Hotel Update
An 800-room family resort from Disney coming up
Hawaii is all set to witness a family resort that Walt Disney Co. has planned to build up on the 21 acres of oceanfront property at the Ko Olina development.
Walt Disney Co. bought the property for a mighty $144 million. While the construction of the resort-hotel is scheduled to start from early next year, it is expected to operate by 2011. The hotel is said to be indulging in various activities along with the local entertainers and dancers to enchant the travelers.
Unlike the themed hotels near Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida, this “yet-to-be named” new venture of the Walt Disney Parks & Resorts will not flaunt any theme park in its premises. Yet, the resort will encourage in various educational and cultural sports, in keeping with the traditions of the Hawaiian culture.
New openings:
Visit the newly reopened Hotel Lanai for a true “Old Hawaii” experience. The hotel re-opened the first week of October with newly renovated guest rooms that offer travelers simple accommodations without sacrificing on comfort or style. This plantation-style hotel has also christened its new in-house restaurant Lanai City Grille for both visitors and locals to enjoy. Lanai City Grille is under the direction and guidance of award-winning Chef Beverly Gannon, chef and owner of Haliimaile General Store and Joe’s in Wailea, two of Maui’s culinary landmarks.
The Royal Hawaiian will be undergoing a luxury makeover valued at more than $110 million. Fondly known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” the hotel plans to close on June 1, 2008 for six to seven months. The facelift will include new restaurant concepts, three new pools, a renovated lobby and additional retail shops, six new spa suites, and upgrades to 350 rooms in the hotel’s main building. A soft opening is scheduled for December 2008 and an official opening to follow in January 2009.
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