KAILUA-KONA, Hawaii -- As part of our recent coverage of the third annual Hawaii Travel Exchange, Luxury Travel Advisor had the opportunity to tour the grounds of the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai at Historic Ka'upulehu and came back with some pitches to help advisers scratch the service on selling this Hawaii favorite.
Housed in intimate two-storey bungalows, the 16-year-old Four Seasons Resort Hualalai has 243 guest rooms and suites, including 51 suites and villas. An extensive collection of native Hawaiian art can be seen throughout. Nice touch: All of the villas are located in a lava rock setting.
We saw room no. 1202, a One-Bedroom Partial Oceanview Superior Suite. Tip: The top selling point of this room is the lava rock outdoor shower, which can be accessed from the bathroom.
We arrived a day before the grand opening of the resort’s new oceanfront fish and seafood restaurant ULU Ocean Grill + Sushi Lounge. A $2.5 million, five week refurbishment project just completed at this restaurant. Hint: We were told that ULU Ocean Grill + Sushi Lounge provides the best views of the sunset throughout the resort.
Some popular treatments at the resort's Hualalai Spa are indoor or outdoor massages, apothecary and acupuncture treatments. It comes with its own open-air garden, fitness center, yoga studio and more.
Tip: Pitch this to both couples and families heading to this historic district of Hawaii. The quiet setting, amazing sunset views, fine dining and spa make this a perfect pitch for couples, while its extensive Kids Program offerings make it a great pitch for families as well.
Note: Although the property is usually at about 95 percent occupancy, the space is so spread out that is doesn't feel like guests are on top of each other. Note: Advisers looking a stay for VIPs during the Christmas holiday season should book at least a year in advance.
Presented by Luxury Travel Advisor and Travel Agent magazines with partner the Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau, the Hawaii Travel Exchange fully immerses travel sellers on the islands of Hawaii.
The 2012 event was held at the Marriott Waikoloa Beach Resort & Spa on the Big Island, Hawaii.
Visit www.fourseasons.com/hualalai.