I'm sure we all hoped that the pandemic would be over by now. But, the reality is, it'll be at least mid-year before things begin returning to normal. So, it's no surprise to see the travel industry making concessions once again. HawaiianMiles members will be happy to hear the latest of these as Hawaiian reduces status requirements for 2022. … [Read more...] about Hawaiian Reduces Status Requirements for 2022
The Crowds Are Back in Waikiki!
This past weekend we did another Waikiki staycation. However, things were markedly different compared to our last few stays during the pandemic. The biggest difference, of course, being that the crowds are back in Waikiki! It was crazy, though nowhere near as bad as Miami. … [Read more...] about The Crowds Are Back in Waikiki!
A Lost Year – One Year of Pandemic Living
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared the COVID-19 epidemic a pandemic. Soon after, life as we knew it came to a screeching halt. Here in Hawaii, though, things changed a little later than elsewhere. So let's talk about how things have been going over what's essentially been a lost year. … [Read more...] about A Lost Year – One Year of Pandemic Living
Hawaiian Airlines Expanding Hawaii Pre-Clear Coverage
Earlier this year, Hawaii's largest airline rolled out Hawaii's pre-clearance program at select US Mainland gateway cities. Now, however, Hawaiian Airlines is expanding Hawaii Pre-Clear coverage across much of its network, including to international cities. … [Read more...] about Hawaiian Airlines Expanding Hawaii Pre-Clear Coverage
Activate the Freedom Q2 2021 Bonus Categories
Things are beginning to open back up again but are still far from normal in most of the US. That said, now that it's time to activate the Freedom Q2 2021 bonus categories, I'm pretty disappointed in what we got. But I can't say I'm surprised either. … [Read more...] about Activate the Freedom Q2 2021 Bonus Categories
The Best Credit Cards for Infrequent Flyers 2021
If you fly maybe only once per year and think my Hawaii credit card award travel guide is too complicated, then this post is for you. So let's talk about what are, in my opinion, the best credit cards for infrequent flyers of 2021. And if you prefer to drive instead of fly, check out our favorite RV credit cards here. … [Read more...] about The Best Credit Cards for Infrequent Flyers 2021
Hilton Grand Vacations Acquiring Diamond Resorts!
WOW! The other day, news broke that Hilton Grand Vacations is acquiring Diamond Resorts! This acquisition will undoubtedly have global implications. But, looking closer to home, the acquisition adds a few properties to Hilton Grand Vacations' presence in Hawaii too. … [Read more...] about Hilton Grand Vacations Acquiring Diamond Resorts!
My Favorite Marriott Turns into a Hyatt
If you've been following me for a while, you'll know that top-end luxury hotels are usually out of my realm. But, occasionally, I do get to splurge a little. And one hotel, in particular, stood out the most to me. Alas, my favorite Marriott turned into a Hyatt recently and is now accepting reservations. … [Read more...] about My Favorite Marriott Turns into a Hyatt
Hawaiian Airlines Introduces New Chefs
Despite the difficulties brought on by the pandemic, Hawaii's largest airline remains committed to its in-flight dining program. In fact, they're looking to keep things interesting as Hawaiian Airlines introduces new chefs for all classes of services. … [Read more...] about Hawaiian Airlines Introduces New Chefs
Hawaii Bans Use of Test Stockpile at Airports
As with anywhere else, there's a lot of stupid that happens at the government level in Hawaii. But, this recent bit of information really stands out. Hawaii bans use of its test stockpile at airports for post-arrival screening. Oh, and get this, the entire stockpile expires at the end of March! … [Read more...] about Hawaii Bans Use of Test Stockpile at Airports