Maui Travel Services

2009-03-01T08:29:00.001-10:00

Benefits of Renting a Condo on Maui

2009-03-01T07:52:00.011-10:00

Because of the economy, many are asking how they can save some money for thier trip to Maui. My top recommendation would be to rent a Maui condo versus staying at a hotel.

Most condos provide a full kitchen which saves money from having to go out to eat for every meal (which gets expensive on Maui). It's nice to be able to make a small breakfast in the morning and enjoy it out on the Lanai. It is also nice to come back from a morning beach run and to make a quick lunch.

Additionally, most Maui condos also have a washer & dryer which is nice in between visits to the beach. Maui condo properties also have swimming pools and most offer BBQ areas as well as many other amenities which are offered by hotel properties. Condos are also the perfect option for parties having over 2 persons.

Lastly, I believe staying in a condo offers a more personalized experience. We offer some fabulous Maui condo rentals. Photos are available for each unit which leaves less chance for disappointment upon arrival. This allows you to choose a condo which suits your tastes and needs.

To view all the Maui condos which we offer please click here. Please contact us with any questions you may have. I am also happy to make any recommendations based on your needs.

Warmest Aloha,
Sylvia

Holidays Just Around The Corner...

2008-10-27T07:17:00.002-10:00

Aloha!

Just a reminder, the holiday season is just around the corner, it is the busiest time of year on Maui and we always recommend if you are planning to participate in activities that you book early. Because of heavy demand this time of year, many vacationers find out the hard way that when they arrive for their holiday vacation, many of the events and restaurants they want are booked up for the best times, or sold-out altogether. We can help you plan your trip to Maui including suggestions for activities, sightseeing, restaurants, beaches, etc. Let us help you "discover the real Maui."

Book Your Maui Holiday Vacation Now

2008-09-07T02:22:00.005-10:00

Aloha!

The holidays are just around the corner, so if you are thinking about booking your vacation to Maui or any of the islands of Hawai'i, NOW is the time to book.

Christmas vacation is the busiest time of year in the Aloha State, so we strongly recommend you book your airfare, lodging, car rental, AND activities now, while there is still some availability left. There is nothing more disappointing than waiting till the last minute, only to find out that you cannot get the car you want, or go to the luau you want, or the snorkel trip you want, because the activity is booked up. Let us assist you plan your vacation, and then you can enjoy your vacation with the piece of mind knowing you will be able to enjoy doing and seeing the things you want to.

Here are some handy links:

Maui Lodging

Maui Activities

Maui Car Rentals

Maui Vacation Packages (Air, Room, Car)

Hawai'i Cruises

Visit us at http://mauitravelservices.com or you can email us at info@mauitravelservices.com.

Aloha a hui hou!

2008 Maui September Events*

2008-08-21T07:44:00.004-10:00

September 1

Maui 'Amakua Swim Race
Makena

Put your athletic abilities to the test in this 2.4 mile ocean swim and 1-mile run south of the Maui Prince Resort. Start time is 8:30 AM. To register, call Malcolm Cooper 808.280.4257, or visit amakuaswim.org.

September 5

Maui Chefs Presents: Culinary Olympics
Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

A dozen top Maui chefs will prepare their creations under the stars in the Ritz'a Aloha Pavilion. It's the sixteenth year for this elegant dinner and cocktail party, which benefits Maui school and community groups. This year features music by Raiatea Helm and Jimmy Mac and the Kool Kats. 6-10 PM. Tickets 808.667.9193, visitlahaina.com.

September 6

Hana Relay
Kahului Airport to Hana Ballpark

Grab your friends, your running shoes and...your zaniest costume! Halloween gets an early start on the winding road to Hana, where teams of six run fast in funny attire. Staggered start times, beginning at 5:30 AM. Call Joe Alueta, 808.270.7743 or email mauistardog@excite.com to register.

Augie T
Castle Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center

Honolulu Weekly's "Favorite Comedian" presents a special performance to benefit Speak the Dream Foundation, his scholarship program to help high school students achieve higher education goals. 7:30 PM.

September 7 - October 19

The Inspired Line: Select Prints of Albrecht Durer and Rembrandt van Rijn
Continuing Line: Charlot, Mullowney and Rodriguez
Schaeffer Gallery, Maui Arts and Cultural Center

This conceptual exhibit presents traditional techniques and religious and social commentary relative to the past 400 years of printmaking. Included are works from Maui master printer Paul Mullowney.

September 7 - November 9

Maui Polo Club
Makawao

Come Upcountry for exciting polo matches on Sundays at 1 PM. It's a fun activity for the entire family. Take Olinda Road to Olinda Polo Field, one mile above Makawao town, behind Oskie Rice Rodeo Arena. Info: mauipoloclub.com.

September 13

Maui Ha'i Falsetto Contest
McCoy Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center

The islands/ finest amateur ha'i (Hawaiian falsetto) singers perform in concert at the 7th annual Richard Ho'opi'i Leo Kie'eki'e Contest, 6 PM.

3rd Annual Ku Mai Ka Hula
Castle Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center

Top hula performers from Hawai'i and Japan (yes, Japan!) compete in kahiko (ancient), 'auana (modern) and kupuna (senior) divisions. 1 PM.

Maui Tacos 5k Run
Whalers Village, Ka'anapali

This run takes you through Lahaina, starting at 8 AM. Awards ceremony at 9 AM includes refreshments for all participants. Ole! Info: virr.com or mauimarathon.com.

Front Street Mile
Lahaina, near Kimo's Restaurant

This one-mile street race is open to all youth, adult and master athletes, and features elite racers from the Dominican Republic, Ireland, Great Britain, and Puerto Rico. Starts at 3 PM. Info: mauimarathon.com.

September 14

Maui Marathon and Half-Marathon

Among the world's most scenic marathon and half-marathon events, the two races begin at 5:30 AM with a simultaneous shotgun start. The 26.2 mile marathon starts at Queen Ka'ahumanu Center in Kahului, and finishes at Whaler's Village in Ka'anapali. The 13.1 mile half-marathon covers an out-and-back course form Whaler's Village to Launiapoko Park. Info and registration: mauimarathon.com.

Maui Academy of Perfomroing Arts' 20th Annual Garden Party
Yokouchi Estate, Wailuku

The Garden Party is a celebration of the arts, bringing together exceptional cuisine, fine wine, live jazz and an exciting live auction, all benefiting MAPA's education and performance programs. Tickets: $55 inn advance; $65 at the door. Info: mauiacademy.org.

September 15

Full-Moon "Maui Magic" Cruise
Pacific Whale Foundation

Join Pacific Whale Foundation for a cruise beneath a Maui moon and hear fascinating stories by Maui astronomer Harriett Witt. Departs form Lahaina Harbor. Info and reservations: 808.249.8811, ext. 1; pacificwhale.org.

September 19 - 28

Not As Seen on TV
'Iao Theater's 80th Anniversary Show

This original comedy revue celebrates the history of the 'Iao Theater with a musical journey from shows performed throughout the years by members of Maui OnStage. Fridays and Saturday at 7:30 PM; Sundays 5 PM. Info: mauionstage.com.

September 20

9th Annual Somos Amigos Festival
Maui Mall

Try some hot food, and some hotter dancing at this celebration of Maui's Hispanic and Portuguese communities. Info: mauimall.com.

September 21

Boys and Girls Club's Day for Kids

Small fry can strum music with some of Maui's most talented entertainers, enjoy games and rides, eat ono local food, and even win prizes. Info: 808.242.4363.

September 27

Uluwehi Guerrero and Halau
Hula Kauluikala
Castle Theater, Maui Arts and Cultural Center

Join Maui's award-winning male vocalist and kumu hula Uluwehi Guerrero and his dancers in an evening filled with traditional chants, music and dance. Special guests round out a performance that is not to be missed. 7:30 PM.

September 28

Na Wahine O Ke Kai (Women of the Sea)
Hale o Lono Harbor, Moloka'i

This annual Moloka'i-to-O'ahu outrigger canoe race has crews from around the world competing with each other and the treacherous Kaiwi Channel. Info and registration: nawahineokekai.com.

September 29

Stargazing Cruise
Pacific Whale Foundation

Join Pacific Whale Foundation for a stargazing cruise with Maui astronomer Harriett Witt. Learn about the stars and listen to whale songs captured on hydrophones. Departs form Lahaina Harbor 8 PM. Info and reservations: 808.249.8811, ext. 1; pacificwhale.org.

*Information courtesy of Maui No Ka Oi Magazine

2008 Maui August Events

2008-07-08T01:10:00.006-10:00

August 1
First Friday in Wailuku
Wailuku Town

The first Friday of the month, old Wailuku town transforms into a free block party with local bands; discounts from participating merchants; booths selling fine art; flowers and ukuleles; and extended hours at stores, galleries and restaurants. 5-7:30 p.m.

August 1 & 30
Stargazing Cruise
Pacific Whale Foundation

Join Pacific Whale Foundation for a stargazing cruise with astronomer Harriett Witt. Learn about the stars and listen to whale songs captured on hydrophones. Departs Lahaina Harbor 8:00 p.m. Info and reservations: 808.249.8811 ext. ; pacificwhale.org

August 2-3
Soul Motion: Prosperity with Vinn Marti
Studio Maui, Ha'iku

Soul Motion is "a mystical movement ministry that accesses, expresses and embodies our authentic essence." Participants are encouraged to relax into the mystery and magic of creativity while experiencing reverence in their bodies. 1-6:00 p.m. both days. Information: 808.575.9390; thestudiomaui.com.

August 8-10
Heiva | Maui
War Memorial Complex, Wailuku

Witness the stirring Tahitian dance and drumming competition; explore craft booths and enjoy local refreshments. Call 808.250.0737 for more information.

August 9
Hawaiian Plant Sale
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens

Across from War Memorial Complex in Wailuku. For sale: a variety of native and Polynesian-introduced trees, shrubs and groundcovers, including special varieties of dry and wetland taro. 9 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Info: 808.249.2798

August 10
Aluminum Man
Kahekili (kah-heh-KEE-lee) Beach (just past Ka'anapali)

We can't all be Iron Man - but with this half-mile ocean swim and 4.2 mile beach run, we don't have to be. It's even free, and starts at 8 a.m. Call 808.878.2949 to register.

August 15
Maui Calls
A&B Amphitheater, Maui Arts & Cultural Center, Wailuku

It's the center's largest fundraiser, and always sells out early. This year's gala carries a canoe theme, with decor, exhibits, artwork and music celebrating the island's rich history of voyaging canoes. Tickets include wine and food tastings prepared by some of Maui's best chefs. Live and silent auctions. Proceeds benefit MACC's arts program. 6 - 10:00 p.m.

Hula Halau 5k Fun Run
Keopuolani Park, Kahului

Support the local hula halau (school) by walking or running to raise funds. It's for a good cause, and it's good for you, too! Sign up by calling 808.877.5300.

August 15-17
Hawau'i Pacific Adult League Sectionals
Kapalua Tennis Garden

The USTA-Hawai'i Pacific Adult League Sectionals will be hosted on Maui this year with over 600 men and women competing to advance to the USTA Nationals. Spectators are welcome, and admission is free. For more information: 808.665.9112.

August 23
Maui Humane Society's "Bark In the Park"
Keopuolani Park, Kahului

This annual walk benefits Maui's orphaned pets. Bring your own dog, or walk one from the Humane Society (don't be surprised if you decide to take that cute little thing home). 7 - 11:00 a.m. For more information: 808.877.3680, ext. 32; mauihumane.org.

August 23
19th Maui Onion Festival
Whaler's Village, Ka'anapali

Farmers and chefs come together to showcase Maui's signature agricultural crop - the Maui Kula onion. Activities include keiki and adult onion eating contests; chef demonstrations, recipe contest, island music and entertainment. 808.661.4567; whalersvillage.com.

Cycle to the Sun
Pa'ia to Haleakala Summit

Watch cyclists power 35.2 miles from sea level to 10,000 feet. The race benefits Ka Lima O Maui, an employment and training center for disadvantaged and disabled adults. Starts at 7 a.m. 808.244.5502; cycletothesun.net.

August 29 - September 1
Open Tennis Championships
Kapalua Tennis Garden

Men and women compete in a tournament of singles and doubles - division 3.0 open. Entry is $48 to $55 per person. Register online at kapalua.com/recreation/tennis. For information call 808.665.9112.

August 30 Maui Channel Swim

Billed as "the only masters interisland relay race in the world," this nine-mile event features teams of six swimmers competing in seven categories based on age and gender. Ka'anapali Beach Hotel serves as the finish point and hosts the awards banquet. For more information call 808.338.0722.

Special thanks to Maui No Ka Oi magazine for the information. http://mauimagazine.net

Wailea Beach Villas

2008-06-17T07:38:00.003-10:00

Aloha!

We are pleased to announce that we now are offering some spectacular Wailea Beach Villas for the discerning traveler. These units represent some of the finest, luxury rentals on Maui. Situated on Wailea Beach, there is easy access to the Grand Wailea, Four Seasons Resort, Kea Lani, as well as the Shops at Wailea. I invite you to click on the link below to view the beautifully appointed Wailea Beach Villas that we offer.

Wailea Beach Villas

Kapalua Wine and Food Festival

2008-06-11T09:34:00.004-10:00

Aloha!

One of our favorite events on Maui is coming up at the end of this month, the 27th Annual Kapalua Wine and Food Festival.

Schedule of Events

Thursday, June 27

5:30-7:00 PM
Welcome Reception
Merriman's Kapalue (formerly the Bay Club)
(By Invitation Only)

Friday, June 28

7:00 AM
Golf Tournament - Shotgun Start
The Bay Course
$145.00
10:00 - 12:45 PM
In the Kitchen with Celebrity Chef Pano Karatossos
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
$200.00
2:30 - 4:00 PM
Chards of Class
(Included in 4-Day Pass)
6:00 - 9:00 PM
The Grand Tasting
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Beach House Lawn
$145

Saturday, June 29

10:00 - 11:30 AM
Master Sommelier 105
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
(Included in 4-Day Pass)
11:45 - 1:00 PM
Culinary Tasting and Wine Paring with Celebrity Chef Frank Ostini, Jr.
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
$145.00 (Included in 4-Day Pass)
12:30 - 2:30 PM
Kapalua Wine Tour
Various locations throughout the Kapalua Resort
$50 (Included in 4-Day Pass)
2:30 - 4:00 PM
Cult Cabs
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
(Included in 4-Day Pass)
6:00 - 9:00 PM
Winemaker's Dinner
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
Price TBD

Sunday, June 30

10:30 - 11:45 AM
It's 5 o'clock Somewhere!
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
$145.00 (Included in 4-Day Pass)
2:00 - 3:30 PM
The Big, the Bold, and the Intense
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
(Included in 4-Day Pass)

6:00 - 9:00 PM
Kapalua Seafood Festival
The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, Aloha Garden Pavillion

For more specific information, as well as ticket purchases, call 808.669.2440 or visit kapalua.com. For special event/room packages, call 808.665.7136.

Prices subject to change.

Now Offering FULL Services...

2008-06-01T03:27:00.003-10:00

Aloha!

We have an IMPORTANT and EXCITING announcement to make! Effective immediately, we are pleased to offer FULL services for Maui. That means you are now able to book your flights and hotels, as well as all our wonderful vacation rentals and activities directly through our company.

Maui Travel Services is now your one-stop shop for planning and booking the Maui experience of a lifetime.

We look forward to providing these added services to our clients and look forward to assisting you with your next trip to Maui.

Aloha a hui hou!

Getting Back to Blogging

2008-04-29T02:28:00.006-10:00

Aloha Everyone:

After a long hiatus from blogging, we are going to return with at least a bi-monthly post. This feature will be uploaded every other Sunday and will range in a variety of Maui topics.

We also love hearing from you, our clients, as to what you would like to see discussed. We may also post your question on the blog so that everyone can see our reply. Please direct your question to mailto:blog@mauitravelservices.comand we'll be happy to answer your question as best we can.

Of course, any immediate Maui news of importance will be posted as soon as we have any information.

Aloha a hui hou!