Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina 2019 Media Highlights by C&R PR

2019 YTD Media Highlights 2019 Media Highlights January â&#x20AC;&#x201C; October

PLACE!OF!JOY The Fou r Season s at Koâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Olin a brin gs a n ew level of lu xu ry to Oahu . BY!STEFANIE!LINGLE!BEASLEY

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The stunning adults pool (right) at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko’ Olina. The resort’s newest acquisition (opposite, above) is a 35-foot Sea Ray SLX 400 dubbed The Entertainer. Relates Four Seasons General Manager Charlie Parker, “The Entertainer is the ultimate luxury lifestyle experience and offers guests the exhilaration of high-speed cruising with first-class amenities and the opportunity to drop anchor at secluded beaches and coves rarely accessible by land including Kaena Point, Pokai Bay and the mystically beautiful Makua Valley. Four Seasons’ guests can charter The Entertainer through the concierge. The enticing bar at Michael Mina’s Fish House (opposite, below) at the Four Seasons.

s wind whipped at my face, the Hawaiian sun grew stronger and the powerful Sea Ray carrying me hit top speed. To my right the emerald peaks of the Waianae Mountains rose out

of the Pacific, while on my left the seemingly endless blue water glistened toward the horizon. Then, just 30 feet from the prow of the boat, dolphins shot canon-like out of the azure waves. First two,

into a resort community, and in 1987, the Lanikuhonua Cultural

then five, then dozens of adults accompanied by babies (the

Estate was established, reflecting Alice’s respect for the history

size of small footballs) danced and jumped and as quickly as

and royal legacy of the property. This pristine preserve of 10

they appeared, vanished into the depths.

acres of impeccably maintained grounds remains an inspiring

Moments of pure joy like this are commonplace at Ko’ Olina —a 642-acre resort community on Oahu’s leeward coast. The

place to visit on your own or to host special events. Visiting the estate is a must when spending time at the Four Seasons.

jewel in the community is the Four Seasons Resort that stands

A quick 30-minute drive from Honolulu’s airport brings

adjacent to the Lanikuhonua Cultural Estate—a precious section

guests to the stunning Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko’olina

of coastline that has been admired and enjoyed for centuries.

with its elegant towers that evoke the grace of a ship’s sails pul-

Hawaii’s last monarch, Queen Lili’uokalani (1838 to 1917), was

led taught by the tropical breeze. Service, of course, is impec-

said to be a frequent visitor of the area that was purchased in

cable, and guests are quickly whisked to elegantly appointed

1877 by industrialist James Campbell. Campbell saw opportunity

rooms dressed in pale sand-like tones with balconies overlook-

in the vast arid Ewa plains and had wells drilled for irrigation

ing the ocean. Guests lucky enough to book some of the hotel’s

to breathe life into a sugar plantation.

signature suites, like the penthouse and presidential suite, are

In the 1930s, Alice Kamokila Campbell moved to what was then a secluded shore in the Ko’ Olina area. She named her little

in for an over-the-top experience with jaw-dropping views and amenities like private plunge pools.

corner of paradise Lanikuhonua, the Hawaiian term for “where

With my bags unpacked, I was eager to explore the property.

heaven meets the earth.” During World War II, she invited army

The main building of the hotel features a sprawling open lobby

and navy servicemen to use Lanikuhonua as a recreational re-

with abundant orchids and wide, welcoming terraces. The de-

treat. They quickly nicknamed it “Camp Bell” in her honor.

lightful Hokulea coffee bar overlooks the pool and is the perfect

Fifty years later, plans came together to transform Ko’ Olina

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spot to start your day with a fresh juice or Kona coffee.

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The stunning Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko’ Olina is the northernmost property at the Ko’ Olina Resort which is known or it’s four man-made circular coves and beaches which provide a beautiful spot for swimming, snorkeling and a host of watersports.

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The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Koâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Olina is the epitome of barefoot luxury. The entire resort from the guest suites to the beachside dining terrace at Michael Minaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fish House exudes contemporary sophistication.

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A bevy of boutiques will entice fashion-forward shoppers.

Hawaiian Fish House lives up to the Mina name. We let our

On the ground level The Waterman Bar beckons for afternoon

knowledgeable server make a few selections for us and were

cocktails, while La Hiki Kitchen + Restaurant and Mina’s Fish

so glad we did. Fresh catch doesn’t even begin to describe the

House bring new meaning to barefoot luxury dining. Dinner

quality of the ingredients all expertly prepared and served

al fresco at Mina’s was one of the highlights of our trip. Anyone

with an artistic eye.

who has had the pleasure of dining at a Michael Mina restaurant

Beach or pool? Selecting where to swim has to be one of my

knows they are in for a treat—and his spin on a traditional

all-time favorite decisions on a vacation, and the Four Seasons offers many choices, from the pearl-shaped pool next to Waterman’s bar, to the family-friendly pool steps away toward the beach, to the luxurious adults’ pool with infinity edge overlooking the ocean, or the hotel’s lagoon with soft white sand beach and swaying palm trees. Golfers will love hitting the links at the Ted Robinson-designed Ko’ Olina Golf Club, and tennis buffs can hit the plexi-pave courts on the sixth floor of the Naupaka Spa + Wellness Center surrounded by views of the mountain and ocean. For those who just can’t go a day without a good workout—the state-of-the-art gym and certified trainers are at the ready along with everything from weights to Peloton bikes. For guests seeking total relaxation, be sure to book an outdoor massage in a private hale. The Naupaka Spa offers seven different massages. I indulged in the Hau’oli massage—a gentle aromatherapy treatment with energizing essential oils. My therapist let me know that she was gently encouraging my lymphatic circulation and balancing my energy meridians. All I am certain of was the general sense of bliss it left me. After a soothing day swimming and spending time at the spa, we were ready for dinner and met friends at the Caprimeets-Oahu Noe, helmed by award-winning chef Ryo Takatsuka. The sophisticated restaurant overlooks the Lanikuhonua Cultural estate and is a magical spot. Chef Takatsuka clearly has a love affair with Italian cuisine that shows in his delicate dishes and bright, light flavors. We ordered a round of Noe’s signature cocktail Piccante with a mix of Don Julio Blanco, Del Maguey Mezcal, pineapple, lime, orange liquor, and yuzu sorbet to start, followed by a Mushroom and Asparagus Salad with watercress, walnuts, pecorino, apple, and raspberry dressing, Noe’s Signature Tagliatelle with truffles, and finally a divine Swordfish with broccoli puree, fennel, and capers. During an after-dinner walk on the beach with a full moon and blanket of stars above and cool sand under our toes, we were reminded why this special spot on the planet is named Ko’Olina—Hawaiian for “place of joy.” ◆

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LIVING GOOD

Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina offers a serene

ISSUE No. 4

BY { BETH WEITZMAN

Gio

OH, Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;AHU! beach setting that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki.

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Originally opened as a JW Marriott in 1993, the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is a relatively recent addition to the Four Seasons collection of hotels and resorts. After receiving an extensive renovation, the resort re-opened in 2016. From the moment you walk in and take in the awesome views, stress just melts away. Located on O’ahu’s serene leeward coast, with its picturesque mountains, vast valleys, lush landscaping and wide white beaches—only 30 minutes from Honolulu International Airport—the Four Seasons Resort Oahu is nestled in the 642-acre resort community of Ko Olina (meaning “place of joy”), alongside the Waianae mountain range. The serenity and beauty instantly land this place on your must-return list. The royal history of Ko Olina dates back to the 1700s. As the story goes, King Ka’mehameha (1736-1819)— the ruler responsible for uniting all the Hawaiian Islands—and his wife, Queen Ka’ahumanu, spent their time bathing and fishing in the coastal ocean ponds. Ko Olina was also a frequent retreat for the last monarch of Hawaii, Queen Lili’uokalani (1838 -1917). The most pristine preserve of Ko Olina, Lanikuhonua (meaning “where heaven meets the earth”) is located adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort Oahu. Catch sight of humpback whales pec slapping, lobtailing, spouting water and breaching (December to May) as they make their way past the dynamic island’s west coast. Staying at this five-star Pacific paradise is a totally joyful experience any time of year. Luxurious and light-filled, 315 guest rooms and 55 suites, decorated in modern Kama’aina style with local woods and banana-leaf headboards, feature the most comfortable beds, marble bathrooms, spacious private lanais and floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the sugar-white beach, turquoise ocean, picturesque lagoons, vast green gardens and golden sunset. The full ocean-view rooms are truly epic. Even more so is the 17th-floor, two-bedroom penthouse suite with huge private terrace granting 360-degree ocean views and plenty of room for old friends and new. (The other hotel guests you meet also make the experience here extra special.) Relaxation comes courtesy of separate adults-only and family pools (four in total); fine and casual dining at five on-site restaurants and bars; and a full menu of

detoxifying, beautifying and healing treatments for mind, body and spirit at the multilevel Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre. From sunrise yoga overlooking the beach to a sunset cruise out of nearby Ko Olina Marina, days are filled with aloha nui loa (“very much love”). The adults-only, infinity-edge pool is a great place to grab a cocktail, kick back and relax for the day, cooled by the ocean breeze and captivated views of the Pacific Ocean and Waianae mountain range. The view, which stretches along the rugged coast, is one of the most coveted in all of O’ahu. With state-of-theart cabanas (available by reservation), chaise lounges and a full food and drink menu, it’s the place to be! Sunscreen is available at the pool concierge desk, and staffers come by with treats and an afternoon drink cart by always personable staff. The pool-side service is impeccable. When it comes to dining options, a variety of culinary destinations await. The newest, Mina’s Fish House, offers James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina’s menu of sea-to-table fare, an inventive cocktail menu and expansive wine list. The raw and charbroiled shellfish menu (think lobster, crab, shrimp, Pacific oysters) is to die for. Seriously, the best king crab, anywhere. The raw bar offerings—kampachi crudo, ahi tartare and ginger-lime hamachi—melt in your mouth. Main courses that come from sea (specialties such as phyllo-crusted butterfish and miso black cod) and land (brick-pressed chicken, char-grilled certified Angus beef) are also divine. Right off the lobby is Hokulea Lounge, an open-air gathering spot with gorgoeus views of the sand and surf. Enjoy gourmet coffee and freshly squeezed juices in the a.m. and a special wine-by-the-glass menu, beer selections and pre-dinner drinks afternoon to sunset. Serving up three meals a day, La Hiki Kitchen shines a spotlight on Hawaiian fare and is also known for its steak nights. You can’t beat the expansive daily breakfast buffet and seriously decadent Saturday and Sunday brunch (11 a.m. - 2 p.m.). On the main lunch and dinner menu are specialties focused on family-style, island cuisine (with many items cured, smoked, aged, preserved, pickled or slow-cooked— all in keeping with Hawaiian hallmarks of cooking).

The La Hiki Charcuterie Board and Maui Brewing Co. Beer Can Roasted Maili Moa Farm Chicken are not to be missed! For cocktails and a light lunch poolside, Waterman Bar & Grill is the place to go—its cool vintage vibe, menu brimming with flavors of the North Shore and well-mixed cocktails will have you chilling for a while. A real culinary treat, Noe, (Chef Ryo Takatsuka brings the pedigree of two Michelin starred restaurants in Italy) offers a super chic, intimate, casually glamorous evening. Dine inside or, better yet, under the stars on the open patio. Coastal Southern Italian cuisine (Capri meets Oahu ambiance) centers on top-quality meats, homemade pastas and an unrivaled selection of Italian wines and unparalled service.

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Before or after your time spent at the pool or beach, the Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre is a wonderful spot in which to relax and unwind. A full menu of facial and body treatments includes Hawaiian Healing Therapies, such as the NŌ KA OI (the best), complete with an invigorating sugar cane and coconut oil body scrub, hydrating coconut milk and aloe wrap, luxurious tropical hair and scalp treatment and lemongrass ginger lomilomi massage. Soashi face therapies include Samadara Ultimate Age-Defying Facial—a nourishing, hydrating and anti-aging treatment using ancient Ayurvedic healing traditions and natural healing energies. The 35,000-square-foot spa has full men’s and women’s facilities, steam, sauna, whirlpool, changing rooms and relaxation areas; 17 treatment rooms, plus three muliwai healing hales offering outdoor massage treatments in the garden; a 10,000-square-foot state-of-the-art health club; a men’s barbershop; and an elegant salon featuring guest appearances by celebrity stylist Billy Yamaguchi, known for his feng shui technique.

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The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina also recently debuted an exclusive after-hours spa and private stargazing experience, dubbed Spa Under the Stars ($1,200 per person, currently available with a 30 percent discount in a junior or one-bedroom suite if booked 14 days in advance; call 808.679.3200). The journey begins with a warm aloha greeting by a personal spa attendant. Guests then enjoy private access to the amenities at the Naupaka Spa & Wellness

Centre, followed by a lomilomi massage in a candlelit, oceanfront spa hale. It concludes with Champagne and a private Polynesian star voyaging experience led by Greg McCartney, a NASA Ambassador and professional astronomer, on the resort’s Ocean Lawn. Another unique experience is the Quest for Wholeness, a transformative 80 minute experience tailored to each guest’s needs for what the body and soul need to feel complete. The treatment is inspired by the Naupaka flower, a delicate half flower that blooms in Hawaii from mauka (mountain) to makai (ocean). When placed together, its blossoms form a perfect flower. Adrenaline junkies will love high-speed luxury cruising on the resort’s all-new, 35-foot Sea Ray SLX 400, named The Entertainer (starting at $1,600 for a two-hour chartered tour). The seafaring adventure takes place on the leeward coast aboard the sport boat, which comes decked out with first-class amenities. In addition to a private swim terrace offering views of the Waianae mountain range, The Entertainer also features a seafaring dinner menu designed by Mina’s Fish House. Daily charters depart from Ko Olina Marina and offer a variety of bespoke packages for up to six guests. Options range from sunset cruises to full-day, half-day, and two-hour excursions, and each trip features a customized itinerary based on personal preferences (such as swimming, snorkeling or light fishing). Meanwhile, culture vultures will love the weekly series of programs and workshops dubbed #FSWayfinders, referring to the ocean navigation used by ancient Polynesians (who eventually discovered Hawaii). The Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina honors the distinct sense of place by weaving together traditions of the past with an occasional modern spin. Artisan workshops include bamboo wood carving, haku lei making, painting, lauhala weaving, Ni’ihau shell jewelry making and sarong dying—all with a local artist or artisan. A tennis center featuring a local pro and annual membership program and special privileges at Ko Olina Golf Club round out the offerings. 92-1001 Olani St., Kapolei, 808.679.0079, fourseasons.com/oahu

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wellness

CONNECTION THE WELL (NEW YORK CITY)

www.americanspa.com

RADAR

a look at the latest spa trends, treatments, offerings, and retail items

spa-ing under the stars Guests at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina (HI) can embrace the night sky with the Spa Under the Stars program ($1,200). Ideal for honeymooners, best friends on a getaway, or mothers and daughters on holiday, the memorable experience involves a warm aloha greeting by a personal spa attendant, access to Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre’s facilities, and side-by-side Lomi Lomi massages in one of the resort’s oceanfront spa hales, which

has been transformed into a candlelit sanctuary. To conclude the experience, guests are treated to Champagne and a visit by Greg McCartney, a NASA ambassador and professional ambassador, who guides them on a private Polynesian star voyage, showcasing mesmerizing views of the moon, planets, and faraway galaxies. —HEATHER MIKESELL

Stargazing spa-goers can learn about the night sky from a NASA ambassador. N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R 2 0 1 9 A M E R I C A N S PA . C O M

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Best Brunch Ever: The New Holiday Cocktail Party

West Side Story What if we told you that on Hawaii’s most populous island there existed a glorious slice of paradise unencumbered by the tourist hordes? by Neal M c Lennan

Dmitrii Sakharov

Sand Solo

This isn’t Photoshop trickery: West Oahu’s Makua Beach really is this empty most of the time. Incredible.

westernliving.ca / N O V E M B E R / D E C E M B E R

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TRAVEL // WEST OAHU Think Pink

The Puu O Hulu hike finishes with a vibrant pink pillbox leftover from the Second World War that offers a perfect vantage of the West Side.

“

Are you sure you really want a pick-up?” asks the guy at the car rental counter at the Honolulu Airport. Normally this is when they try to slide you into the convertible Mustang for just $23 more a day, but there’s a panic note in his voice, betraying that the pickup truck I reserved is nowhere to be found. He keeps showing us nonpick-up alternatives (Impala, pass; minivan, hard pass) until finally I relent; I’m tired, it’s getting dark, so I agree to a fully kitted-out Jeep Grand Cherokee. But what would normally be a rare consumer-versusrental company victory doesn’t feel like it. If our destination had been the tony Halekulani maybe the SUV would work, but we’re headed in the exact opposite direction: West Oahu, perhaps the last vestige of underdeveloped beachfront on the island (heck, on any of the major islands) and long the rumoured stomping grounds of locals enjoying at least one slice of beach paradise that’s not overrun with tourists. Ironically, our base camp for this western expedition is the new Four Seasons Ko Olina. The luxe chain has dominated the top end of the hospitality web on the other islands (Hawaii, Maui, Lanai) for decades, so when they finally moved onto Oahu it was huge news. But even bigger news was that they skipped the expected Waikiki address in favour of the more rugged, less crowded beachhead at the bottom of the west coast. In fact, the trip west from the airport is an exercise in gradual downsizing: leaving the airport on the H-1, we find ourselves in the middle of 12 lanes of traffic, but with each passing mile the road narrows, and the cars dwindle such that when I finally take the exit off the H-1 onto the old Farrington Highway we’re on a sauntering

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single-lane road, transitioning into a zen state befitting a place that trades on chill. I pull the fancy SUV into its natural habitat—the Four Seasons bell desk—and amble up to my room to sleep. I wake the next morning eager to head out and explore, but the hotel seems to have other plans. Greeting me as I look out is the perfectly massive lagoon that dominates the Ko Olina development. It’s a saltwater wonder that has the best of the ocean without pesky things like rip tides and bull sharks, so I indulge in a rare open-water swim before breakfast. And yes, I know a lagoon is by definition the opposite of open water, but it sounds way cooler, so for me they’re now synonyms. After a quick shower and a bite I’m sitting in front of the concierge asking for advice. In truth, I expect a full court press of dissuasion against adventuring north. Google “West + Oahu” and the first few hits are Trip Advisor posts warning of rampant rental car break-ins and angry locals; also, most people who spend their money on swank Four Seasons digs want to luxuriate in said digs. But instead, she claps her hands together with glee at the possibilities. We go up and down a map of the west side, with her pointing out numerous “amazing” spots, each time adding, “And you’ll have it all to yourself.” We finally decide on the Pink Pillbox hike, because it’s only a short drive from the resort and it promises an 180-degree view of the entire coast. One of the defining characteristics of West Oahu is that there’s only one road—the aforementioned Farrington Highway, both in and out. Historically, this keeps day-trippers and circle-routers out, as it doesn’t link up with anything else—you drive up, then you turn around

TRAVEL // WEST OAHU

Lush Life

Base Camp

The calm lagoon in front of the Four Seasons Ko Olina (top) and a more rugged view from the Pacific (bottom) via outrigger canoe.

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people (the preferred term in these parts) living in tents. It’s not threatening, but I can see how it might hit the wrong note for someone who’s flown here to get away from it all. The surf can also be quite gnarly; on our visit in early fall it’s pretty calm, but come winter, West Oahu easily rivals the more famous North Shore for monster waves. (It was actually at Makaha in 1969 that Greg Noll popularized Big Wave surfing.) But, on the other hand—miles of empty beach. At the end of the highway we pull the Jeep over and start hoofing it north. Unlike the Pillbox hike, this is fairly flat—it actually follows the disintegrating right of way for a railway constructed in 1899 by the Oahu Land and Rail Company to haul sugarcane. And, like the day before, we have the trail to ourselves (on a two-and-a-half hour journey, we see a grand total of six other people). With each few hundred metres the craggy coast morphs just a bit; there are small sandy beaches, then tide pools, then waves crashing into cliffs. It’s as dramatic as any stretch on any of the islands, but there’s no one here. When we reach the point, we spread out a small picnic and eat some malasadas picked up en route. It’s magic. About a quarter-kilometre before the parking lot I feel a pang of fear about the car. I had refused the rental company’s insurance and am relying on my Visa for coverage, but my mind drifts back to the stories of break-ins, and the parking lot likewise is peppered with signs warning about theft—the last thing I need is a smashed window marring an otherwise perfect day. But at the lot, we’re greeted only by a solitary family of locals setting up a tent for a day at the beach. They throw us a friendly wave as we pass by. The drive back is long—even going against traffic on the Farrington is not fun, but it gives me a chance to look inland at the wonder that is the Makaha Valley, a huge, luscious scoop of green that defines this part of the island. A Canadian company—Pacific Links—has taken over the abandoned Makaha Valley Resort and has hired Tiger Woods to redesign the golf courses. If it happens, it will radically change this part of the island, but most locals seem unfussed. “We’ve heard this story before—four years ago it was Greg Norman who was going to save us,” says a chap at the gas station who’s firmly in the “I’ll believe it when I see it” camp. But there’s no doubt that the solitude of West Oahu is endangered as a generation of travellers hell-bent on unique experiences discover this rarely visited stretch of wonder. Back at the Four Seasons, we grab a beer and stroll the grounds. A resort, even a Four Seasons, has a tough time competing with empty beaches, but as we round the corner from the adult pool we see a nowfamiliar site: past a wire gate marking the property line is a smallish slice of solitary white sand. It takes some ginger flip-flop walking, but in two minutes we’re on a secret beach, cleverly named Secret Beach, that lies in the shadow of the hotel. The land is still owned by the Campbell family (one of the historically famous landowners on Oahu) and right now it’s all ours. It somehow feels fitting. In fact, the view, due west, to Kauai—then across open sea to Japan—now feels like something that should be enjoyed like this: absolutely to yourself. For now, at least.

Makaha Valley: Urilux; Four Seasons: Christian Horan

It’s not just surf and sand in the West Oahu. The verdant Makaha Valley also defines the undervisted area.

Island Style

Oahu has a unique way of calming the senses. The tropical aromas, warm temperatures, breathtaking sunsets, and the welcoming people, will help settle your soul.

View with a Room The magnificent terrace of the resort’s Penthouse Suite. .

Adult Swim Go for a splash in the new adult infinity pool.

MUST STAY:

The beachfront Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina is the ideal luxury Hawaiian resort for both couples on a romantic getaway and families on vacation. Their motto is, “Whatever the perfect vacation looks like to you, we’ve got it here – mai ka la hiki a ka la kau (“from sunrise to sunset”) and long into the star-filled night.” Located on the western coast of the island, it’s steps from scenic beachside hikes, natural waterfalls, and not far from luxury shopping areas. Our oceanfront one-bedroom suite was large and bright, with a very spacious balcony. And the view, oh, what a view! fourseasons. com/oahu/

GETAWAY HAWAII

GENLUX

MUST SPA: MUST TRY:

Noe is a cozy, chic, and intimate Italian eatery helmed by rising star chef Ryo Takatsuka. His ten years of training in some of Southern Italy’s Michelin-starred restaurants is evident. The ever-changing menu, best described as Capri-meets-Oahu, is a delicious complement to Noe’s comfortable, wood-toned interior decor. Flower Girl Samia (r) with floral artist Pamakani Lehua Pico Purdy.

For healing body and spirit, the Naupaka Spa & Wellness Center is a soothing experience in a serene, relaxing environment. Try the Interceuticals Oxygen Facial, a deeply hydrating facial that delivers the precise ingredients to revitalize the skin. My skin felt renewed, and, better yet, my friend commented that I looked ten years younger.

MUST SWIM:

So many pools; not enough time. Try the new Adults-only pool— perfect to get in some laps while enjoying the colorful Hawaii sunset.

MUST CRAFT:

Want to make yourself a classic lei? Talented flower artist Pamakani Lehua Pico Purdy will walk you through the process. I had a blast creating this gorgeous flower headpiece while learning about the history of her native island.

exploring the world together

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October/November 2019

mon dieu!

Massages, Makeovers And More in Hawaii

EXPLORING CANADA’S FRENCH PROVINCE OF QUEBEC

A SUMMER VACATION IN PLAYA DEL CARMEN Inside the New Jurassic World Ride

THEMED FAMILY CRUISES Special ocean and river sailings for the whole crew

TRAVELAGEWEST.COM

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See You at the Spa experience to appreciate one another far beyond their vacation.” Hawaii’s blissful setting, hospitable culture and distinctive healing techniques add a wow factor that’s hard to top. The following island spas allow all ages to share the feel-good vibes with their loved ones.

the hilt. Case in point: The Ohana experience for three to six people ages 5 and up rejuvenates the body through the gentle touch of Hawaiian lomilomi sticks. Guests can even concoct their own body polish at the do-it-yourself mixology bar. During fashion makeovers, kids ages 3 to 12 can be made to look like magical characters, and athletic teens give two thumbs up to the spa’s sports massage, one of several treatments designed for those ages 13 to 17. www.disneyaulani.com

AULANI, A DISNEY RESORT & SPA, OAHU

FAIRMONT KEA LANI, MAUI

Like everything Disney does, its Laniwai (“freshwater heaven”) spa at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa on Oahu is family-friendly to

Fairmont Kea Lani’s Willow Stream Spa presents indulgences with appeal for the whole tribe. For

Group massages, makeovers and movement create family bonds in paradise by MARTY WENTZEL

AMILY TRAVEL AND WELLNESS travel are equally hot trends these days. So, naturally, when you put them together, you end up with a surefire recipe for healthy and happy getaways. Nowhere is that more apparent than in Hawaii, where spas around the islands are positioning wellness as a real family affair. “Self-care is more and more necessary to maintain balance in our lives and relationships,” said Christianna Claghorn, spa director for Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui. “Encouraging families to relax together creates a priceless

October/November 2019

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AULANI, A DISNEY RESORT & SPA

hawaii

Family Getaways

10/7/2019 1:47:41 PM

GRAND WAILEA, A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT; FAIRMONT KEA LANI

Opposite page: Kids embrace a brand-new look during fashion makeovers at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. This page, from left: A massage for four is one of many family lures at Grand Wailea’s Spa Grande; parents and children bond during Fairmont Kea Lani’s multigenerational spa sessions.

instance, active kiddos can learn a bit about unwinding, courtesy of a poolside foot rub or a shoulder, neck and hand massage. Meanwhile, teens get a mood boost from facials that combat acne through light therapy. Capitalizing on Kea Lani’s oceanfront location, an adult and child can enjoy a seaside, full-body massage for two, enhanced by kukui-coconut lotion and sweetened by the sounds of the surf. www.fairmont.com

FOUR SEASONS RESORT, OAHU At the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, family relationships blossom at Naupaka Spa, named after a flowering plant. Parents and kids bond over sideby-side massages as well as manicures and pedicures, which can be enlivened with nail art. Dreams come true during a menu option dubbed Hawaiian Hula Princess, which transforms tykes into royalty through special hair styles, makeup, hula skirts and tropical leis. Meanwhile, teens gravitate toward facials that address the specific needs of young adults. www.fourseasons.com

GRAND WAILEA, MAUI Spa Grande at Grand Wailea, a dazzling, 50,000-squarefoot health and beauty hub, masters the art of child’s play. It calls to youngsters with alluring treats such as chocolate-coconut massages, teen-focused facials and island-style nail services. Ready to relax as a group? The family suite is equipped with four beds and attended to by a quartet of therapists. Guests ages 10 and older are

invited to accompany the grown-ups for yoga sessions that inject a spirit of serenity into the vacation. www. grandwailea.com

HILTON WAIKOLOA VILLAGE, HAWAII ISLAND The Kohala Coast’s Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaii Island may be large, but it promotes intimate connections through parent-and-child massages, offered in a private cabana by the sea. A variety of massage techniques are available, including Swedish and Hawaiian lomilomi. In the spa’s salon, parents and kids create memories with manicures and pedicures or a personalized haircut. Fitness turns into an exercise in togetherness during the hotel’s yoga, tai chi, qi gong (a form of martial arts) and meditation classes, open to guests ages 6 and up. www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com

TURTLE BAY RESORT, OAHU Set on Oahu’s North Shore, Turtle Bay Resort’s Nalu Kinetic Spa handles everyone’s skin care concerns, from hydrafacials for ladies and skin treatments targeting gents, to clarifying facials expressly for those ages 13 to 17. The gang can also try HorSea Yoga, which combines stretching, breathing, posture and balance with equestrian encounters. After getting to know their horses on the ground, family members saddle up for a one-of-akind kinship with their steed — and with one another. www.turtlebayresort.com l Family Getaways ●

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“Are you ready to jump out of a helicopter” isn’t a phrase you typically hear at 7 a.m. on a Saturday. But that’s exactly what I was about to do moments after having my morning cup of coffee. No, I hadn’t gone crazy; I was in Hawaii to try a new Navy SEAL diving experience. Two retired Navy SEALS, Stephen Kaplan and James Beck, recently decided that they wanted to take their wild adventures in the military and craft a bucket list-worthy activity for travelers. So, they created Trident Adventures and partnered with Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina to take luxury to new depths. The result? An array of escapades that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. And that’s how I ended up hanging on to the edge of a helicopter hovering 30 feet above the ocean. While they offer a myriad of aquatic opportunities like introductory dive tours and children’s PADI Bubble Maker programs in the Resort’s serenity, they’ve also created the Navy SEAL for a Day itinerary that pushes you beyond the limits of what you thought possible.

You start the day early at Ko Olina Marina, Oahu’s only privately-owned deep-draft marina, where you quickly feel part of a military operation. After Kaplan’s enthusiastic welcome, he dives into the “operation” for the day using military terms like “helocast” (aka jumping out of a helicopter) and “cast master” (aka the person helping you jump out of a helicopter). He describes the rest of the unit that includes a combination of the world’s best water rescue experts, ship captains, divers, and pilots. Not to mention the two Navy SEALS leading the way. “We have the best in the industry,” Kaplan told me. “We also had a high turnover rate in the beginning because we make sure that our staff is at the right level. Our standards are infinitely higher than industry standards.” It’s this “invisible bubble of safety,” as Kaplan called it, that made me feel like I could leap out of a helicopter after a couple of dry runs on the ground. “Just sit here and let your leg dangle out while we’re flying,” Kaplan said as he demonstrated what was about to happen in the air. “That’s what we do in the SEALS, just holding a gun.”

Moments later and after a quick refresher on scuba diving equipment—because I was going diving immediately after jumping out of the aircraft just as a SEAL would do—I was in the back of seatless helicopter leg dangling out the side with nothing but a wetsuit on and my diving mask wrapped around my arm. The pilot lifted off and took us on a wild military-style ride over a Jurassic Park-looking mountain range. With my adrenaline pumping, we headed back to the dive site where the boat, jet ski, and crew awaited my sky-high plunge. The moment had come. Hovering nearly three stories in the air, Kaplan slid out on to the landing slides, turned to me, and said, “You ready? Seatbelt off.” Remembering what I had learned during my on-ground practice session, I too slid out on to the landing sides with my hands grasping where a door would normally be. “Remember, cross your arms and legs,” Kaplan said before I took a deep breath and leaped.

About halfway through the drop, I thought to myself, “Well, that was higher than I thought,” but a second later, I hit the water, and it was all over. I gave the “OK” signal when I popped back up to the surface, where I was met by a jet ski to escort me to a boat where the dive part of my Navy SEAL experience would begin. Of course, Kaplan needed to get in the water too. So, he prepared to jump while casually wearing sunglasses and a baseball hat . But not before enjoying a little fun of hanging on to the bottom of the helicopter as it took a quick spin around. Once on the boat, you get geared-up to go diving with arguably the best divers in the world. I jumped into the ocean to embark on the sea portion of my day. After all, SEAL stands for “Sea Air and Land.” Sticking to their high standards, Trident Adventures opts to utilize the Waianae west coast, as it has the best diving on Oahu and isn’t dependent on seasons.

Once under the surface, Kaplan led me to the ocean floor where we swam with a sea turtle, held a starfish, and watched schools of fish float by. But this was a Navy SEAL, so we pushed it one step further. He led the way to the opening of an underwater cave, handed me a flashlight, and into the opening we went. As I peered into the darkness with my light, there was a white tip reef shark just relaxing. Yes, a cage-free shark dive is just par for the course when you’re with a SEAL. And just to make sure I got the full experience, Kaplan whipped out a couple of DPVs (diver propulsion vehicles), and we cruised around for another hour watching the marine life zip by.

For more experienced divers, you can opt for a deep-sea wreck dive or multi-tank dive. You can also take it even a step further by booking a full Navy SEAL for a Day training program that includes skydiving and tactical training before jumping out of a helicopter and going for a dive. “What we do is create an invisible bubble of safety around you so that you can take the next step out of your comfort zone,” said Kaplan. Even Hawaii 5-0 actor Alex O’Loughlin was blown away, saying in a statement that “diving with US Navy SEALs is to dive with the absolute best of the best. The attention to detail these guys have in every aspect of the experience, for every person they take out, is unmatched in the industry.” And what’s great about the partnership with the Four Seasons: After a day of once-in-a-lifetime adventure, you can return to pure luxury. The fairly new property has quickly become regarded by locals and visitors alike as one of the best on the island.

There are five onsite restaurants. One of which is La Hiki, which serves up a rare cut of Japanese A-5 Waygu ribeye that literally melts in your mouth. That same eatery hosts an epic weekend brunch complete with an entire seafood room; the fuel-up before or after your epic day on the water. Meanwhile, Naupaka Spa is the perfect spot to relax with a "Warrior Massage" after a wild day. Though the SEALs might be used to sleeping in less than desirable conditions, it doesn’t mean you have to. Book a cabana at the adult-only infinity pool to enjoy a post-adrenaline nap and stay in one of the ocean-view suites complete with a private balcony to fully recharge overnight. There is a breed of traveler who seeks the exhilaration of the elements (whether hiking, surfing, or diving) in combination with five-star luxury,” Charlie Parker, General Manager at Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina, told me. “Oahu is the perfect playground for this kind of adrenaline-fueled adventure, while the Four Seasons offers an enclave of luxury to return to at the end of the day. The Navy SEAL for a Day experience just takes it to the next level.” The most luxurious element of all? Creating a bucket list item I never even knew I had. For more information on the Navy SEAL experience, contact the Four Seasons Oahu here.

The two SEAL veterans also offer a wide array of Professional Associated of Dive Instructors-approved courses and outings for those looking for something a little less intense, including everything from a basic tutorial to deep sea wreck diving. Other options include a snorkeling tour and multiple courses designed specifically for children. Rates for the SEAL for a Day package start at $15,000 per person, though there are discounts for groups of up to four. You can also chose to do just one of the SEAL experiences for a reduced rate as well, whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a helicopter jump (which starts at $599 plus additional fees), tactical shooting ($5,800) or skydiving ($10,000).

Getting There This past April, Hawaiian Airlines launched five-days-a-week direct flights to Honoluluâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport from Logan, letting Bostonians reach paradise faster than ever. Staying There Situated on Oahuâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s scenic western coast, the waterfront Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina is tucked between the lush Lanikuhonua Cultural Institute to the north and sun-drenched white-sand beach coves to the south, with four on-site pools, five sumptuous dining spots, and a 35,000-square-foot spa to help get you on island time.

A.M. Rise and shine for a different kind of board meeting with the instructors at Let’s Surf HI, who will help you master the Hawaiian art of he’e nalu, or wave sliding, on an oversize inflatable standup board that marries a traditional surfboard with a paddleboard. Replenish your energy with fresh-fruit-loaded açaí bowls at Ruby’s food truck before hiking to the Pu’u O Hulu (a.k.a. the “Pink Pillbox”) for panoramas of the pristine coastline. Prefer exploring the ocean below the surface? Join Trident Adventuresfor a scuba-diving journey and get an up-close look at sea turtles and other marine creatures. Return to the Four Seasons for an al fresco lunch at Mina’s Fish House, a seafood restaurant helmed by star chef Michael Mina with a signature Spam-can cocktail. P.M. You’ve seen Oahu by land and sea—now get a bird’s-eye view with a thrilling doors-off chopper tour. The only green helicopter company in Hawaii, Paradise Helicopters zooms by Pearl Harbor, Ka’ena Point, and the Ko’olau mountains before landing at Gunstock Ranch, where guests can plant a native tree to offset their carbon footprint before taking a guided ride on one of the ranch’s many horses through the expansive 600-acre property. Cap off the evening with fresh pasta and a glass of rosé at chef Ryo Takatsuka’s southern Italian– inspired eatery Noe, conveniently located at the Four Seasons; after a decadent meal, the restaurant’s lanternbedecked patio will help guide you back to your plush ocean-view room for some well-deserved R & R.

When travelers think Oahu, Honolulu may be the first, and only, on-island destination that comes to mind. Of course, Hawaii's capital city is a worthwhile destination, but escape the tourists on Waikiki beach for a few days on Oahu's less-explored west side, an oasis of pristine beaches, sunsets and resorts catering to relaxers and adventure seekers alike, who don't want to be surrounded by crowds. Where to stay Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina This beachfront property tucked away along the rustic western coastline is ideal for an oceanside escape less than an hour from the airport. Sunsets are spectacular, but while the sun's up, take advantage of complimentary paddle boards, a magnificent family pool and adult's only infinity pool with bookable cabanas, plus poolside or oceanside food and beverage service throughout the day. The resort is central enough to make it your home base for exploring Oahu, or stay and unwind for a few days without setting foot off the property. Spacious accommodations range from rooms with private outdoor tubs to a variety of suites with roomy balconies and plenty of in-room amenities to keep you cozy. Guests are provided with iPads to help access daily schedules, pre-order room service and request a variety of concierge services. Kids can be watched for adults-only time and even camp overnight on the property's tennis courts as part of the resort's kids programming.

What to do Hike Hawaii Forest & Trail guides hikers of varying abilities through exclusive trails, while chatting about local flora and fauna, Hawaiian culture, history and more. Transportation is available and amenities like raincoats, walking sticks, snacks and more are provided to help the not-so-outdoorsy adjust to the Hawaiian wilderness (which is not too far from any highway, but rustic enough to be breathtakingly beautiful). Sip local rum Ko Hana Hawaiian Agricole Rum is a farm-to-bottle distillery that uses heirloom cane sugar to create a unique (and tasty!) rum. Tours allow visitors to see the dozens of varieties of indigenous sugar cane, witness its juicing and taste the various types of rum made from the raw product. Get a massage under the stars A new nighttime experience at Naupaka Spa & Wellness Centre is an unforgettable indulgence for a special night. Couples can enjoy private relaxation time in the spa's whirlpool, steam room and sauna, paired with bubbly and chocolates. Next, guests are escorted to a candlelit outdoor spa hale on the beach, where the ocean waves and nighttimes palm breezes provide the soundtrack to an hour-long couples massage. The treatment is followed by more bubbly, and an exclusive astrologist-led stargazing experience on the lawn.

Eat seafood curated by a fish sommelier Mina’s Fish House is home to the only practicing fish sommelier in the world, Ryan Houser. Helmed by celeb chef Michael Mina, the oceanside indoor-outdoor restaurant serves a range of shellfish both raw and broiled, along with genre-bending seafood dishes like a spicy Alaskan crab spaghetti and a whole fish blanketed in black garlic and miso. Houser offers tableside ordering guidance, as well as shares his seafood knowledge and will instruct diners on how to properly debone and fillet their fish. Tiki cocktails also help kick off or wash down a meal. Learn lauhala weaving Local artist Pi’iali’i Lawson continues his family's rich history of lauhala weaving by teaching the craft to locals and visitors, as well as selling the unique wares he makes by hand, from organic materials found on the island. A class instructs first-timers on how leaves are sourced from local hala trees, dried and striped into pieces that anyone can learn to weave with some pattern instruction. Create a bracelet or napkin rings — easily the most unique souvenir you can bring back! Enjoy a Luau Disney resort Aulani (connected to the Four Seasons via a beachside boardwalk — stop in the middle for a swirl of chilly Dole Whip) — hosts family-friendly luau nights including Hawaiian performances, a shareable Polynesian feast and more activities to introduce visitors to local culture.

Mina’s Fish House, located at the stunning Four Seasons Resort O’ahu at Ko Olina, is the island’s premiere line-to-table beachside dining experience, and is the culmination of a dream for lauded James Beard Award-winning Chef Michael Mina. Featuring a vibrant, tiki-themed cocktail program and wines designed to elevate every dish, Mina’s Fish House offers a unique beachside dining experience featuring a thoughtful seafood-centric menu that bursts with premium ingredients sourced from local waters, farms and ranches. The restaurant also offers something entirely unique – the worlds’ first fish sommeliers. What exactly is a fish sommelier? Think traditional wine sommelier, and substitute the wine for fish. The restaurant’s two fish sommeliers, native Hawaiians Ryan Houser and Saui Matagiese, exhibit the same hard-earned knowledge and skill set as that of wine experts. Using their extensive knowledge of seafood and their congenial people skills, the duo matches the right fish with the right guest. Arriving tableside, Houser or Matagiese present the most exceptional whole fish options available each evening – selections caught that very morning. “Pairing fish to a guest is actually very similar to pairing wine," says Houser, whose role involves chatting with guests about their seafood preferences and making suggestions based on texture, preparation, and above all, taste.

Once selected, the fish disappears to the kitchen where Chef Garrick Mendoza works his magic to perfectly flavor and cook each dish. A house favorite preparation includes fermented black bean, ginger and scallion marinade. The fish is then hand carved and plated by the fish sommelier himself, a job both Matagieseand Houser truly enjoy. Each claim satisfaction in helping to expand visitors’ culinary horizons far beyond Hawaii’s well-known staples of mahi-mahi and the now globally renowned ahi-tuna poke. Guests learn that fish flavors can range from delicate and sweet, to rich, meaty and full. Local choices include opakapaka, opah, onaga, swordfish and kampachi. Houser was brought on to the sommelier team by his lifelong friend and fisherman Jared Chang who was hand-picked by Chef Mina to be the world’s first fish sommelier. Shortly upon opening of the restaurant, Mina recognized Chang’s skill and passion and was intrigued by Chang’s extensive knowledge of the local waters and the infectious manner in which he communicated his passion. Thus, the fish sommelier idea was launched and is one that makes a Mina’s Fish House experience engaging and enriching – inviting a deeper connection to Hawaii’s culture and spirit of aloha. “The idea behind Mina’s Fish House is to offer multiple experiences that will continue to evolve,” says Chef Mina. “That’s the way it should be with fish. It’s about meeting the amazing people that are out catching the fish every day, really understanding where it’s coming from, and enjoying the best.”

Warm and welcoming, Mina’s Fish House seamlessly connects the inside with the outside and gracefully plateaus from the interior bar and dining room down multiple exterior decks, ending with beachside dining options. Rustic, island-inspired design elements anchor the space, creating a convivial ambiance. The restaurant’s lagoon-adjacent patio is the perfect vantage point for watching the resort’s nightly torch lighting ceremony. Don’t miss the ‘If Can, Can’ cocktail, a refreshing (and powerful) blend of rum, Orange Curacao, pineapple, Lilikoi, lime, and Orgeat, served whimsically in an orchid-adorned Spam can - a witty nod to the longtime staple of the Hawaiian diet.

Honolulu Three Ways: A Hotel For Every Budget And Style Hawaii regularly inspires day-dreamers imbued with wanderlust to snag the first great airfare deal picked up by a flight alert. Graceful palm trees, technicolor sunsets, and shallow teal waters have long lured beach lovers, water babies, honeymooners and stars alike. All this beauty, however, comes at a price. Hotel rates along Waikiki Beach on Oahu outpace many favored destinations within the U.S. simply due to demand. Fortunately, whatever your style or budget, there’s a property to suit your needs.

Destination Dining in a Luxury Enclave: Four Seasons Ko Olina Nestled along a lagoon west of Honolulu, the Four Seasons rises behind a crescent sand beach and ancient lava strewn coast. The area known as Ko Olina features a string of hotels and golf courses set to a backdrop of dramatic west coast beauty, and the Four Seasons is the polished pearl of the necklace. Though sporting fewer rooms than the Halekulani at 371, the Four Seasons feels bigger due to four pools, five restaurants and a sprawling landscape replete with a wedding chapel. An airy lobby sets the tone for grandeur though the common areas never feel crowded nor lack intimacy. An adults-only infinity pool provides further seclusion for couples. For wellness seekers, the fitness club, rooftop tennis courts, and Naupaka Spa are highlights. Book a traditional lomi lomi massage in a cabana affronting the ocean and let a talented masseuse put you to sleep, accompanied by the lull of crashing waves. Given the hotel is 45 minutes west of Honolulu, it’s fortunate that the restaurants on-premise are destinationworthy. In beautiful places where guests are captive, it’s not unusual for hotel dining to underwhelm – because it can.

At waterfront Michael Minaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fish House, the kitchen delivers exciting dishes, spins on Hawaiian flavors, using pristine, raw ingredients. At Italian restaurant Noe, the chef helming the kitchen, Ryo Takatsuka, spent years fine-tuning the art of pasta in Italy. Noe also boasts an excellent wine list, one of the best on the island featuring everything from blue chip producers in Tuscany to natural wines from Umbria. In summary, the Four Seasons brings exciting dining, wine, wellness and luxury accommodation to a coastal retreat far from the traffic of the city. Just right for: Four Seasons enthusiasts, honeymooners seeking privacy and serenity, health and wellness travelers, food lovers, families. Not quite right for: Young singles seeking proximity to bars and nightlife, beach lovers, the budgetconscious.

Some people just want to sit by the pool or lay out on the beach when they are on vacation, especially if they are somewhere as stunning as Hawaii. But for those craving something a little more adventurous, the Four Seasons Oahu at Ko Olina has something else in store—the chance to experience what it’s like to be a Navy SEAL. The hotel has teamed up with Trident Adventures, a luxury dive operation owned by two recently retired SEALs, Steve Kaplan and James Beck, to offer one-of-a-kind underwater adventures to its guests. Based out of the Ko Olina Marina, Oahu’s only privately owned deep draft marina, Kaplan and Beck will make sure guests of all ages and abilities get to make the most of their time in the pristine waters off the island’s leeward coast. The highlight of collaboration is the Navy SEAL for a Day package. Kaplan or Beck will personally take participants on a day-long adventure that includes an hour of training, a tour of the Oahu’s north side, scuba diving, a helicopter jump (without scuba gear for safety purposes), a tactical shooting experience and skydiving. It’s the closest someone can get to being a SEAL without actually being one. “Diving with US Navy SEALs is to dive with the absolute best of the best,” said Hawaii 5-0 actor Alex O’Loughlin, who was trained by the two former SEALs. “The attention to detail these guys have in every aspect of the experience, for every person they take out, is unmatched in the industry.” The two SEAL veterans also offer a wide array of Professional Associated of Dive Instructors-approved courses and outings for those looking for something a little less intense, including everything from a basic tutorial to deep sea wreck diving. Other options include a snorkeling tour and multiple courses designed specifically for children. Rates for the SEAL for a Day package start at $15,000 per person, though there are discounts for groups of up to four. You can also chose to do just one of the SEAL experiences for a reduced rate as well, whether it’s a helicopter jump (which starts at $599 plus additional fees), tactical shooting ($5,800) or skydiving ($10,000).