Destination Residences Hawaii recently bought Classic Resorts, effectively doubling the size of its Hawaii vacation rental portfolio. That’s good news for travel advisors, who can use the expanded company as a one-stop shop for helping clients find their perfect home-away-from-home on the islands.
Michael Cuthbertson, area managing director for Destination Residences Hawaii, sees the merger of the two firms as a natural.
“More than 30 years ago on Maui, when Destination Residences Hawaii was getting its foothold in Wailea, Classic Resorts was establishing itself in Lahaina,” Cuthbertson said. “This acquisition has united the two companies that have grown up side by side with similar values of hookipa (hospitality), kuleana (responsibility) and living pono (doing what is right).”
With a portfolio that now spans Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island, the company ranks as the state’s largest collection of upscale vacation residences.
Prior to the purchase, Destination Residences’ options on Maui included Makena Surf, Polo Beach Club, Wailea Beach Villas, Wailea Ekahi Village, Wailea Ekolu Village, Wailea Elua Village and Wailea Grand Champions. It also featured The Lodge at Kukuiula in Poipu, Kauai.
Destination Residences' top-of-the-line vacation rentals at The Lodge at Kukuiula on Kauai come with luxuries like open-air showers.
Credit: 2019 Destination Residences HawaiiWith the acquisition, the firm has broadened its reach to Hawaii Island, adding Kohala Coast gems such as Mauna Lani Point, The Islands at Mauna Lani and Champion Ridge. Its new Maui inventory includes Kaanapali Alii, Lahaina Shores Beach Resort and Puunoa Beach Estates.
Lahaina Shores, one of Destination Residences' newly added properties, boasts a prime location for a beachfront vacation in west Maui.
Credit: 2019 Destination Residences HawaiiHotel-Style Services and Promotions for a Wide Range of Clients
The enlarged company presents offerings that separate it from most other vacation rental operations in Hawaii, Cuthbertson says.
“Destination Residences prides itself on providing high-touch service and hotel-style amenities within the context of a private residence,” Cuthbertson said. “Daily housekeeping and concierge consultations are two of the many services we include for our guests.”
Accommodations feature full-size kitchens, in-room washers and dryers, complimentary Wi-Fi access and beach towels, and there is a centralized reception office and managers who are available around-the-clock.
Guests of the company’s southwest Maui properties receive a card that provides discounts at a local grocery store chain. In addition, clients can request complimentary rides around Wailea and Makena in one of the company’s two Teslas, which can be a fun way to go shopping or out to dinner.
With such a large quantity of properties in its listings, Destination Residences pairs well with a variety of travelers, Cuthbertson says. In particular, the dwellings are ideally suited for couples, adventurous clients and multigenerational travelers seeking homes with multiple bedrooms.
Destination Residences is encouraging bookings by promoting several incentives for guests. For instance, qualifying stays in the Wailea area can earn up to 20,000 HawaiianMiles through a partnership with Hawaiian Airlines, and reservations of at least five nights come with free use of a compact rental car. Agents should keep an eye on the firm’s website for ongoing specials at all its properties. Rates range from $300 to $3,500 per night.
All Destination Residences properties feature full kitchens, like this offering at Champion Ridge on Hawaii Island.
Credit: 2019 Destination Residences HawaiiWith Advisors in Mind
Agents who want to learn more about selling Destination Residences’ newly enlarged inventory can take advantage of the company’s educational outreach such as agency visits, webinars and property tours.
The company invites advisors to stay at any of its accommodations at a 20 percent discount, and it pays a 10 percent commission.
“Travel agents have the unique opportunity to find great Hawaii accommodations for their clients, at a variety of price points,” Cuthbertson said. “And, they have the security of booking on three different islands in four distinct areas with the same great brand, ensuring their clients are well taken care of.”
The Details
Destination Residences Hawaii
www.destinationresidenceshawaii.com
www.destinationhotels.com
