Royal Hawaiian hosts Obama gala

The newly renovated Royal Hawaiian Hotel reopens on Jan. 20, the same day Hawaii-born president-elect Barack Obama takes office.

Those who cannot make it to the nation's capital for the inauguration can mark the occasion in Obama's hometown with a gala Presidential Package created in partnership with the Hawaii Democratic Party.

The hotel has long been a retreat for royalty, Hollywood elite, presidents and heads of state. The Presidential Package, priced from $1,800 per couple, includes four nights in a Garden View guest room at the Royal Hawaiian, a bottle of pink champagne, and two tickets to the Official Aloha Inaugural Ball in the Monarch Room on inauguration day. An upgrade to a Royal Ocean Junior Suite is priced from $2,760 per couple. For reservations, ask for rate code “;Change09.”;

The hotel is also offering a kamaaina rate of $280 plus tax that night, which includes breakfast for two at the Surf Lanai the next morning. Call (866) 716-8140 or visit www.royal-hawaiian.com.

Renovated hotel reopens with deal

The OHANA Waikiki Beachcomber has completed its $21 million renovation and is celebrating by offering travelers a Re-Introductory Special with room rates starting at $139, per room, per night. To make exploring Oahu more convenient for guests, the package also offers the option to add a rental car starting at an additional $29 per day for a compact vehicle.

Guests will also enjoy the Waikiki Connection amenities package, with complimentary services such as trolley rides to Ala Moana Center and throughout Waikiki.

The rate is subject to taxes and is subject to availability and change. Call toll-free at (800) 462-6262.