Bouncing off the Clouds

Haleakala Bike Tour
(Fifth of a Series)

Day 3 - December 17, 2013

My hubby Alan didn't want to just visit the famous Maui volcano again during our return trip. This time around, he wanted to try the Haleakala downhill bike ride. So I made arrangements for Bike Maui's 9:30 a.m. Summit Deluxe Tour. (Research warned me that the sunrise ride was a wee bit early and probably too cold for me. Although I hear that it's an experience of a lifetime.)

We rented our bikes from Bike Maui

After selecting our bikes and receiving our gear, our entire tour group boarded a shuttle commandeered by the lively tour guide named Kimo.  He drove us all the way to the Haleakala National Park's Visitor Center located at the peak so we could view the crater. Along the way, Kimo regaled us with his fun tales and historical facts while pointing at landmarks to help us easily find our way back.

The entrance to Haleaka National Park in Maui

At the summit (about 10,000 ft), you can look down at the breathtaking Haleakala crater. 

Haleakala, which means "House of the Sun," forms about 75% of the island of Maui.

I don't remember noticing the 'ahinahina or silversword plant the last time we were up here. Its leaves that appear like silver hairs piqued my curiosity. I learned that this endangered species has a very delicate root structure that can easily be damaged just by walking around the plant.

'Ahinahina or silversword plant

After our short visit at the summit, Kimo took us down to the 6500 feet level to start the 23 mile ride downhill.

Posing before our 23-mile bike journey

I guess I flashed the I Love You sign instead of Hang Loose.  

With Alan leading the way, me in the middle, and Trevor at my tail, we began our exciting downhill journey. I'll admit I was white-knuckled at first while zipping down the mountain and making the turns. I kept reassuring myself, "You're doing just fine. You're doing fabulous." Soon enough, I relaxed and bicycled with ease. The views were stunning!

Biking down Haleakala

It was a great day for an amazing bike ride down Haleakala.

It was gratifying to see stunning views of the vast blue ocean and the lush greenery.

We only made a few stops to take some pictures and get a quick bite at Maui Lavender. What an exhilarating experience! And there was no rain. We were yet again granted beautiful weather. I couldn't be more thrilled.

My favorite part of the tour was when Kimo, our creative and entertaining tour guide, took us to a spot for a perfect photo opp.  We were at a level above the clouds and it created a great backdrop.  He instructed us to jump as he quickly took a snapshot.  The result was a fun pic making it appear as though we're jumping on cloud trampolines.

At this level, we were above the clouds

With this great backdrop, all we had to do was jump to look like we're skydiving.

We're bouncing off the clouds!

Whee!!!

Later that day, I sent photos to my friend Cheryl via text.  She said, "From the pic, looked like a beautiful clear day. Lucky."

Lucky indeed!


Continued from It's A Hula-Day! Next is Heavenly Pampering. More to come on this Maui adventure.

It's a Hula-day

The Te Au Moana Luau
(Fourth of a series)

Day 2 - December 16, 2013

A visit to Hawaii would not be complete without going to a luau.  My good friend Cheryl recommended the Te Au Moana Luau presented at Wailea Beach Marriott Resort and Spa.  During my early morning exploratory walk the day before, I discovered it's just next door to Grand Wailea! All it took was a 5-minute leisurely walk from our hotel room to the venue.

We all agreed to meet at 4:30 pm so we could save good seats.  I was surprised to see the place already filling up.

Our group photo with Cheryl and Mike at the Te Au Moana Luau

While waiting for the feast to start, we received our orchid leis, had our photos taken, and chatted away over mai tais and pina coladas.  I told Alan and Trevor that Cheryl and her husband Mike own Mele Ukulele, known to be the Best Ukulele Shop in Maui. We asked them if they've ever met any celebrities at their store.  Apparently, several famous folks such as Mick Fleetwood, Steve Miller, John Fogerty, and even comedian Mike Myers have purchased ukuleles from them.

Soon a young man, dressed in traditional Hawaiian garment, trumpeted with a conch shell horn.  It was his way of inviting guests to come closer to the imu or oven pit.  Here they "unveiled" the kalua pig and signaled the start of the feast.

Guests gathered round the imu or oven pit to witness the unveiling of the kalua pig. 

Presenting the kalua pig, the star of the luau feast.  Kalua means to cook in an underground oven.

We all joined the buffet line where Cheryl explained to me that Kalua Pork goes well with Lomi Lomi salmon (Think Hawaiian salsa made of salmon, tomatoes, and Maui onions.)  After trying that combination, I don't think I could have Kalua Pork any other way. Yummy! It was great to enjoy all the delicious food including the grilled teriyaki steaks, seafood pasta, shoyu chicken, and Hawaiian fried rice while watching the sun slowly go to sleep.

This wasn't even the main performance.  But the pre-show was a visual delight against the spectacular Maui sunset.

The ocean and the setting sun provided an incredible stage backdrop. And once the sun had set, the stage remained vibrant with colorful dance performances and storytelling of Hawaiian legends.

I was so excited to see my friend and former grade school classmate who is now a long time resident of Maui. I have such fond memories of her and my childhood.  I still vividly recall how she and her sisters -- along with me and my sisters -- would always sit together at the same lunch table in school. 

Cheryl and I somehow manage to find each other even after being out of touch for years. Thanks to social media and a recent class reunion, we reconnected once again.

Cheryl and me

Continued from My Heart Smiled. More Maui adventures to follow. See Bouncing Off The Clouds.

My Heart Smiled

The Beach, The Pools, The Restaurants at The Grand Wailea

(Third of a series)

Day 2 - December 16, 2013

The day after our arrival, I got up at sunrise to explore the grounds of Grand Wailea.  Several early birds were already roaming the property like I was. Most were doing their morning run. I walked past an entire group of mostly ladies, with towels under their arms, preparing for 7:00 a.m. beach yoga.

First stop, Wailea Beach. [Watch 12-second video.]

How I love the soothing sound of ocean waves and the rippling water on my bare feet! This beach is so clean that it seems untouched.  The fine red sand here is incredibly smooth and soft. You don't have to worry about hurting your feet with pebbles, rocks, or broken shells because there are none.

Sunrise at Wailea Beach

A meandering pathway weaved together the high end resorts in this area. Following the walkway, I found even more striking views from different vantage points.  And I chanced upon a small shack that served Starbucks coffee. Bingo!

The path also led me to a lookout point popular for whale sightings. It had an informational sign about humpback whales and the surrounding islands. From that very spot, you could easily see the Molokini crater and the island of Kaho'olawe behind it. In the distance, the island of Lanai is also visible.

It doesn't take a professional photographer to capture great photos here.

As the sun rose higher, I discovered more about this 40-acre sprawling property.

The Hibiscus Pool at Grand Wailea.

A closer look at Grand Wailea's Hibiscus Pool.
The bottom of this pool is inlaid with a giant hibiscus made of Mexican mosaic tile.

While the Hibiscus Pool is reserved for adults, there's the Wailea Canyon Activity Pool perfect for the entire family's enjoyment.  I found water slides, waterfalls, a kiddie pool, a river, a rope swing( a la Tarzan), and even a swim up bar.  I guess they all connected to form the large Canyon Activity pool which is about 2,000 feet in length.  That's about five times the length of a football field...with end zones! You can find out more about the Pools at Grand Wailea here.

Ok so I had to insert this photo.  Sorry couldn't resist.
This was taken in front of the Grand Wailea's Reflecting Pool.

Ah yes, the restaurants.  I wanted to dine at the famous Humuhumunukunukuapua'a.  (You can just call it Humu for short.  They'll know what you mean.)  Sadly, I was out-voted by the two picky eaters in the family. I thought I'd have better chances of going to Amasia, the best new restaurant by renowned Chef Alan Wong. But no such luck.  I must return and bring along my foodie friends with me.  More about the Grand Wailea restaurants here.

Can you say it with me? Humuhumunukunukuapua'a is an award-winning restaurant.  

The view from inside Humuhumunukunukuapua'a restaurant.
Look at that! I wish I had taken a photo also at sunset.

It's no wonder this restaurant garnered "Best Table for Two" by Islands Magazine. 

The ambience is both romantic and relaxing.

We spent the rest of the day at the famous beach.  Alan found a perfect spot where the staff set up some lounge chairs and a beach umbrella for us.  But after only a few minutes of relaxation, I craved some fun water activity.

Guests flocked to the beach to lounge, sunbathe, swim, snorkel, paddle-board, or kayak.

I couldn't have asked for a more gorgeous day!

I called Trevor to jump in the back of my tandem kayak rental.  We paddled into the ocean in sync: left, right, left, right. Having paddled far enough, we turned the kayak around to look at where we started.  That's when the majestic mountain behind our resort revealed itself in full glory.

"Wow!" we both gasped, stopping to marvel at the unbelievable sight in front of us.

"I wish I had my camera right now," I sighed.

"You know, a recent study revealed that people who take more pictures remember less about their experiences," Trevor said matter-of-factly.

"OK, let's just stay here a bit longer to take it all in. Then let's paddle back to shore so your Dad can go next. He has to see this!"

"I love Hawaii," Trevor said for the nth time.

My heart smiled and echoed his sentiment.  I'm so, so grateful!


Continued from blogpost "Three Wishes" and "Amazeballs." More on this adventure coming up. See It's A Hula-day.

Three Wishes

Wailea Seaside Chapel at the Grand Wailea
(Second of a series)
December 15, 2013

I was drawn to the lovely Wailea Seaside Chapel. Aside from my curiosity, I had to go inside because I practice the Catholic tradition of saying a prayer and making three wishes when visiting a church for the first time.

The charming Seaside Chapel at the Grand Wailea in Maui.

The New England style chapel with clock tower 

This classic yet elegant chapel boasts of stained glass window panels on each wall. Specially designed by local artist Yvonne Cheng, every floor-to-ceiling glass panel provides a glimpse of traditional Hawaiian life, each symbolizing new beginnings.  I can see why brides and grooms from all over the world, including celebrities, would want to exchange their I do's here.

 I stood in awe while gazing at the colorful stained glass murals and the stunning 17th century style chandeliers. Later, I learned that the exquisite chandeliers were handcrafted at Murano Glass in Venice, Italy.  

Inside, the chapel is lustrous with its cherry wood altar and pews complemented by sapele mahogany walls.

I made my way to the last pew and knelt down to pray. I gave thanks for the wonderful opportunity to celebrate Christmas with my family in Maui.

Then I wished for good health -- that none of us would catch the flu while we're here.  That wouldn't be fun.

Second, I wished for good weather during our visit.  Before getting here, I heard it had been rainy in Hawaii.  It would be disappointing if we had wet weather since we booked a lot of outdoor activities for this trip.

And finally, and most importantly, I wished that I would be granted another return trip to this paradise.

The enchanting Seaside Chapel seems afloat on the koi-filled pond that surrounds it.  

Large koi fish, known for good fortune, abound in the tranquil pond surrounding the chapel. 

Though charming in size, it overflows with splendor. It looks serene, romantic, and reverent. 

Learn more about the Wailea Seaside Chapel and its stained glass panels here:


This story was continued from blogpost entitled "Amazeballs."  Continued on My Heart Smiled. More to come.

Amazeballs!

The Grand Wailea in Maui
(First of a series)
December 15, 2013

We'll be staying at a Waldorf Astoria resort?! Whaaat?!!!

Good ol' hubby Alan got us a great deal at the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort in Maui. It was his idea to gift ourselves with a family vacation in Hawaii for Christmas this year.

Our jaws dropped when we drove up to the hotel's impressive main entrance. A petite yet spunky Asian lady, dressed in traditional Hawaiian garb, welcomed us as we entered the ritzy lobby.

"Aloha!" she warmly greeted the three of us and gave us fresh Dendrobium orchid leis. “My name is Rose. Your first time here?”

“No,” Trevor, my stepson, politely replied.

“Well then, welcome home!” she quipped with outstretched arms.

I think she meant "Is this your first time in Grand Wailea?"  It's true that Alan, Trevor, and I have been to Maui before but this is our first time ever in this luxurious resort.

Hawaiian welcome at the elaborate lobby of the Grand Wailea in Maui.

The tremendous Grand Wailea lobby decorated for the holidays

The iconic Reflecting Pool at the Grand Wailea.
It overlooks the Hibiscus Pool and the world famous Wailea Beach.

After checking in, we hurried to our room located in the chapel wing. Our balcony overlooked the Wailea Seaside Chapel (more on that here), the beautifully landscaped garden, palm trees, and the beachfront.

I grabbed my camera.  This place is amazeballs!

The view from our balcony: the Wailea Seaside Chapel and the setting sun at Wailea Beach.

The charming Wailea Seaside Chapel and the surrounding lush garden.

We knew we'd be traveling all day but hoped to catch the spectacular Maui sunset when we arrived. So we quickly headed out to the beach. A line of people were already there holding up their camera phones to capture the sunset-hued horizon.

A quick stroll on the famous beach of Wailea, rated one of the best beaches in Maui and the world.

The Wailea Beach looks glorious at sunset.

A picture perfect Maui sunset.

When we returned to our well-appointed Deluxe Garden Room, Trevor noticed something peculiar. "I think someone's been in here."

"Yup, Housekeeping turndown service," I assured him and pointed to the single orchid and notecard meticulously placed on each turned down bed. Expect nothing less from this Four Diamond rated hotel. This is going to be a fantastic stay!


More on this adventure. Continued on Three Wishes and My Heart Smiled.

Luckily, there was plenty to do

Montage Deer Valley - part 4

After checking out, I still had 5 hours to kill before my airport shuttle would pick me up.  Luckily, I found plenty to do around here.  Top on the list: making s'mores!

Just outside Apex restaurant and overlooking the Deer Valley slopes is a large fire pit. Every afternoon in the winter, resort guests gather around here to roast marshmallows, make s'mores, and socialize.  There's a tiny table completely set-up with delicious-flavored marshmallows and hot chocolate.  Everyone talks about this sheer delight.  Another must-do when you're in Montage Deer Valley.

Roasting marshmallows by the outdoor fire pit and making s'mores.

This little chap is a regular here. 

The outdoor fire pit overlooks the snow-laden slopes and offers a gorgeous view.
Frosty being there was a bonus!

It's just as cozy indoors.  Warm up by the fireplace in the Grand Hall and enjoy the quiet surroundings.  I could have easily fallen asleep on the sofa.

The large fireplace in the Grand Hall.

The Grand Hall

I kicked back in front of the cozy fireplace inside The Study.