Happy 4th of July!!!

As you know, I love the 4th of July!  The 4th was my grandfather's birthday.  I have wonderful memories of the huge block parties that we would have with family and friends every year.  The culmination of every party was home-made vanilla ice cream, served up to Grandpa in a brand new ice cream bowl, that doubled as his gift.

In memory of Grandpa C, imagine how wonderful a scoop of melting, hand churned, vanilla ice cream would be with this 4th of July themed wedding cake!

Nick's Fishmarket, Maui

Nick's Fishmarket is billed as one of Maui's premier seafood restaurants.  After visiting it's not hard to see why.  Located in the Fairmont Kealani, along the Wailea coast, the restaurant brings the romance of the Mediterranean to every detail.  Nothing is missed, from the overhead trellis of stephanotis blossoms, to the restaurant's decor; you're are in for a treat!

Mr. T and I had decided to splurge to make one night of our honeymoon extra special.  We are happy to say that we made the right choice by selecting Nick's Fishmarket!  It was amazing from beginning to end.

As recommended, we made our reservation for 6:30 p.m., so that we could enjoy the sunset from the outdoor dining area.  We were seated just before the ceremonial torch lighting (don't miss it if you can help it!).

The service was impeccable from the time we were seated through desert, till we walked out, happy and full.  Every need was met, and every request was fulfilled effortlessly.  Be prepared to feel pampered.

Now, to make you hungry!  The food was incredible.  Mr. T and I have had some good meals over the past few years, but this was, by far, the best meal we've ever had.  I started with "Chef's Sashimi", with wasabi, pickled ginger and house brewed soy sauce,  and Mr. T started with "Just a Salad" (which was anything but!), with baby garden greens, cherry tomatoes, Lilko vinaigrette, which was phenomenal!  I had the "Catch of the Day," which melted in my mouth, and Mr. T had the "14oz Prim New York Steak", with the loaded bake potato, local root vegetables, and fresh porcini mushroom sauce; he said it was the best steak he'd ever had.  I don't know how we did it, but we even managed desert; "Bananas Foster."

We took our time, enjoying our surroundings, the food and each other.  I can say with all honesty that we will be back, as Nick's Fishmarket is not to be missed!

For Reservations:
Visit: Nick's Fishmarket
Phone: (808) 879-7224 
Hours: 5:30pm - 9:45pm
Lounge: 5pm - 9:45pm 

Ulalena Theater Show - An Evening to Remember

Simply put, you will be swept away, through the beat of the drums, original songs, and the stories told through dance and performance.  This award winning show is not to be missed!

Prepare to be amazed, and entranced by characters including Pele, the Volcano Goddess, Hina, the Moon Goddess, MO'O, the Lizard God, and Maui, the Trickster God, as they take you through the ancient stories of the creation of Maui.

From the moment the drumming began, we were transported to an artistic world, where myth and legend unfolded before us through amazing acrobatics, dance and song.  This show was truly the unique experience we were looking for; we truly enjoyed every moment! 

It is one of Maui's "must sees!"  You will never look at the stories of the creation of Hawaii in the same way.

For reservations:
Visit: Ulalena Theater Show
Toll Free: 877-688-4800

Ho'oilo House: A Bed & Breakfast To Remember

When the Ho'oilo House opened in September 2003 the proprietors, Dan and Amy along with their partners Kathy and Jay, knew that they wanted to provide a different experience for their guests.  There are other bed and breakfasts on Maui, but the Ho'oilo House has set itself apart from the rest.

The house is located about five minutes south from the town of Lahaina on Maui.  From the first moment we arrived we knew we were going to have a special stay.  We were greeted by Dan, who welcomed us, and showed us around the property.

The house itself is special.  Built and furnished from materials imported from Bali, the house consists of six rooms, all with their own person full bath (complete with outdoor shower), and private lanai.  Each room has its own special view, ranging from the gardens, to the mountains, and the ocean.  Our room, the Akala Manu room, had a partial ocean view from the lanai, which we enjoyed immensely.

Though they are often fully booked, you will not feel crowded at the Ho'oilo House.  Often, the only time you will see another guest is at breakfast.  The morning we were there, the expanded continental breakfast consisted of vegan strawberry coconut muffins (muffins flavors vary daily), toast, fresh fruit salad, hard boiled, farm fresh eggs, cereal, juice, tea, and coffee.

Every last detail has been thought of.  You can book in-room spa services, or arrange for a private chef to serve you dinner on your lanai.   Coffee and tea are always available, as well as an assortment of beach supplies, including beach towels, mats, coolers, boogie boards, hats, etc..  You can even arrange a wedding package for your stay, which includes a guest room for three nights, arrangements for a beach wedding, an on-site coordinator, an officiant, transportation to and from the wedding, a private dinner for two on your lanai, and much more!

The attention to detail doesn't stop there.  Dan and Amy, who run the B&B on a daily basis, have also taken special care to make the Ho'oilo House as "green" as possible.  Some of the fruit served at breakfast is grown on the property.  They provide complimentary, take home, reusable water bottles for all guests.  They also provide wonderfully luxurious line of eco-friendly line of toiletries called "Zero" from Gilchrist & Soame, which feature food-grade, naturally derived USP glycerin; natural conditioning agents from the honey and Brassica plant; and soybean and cottonseed oil, instead of petrochemicals.

To continue their mission of being stewards to the environment, the Ho'oilo House has installed an Enphase enlighten solar array.  The system, which provides 90 to 100% of their electrical needs, was installed, unobtrusively, at the bottom of the property, at the end of 2010, and went into service at the beginning of 2011.  Guests are invited (if so inclined), to track usage real time.

All of the effort that has been put into making the Ho'oilo House as special as it is seems effortless.  Each guest will feel pampered and special.  Staying at the Ho'oilo House is like being on your own private island; quiet, serene, and completely relaxing.  I can tell you that it was the perfect way for us to end our stay on Maui!

Reservations

Ho'oilo House
808-667-6669 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Hawaii Standard Time

Alii Nui: Highest of Royalty!

On our first full day on Maui we had the distinct pleasure of sailing on the Alii Nui. On recommendation we had chosen their snorkel sail to Turtle Point. We were excited to start off our honeymoon in such a fun way!

You start your adventure when you are picked-up by your complimentary transportation (by arrangement), a comfortable van, driven by one of the friendly crew members. Our driver Sarah was both personable and knowledgeable; it was great to learn more about the area and what was in store for us. As we pulled up to Slip 56 at the Maalaea Harbor we knew immediately that we are in for a treat!

The Alii Nui is impressive. Custom built, the luxury catamaran has an 78’ mast, and measures 65’ from stem to stern and 36’ port to starboard. As you step onto the boat and slip off your shoes, you are invited to join the crew in the spacious cabin below for a fantastic breakfast including assorted muffins and pastries, fresh island fruit, yogurt, juice and coffee. The fresh pineapple was a great complement to the croissants smothered in jelly.

After motoring out of the harbor, guests are treated to the remarkable sight of the captain and crew all working together to raise the sails. It was an extremely impressive site to see!

Sails Up!

As you sail away from the harbor, towards Turtle Point, you can continue to enjoy breakfast below, or, stroll up onto the deck. On deck guests are invited to lounge in the hammock-like trampolines, or relax and enjoy the view of the coastline going by while sitting on one of the long benches that line the outside of the cabin. We picked out a spot on the benches and relaxed into each other, enjoying the sea breeze and the gorgeous sights.

Just before reaching your destination, the captain and crew will go over all of the options passengers have while visiting Turtle Point. For beginners there are life vests and kickboards with viewing masks. For the casual snorkeler there are foam tubes to assist with floating, and for the advance SCUBA is available. The Alii Nui team truly has thought of everything! We were fitted for flippers, handed our snorkel gear and we slipped into the water.

As we began our snorkel, we were immediately amazed at the underwater world beneath us. You are truly immersed in the amazing experience of being surrounded by turtles and fish that are swimming all around.

Sea Turtle

Don’t forget to document your experience on the Alii Nui! The crew offers underwater camera rentals, and both a photography package and a video of your tour are available. It was tons of fun to be able to capture the reef life; we were able to get some great shots. What a great way to remember our time on Maui (if only we could find the disk!).

After you have had your fill of crystal clear water, sea life, and floating away your cares, climb back onto the Alii Nui, and wash off with one of the four heated, fresh water showers. On the way back to the harbor enjoy a delicious lunch including teriyaki chicken, pulled pork (best we had on our trip!), classic Caesar salad, pasta and potato salad, fresh fruit, and much more! Enjoy your lunch with a glass of red or white wine, champagne, beer, soda, juice or filtered water. What a great way to end our sail: red wine in hand, wind in our hair, treated like royalty!

Simply put, the snorkel sail to Turtle Point is a must, and in this bride’s opinion, the best, and only way to visit is on the Alii Nui!

To book reservations:
Visit: Alii Nui
Toll Free: 800-542-3483
Local: 1-808-875-0333

Honeymoon: Destination Maui!

Now that we're back to "real-life"  I can't wait to give everyone my full reviews of everything we did!

Here's a brief reminder of our original itinerary:

• Day1: Arrive in Maui! Check Into The Grand Wailea Resort
• Day 2: Morning, Alii Nui Sailing, Snorkel Sail; Evening, Hawaii Fun Planner's Dinner on the Beach
• Day 3: Morning and Afternoon Free; Dinner Followed By the Ulalena Theater Show at the Maui Theatere
• Day 4: Morning and Afternoon Free; Dinner at Nick's Fishmarket
• Day 5: Morning and Afternoon Free; Dinner, Drums of the Pacific Luau at the Hyatt Regency
• Day 6: Valley Isle Excursions: Hana Highway Tour
• Day 7: Check Out of the Grand Wailea and into Ho'oilo House; Alii Nui Sailing, Sunset Sail
• Day 8: Breakfast at  the Ho'oilo House; Fly Home

Stay tuned for full articles on each of our activities, as well as where we stayed, and travel tips for Honeymooning in Maui!

Hula Hula!

30 days to go till our big day and our honeymoon is completely finalized!

I will do full write-ups when we get back; for now, here's our itinerary!

• Day1: Arrive in Maui! Check Into The Grand Wailea Resort
• Day 2: Morning, Alii Nui Sailing, Snorkel Sail; Evening, Hawaii Fun Planner's Dinner on the Beach
• Day 3: Morning and Afternoon Free; Dinner Followed By the Ulalena Theater Show at the Maui Theatere
• Day 4: Morning and Afternoon Free; Dinner at Nick's Fishmarket
• Day 5: Morning and Afternoon Free; Dinner, Drums of the Pacific Luau at the Hyatt Regency
• Day 6: Valley Isle Excursions: Hana Highway Tour
• Day 7: Check Out of the Grand Wailea and into Ho'oilo House; Alii Nui Sailing, Sunset Sail
• Day 8: Breakfast at  the Ho'oilo House; Fly Home

Do you have your honeymoon all planned out?

Mini-Moon

Whether you are getting away for a night or two between your wedding and your "real" honeymoon, or if you can only get away for a few days, a mini-moon is the way to go!

We will be sneaking off for a couple nights before we head off to Hawaii.  If we were leaving out of San Francisco we might spring for the Fairmont San Francisco, where they greet you by name, and every guest is treated like royalty.

Located a short cable car trip from bustling Downtown, Financial District, Union Square, and Fisherman's Wharf you are minutes away from all the excitement of San Francisco, and miles away from the stress of planning your wedding!  With 591 guestrooms and suites, the Fairmont San Francisco offers luxury at surprisingly affordable rates.  Currently they have a "Winter" special running, with rates starting at $167 USD per night.

While you're there, be sure to stop in for a cocktail in The Tonga Room & Room and Hurricane Bar.  If you get the chance, try their famous Tonga Mai Tai; it's delicious!  You will want to make reservations if you are planning on staying for dinner, by calling 415-772-5278.

Fairmont San Francisco
950 Mason Street
San Francisco, CA 94129

(415) 772-5000

Hotel Reservations

 

Destination: Maui Excursions

So you've decided where you want to go on your honeymoon, what do you want to do when you get there?

Luckily for us, there are great deals to be had, and plenty of people with the experience to guide us!  Here are just a few excursions available for us to choose from on our honeymoon in Maui:

• Helicopter Tour of the Island
• Romantic Dinner for Two on the Beach
• Sunset Dinner Cruise 
• Luau
• Road to Hana Tour
• Sail/Snorkel Tour
• Ulalena at Maui Theater
• Atlantis Submarine Tour
• Dolphin and Whale Watching
• Scuba Diving

I know we won't be able to do it all, but I can't wait to give you my full reviews of each excursion we experience!

Costco Does Travel: Car Rentals

I have been using Costco Travel for the past four years.  I can save on everything from hotels and car rentals, to all inclusive resorts.

"What will we be using them for this trip?" you ask.  We will be using their services to rent a car.  I often find rates that are 10% to 30% of regular rates, and this trip is no exception! 

Have you used Costco Travel before?  I highly recommend!

Soaring Over Maui

Can you imagine soaring through the valleys and along the coastline of Hawaii?  Perhaps hovering over a waterfall, all in a helicopter?

Before 2007 I would have told you that you were crazy to even suggest I get into helicopter, for anything, let alone for an aerial tour.  Then I took a cruise to Alaska.  There, I decided to put my fears aside and take an "once in a life time" tour that included flying over grasslands and glaciers.  The flight ultimately landed on a high elevation glacier, where we got to hike around before flying back to Skagway.

What an experience!  The overall experience was not what I was expecting.  It really felt as though we were floating, and then cutting through the air.  It was simply amazing! 

By taking the helicopter flight, I got to see places that I never would seen any other way.  The photos that I took from the air and on the glacier still "wow" me to this day!

We hope that we will get the chance to do a helicopter tour of the island during our honeymoon trip.  What better way to see the entire beauty of the island of Maui than by helicopter?

Hawaii Fun Planner Helicopter Tours

Destination: Maui, Hawaii

As you all now know, we are going to beautiful Maui for our honeymoon.  As we get closer I will share with you some of the activities that we have planned and the fabulous places we are planning to stay. 

To wet your appetite, let me tell you a little bit about Maui as a honeymoon destination.  Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands.  There is lots to explore and enjoy!  Activities include snorkeling, dinner cruises, golf, whale watching, helicopter tours, luaus, and much, much more.

Don't forget to check out the four and five star resorts on Maui.  If your plans don't involve you staying at one of these luxurious properties, be sure to give yourself the chance to experience "ono" (delicious ) food at one of their great restaurants.

I can't wait to give you a sneak preview of what we have in store, and of course, my full recap, and recommendations when we return!

Aloha!

Destination: Oregon Coast

Most people don't think of Oregon as a potential honeymoon destination. To us, the Oregon coast is a hidden gem, waiting to be explored.

The Salishan Spa and Golf Resort, located on the central coast of Oregon, in the town of Gleneden Beach, offers more luxury amenities that you can count. With distinct accommodation options, from traditional rooms to the lush two bedroom Sunset Suite, you are sure to find the perfect fit for the two of you. You can play a round of golf in the morning, followed by a "Side By Side" couples massage at the spa, and finish off your day with a romantic meal for two at the The Prime Steakhouse at Salishan.

Snuggle in front of the fire and wake up to beautiful views.  Whether it is for a quick weekend getaway, or a week long vacation, your stay at Salishan will surely be one to remember.

Honeymoon Hint

"Where did you decide to go on our honeymoon?" you ask.  Let me give you a couple hints:

That's right!  We're going to Maui!  More on where we will stay and what activities we have planned coming soon!

Destination: Raffles Hotel Sinapore

I have had the pleasure of visiting the Raffles Hotel Singapore on two occasions.  Both times were with my close friends who live in Singapore.

Just walking through the hotel, you get a sense of history behind the building.  Founded as a ten-room colonial bungalow in 1887, the Raffles Hotel Singapore has survived occupation, war, financial hardship, and a prolonged two year closure for extensive $160 million renovation.

When the hotel reopened in 1991, visitors found it had been not only restored to it's former glory stylistically, it had been improved, by converting all guest rooms to suites with teak-wood floors, handmade carpets, and 14-foot ceilings.  To say that the hotel is beautiful is an understatement.

Visitors to the famous  Long Bar, birthplace to the Singapore Sling, get to get a feel for what the hotel was like in it's heyday.  As live music plays in the warm night air, the fans moving air gently through the room, if you close your eyes, you can almost believe you have been transported to another time.

I highly recommend you add this to your list of places to visit.

Raffles Hotel
1 Beach Road
Singapore 189673
Singapore
800-768-9009

It's Looking Like Tropical Luxury

It's looking like tropical luxury is in store for us! 

We are both looking forward to a honeymoon destination that is warm, beautiful, luxurious, and fun.  We both love to have a mix of relaxation and planned, fun activities.  We also love eating at great restaurants,  soaking up the local culture and the ocean.

We're close to a decision; don't worry, all will be revealed sooner than you think!

Destination: Tropical

Have you decided where you will go on your honeymoon? Mr. T and I are still weighing our options.

Here are a few of our top choices:

1. Maui: The destination for relaxation and romance. So many options on one island!
2. Caribbean: Warm, relaxing, luxurious!
3. Tahiti: Do we want to stay in the cabana on the beach, or over the water?

Which would you choose?

New Year's Eve

I hope everyone has a safe and happy New Year's Eve!!!

New Year Eve

Happy New Years Eve everyone! What are you and your special someone doing tonight?

Mr. T and I spend NYE with his brother's family. They have two other couples and their children over for games, appetizers and fun. This year I think I'm going to do a pastry wrapped brie with caramelized onions. There has also been a request for Apple Dip. It is immensely popular, and somewhat addicting! Let me know what you guys think:

Ingredients

* 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese
* 1/2 cup brown sugar
* 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
* 1/2 cup English toffee bits

Directions

1. Stir together the cream cheese, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the sugar has dissolved, and the mixture is smooth. Stir in toffee bits and serve.

Merry Christmas!!!

A couple days late :-)

What did you do for Christmas?