As the summer slowly approaches, Hawaii is beefing up its family offerings. Here's a sample of some new sales pitches for clients looking to come to this multi-generational traveler's dream.
Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Set to Launch New Family Adventure Series in June
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is unveiling its “Family Adventure Summer Series” dedicated to creating memorable, authentic Hawaiian experiences for families and clients of all ages.
The Family Adventure Summer Series includes new activities at the pool and the beach, the spa and the resort’s signature Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program.
Children get to experience summer break like never before with education and exploration in nature’s "living" classroom, led by Cousteau-trained naturalists. Activities include snorkeling, ocean education, hikes and authentic Hawaiian cultural experiences. The Ambassadors Weekly Camp welcomes children ages five years and up. Lunch is provided and the cost is $499 per child with siblings welcomed to join the fun for $439. It is offered Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
As part of the The Mana Maker Ambassadors Experience, clients begin the day with a guided, interpretive snorkel tour with the expert naturalists from Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment. After experiencing the deep blue waters of the Pacific, clients will return to land for a nature hike of choice where the naturalists will demonstrate how the mauka and makai are eternally connected. ($279 per guest, advanced reservations required, maximum two people per tour and must be minimum of 12 years-old to enjoy).
New for summer, when adults confirm two 80-minute spa treatments at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua, up to two children will experience their Ambassadors program complimentary. This is ideal for parents looking to rejuvenate while the children are adventuring with The Ambassadors.
The series also included the Keiki Complimentary Dining Program, which is valid through December 18. Children who are 12-years-old and younger dine free at the Pool Cafe or Alaloa Lounge and children five-years-old and younger eat free for breakfast in The Terrace Restaurant. Agents should note that only one child per full-paying adult eats for free and the offer is not valid with in-room dining. Visit www.ritzcarlton.com.
Polynesian Cultural Center Adds New Family-Style Luau
The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) in Laie, Hawaii recently announced its new Island Luau, a new luau experience centered around Samoan culture.
The Island Luau debuts May 20 and includes admission to interactive guest activities, the new Hawaiian Journey interactive theater presentation, Ha: Breath of Life evening show and admission to all seven island villages represented at PCC.
The Island Luau takes place outdoors in the PCC’s Samoan Village and is hosted by the Samoan Village’s “Senior Ambassador”, Kap Teo Tafiti, recognized by many guests for his humorous dialogue and audience interaction. The interactive luau will have guests participating in fun activities like basket and coconut plate weaving and coconut shell dancing. Entertainment will also feature keiki fireknife dancers and songs and dances dedicated to the coconut tree, an important icon in Samoan culture.
“We are pleased to offer an affordable luau experience that includes a wide variety of activities and experiences the whole family can enjoy,” says Alfred Grace, president and CEO of the PCC. “Our Island Luau offers guests the opportunity to learn about several Polynesian cultures, particularly the Samoan and Hawaiian cultures, in a more personalized setting where everyone is encouraged to kick back, relax and enjoy our luau food, entertainment and activities.”
Presided over by the Samoan Chief’s Court, guests are welcomed to the Island Luau with a shell lei greeting and are able to enjoy Samoan versions of popular luau songs, such as the Hawaiian Wedding Song, and Samoan dishes coupled with popular Hawaiian luau foods, including a roasted pig.
The Island Luau runs Mondays – Saturdays from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m. in the Samoan Village. Introductory promotional prices start at $74.95 for adults and $57.95 for children ages 5-11. Kamaaina can enjoy this experience for 20 percent off the promotional price, or $59.96 for adults and $46.36 for children ages 5-11.
The PCC is open Monday through Saturday, and is closed on Sundays. Visit www.polynesia.com.
Four Seasons Lanai Offers Family-Focused Summer Programs
The Four Seasons Lanai Resort recently introduced the new “Hotelier Apprentice Summer Camp,” to entice families traveling with small children this summer.
The “Hotelier Apprentice Summer Camp” is a complimentary program allowing children ages five to 12 to participate in behind-the-scenes operations at the resort. It includes introductions to hospitality related areas of study, such as culinary arts, botany, engineering, health and wellness, and marine biology. The sessions run Monday through Friday from now until the end of July.
The Four Seasons Lanai also offers the “Kids For All Seasons” supervised program, with services like movie night, kid-friendly tours and excursions, and professional babysitting services. To eliminate the hassle of traveling with baby gear, the resort will lend parents necessary kid amenities such as cribs and strollers at no charge.
The Four Seasons offers other family friendly programs this summer at various destinations around the globe, such as the “Extend a Helping Hand” volunteer program at the Four Seasons Costa Rica, where guests can volunteer to help area families in need by providing basic necessities and delievering backpacks with supplies for schoolchildren. Visit www.fourseasons.com.
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