Maui, a Paradise For Every Budget

by Plaza Travel Consultant, Lucy Sampogna

Since I specialize in Hawaiian vacations I like to recommend resorts which I have personally visited. On my most recent trip to Maui I was able to experience 2 very different resorts, the Outrigger Wailea Resort and the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa.

The Outrigger Wailea is a Hawaiian-style resort which enables you to experience the Aloha spirit for which Hawaii is so famous. Its renovation last year opened up the public areas, such as the lobby, enabling views of the beautiful scenery. The Mele Mele lounge and Hula Moons restaurant take advantage of spectacular ocean views and, I might add, the service & quality of food in both was excellent. There is also a fabulous oceanfront luau offered 4 days a week as well as complimentary activities through the resort daily.

The rooms were a pleasant surprise: extremely spacious at 460 sq ft with amenities usually found in deluxe hotels. The tropical motif furnishings are also quite attractive.

The oceanfront paved walking/running trail is a real delight: it runs for 1.5 miles past the resort so you can exercise while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

The newly reopened Shops at Wailea are not even a 5-minute walk from the resort, making it a convenient location for shopping & dining. You should pay a visit to Tommy Bahamas Tropical Café…a fun place for drinks and dinner with excellent food & service.

I would highly recommend Outrigger Wailea since it offers a tremendous value at a moderate price.

The Hyatt Maui also completed a full room renovation earlier this year. It is truly a deluxe oasis in the heart of Kaanapali with a huge pool area, waterfalls, tropical birds and….penguins! The rooms are equal in size to those at the Outrigger with upscale appointments. Not to be missed is the fabulous breakfast buffet in the Swan Court restaurant, served daily until 11AM. Be sure to sign up for the narrated stargazing from the roof……a very special experience.

The oceanfront Moana spa is a real delight: extremely professional staff skilled in a variety of treatments many of which are uniquely Hawaiian, such as the Kaanapali Coffee Scrub. Last but not least is the open, tranquil relaxation lounge where you can ease yourself into the “real” world after your pampering treatment.

May the spirit of Aloha be with you,

Lucy Sampogna