Getting Married at the Fairmont Orchid

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Orchid

After spending three weeks in Hawaii this past July, looking at luxury resorts for destination weddings and honeymoons, I have come to the conclusion that Hawaii is the great place to have a wedding or to go on a honeymoon. Not only does it have warm temperatures (usually in the high 70s or low 80s) and gorgeous scenery but there is also plenty to do on the “Big Island” of Hawaii, making it a perfect location for you and your guests to have a great time on one of your most important holidays during your lifetime! The Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala Coast is one hotel on the Big Island that you will want to consider for your tropical wedding.

This Hawaiian resort located in Mauna Lani, is surrounded by five sacred mountains, and the aquamarine hues of the Pacific Ocean. The Fairmont Orchid is a beautifully landscaped property with spectacular resort scenery, including sweeping oceanfront views, a secluded beach, and tranquil waterfall gardens. Each provides an unforgettable backdrop for any special occasion, depending on your preference. The resort had plenty of aloha spirit and a sense of magic and romance surrounding you as you enjoy the luxury service, the fantastic sunsets, and this breath-taking tropical paradise.

The Fairmont Orchid has nearly 76 000 square feet of open-air space that for you to hold your dream outdoor wedding. You’ll find one of the biggest problems you will have is to decide which one is right for you:

Turtle Point Gazebo: Located on an oceanfront location on Turtle Pointe . this classic Victorian-style white wedding gazebo provides a breathtaking panorama of the ocean, the resort and the summits of the Kohala Mountains, Mauna Kea, and Mauna Loa

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Orchid

The Coconut Grove: Popular for both the ceremony and the reception if you want a sandy beach location, this beautiful setting has lovely towering swaying palms overhead, glowing tiki torches, and spectacular ocean views.

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae

The Courtyard Lanai: This area is located on the garden level beneath the Lobby. It features sculpted tile and railings and overlooks the lawn as well as the pool and the ocean beyond.

The Ballroom Courtyard: This courtyard is sheltered on four sides but opens to the sky and has a large centered fountain.

The Plantation Estates: This rectangular lawn area enclosed by stately palms has a view of the 9^th and 10^th fairway and the ocean beyond.

Wailana Gardens/Wailele Falls: These areas are intimate and serene located next to beautiful waterfalls, lush green gardens, and swaying palm trees.

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae

Kilohana:  This indoor/outdoor function space opens to a private lanai and grassy area surrounded by tiki torches suitable for cocktails before you move inside for an indoor reception.

The Fairmont Orchid also has many luxury indoor settings which include The Grand Ballroom, The Plaza Ballroom and the Promenade Ballroom (can be separated into three different rooms). In addition, many couples opt to have their reception dinner on the Knoll at Brown’s Beach House, which is located along the shore of Pauoa Bay.

Photo courtesy of Fairmont Orchid

“The Fairmont Orchid, Hawai’i is the perfect setting to seal the bond of love for your wedding or special occasion. Once known as Kalahuipua’a, the playground of Hawaiian Kings, the lush tropical landscaping, sweeping oceanfront views and gorgeous waterfalls that have become hallmarks of our spectacular resort will provide a memorable backdrop for your event. A feeling of magic and romance will be forever etched into your memory as you exchange vows in this tropical paradise.” – Fairmont Orchid

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations for discerning travellers, honeymooners and families. As the owner of Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her attravelinfo@delsoltravel.ca or phone 403-477-0643.

Upscale Luxury at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

While visiting the Big Island of Hawaii, my business partner and I were fortunate to meet with Jenna, the wedding and event coordinator, at the beautiful Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. She gave us some great information about the resort as well as showing us the wedding ceremony and reception locations on the property as she took us on a guided tour. 



Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae



Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, a five-star property, is built on the site of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village of Ka’ūpūlehu. It fronts the Kukio Bay on the North Kona Coast. It is located about 10 minutes from the Kona International Airport, which is the main airport for the Kailua-Kona area. While there are many nice resorts in the area, the Four Seasons is an incredible property for those wanting an incredible vacation. Most of the rooms have an ocean view, as well as overlooking the gardens and one of the pools or the golf course. The Kona-Kohala coast of the Big Island of Hawaii is the sunniest, driest and warmest of the islands in the Hawaiian archipelago. For those of us who live in a climate with long, cold winters, life cannot get much better than that.

 As soon as you turn off Highway 19 into the Hualalai property development, the barren lava rock, natural to the area, is transformed into a beautiful manicured landscape. Cul de sacs of luxury villas are interspersed with the lush greens of the Jack Nicklaus signature Hualalai Golf Course. 



Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae



One can’t help but notice the deep blue ocean, seen in other areas of the island, turns into a sparkling azure blue as it gets close to the white sandy beach. A courteous gatekeeper welcomes you to the property and directs you to the hotel. As you drive up to the resort, you see all the verdant foliage, the palms and the tropical plants. It’s like being in an oasis in the middle of the desert.

The lobby is comfortable looking and huge! Since it was a beautiful day, the sliding windows were opened giving one the feeling of being outside rather than inside in a hotel lobby. Guests are welcomed upon check-in with a cool towel, fresh juice, and a fragrant fresh flower lei at the reception desk, and fruit, nuts, and fudge in their room.



Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae



Our tour of the property took place using a golf cart as the means of transportation since the resort is so large. There are four main areas with the guest rooms and suites forming a crescent around a central pool. These included Palm Grove, Beach Tree, Sea Shell, and King’s Pond. The Ulu Terrace and Golf Ocean Bungalows arc around the golf course. Each area has a character of its own and is quite different from the other areas. The resort’s 243 expansive guest rooms, including 51 suites are built in two-storey bungalows. The rooms are relaxing and luxurious with a feeling of being away from the rest of the world. Bamboo, thatch and slate are prominent in the décor and the decorations and I loved the thatched headboards on some of the beds. Cheery wood doors open to view the beautiful blue waters of the ocean and the white sandy beach. The rooms are decorated with romantic Polynesian décor with walls and furniture upholstered in soft colors with crisp white linens topped with blue-colored throws. The rooms are bright and airy with windows that allow in a lot of light. The entire room has a minimalist look which creates a calm atmosphere allowing a person to rest and relax. 



Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae



The resort has an extensive collection of art and artefacts throughout the resort which tell the story of Hawaii.

As beautiful and calming as the rooms are, the resort itself is beautiful and calming. The resort has six pools spread across the oceanfront which permit quiet lounging. Three of the pools are for scuba and snorkeling with thousands of brilliant tropical fish, and others for lap swimming and adults. 



The lap pool 

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae



Fitness facilities include a rock-climbing wall and eight tennis courts. The spa, with 18 treatment rooms, also has eucalyptus steam, dry sauna, and a cold plunge. Guests can explore Hualalai by land and water, with adventures from outrigger canoeing to shoreline fishing, and from rock climbing to fitness walks on the beach at sunrise. The Hualalai Cultural Center provided many activities to help guest learn more about the Hawaiian culture. There is also a children’s pool and a program where numerous children’s activities are provided. The golf course was definitely being enjoyed by many of the guests while we were there.

The resort has three restaurants and two lounges to choose from, with creative menus that change to reflect the seasons and to offer tempting variety throughout the week – from the bounty of Hawaii’s land and oceans to Tuscan cucina rustica or beachfront barbecues, from Asian-Pacific cuisine to Polynesian pupus

(appetisers) and mai tais. We ate lunch under a huge umbrella outside at the Beach Tree Grill and Bar and enjoyed the beautiful ocean view as we sat on plush chairs pulled up to a coffee table. We each ordered a hamburger which has to be one of the best that I have ever had. The service was incredible and we could see that the staff went out of their way to make the guests fell welcome.



Cathy reading the menu 

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae



At the Four Seasons, one can’t help but notice all of the extras that are supplied complimentary for the guests.  There are too many to mention but some of them are as follows: Since the shore is rocky and wana (a long-spined sea urchin) are present, complementary reef walkers (tabis) are provided.  Children’s toys and a shirt are left on the bed for the child guest. Sun tan lotion SPF 15 and SPF 30) and leave-in condition are provided at the pools as well as nice cold lemonade and a phone in case you need to make a quick call. Even the spa is kept at a certain temperature which is considered the most calming for the guests.



Gifts for the guests

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae



Four Seasons Resort Hualapai is known for its luxury and service. Anyone who stays here will feel that they have indeed found paradise not only in the beauty of the area but also in the way that they are treated and made to feel special. Thanks Jenna for the tour and lunch! Your resort offers so much to its guests, not much wonder it has been recognized in various magazines as the top resort and spa in the State of Hawaii. We’ll be back!



Entrance  to the main lobby from the beach area

Photo courtesy of Muriel MacRae



When you are ready to book your Hawaii vacation, call Muriel at 1-866-653-4055 or email at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca.

Watch for  the continuation of this blog, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai  Part II, featuring the pictures of this lovely resort. 

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations  for honeymooners and families. As the owner of  Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca   or phone 403-477-0643

The Fairmont Palliser - A Hotel Fit for the Royals

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been participating in a whirlwind tour across Canada. So far they have made stops in Ontario, Quebec, Prince Edward Island, and the Northwest Territories, but Wednesday, July 6th marks their much-anticipated arrival in Calgary. While Calgary rolls out the red carpet, the bigger question is where will William and Catherine reside during their stay?



William and Catherine are set to touch-down in Calgary on Wednesday, July 6th, 2011

Located in the heart of downtown Calgary, the Fairmont Palliser has hosted royals and celebrities alike for decades. Formerly one of the great CPR (Canadian Pacific Railway) hotels, this exclusive five-star property not only has historical significance, but the quality and service we’ve come to expect from Fairmont Resorts and Hotels. Chances are good that this is where they royal duo will be staying!

The Fairmont Palliser, a Calgary landmark, will most likely be home to the royal couple during their brief stay in Calgary. – Photo courtesy of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts

The Palliser has several Heritage Suites that have always been top-notch, but the Royal Suite will be where William and Catherine will sleep. Grand, elegant, and luxurious are just some of the words used to describe this spacious and distinctive room, located on the Fairmont Gold Floor. It served as home to Queen Elizabeth II during her trip to Calgary in June, 1990, hence, it’s name. The suite features a large bedroom, a living room, two bathrooms, and a regal dining room which can seat up to twelve guests. Large windows allow for picturesque views of the city and mountains in the background.



The Master Bedroom – Photo courtesy of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts



The Parlor – Photo courtesy of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts

Although their stay will be short, the Fairmont Palliser is ideal for this busy couple, who I’m sure are still looking for a touch of romance. Sweet dreams Will and Kate and enjoy your stay at the Palliser!

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Edward Ross Photography

Cathy MacRae is in the business of making dreams come true! In addition to being CEO of Creative Weddings and Occasions, she is also their lead wedding choreographer and design coordinator. Operating out of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, she plans weddings for couples in and around the Calgary, Banff, and Lake Louise area. Her clients want a wedding that is all about romance, elegance, and personalized style! Her experience in the wedding industry allows her clients to have that unique wedding celebration that tells a story and sets the stage for their own "happily ever after." As a destination wedding specialist, she also works with couples who desire to wed in various picturesque dream locations throughout the world, including such exotic locations as Hawaii, Mexico, Costa Rica, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific. Cathy is a member of the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada, the Association of Bridal Consultants, the International Special Events Society, and the Community of Wedding Innovators.

For more information about planning your own wedding or for advice from Cathy, please contact her at info@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com or call 1-888-790-6986.



Categories: Honeymoons, Reception Venues, Ceremony Venues,

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Conrad Maldives: Reshaping the Concept of Luxury

30 Water Villas Will Undergo a Complete Transformation in 2011

Setting the standard for luxury travel in the Maldives for over 15 years, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island raises the bar once again with the complete renovation of 28 Water Villas and two Premier Water Villas starting May 15. Expected to last for six months, the renovation work will transform the villas into ultra-luxurious contemporary over-water retreats with additional decking, private pools, entirely new furniture and sublime bathrooms with picture windows overlooking the ocean.

“Rangali Island is the smaller of the resort’s two islands,” says Regional General Manager Carsten Schieck, “and it offers the natural setting for the pure beauty and luxury that guests expect to find in the Maldives. The complete renovation of our Water Villas will ensure that these rooms retain their position as some of the most outstanding villas in the country.”

During the renovation, 28 Water Villas will be taken apart and completely renovated from the inside out, while two Premier Water Villas will see subtle updates on the interior. The layout of the Water Villas will become an open plan, giving a sense of space. The highlight of the architecture is the desk which is set over glass panels, giving the impression that it is floating over the water below.

The décor of the new Water Villas features elegant natural tones of wood and soft whites with gentle shades of lavender and green. Understated, recessed lighting adds to the contemporary feel.

As part of the renovation, half of Rangali Island; one restaurant, Vilu; and one of the resort’s two spas will be closed. The rest of the resort will continue to operate as usual with guests having the option of dining at eight restaurants and bars. The Spa Retreat on the main island will offer the full treatment list from the Over-Water Spa during its six-month closure.

Rangali Restaurant and Bar

In all Water Villas, guests will enjoy the latest in modern amenities including flat screen satellite TVs, CD stereos with iPod connectors, DVD players, “Nespresso” tea/coffee machines, mini bars and International Direct Dialing (IDD) telephones. The renovated villas are expected to open on November 1, 2011 with room rates starting from $1,000 per night for two.

With the Spa Retreat and Beach Villas on Rangalifinolhu Island and Water Villas on Rangali Island, Conrad Maldives Rangali Island offers the widest choice of accommodation in the Maldives, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of different experiences without ever leaving the resort.

Can you imagine sleeping in this room surrounded by the sea? This is definitely a dream come true experience!

A special thank you to Conrad Maldives for giving us information about the renovations to their beautiful resort and allowing us to use their photos.

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations  for honeymooners and families. As the owner of  Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca   or phone 403-477-0643

Fiji Islands – an Enchanting Tourist Destination

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Located in the South Pacific about 3000 kilometers east of Australia, Fiji is the essence of a tropical island paradise and an excellent destination for tourists. Composed of more than 300 islands and about 500 islets, some habited and some not, Fiji is perfect for the visitor looking for deserted white sandy islands, magnificent beaches, rugged highlands, cool warm waters, astounding marine life, magnificent coral reefs, and lush rain forests. 

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Whether you are celebrating your honeymoon, a romantic getaway, your anniversary, or just  some sports activities such as sailing, snorkelling or scuba diving, Fiji should be number one on your list and here’s why:

Relax on island time: As soon as you arrive in Fiji, you will feel the slowed down pace. Whether you are walking along a deserted beach, or swimming in the ocean , the coast of the Fijian islands is the perfect place to unwind. You can feel your worries drift away as you breath your first whiff of salt air or feel the tropical breeze blow through your hair.  

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me-

Romantic bures: Fiji is known for its bures, traditional thatched-roofed wood bungalows set along the beach or tucked in the lush green foliage. These buildings usually contain one or two rooms with louvered windows which let the breeze in and exotic amenities such as plunge pools, outdoor showers, and beds draped with nets. They can range from being very basic to luxurious with nightly rates ranging from $250 to $5000.

Photo courtesy of qamea-fiji-resort-spa.com

Go Island Hopping: Comprised of so many beautiful islands, Fiji offers visitors the opportunity to visit and explore new destinations each day. There are two main islands: Viti Levu, the largest island and home to the Nadi International Airport, and Vanua Levu, the second largest which  has many resorts catering to dives as it is flanked by one of the world’s longest barrier reefs. Tavenui, the third largest island, is covered with tropical rainforests and Kaduvu, the fourth in size, is ideal for hiking, bird-watching, and eco-adventure. After you take a short ferry ride or a plane ride to your next island of choice, you’ll have the opportunity to relax on your own uninhabited island.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Warm and welcoming Fijian people: One of the main reasons to visit Fiji is to experience  the warm hospitality of the Fijian people. Fijians are well known for being happy, friendly and hospitable people who will do everything they can to make visitors fell relaxed and welcome to their islands. There are plenty of things to do and see in Fiji and its inhabitants are more than willing to make sure your vacation is one you will remember.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Amazing snorkelling and diving: Fiji has crystal-clear waters and protected coral reefs which hosts an endless adventure for curious divers and snorkelers.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

With 1000 species of fish and several hundred types of coral and sponges, and an endless array of anemones, molluscs, crustaceans, and other invertebrates, snorkelling and diving a major draw. Almost every resort has an onsite dive operator so all visitors can explore the depths underwater, no matter the experience level.

Photo courtesy of Fiji Me

Relax…in the Fiji Islands Video by dhuting

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Muriel MacRae plans exciting getaways and customized vacations  for honeymooners and families. As the owner of  Del Sol Travel, she offers romantic vacations with personalized service and unique itineraries. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their customized vacation. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at travelinfo@delsoltravel.ca   or phone 403-477-0643

Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora- Closest Thing to Paradise

If you are looking for the best place in the world for a honeymoon or romantic retreat, consider the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora. This resort is located on the mystical island of Bora Bora with its soaring peaks, beautiful multihued blue lagoon, and white sand-fringed private motu (small coral islets). Four Seasons Bora Bora offers a South Sea escape in a lush tropical wilderness with luxury and modern comfort. It was recently awarded the Travellers’ Choice Awards 2011 for Romance, Relaxation and Spa, and Luxury.

Welcome to Four Seasons Bora Bora

The resort offers 121 spacious hideaways nestling around the crystal-clear Bora Bora lagoon and its outer beaches. The 100 over-water bungalows perch on stilts above the turquoise waters of the lagoon. There are seven beachfront villas on the shore along a stretch of semi-private beach. Enjoy culinary delights and breath-taking sunsets in four restaurants and bars. Enjoy the dazzling outdoor pool or participate in a wide range of recreational activities that add up to an experience without equal in the South Pacific. 

Let the pictures speak for themselves. Staying at this resort is definitely a “WOW’ experience. 

I wish I were there right now!

Reception

Pool

Pool

Sunset Bar

Arii Moana Restaurant

Otemanu Over-Water bungalow

Two-Bedroom Beachfront Villa

The Four Season Bora Bora redefines South Sea Escapes! Author , James A. Mitchener, declared it the most beautiful island in the world.

All photos and resort information courtesy of Four Seasons Bora Bora.

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Muriel MacRae is an associate wedding coordinator, a design consultant and event choreographer, and a destination wedding coordinator with Creative Weddings and Occasions and the owner of a boutique travel agency called Del Sol Travel.  She is a certified wedding planner and destination wedding coordinator through the Wedding Planners Institute of Canada. Getting to know and understand her clients is critical in helping turn their ideas and vision into a unique and memorable masterpiece when creating their dream wedding. Located in Calgary, Alberta, she plans weddings, destination weddings, and honeymoons for couples in and around the Calgary and Banff area and throughout North America. For more information about planning your wedding, honeymoon, or romantic getaway, please contact her at muriel@creativeweddingsandoccasions.com or phone 403-477-0643.