It's open! Well there is still a bit of landscaping to do and a few final touches, but the long-awaited Andaz in Wailea is officially open. This luxe oceanfront  property features nearly 300 'thoughtfully' (their words) appointed guest rooms and suites, with four multiple cascading infinity pools situated on 15-acres on the northern edge of Wailea in Maui. When I walked by last month just before the opening celebrations, I lusted after the inviting white basket hanging chairs on the lanais. They seemed to whisper, "Come sit here, let the light breeze carry away your worldly cares." Or maybe that's what I thought they said, either way, the Andaz is on my 2014 bucket list.  

 

Do you love sushi? Really love good sushi? Perhaps it's time to treat yourself to the "Japengo to Japengo" package. Two islands, two amazing sushi experiences, two nights at Hyatt Regency Maui plus a Tour of the Stars astronomy experience and two nights at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki (including a couples massage at the property's Na Ho'ola Spa) and finally a helicopter ride from Oahu to Maui, $699. Both dinners include sunset cocktails and sake pairings. 

 

Did you happen to catch Ko Kea Hotel in Poipu (one of my favorite spots in Kauai) in Travel + Leisure's recent article, "50 Dream Trips" this month? It inspired me to check out their packages to find the best to share with you. Easy. The winner is, the "Tropical Desire" package. At $615 per night, it includes a partial ocean view guest room, daily breakfast and a dinner for two at Red Salt. (I challenge you to not take a photo of this food.) But wait, there's more to the package. Choose between an hour couples massage or an island adventure, plus a midsize rental car. Now that $615 per night is looking pretty good