Field Trip: Aulani Resort in Hawaii

Aloha! I am so happy to be back to blogging. 

Gosh I have missed you all. Forgive me for being late with my visits to your blogs. I can't wait to stop by.

My family and I just got back from a trip to the new Aulani Resort and Spa on Oahu. Quite simply: it was magical. I have a lot to share but I think I'll start with some images of Aulani itself. Translated from Hawaiian, Aulani means "messanger." It is a Disney property, but the "Disney-ness" is very understated. The amazing beauty and heritage of Hawaii shines through and is highlighted in the most tasteful ways.

Here is Aulani from the "garden" side

And the view from the front deck

The interiors are GORGEOUS. I am in love with this teal/orange/chocolate scheme in a sitting area

And this bold florals in this sitting area were lovely

 

The artwork is breathtaking– including this wraparound Hawaiian history mural in the entry.

Incredible stained glass.

The pool is quite large and shallow. There is also a spectacular pair of hot tubs. I couldn't snap a photo because Carson Kressley was in one and I didn't want to intrude (yes I am serious) more on my many celeb sightings in another post.

There are two water slides, a "thrilling" one and a lazy river. 

Here's the "Off the Hook" bar. More orange!

Here's the room. Just the right size for a family of four. Notice the Mickey ears in the Hawaiian quilt? The best thing about the room was the way the beds were cleverly designed so that you could easily slide your suitcase underneath.

Every detail is eye-catching…

And the sunset… well there aren't words.

Before you start thinking I'm a fancy pants… my husband works for ABC/Disney and there are certain times that Disney castmembers are able to get a major discount on their stay at Disney travel properties. We were SO lucky that we were able to take advantage of this window of opportunity.

I can't wait to show you celeb pix. I should call them stupid celeb picks– the celebs weren't stupid but I sort of was… trying to snap photos in ways that weren't intrusive LOL. We happened to be there while "Live With Kelly!" was taping a few shows. More from Aulani soon.

 A BIG thank you to the fabulous Andrea from The Cottage Market and Carolyn from Carolyn's Homework for guest posting. I heart you both!

XO