When we have staycations at the Waikiki Beach Marriott, we usually dine at Sansei Waikiki. But, thanks to the pandemic, none of the hotel's restaurants are open. As a result, we decided to trek over to the Royal Hawaiian Center and get dinner at Island Vintage Wine Bar. … [Read more...] about Restaurant Review: Island Vintage Wine Bar
Trip Reports
Waikiki Beach Marriott Revisited
Since last year, I've been looking forward to doing a Waikiki Beach Marriott revisited staycation to check out their newly renovated rooms. And, recently, I got to do just that. Of course, staying in Waikiki these days is a far different experience than before. But, I must say, I am a fan of the Marriott's new rooms. … [Read more...] about Waikiki Beach Marriott Revisited
My Not-2020 Honolulu Marathon Staycation Intro
For the past couple of years, Mrs. Island Miler has participated in the Honolulu Marathon. And, during both of those years, we stayed in Waikiki to make things easier for ourselves. This year was supposed to be no different, but it's 2020. So, here's my not-2020 Honolulu Marathon Staycation trip report introduction. … [Read more...] about My Not-2020 Honolulu Marathon Staycation Intro
Alaska Air 833 Portland – Honolulu
Despite being to Portland a few times, I've never flown out of PDX before. that is, until my visit last year. With such a short trip, we headed home on Alaska Air 833 Portland - Honolulu. … [Read more...] about Alaska Air 833 Portland – Honolulu
Restaurant Review: Quiora Waikiki
During our stay at the Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach, things weren't quite the same because of the pandemic. So, for breakfast, we headed over to the hotel's Italian restaurant - Quiora Waikiki - for breakfast. … [Read more...] about Restaurant Review: Quiora Waikiki
Alaska Air Launches Hawaii Pre-Clear
Nearly two months into the Hawaii Pre-Travel Testing program, things are finally getting a little easier for certain travelers. Specifically, West Coast travelers can opt-in for a quicker arrival experience in Hawaii as Alaska Air launches Hawaii Pre-Clear. … [Read more...] about Alaska Air Launches Hawaii Pre-Clear
Restaurant Review: Craft PDX at the Hi-Lo Hotel
Our very last meal in Portland aside from dinner at the wedding we attended was brunch at our hotel's only restaurant, Craft PDX. Sort of. The restaurant was in the process of being rebranded at the time. … [Read more...] about Restaurant Review: Craft PDX at the Hi-Lo Hotel
Restaurant Review: La Vie Waikiki
While we were staying at the Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach, I made it a point to finally give La Vie Waikiki a try. After all, they are one of the most exciting recent additions to Honolulu's dynamic restaurant scene. And, I'm glad to say that the experience pleasantly surprised me! … [Read more...] about Restaurant Review: La Vie Waikiki
Restaurant Review: Papa Kurt’s
2020 has been a really tough year for restaurants. But, it hasn't been all doom and gloom here on Oahu. In fact, we've seen several new restaurants pop up throughout the pandemic. One of these new restaurants, and the one that excited me the most is Papa Kurt's. … [Read more...] about Restaurant Review: Papa Kurt’s
Review: Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach
I've long wanted to stay at a Ritz-Carlton property. But, I never could bring myself to pay the cash or award rate for the privilege. That is, until now. You see, since the pandemic continues to be a very real threat, I decided to treat the Mrs. & I to a staycation at the Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach. … [Read more...] about Review: Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach