Positively Stimulating

Apr 11, 2009

Napili Kai Beach Resort on Maui is offering a third night free this spring.

Everywhere you look, Hawaii’s tourism industry is making offers that clients can’t refuse. Hoteliers and wholesalers are addressing the downturn in visitor counts due to current economic conditions by rolling out an alluring array of reduced rates, free nights and value-added packages. In short, there’s no time like the present for your clients to visit the islands.

As Condominium Connection vice president Bob Froio put it, "This spring, the travel values are nothing short of phenomenal."

Condominium Connection has dramatically lowered rates on many of its Hawaii properties. Five-night, land-only prices start at $62 per night for two people. Packages begin at $308 for five nights at the Aqua Continental Hotel on Oahu. And clients can stay in a one-bedroom suite at the Castle Kona Bali Kai on the Big Island for just $630 for five nights, which breaks down to $126 per night.

Aston Hotels and Resorts is beating the tourism blues by offering discounts of up to 40 percent. The Aston Escapes promotion promises nightly rates as low as $80 at Aston Maui Lu; $94 at Aston Aloha Beach Hotel on Kauai; $103 at Aston Waikiki Joy on Oahu; and $166 at Aston Shores at Waikoloa on Hawaii’s Big Island. Guests get such perks as an Aloha Book with up to $2,000 in savings on dining, shopping and activities. With its Guaranteed Best Available Rate Online program, the chain is promising further savings without hidden fees.

On Maui, Napili Kai Beach Resort recently announced a new third- night free offer for spring travel, with oceanfront studio rates from $380 per night. The property’s longstanding fifth-night free program, ordinarily offered only for spring and fall, has been extended to include travel dates between April 21-June 12 and Aug. 16-Dec. 19. The 163-unit, plantation-style property is also letting kids ages 12 and under eat free. Napili Kai does not charge for parking or high-speed Internet service, and there are no daily resort fees.

Even the most luxurious of Hawaii’s properties are making deals to bring back clients. A case in point is Waikiki’s Halekulani, which is promoting a stimulus package providing the fourth night free. Clients who book The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua on Maui through United Vacations get the fifth night free and daily complimentary breakfast for two.

Meanwhile, the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa has come up with its own novel approach to helping clients save money without sacrificing quality. The property’s Anara Spa recently started offering sampler sizes of its body treatments, allowing guests to select their own mini indulgences. By mixing and matching shorter sessions, clients may actually end up paying less than they would for a full treatment, said Anara Spa director Jessica Shea.

"Often we see that people want to sample a number of different modalities to make for a more complete spa experience but might not have the time or means to make it happen," Shea said. "With add-on options and mini sessions, clients can receive a richer experience."