the chicken. While airline food is hardly gourmet food, it was pretty good.
Over 8hrs later, we arrived in Honolulu. As we got off the plane, mom was greeted by a Hawaiin lady bearing a beautiful purple lei (something Naomi arranged prior). While happy, mom didn't seem too impressed - which I was to discover why later. Apparently she thought "everyone" get's a lei when they come off the plane. Apparently she failed to notice that out of the 400 people coming off the plane, she was the only one to receive a lei. I mentioned that it was a Mothers Day gift from Naomi and I in leu of flowers - she failed to believe me at first until I explained the whole thing. A typical "mom-ism".
Now getting our checked luggage was an adventure. My bag was one of the very first off the plane, but Moms and Jims were not to be found. 400 people standing around getting their luggage made for quite an adventure. After it was apparent that their bags weren't coming out, Jim checked baggage claim to find their luggage arrived on an earlier flight. Oh well, no worries, better then getting lost.
Jim proceed to get the rental car, while I waited with Mom. This too took a little time as it was the last available car in it's class. A white 2009 Ford Taurus Limited Edition - very roomy with less then 1,000 miles. We left the airport and Jim proceed to give us a quick tour of the local area around where we were staying. Hawaii is so pretty and so clean. The water is a gorgeous turquoise color with the whitest white caps to be seen. The area around our hotel was very upscale too, plenty of shops and many quite upscale.
We arrived at our hotel, The Outrigger in Waikiki. We checked in and proceed up to our room on the (almost) top floor. The top floor is the Penthouse which has a gym and a spa. We had the two corner rooms, a one room suite and a regular room. Each had a lanai (aka balcony) . The suite was a corner room and had two lanais, one overlooking the Waikiki beach, and the other on the side which had a view of the mountains.
We decided to go to an early dinner, so we headed downstairs to one of the Outriggers restaurants called Dukes. Jim had been many times and highly recommended it. We all had fresh fish. I think the opah was the best.
We were all pretty beat, so we headed back to our rooms and called it a night.
It was EARLY on Mothers Day (May 10-2009) that Naomi and I drove to the DCA Airport (aka Reagan National) to begin The Mundy Hawaiin Adventure. A special trip in which Jim and I were going to Hawaii withMom as one of the things on her Bucket List. The other was to buy a new car, which she has already done. The trip was to be "First Class" all the way. First Class air travel, the best rooms in some of the best hotels....a trip to remember.
My flight went off without a hitch. I arrived in Atlanta with about an hour to my connecting flight to Honolulu. I of course arrived in terminal B and had to go to terminal E, which requires a short train ride. I got off the train, headed up the escalator, and found Jim and Mom not far away, they had arrived not long before me. We greeted each other, chatted a bit, and headed onto the plane (a 747-400). This was the first time on a 747. We sat in the second row in First Class, which was in the nose of the plane and had a huge open area in the middle isle (probably at least 10ft). As soon as we got to our seats, we were offered Mia Ti's....what a great start!
The seats were huge as well, and reclined all the way flat. Each had a private pull out screen and probably about two dozen or so on demand movies, plus music, games and more. I watched three movies on the way over. Dinner was a choice of chicken or pasta, I think we all had the chicken. While airline food is hardly gourmet food, it was pretty good.
Over 8hrs later, we arrived in Honolulu. As we got off the plane, mom was greeted by a Hawaiin lady bearing a beautiful purple lei (something Naomi arranged prior). While happy, mom didn't seem too impressed - which I was to discover why later. Apparently she thought "everyone" get's a lei when they come off the plane. Apparently she failed to notice that out of the 400 people coming off the plane, she was the only one to receive a lei. I mentioned that it was a Mothers Day gift from Naomi and I in leu of flowers - she failed to believe me at first until I explained the whole thing. A typical "mom-ism".
Now getting our checked luggage was an adventure. My bag was one of the very first off the plane, but Moms and Jims were not to be found. 400 people standing around getting their luggage made for quite an adventure. After it was apparent that their bags weren't coming out, Jim checked baggage claim to find their luggage arrived on an earlier flight. Oh well, no worries, better then getting lost.
Jim proceed to get the rental car, while I waited with Mom. This too took a little time as it was the last available car in it's class. A white 2009 Ford Taurus Limited Edition - very roomy with less then 1,000 miles. We left the airport and Jim proceed to give us a quick tour of the local area around where we were staying. Hawaii is so pretty and so clean. The water is a gorgeous turquoise color with the whitest white caps to be seen. The area around our hotel was very upscale too, plenty of shops and many quite upscale.
We arrived at our hotel, The Outrigger in Waikiki. We checked in and proceed up to our room on the (almost) top floor. The top floor is the Penthouse which has a gym and a spa. We had the two corner rooms, a one room suite and a regular room. Each had a lanai (aka balcony) . The suite was a corner room and had two lanais, one overlooking the Waikiki beach, and the other on the side which had a view of the mountains.
We decided to go to an early dinner, so we headed downstairs to one of the Outriggers restaurants called Dukes. Jim had been many times and highly recommended it. We all had fresh fish. I think the opah was the best.
We were all pretty beat, so we headed back to our rooms and called it a night.
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