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BIG ISLAND
Kona Village reinvents the corporate retreat

Kona Village Resort is helping guests to "kiss the boardroom goodbye" with a meetings package designed to take the "corporate" out of corporate retreats.

Set along a salt-and-pepper sandy beach adjacent to a lush tropical forest and the remains of an 1801 lava flow, the resort provides a one-of-a-kind backdrop where generating winning ideas and team-building happen organically. There are no telephones or televisions in the 125-thatched roofed hales (cottages), so groups of up to 50 people are better able to focus on creating successful initiatives.

The resort's Corporate Retreat Package has a variety of elements in which participants are able to learn about themselves, co-workers and their organization by engaging in such activities as:

» Uniting as a team by building a canoe from a koa tree;
» Participating in outrigger canoe races to see how working as a team creates a platform for success;
» Learning how ancient Hawaiian proverbs and cultural traditions are transferable to creating successful 21st century business practices and personal career growth;
» Adapting the hula storytelling custom into a fitness regimen that clears the mind and keeps the body healthy to meet the demands of a high-energy work environment;
» Brainstorming sessions at the edge of the ocean or at sea in Kona's glass bottom boat, catamaran or outrigger canoe.

Meetings also can be held in a variety of other settings, such as alongside an ancient fish pond in the afternoon or during a sunset dinner on the beach.

Package prices vary based on retreat inclusions. Call for a customized meetings proposal package, at 1-800-367-5290.

MAUI
Women build confidence in weeklong adventure

SwellWomen, owned by Me-Shell Barnas, is an all-inclusive six-night/seven-day experience incorporating surfing and yoga practices, geared toward women. The weeklong adventure challenges women to learn new skills, let go of their fears and face each day with a newfound confidence.

Barnas, a professional snowboarder for six years, has since turned her direction into health and well being, and is a registered yoga instructor teaching on the island of Maui.

SwellWomen experiences will take place Aug. 22 to 28, and Aug. 28 to Sept. 2. Participants must be at least 18 years old.

The cost is $2,450 for a private room, or $2,100 for a double shared room.

For more information, call 1-800-399-MAUI (6284) or visit the Web site www.swellwomen. com.