Hotel begins Christmas countdown

The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani is presenting its first “;12 Days of Christmas”; to run through Dec. 23 with a daily slate of holiday activities and entertainment. As a centerpiece to the holiday events, guests and kamaaina are encouraged to stop by to see the hotel's Gingerbread Village put together by executive chef Ralf Bauer.

Beginning today, meet a Hawaiian Santa Claus—clad in shorts, tank top, coconut frond hat and traditional white flowing beard—greeting children in the lobby of the hotel while listening to their holiday wishes.

There will also be an aquatic performance by the Mermaids Hawaii from 5:30 to 6:15 p.m. Friday.

Holiday menus, dates and times are available online at www.princess-kaiulani.com/de_pikake.htm.

Call 922-5811.

Check out Downtown's holiday scene

ResortQuest at the Executive Centre Hotel Introduces a different kind of weekend getaway, centered around Oahu's Culture and Arts district, where masses migrate for monthly First Friday events, art gallery tours, street festivals, theater performances and live music in a variety of bars and lounges.

The Downtown hotel is offering a $99 per night kamaaina weekend special for those visiting for a weekend of holiday shopping or viewing the Honolulu city Christmas lights, as well as those who live on Oahu, but don't want the hassle of fighting for parking everywhere they go.

The weekend special is good for Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings only through Dec. 31, 2008. Hotel amenities include complimentary continental breakfast, free Internet access, and daily newspaper.

Valid Hawaii ID is required upon check-in. Prices do not include room tax and are subject to change without notice. Some restrictions apply.

Call (800) 949-3932 or visit www.ResortQuestHawaii.com.