[ISLAND HOPPING]
Gorgeous and friendly
Honolulu received a top ranking in five categories in Travel + Leisure and AOL's recent survey, "An Intimate Look at U.S. Cities," published in the April 2002 issue of Travel + Leisure.The people of Honolulu were voted best looking, friendliest and most laid-back, a true reflection of Hawaii's world-famous Aloha spirit.
Honolulu was also voted the most romantic for honeymoons, popping the question and romantic walks. To top it off, Honolulu was No. 1 in the category of rooms with a view.
"It comes as no surprise that the residents of Honolulu received this recognition," said Les Enderton, executive director for the Oahu Visitors Bureau. "The people of Hawaii and the Aloha spirit are two of Oahu's greatest assets. And the top rankings for romance and our hotel rooms with a view illustrate just a few of the many possibilities offered by Oahu.
Take a vac before others
Care to beat the summer rush? Marc Resorts Hawaii is offering a "3 for FREE" promotion plus a room discount from now until June 30, 2002. Kama'aina can get up to 50 percent off room rates, with the luxury of free parking, free local phone calls and free late check-outs by 4 p.m.On Oahu, kama'aina can stay at Marc's Island Colony Hotel, on the quiet side of Waikiki, within walking distance of the International Marketplace, nightlife, shopping and restaurants. Choose from studios or one-bedroom suites, each with air-conditioning and a private lanai with panoramic views of Diamond Head, the city skyline and the ocean.
Studios have kitchenettes, and the one-bedroom suites include full kitchens. Daily maid service is also included.
On Kauai, stay in Princeville in Marc's Pali Ke Kua, close to picturesque Hanalei, with golf, outdoor activities, shopping and quaint restaurants nearby. The Pali Ke Kua Resort offers one- and two-bedroom suites with complete kitchens in a boutique setting, with the same amenities found at "those higher end" hotels.
Certain restrictions apply, and guests must present valid state I.D. or Military I.D.
Marc Resorts Hawaii manages 17 properties throughout the islands. Call 1(800)535-0085 for reservations and details, or visit their www.marcresorts.com for package deals.
'Mei Day' on Maui
Maui's Outrigger Wailea Resort will celebrate "Mei Day" with a lei-making competition and free entertainment from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 1 in the resort's main courtyard.The competition is open to anyone at least 18 years old. There are four categories: lei kui (to string), lei wili (to wind), lei haku (to braid) and lei seed, shell or hulu (feather). Entries will be judged on originality, workmanship, eye appeal, use of materials which must be all natural, and most Hawaiian.
Participants may drop off lei at the resort at 3700 Wailea Alanui between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. May 1. Winners will be announced at 1:30 p.m.
The celebration includes a lei display and competition, craft fair, Royal Court procession and entertainment. Food, beverages and lei will be available for purchase.
Admission is free. Call Bill Boyd at (808)874-7822.