Elite Traveler HRS 2022

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RELAX The Spa is more than a relaxing oasis; it offers state-of-the-art treatments and facilities. Enjoy relaxing body treatments and facials that use local ingredients, like Molokai sea salt and Hawaiian spirulina, turmeric and coconut. On the other side of the spectrum, you can indulge in a surgically inspired facial that features professional-strength products from Celestial Black Diamond, HydraFacial and LED light therapy, or a Cryotherapy Energy Facial. The massages are excellent, too, and there are results-oriented ones, including Hawaiian techniques or a deep-tissue massage using the Rad Roller and infrared light therapy, which will relax even the tensest muscles. Should you need a little pick-me-up, Dr Okwuje offers fillers, micro-needling, Botox and liquid facelifts on-site. DINE There are plenty of delicious dining options on property. Start your day with the extensive buffet at Duo, which offers every dish imaginable and has terrific fresh Hawaiian fruit and juices. Take in the spectacular ocean views during lunch at Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante, which offers Meditteranean-Italian cuisine, including pizzas and homemade pasta. It’s also open for dinner, and you can watch the sunset light up the sky while you dine. Spago is the go-to spot for fine dining on Maui; it has won numerous awards and was opened by the legendary chef Wolfgang Puck. The wine list is divine, and it offers a unique Hawaiian-Californian-fusion cuisine. If you’re looking for a truly special experience, book the Unforgettable Experience at the Serenity Pool. The resort will open the pool after hours for you and your party, and create a special menu. Dining under the stars is an evening you won’t soon forget. ENJOY The resort is beloved by families and honeymooners — there are activities and places for everyone. It has a fantastic, children-friendly pool with a large fountain and a tranquil adults-only pool, aptly named the Serenity Pool. There’s plenty of programming to help you explore the island and Hawaiian culture, too. From December to May, don’t miss a unique whale-watching excursion. Seeing these incredible creatures breach the surface is a surreal experience. If you want to learn more about Hawaiian culture, you can take a lei- making class, learn how to make poke, or watch the stars with a Hawaiian astronomer and hear how her ancestors used the stars to guide their voyages. Maui is a large island with tons of activities and sights to see, and the concierge can recommend the best guides and excursions for you. One of our top picks is watching the sunrise from the peak of Haleakalā.

Relax in a cabana alongside the Fountain Pool and the Pacific

The casual elegance and scenic views of the Elite Suite

STAY Elite Suite Size 1,800 sq ft Nightly rate from $14,500

FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAUI AT WAILEA HAWAII, USA

The resort has two stunning Presidential Suites, but wine lovers know to head to the equally gorgeous Elite Suites. They were created in partnership with Christian Navarro of Wally’s Wine of Beverly Hills, who is known as the sommelier to the stars. These two-bedroom suites span 1,800 sq ft, with lanais that run the length of the suites. They are located on high floors, so they have superb 180-degree views — perfect for enjoying a special bottle of wine while watching the sunset. The suites have an iPad with a curated wine list (exclusively available in the Elite Suites) and an in-suite minibar of the highest levels with vintages from top producers like Dom Pérignon. To get the full experience, book the Ultimate Pairing Dinner to accompany your stay. This private, multicourse dinner features dishes expertly paired with your favorite wines in the suite or in a secluded location on the property. A stay in the Elite Suite will also grant you connections to top winemakers so that you can enjoy private tours of the vineyards after your visit.

When it opened in 1990, Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea heralded a new era for the island, and for the Four Seasons brand — it was only the third property to open. It sits in a pristine spot on a peaceful crescent of beach overlooking the ocean, but it is still close to restaurants, shops and world-class golf in Wailea. The resort has extensive landscaped grounds with Hawaiian hales and a sculpture garden, and it celebrates its Hawaiian roots and the island’s unique culture at every turn, whether it’s the inspired cuisine, extensive contemporary Hawaiian art collection, special programming or fabulous cocktails. CONTACT Thomas Boeker, reservations manager, reservations.mau@fourseasons.com, +1 808 874 8000

A stunning tropical Hawaiian panorama

Words Kristen Shirley