Elite Traveler January-February 2015

EXPLORE HAWAII

9 The Royal Hawaiian KING KAMEHAMEHA SUITE OAHU

An effortless combination of local history and contemporary luxury, the so-called “Pink Palace of the Pacific” opened on Waikiki in 1927 and was completely renovated in 2009. This one-bedroom suite features warm koa and teak floors and Hawaiian-inspired Kapa paper artwork. Its spacious lanai has a covered outdoor living and dining area, with ocean views. The décor pays homage to the Royal Alii, the revered feathered cape of Hawaii’s first ruler, King Kamehameha, in rich red and gold shades. The centerpiece is a king-sized, four-poster bed topped by a custom Kapa Mua Quilt. Special amenities VIP airport transfers; personalized concierge service; welcome amenity of Royal Hawaiian pink champagne and fresh fruit; breakfast daily for two; two reserved chaises on the Royal Guest Beach; chef’s signature turndown amenities nightly; and complimentary valet parking, Wi-Fi and pressing. Size 786 sq ft (plus a 988 sq ft lanai) Number of rooms Two (but it can be booked with a second 530 sq ft bedroom, with additional 770 sq ft lanai). Plus one full and one half bathroom. Who’s slept here? A Who’s Who of Hollywood, from Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor to Heather Graham and Roger Ebert Nightly rate $9,500 Contact General manager Kelly Hoen; 808-931-7913; kelly.hoen@luxurycollection.com

royal-hawaiian.com

This is all about beachfront bliss. While all 37 of the two- or three-bedroom villas at this 22-acre resort are fresh from a renovation, they all boast a superior location: just steps from Maui’s white-sand Polo Beach. Offering two levels of living and sleeping space (in three bedrooms plus a sleeper sofa in the living room), and a private outdoor plunge pool, full kitchen and laundry room, they’re great options for families or a group of friends. Designed in a modern Hawaiian style, they are awash in neutral textures and sleek polished marble with dark wood furnishings and pops of orange, red and purple as accents. Special amenities Expedited check-in and personal escort to the villa; complimentary valet parking; daily breakfast buffet for up to six people; a tote bag full of tropical fruits, Hawaiian jams, brie cheese, fresh baked bread and snacks; fruit juices and water replenished daily; and the option to arrange a personalized butler-prepared barbecue at the villa. Size 2,200 sq ft Number of rooms in suite Six (plus two bathrooms) Who’s slept here? Luke and Owen Wilson, Andrew Garfield, Zac Effron, Britney Spears and Woody Harrelson Nightly rate From $2,949 Contact General manager Charles Head; 808-875-4100; charles.head@fairmont.com 8 The Fairmont Kea Lani OCEANFRONT THREE-BEDROOM VILLA KEA LANI

fairmont.com/kea-lani-maui/