After being named one of three winners in the Focus on Four Seasons Instagram contest, Ontario-based attorney Kristen Holman took a break from her high-pressure legal job for a six-day vacation on the islands of Hawaii with her boyfriend, Rob Frasca. Little did she know that they would be returning from the once-in-a-lifetime adventure as a newly engaged couple.
From the moment the pair touched down, the staff at Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea went above and beyond to ensure the couple’s expectations were exceeded – upgrading their rental car and stocking it with beverages and blankets as well as creating a custom itinerary of what to do in Maui.
“The hospitality of the staff members set the tone for a memorable day,” recalls Holman of their drive to the top of the Maui’s Haleakala crater. “We witnessed the fascinating sunrise at the summit, followed by a hike down the Sliding Sands Trail, where we got engaged!”
Over the course of three days, the couple experienced the cuisine, culture and activities offered at the Resort in Maui, then prolonged their Hawaiian excursion with a three-day stay at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai.
“Hawaii is an unbelievable blend of adventure and tranquillity,” she says. “We expected stunning landscapes and a laid-back atmosphere, but were blown away by the spectrum of activities available to those that want to do more than simply kick back.”
Experiencing island life on Maui
“We won’t forget our experience driving up to the lobby of Four Seasons Maui – the traditional lei greeting, being given chilled towels and traditional tea, and finally, a rest stop in the stunning visitor's suite. The precedent was set and consistency followed. We were in for a treat.”
“The Wailea property in Maui is centred around a gorgeous, modern building that was bustling with energy. The beautiful beach in front of the property was full of paddleboarders, surfers, outrigger canoeists and snorkellers.”
The traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe – a type of canoe that offers lateral support on one side – is a proud island tradition and an intensely competitive sport. Both Four Seasons Maui and Four Seasons Hualalai offer outrigger excursions, where guests learn basic paddling skills and get to explore the coast.
“[This is] my favourite image from Maui – the juxtaposition is bold and effective. The Buddha statue was situated in the center of the main building, looking out towards the Resort’s main fountain and lounging areas. It's as though the statue is 'watching over' the energy confined within this central area.”
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Savouring sunsets on the Kona-Kohala Coast
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Set on Hawaii’s North Kona Coast, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai brings together white-sand beaches and black-lava outcroppings with lush, tropical landscaping.
Explore the crystal-clear water of the Pacific Ocean on a stand-up paddleboard. Other ocean activities available through Four Seasons Hualalai include outrigger canoe paddling, Ribcraft rides and scooter snorkelling.
“We were impressed by the genuine hospitality of the Hawaiian people, the care and passion that went into each and every meal we enjoyed, and the opportunities we had to satisfy our appetites for adventure. Says Holman: "Simply put, Hawaii has something for everyone.”
“We knew that Four Seasons Hualalai would be a distinct experience – a more cultural and spiritual opportunity to get some R&R.”
The Resort’s 18-hole Jack Nicklaus signature Hualalai Golf Course winds over 7,100 yards, contrasting brilliant green fairways with black lava rock.
The carefully groomed course begins in a lush kipuka (oasis) and then flows across brilliant green fairways dramatically blended with black lava. After playing, relax in the clubhouse with tropical refreshments and mesmerizing ocean views.
In addition to its prime oceanfront views, the picturesque Beach Tree Pool is heated for guests’ comfort. Four Seasons Hualalai attendants offer poolside food and beverage service, along with refreshing Evian spritzes.
Open-air living is preferred at Four Seasons Hualalai, where shady palm trees swayed by soft breezes decorate the grounds
“Four Seasons Hualalai was spread out over a larger area and composed of private villa buildings. The large trees, lush plant life and flame torches lining the Resort’s walkway created a surreal ambience.”
“My favourite image from Four Seasons Hualalai is the central swimming pool at sunset. The outline of a dark ‘horizon’ of beach chairs, umbrellas and palm trees, bordered by the crisp blue of the lit-up swimming pool and the blue-to-orange gradient of the sunset, was simply too breathtaking to even capture in a photo.”
On the island, every seat comes with an impressive view.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
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