The purpose of our NorCal trip was to attend a wedding in Merced. So, while in Merced, we ended up staying at the Courtyard by Marriott Merced. Why? Because, Marriott, and because it's one of the nicer options in the area. … [Read more...] about Review: Courtyard by Marriott Merced
Hotels
Turtle Bay to Begin Massive Renovation This Year
In my opinion, the Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu's North Shore is just ok. It feels dated and tired, though that may change soon because Turtle Bay to begin a massive renovation this year. … [Read more...] about Turtle Bay to Begin Massive Renovation This Year
An Update on My Caesars Rewards Fiasco
Remember the issue I had last week with Caesars Rewards? Well, they reached back out to me and worked with me to find a resolution. So, here's an update on my Caesars Rewards Fiasco. … [Read more...] about An Update on My Caesars Rewards Fiasco
Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach – Two Years Later
With Hyatt's recent category adjustments, my expiring credit card certificate became good at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki. So, I decided to do a Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach - Two Years Later staycation to see what's changed. … [Read more...] about Hyatt Centric Waikiki Beach – Two Years Later
Coco Palms Project Grinds to a Halt
The long-stalled attempt to re-open Kauai's iconic Coco Palms hotel hit yet another snag. But this time, the circumstances are much worse. That's because the Coco Palms project grinds to a halt with no clear resolution in sight. … [Read more...] about Coco Palms Project Grinds to a Halt
Bonvoyed! Certificates are Not Valid on Points Advance
Did you make a Points Advance reservation with the intention of applying a credit card certificate to it? Well, guess what? You can't! Marriott told me certificates are not valid on Points Advance reservations. … [Read more...] about Bonvoyed! Certificates are Not Valid on Points Advance
Hawaiian Air Adds SFO Frequency + New HGV Sales
In the face of what's going to be its most difficult year in a long time, Hawaiian Air adds SFO frequency. Plus, Hilton Grand Vacations announces sales timelines for its two new Hawaii properties. … [Read more...] about Hawaiian Air Adds SFO Frequency + New HGV Sales
2019 World of Hyatt Category Changes Go Live Monday
Just a friendly reminder, the 2019 World of Hyatt Category changes go live on Monday! So make sure you make your award reservations for properties adjusting up NOW. … [Read more...] about 2019 World of Hyatt Category Changes Go Live Monday
Honolulu Marathon Carbo-Loading at Arancino di Mare
When running a marathon, you're supposed to carbo-load beforehand right? And the Waikiki Beach Marriott has two excellent options, one of which is Arancino di Mare. … [Read more...] about Honolulu Marathon Carbo-Loading at Arancino di Mare
How to do the Honolulu Marathon Right
This past December, Mrs. Island Miler took the plunge and did the Honolulu Marathon for the first time. And based on our experience, here's how to do the Honolulu Marathon right for both visitors and kama'aina. … [Read more...] about How to do the Honolulu Marathon Right