As I sat in the hot tub of the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa in Maui, I struck up a conversation with the older gentleman who was hogging the best jet. When he asked where I was from, I fumbled. As I started to say Phoenix, I ended up saying "Phoahu". I had to explain my fumble - that we are from Phoenix, but living in Oahu for 4 months and have come to Maui for a vacation. He said I should be embarrassed to tell people that. I am, but I'm also so excited about our good fortune, that I cannot contain myself. I told him he should be happy for me and he assured me that he was. So, here I was, in Maui for vacation, from Oahu, and it was great!
There is something for everyone on Maui and I mean everyone. My family, including my parents, spent last week in Maui, on its western shore. Here we experienced all the variety Maui has to offer, in scenery, in weather, in activities. Maui is called the valley isle and once you fly in, it is easy to see why. If you've been to any other Hawaiian islands, you will appreciate how unique it really is. There is a vast valley between two volcanic mountains. To the east is Haleakala, a 10,023 ft peak, on the north slope of which is the famed Road to Hana. To the west is Pu'u Kukui, the 5,787 ft peak, on the west shore of which is Lahaina, Kaanapali and some of the best snorkeling in the world.
|
Steve at the top of Haleakala overlooking the valley and Pu'u Kukui (under distant clouds) |
We stayed at the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa, our first experience with real luxury (thanks to a great Costco promotion) on our Hawaii trip. Upon arrival at this Kaanapali resort, one of many along Kaanapali beach just north of Lahaina, we were indulged by the the scenery, the staff, and the accommodations. The lobby entrance was gorgeous with a large atrium filled with flowers, trees, ponds and wildlife, including penguins and colorful birds.
|
African Crowned Crane |
The pool was a massive oasis which included a tunnel through a pool bar to the kids' side which had fountains, floating animals, a sand bottom and slides. All of this, overlooking the Pacific Ocean and a tremendous view of