Speak with the general managers of Halekulani Corporation’s sister properties Waikiki Parc Hotel and Halekulani, and they are both quick to claim that what elevates their respective guest experiences is personalized service.
I have to agree that the friendly staff members I encountered on a recent stay have raised the bar by being exceptionally accommodating and detail-oriented. But it’s each property’s complementary upscale moods that ultimately won me over. It’s like a family in which the younger sibling is chic and trendy while the other is more traditional and elegant.
“It’s the perfect sisterhood,” said Julie Arigo, general manager of the 297-room Waikiki Parc. “While Halekulani is sophisticated, Waikiki Parc is youthful, appealing to guests in their 30s to mid-40s with a more active and aspiring lifestyle.”
Directly across Kalia Avenue on the beach, Halekulani trends more toward families and couples, who appreciate that they can be in Waikiki but still get away from the bustle.
“So many of our guests come or return because of Halekulani’s legacy,” said general manager Ulrich Krauer. “It’s like an oasis of calm in Waikiki. They look at Halekulani as a small boutique hotel since it doesn’t feel like we have 453 rooms, and we don’t operate it as such. We make a point to know who is coming, when they will arrive and what they like.”
Among the pioneers of Waikiki chic and a nexus of the destination’s revitalization, Waikiki Parc brings together contemporary hotel sensibility with innovative and ultra-refined services.
“We appeal to a new generation of travelers coming to Waikiki, as well as those who return time and time again,” said Arigo.
Decor emphasizes an urban tropical vibe with rich ebony hardwoods, illuminated glass walls, undulating acrylic panels and bold artwork combined with aesthetic technology. The property features a rooftop pool with Quench bar, a hospitality center, a conference center and the hip Nobu Waikiki restaurant.
Always targeting trendy, Waikiki Parc promotes seasonal programs such as Parc Perks.
“It’s our way of thanking guests for choosing to make us a part of their vacation,” said Arigo. “It ranges from poolside entertainment to daily drawings that guests qualify for by purchasing drinks at Quench.”
With a softer upscale voice, Halekulani has evolved from its modest beginnings as a collection of beach bungalows in 1917 to Leading Hotels of the World status. The property is fresh from a comprehensive upgrade based upon legacy, culture, quality and service values. Enhanced culinary elements include the fresh L’Aperitif at La Mer bar concept, which offers beverage pairings with small samplings such as oyster with lychee ginger sorbet. Also new are a styled afternoon tea experience and fresh menus throughout property eateries. All Halekulani guestrooms have been spruced up with new furnishings, sophisticated lighting design, revitalized bedding and linens, enhanced in-room technology and refreshed bathrooms.
“Our renowned ‘seven shades of white’ color tones have also been reinvigorated to emphasize our oceanfront setting, tropical elements and the spirit evocative of Halekulani,” said Krauer.
The Details
Halekulani
www.halekulani.com
Waikiki Parc Hotel
www.waikikiparc.com
