Hotel Headlines From Ko Olina Resort on Oahu

Sep 03, 2014

The two major hotels at Ko Olina Resort in southwest Oahu have posted news of note for travel agents and their clients.

At JW Marriott Ihilani Ko Olina Resort and Spa, Marriott International, Inc. will no longer serve as manager when its contract expires at the end of 2014.

On Jan. 1, 2015, the hotel will close for a one-year renovation. Media reports are pointing to Four Seasons Hotels as the new operator for the hotel when it reopens, although no official announcements had been made at press time.

Starting in 2015, travel agents whose clients are fans of the Marriott brand can continue to recommend Marriott’s other properties around Hawaii, including Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa on Oahu and Kauai Marriott Resort. On Hawaii Island, Marriott manages Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa and Courtyard King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel. On Maui, Marriott manages Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa and Courtyard Maui Kahului Airport. Marriott is developing a Residence Inn in Wailea, scheduled to open in December 2015.

“Marriott remains committed to Hawaii as a great destination,” said Chris Tatum, area vice president of Marriott International.

Ko Olina’s other hotel — Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa — is actively promoting the advantages and value of renting accommodations in its villas category for family travel.

“The villas are spacious accommodations that provide dining areas, kitchens and washers and dryers — perfect for family travel,” said Robert Deuel, a spokesman for Aulani. “We think this is a key message for travel agents to share with clients.”

Clients who book four nights in a villa get a nightly credit of $100. Aulani is also running a fourth-night free promotion for all room categories.

For travel through Dec. 22, 2014, clients who book an Aulani package will receive roundtrip airport shuttle transportation and a free mid-size car, one-day rental (four-night minimum; book by Oct. 30).

Agents get 10 percent commission on individual resort room bookings and 13 percent on commissionable components of Disney’s Aulani packages.

“We’ll continue to provide compelling opportunities for agents to sell Ko Olina to their clients,” Deuel said.