Revisiting the Big Island of Hawaii

Yes, things are changing from planning the trip, submitting forms online for ‘Safe Travels’, arriving extra early at airports and having the ability to pivot with all the added challenges of flying. We took American Airlines nonstop to Kona in First Class, but found instead of the screens in the seat back with great movie & music selections or nice headsets to escape the world, inflight entertainment on this flight was on your own device using Wi-Fi. Our solution: a deck of cards and heated competition!

Arriving in Kona is a step back in time, with the outside airport and ramp and no baggage assistance. We managed our overpacked bags full of dreams and began the first three nights at Four Seasons Hualalai. It has been 10 years since my last visit and it was the same wonderful, charming setting of Lush Luxury: attentive staff and a truly warm Hawaiian welcome with a Mango Mai Tai and amenities in our room.

Prior to arriving, the Concierge team made sure all dining and activities requested were organized in advance, which is essential as we ease out of the impact of Covid. They provided me with a typed itinerary that took the burden off trying to remember my months of planning. Wearing masks was not an issue – all staff and guests wear them when away from their room in transit to dining, swimming or just relaxing by the ocean. Note that the beach here is not really for swimming, it did serve up a magnificent show of waves and true blue ocean.

We dined at every venue available on property and never tired of the fresh offerings. We found the food & beverage exceptional but pricey, yet definitely worth the experience. TravelStore’s Preferred Partner Perk of Daily Breakfast is a great benefit since on average the cost is $50/person.

Our room was upstairs as we had requested and the nightly show of the Milky Way & the sound of waves still fills my soul with joy.

Our next stop was four nights at the Auberge Mauna Lani. Here again we had reached out well in advance to plan dining reservations & activities, making the experience seamless once we arrived.

Auberge Resorts has truly taken this classic Hawaiian property and enhanced its unique features. It had several conventions and more activity all around, but we still felt safe as all staff & guests practiced excellent protocol when out and about. We were given several signature Hawaiian Masks made for the Mauna Lani as a welcome gift that I ended up buying a variety from their Market to give as gifts. I have had so many clients devoted to this property and rave about the Canoe House that we dined there three out of four nights. I now understand how exceptional this venue is and again, a must for reservations which give guests priority. Our only venture away was to Merriman’s up the hill in Waimea, where we chose a late lunch, which is available Sunday – Thursday. This is a great option if you want to experience this classic restaurant and prefer not to be on a winding road after dining at night.