Q:You were previously the Managing Partner at
the Simpson House Inn in Santa Barbara, Calif. Has it been an easy
move going from California to Hawaii?
A: Yes, it has been an easy segue from California to
Hawaii. Simply put, I left paradise and found an even more superb
paradise.
Q:You also worked at the iconic San Ysidro Ranch
in Santa Barbara. Halekulani is another legendary hotel. What is it
like going from one iconic hotel to another? Have you noticed any
interesting differences?
A:The two iconic hotels have remarkable
similarities even though one has 40 cottages and the other 455
rooms. Both share legendary histories and a commitment to quality
and hospitality, as well as notable clientele. One is a mountain
retreat while the other is an ocean retreat, but both offer
serenity. Halekulani however, offers an emotional encounter for
guests unlike anything I have ever experienced. It is not
necessarily something that can be written, but it is indeed
undeniable and lasts a lifetime for those who can immerse
themselves in its peace, history, elegance, safety, luxury and
consciously detailed service.
Q:As a new resident of Hawaii, have you found any
favorite activities on the island that you would like people to
know about?
A:It is a new era for Waikiki especially, a
complete resurgence of life, hospitality and pleasure all while
maintaining its extraordinary history. I have personally enjoyed
hiking up lush craters, witnessing the power of an active volcano
and exploring the underwater world. I have even taken a few surf
lessons.
Q:What is your favorite part of Halekulani?
A:People, specifically our devoted staff. I am
inspired by their passion for the Halekulani. It is truly their
home and their commitment to extraordinary service is evident day
in and day out. It is such a privilege to collaborate with them in
ushering guests from around the world into the oasis of
Halekulani.
Q:How is the Waikiki Beach Walk development
affecting the hotel?
A:Halekulani has been the cornerstone of Waikiki
for more than two decades, setting the standard for innovative
leadership in the hotel, travel and tourism industries. The
development of the Waikiki Beach Walk is only enhancing the overall
quality and offerings of our “neighborhood” tenfold. It is a joy to
collaborate with Waikiki community leaders and organizations to
refocus the spotlight on Waikiki.
Q:Is there anything at the hotel agents should be
aware of due to the construction?
A:As with any development there are minor
implications of sound and visual aesthetics. Lewers Street, the
primary access rode to Halekulani from Kalakaua Avenue is indeed
under construction but will be completed by year-end. However, the
moment guests step into the chambers of Halekulani there is no
sound, dust or implicating factors as a result of the Beach Walk
development.
Q:With the success of the new Vera Wang suite,
will you be adding more? Will you have other designers design
similar rooms at the hotel?
A:The Vera Wang Suite is a one-of-a-kind
experience that we would not duplicate in this hotel. We have,
however, recently opened her first-ever lifestyle boutique in the
hotel, which expands the Vera Wang-Halekulani brand experience,
making it available to both in-house guests and residents of
Hawaii. I would note that Halekulani and the Hotels and Resorts of
Halekulani are world-renowned for not only quality in service, but
for unconventional industry partnerships, like the one with
fashion-icon Vera Wang. I
wouldn’t be surprised if the future held more partnerships.
