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[ ISLAND HOPPING ]

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Improvements pay

Hotel renovations often add up to good deals for the traveler who doesn't mind a little inconvenience.

This time around, it's the Fairmont Orchid on the Big Island's Kohala Coast that's undergoing light renovations, including expanding the kitchen at Brown's Beach House restaurant, adding a full-service delicatessen, a new Japanese restaurant and sushi bar, spa enhancements and adding the Fairmont Gold Floor, featuring a private lounge and upgraded rooms.

While the work continues, the Fairmont will be offering a special $199 "Room for Improvement" rate, not including taxes and subject to availability, through Dec. 15, 2003. The regular rack rate is $409.

To book a stay, call 1-800-845-9905.

Super 'Marc-it' deals

Marc Resorts Hawaii has launched its new "Super Marc-It" program allowing kama'aina guests to design their own travel packages, while selecting such extras as grocery certificates and movie tickets when making reservations for stays through Nov. 30, 2003.

On Oahu, Super Marc-It rates start at $59, with guests offered a choice of accommodations at the Hawaii Polo Inn & Tower, Marc Suites Waikiki, Island Colony, Waikiki Royal Suites or Diamond Head Beach Hotel. In addition, receive a choice of two extras such as two Consolidated Theatres tickets, a $10 Foodland coupon or $10 ABC Stores coupon, or large Papa John's pizza.

On Kauai, stay at the Pono Kai Resort, Hale Moi Cottages, Hanalei Bay Villas, Princeville Pu'u Poa or Pali Ke Kua and choose between a $10 Foodland coupon or $10 ABC Stores coupon. Packages include a compact Dollar Rent a Car and start from $125.

Maui visitors will stay at the Maui Vista Resort and choose from a $10 Foodland coupon or $10 ABC Stores coupon. The package starts at $109 and includes a rental car.

Molokai travelers will stay at the Ke Nani Kai or Molokai Shores Suites and receive a $10 Friendly Market coupon and compact car rental at a package price starting at $116.

Those bound for the Big Island will stay at the Kona Bali Kai, receiving a compact car rental and choice of a $10 Foodland coupon or $10 ABC Stores coupon. The package starts at $137.

Rates are per room, per night, and Hawaii residents must show proper Hawaii or military I.D. Packages are subject to availability and black-out dates may apply.

For reservations or information, call 800-535-0085 or visit www.marcresorts.com.

Fall special at Kapalua

If it looks like you may be needing a relaxing place to chill over the holidays, look no further than Kapalua Villas on Maui, where a "Fall Special" includes villa accommodations, two rounds of golf for two (or two rounds for one and $100 in merchandise certificate) or $200 in merchandise certificates, complimentary play on an 18-hole putting course, and complimentary resort-wide shuttle service.

The special starts at $199 per person with a minimum four-night stay. Choose from one- or two-bedroom villas in ocean front, ocean view and fairway view locations.

The special rate is available through Dec. 20, 2003. For reservations, call 800-545-0018.