Hawaii’s hotel occupancy slides in February

The economic slump hasn’t spared Hawaii’s tourism industry. One look around the island and you get the sense that it’s just a little less busy than normal. The traffic is less, the beach parking lots are not packed, the hotels aren’t busting at the seams and yes, the average room rate has dropped by on average 12 %.

That means, there are great deals to be had all over the place. Some hotels like the Kea Lani and the Grand Wailea (both on the south side) run promotions with prices that haven’t been that low since 9/11.

The Grand has deals like: $100 off a night with 7th night free. They’ve also got other specials available. Check them out here: http://www.grandwailea.com/accommodations/specials.aspx

The Fairmont KeaLani also has specials, like an “Aloha Savers 30% Off” deal as well as 2 nights for free if you stay 7 days. Find those deals here: www.fairmont.com

The Ritz Carlton on the west side is offering every 5th night free as well as breakfasts for 2.

If you are staying in short term vacation rentals or Bed and Breakfasts, there might be room to haggle and negotiated the price down.

FORBES Magazine covered the story on Hawaii’s Tourism slump. This obviously has implications for Maui weddings as well. We here at Live Maui Webcasts for instance have been experiencing a lot more inquiries for our services than ever before. It seems now more than ever, people are not able to make it out the weddings on Maui due to financial cutbacks. By live webcasting their Maui wedding ceremony, wedding couples are bringing their day home.

StephantheLiveMauiWebcastGuy.jpg Stephan is known as the “Live Webcast Guy on Maui” and is the author of “59 Maui Wedding Secrets Revealed: The Essential Guide to Planning Your Perfect Maui Wedding.” Visit his blog and sign up free to get the latest information on live webcasts in Hawaii. Go to http://LiveMauiWebcasts.com

Stephan Boeker on Twitter

If you’re on TWITTER, click here and follow me! I tweet when I’m on the go around the island. I share insider tips on things to do and places to see, people to meet, restaurants to hit. Follow me!


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And the Oscar Goes To…

A friend forwarded this video to me and I just had to share it with you. There are many events at your wedding that you just won’t be able to control and others, well, you can at least lower the probability.

  • Getting your dress caught in the car door and the driver stepping on the gas? Accident…
  • The wind blowing your wedding dress up and over? It happens… it can happen on Maui, but what are you gonna do?
  • Slipping and falling? Well… no doubt: accident.
  • Fainting? Well it can happen, especially in the tropical climate like Maui. You can avoid it by remembering to hydrate and hydrate well, to breathe and to hold your sweetie’s hand.

Signup for the “59 Maui Wedding Secrets Revealed” Guide and get insider tips on making your Maui wedding be as smooth as possibly can be.

After all, when you’re live internet broadcasting your Maui wedding, you’ll want to cover your bases!

Aloha,
Stephan

StephantheLiveMauiWebcastGuy.jpg Stephan is known as the “Live Webcast Guy on Maui” and is the author of “59 Maui Wedding Secrets Revealed: The Essential Guide to Planning Your Perfect Maui Wedding.” Visit his blog and sign up free to get the latest information on live webcasts in Hawaii. Go to http://LiveMauiWebcasts.com

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Webcasting is Our Passion

While in Europe this winter on video assignment, my girlfriend and I spent a week in Venice, Italy. Unlike up in the alps where 2 meters of snow dumped on us within just 1 week, Venice was downright spring-like!

While Maui boasts the most amazing natural splendor, majestic ocean and Hawaiian Island culture, the island of Venizia boasts beautiful architecture, centuries old arts and humanities culture, pedestrian walkways, and calm canals. And we had the added pleasure of being there during carnival with locals and tourists alike dressed in masks and grand old costumes (see pics below).

In between our lazy afternoons spent walking around, frequent tratoria visits and taking rides on the water buses, we even had time to test live internet broadcast over the cell phone network. Family back home said it was not as smooth and clear as our regular Maui webcast, but it was still nice to tune in and see us on vacation.

I am very much looking forward to heading back to Maui and joining my brother Thomas who has been broadcasting weddings live over the internet as well as producing maui wedding DVDs while I was gone. And I’ll be hitting the ground running when I get back! The calendar is already pretty packed for April and May!

I encourage you to signup for the PERFECT MAUI WEDDING GUIDE and if you have any questions whatsoever about our services, go ahead and skype me up or call me at 808.270.3027. I would love to chat with you about your wedding and help you however I possibly can!

My status

And I’ll leave you with some photos from our Venice trip! I look forward to chatting with you soon.


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MUST READ BOOK: The Toughest Wedding Questions Revealed

I just learned about this book that came out in December 2008. It answers some of the toughest questions emilypost.gif that you can face while planning for your wedding whether that’s a Maui Wedding or a Montana Wedding.

  • “I can’t choose between my two best friends. Can I have two maids of honor?”
  • “My fiancé and I are considering a destination wedding. Are we obligated to cover our attendants’ travel expenses?”
  • “Do we have to invite our guests’ children to our wedding?”
  • “I’m still close to my ex-husband’s parents. Would it be okay to invite them to my wedding?”
  • “How do my partner and I go about planning our commitment ceremony?”
  • “My parents are divorced and each has remarried. Where do they sit in church?”
  • “Do I have to wear white?”

If you have questions like these that you are desperately seeking answers to, then you have to get this book by wedding expert Emily Post called

Do I Have To Wear White?: Emily Post Answers America’s Top Wedding Questions

It’s on sale at Amazon.com. It’s a small price to pay for averting a catastrophic decision.

StephantheLiveMauiWebcastGuy.jpg Stephan is known as the “Live Webcast Guy on Maui” and is the author of “59 Maui Wedding Secrets Revealed: The Essential Guide to Planning Your Perfect Maui Wedding.” Visit his blog and sign up free to get the latest information on live webcasts in Hawaii. Go to http://LiveMauiWebcasts.com

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Ohio News Herald: Aloha translates as love on Maui, where romance is a standard state of being

Sunday, February 15, 2009 1:42 AM EST

Romance is part and parcel of a visit to Maui, whatever your age.

Palms swaying in the warm and fragrant breeze, velvet green mountain folds tinseled by distant waterfalls, and intimate slices of beach framed by bright flowers — what’s not to like?

Even the greeting “aloha,” translates as the spirit of love that pervades every aspect of Hawaiian culture.

Maui is not only a dream for honeymooners but also a popular choice for destination weddings. Some couples choose an intimate wedding on the beach, while others bring family and friends so everyone can celebrate the newlyweds with a memorable vacation.

Read the entire article here.

 

 

StephantheLiveMauiWebcastGuy.jpg Stephan is known as the “Live Webcast Guy on Maui” and is the author of “59 Maui Wedding Secrets Revealed: The Essential Guide to Planning Your Perfect Maui Wedding.” Visit his blog and sign up free to get the latest information on live webcasts in Hawaii. Go to http://LiveMauiWebcasts.com

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Honolulu Advisor: The Inn at Mama’s Fish House honored as top romantic island inn

Todd A. Vines
Reader Submitted

The Inn at Mama’s Fish House has landed on an elite list of island inns. The January/February edition of Coastal Living magazine has named the accommodations outside of Paia among its “Top 10 Romantic Island Inns.”

The Coastal Living list which was also featured on the HLN network (formerly known as CNN Headline News) and CNN.com includes inns from Washington State to Petit St. Vincent in the Grenadines. The Inn at Mama’s Fish House is the only Hawaii inn on the list.

“We’re humbled and honored to be included in such exceptional company,” said Karen Christenson Marshall, vice president of Mama’s Fish House Restaurant & Inn. “We’ve always had a vision to make The Inn at Mama’s Fish House a special retreat, someplace where it’s natural for romance to blossom.”

Read the entire article here

 

 

StephantheLiveMauiWebcastGuy.jpg Stephan is known as the “Live Webcast Guy on Maui” and is the author of “59 Maui Wedding Secrets Revealed: The Essential Guide to Planning Your Perfect Maui Wedding.” Visit his blog and sign up free to get the latest information on live webcasts in Hawaii. Go to http://LiveMauiWebcasts.com

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Live Maui Webcasts and Video Is Awarded a BIG Opportunity

It’s an amazing day here at Live Maui Webcasts and Video. Not only have we finished the November/ December wedding period off with hundreds of happy wedding couples and their beloved viewers, but we also have some big news to share…Maui Weddings watched via Live Webcast all over the USA.

First off though, our most recent weddings… Robin and Ben tied the knot at Paipu Beach in south Maui in front of a small group of family gathered on the beach with them and then of course many many more watching the live webcast from the comfort of their own homes back on the mainland. We had loved-ones tuning in from California, Texas, New York, New Jersey, Indian, Washington State, Oregon, Colorado, Florida and several other states. Weather was perfect.

Jessica and Eric from Indiana also had their wedding at Paipu Beach and seemed to be VERY POPULAR PEOPLE! They had hundreds of people visiting the website from Indiana and Kentucky. The weather was amazing, but different… usually we’ve got trade winds blowing (from the north east), but this time we had Kona’s coming in off the water on the south shore. It made for a spectacular sunset. Congratulations Jessica and Eric!

And the big news?

Now I’m back in NY.

Why?

Well, that’s the news I wanted to share. As paradoxical as it may seem, Live Maui Webcasts was awarded a contract by NBC Universal Sports (yes, that’s the NBC) to produce, shoot and edit a pilot piece on alpine skiing to be aired on the weekend of December 13 and 14th! The show will be piped into over 30 million North American household TV sets and millions more on the web. Universal Sports (http://UniversalSports.com) specializes in providing live and taped coverage of Olympic Sports that you don’t usually get to see on network television (although, the Aspen Winternational coverage was just on NBC that featured footage shot by Live Maui Webcasts and Video). It’s a cool concept and gives niche sports enthusiast a channel to watch their favorite sport.

Live Maui Webcasts and Video to produce, shoot and edit a piece on alpine skiing. I know it sounds weird, a Maui-based video company producing a piece on a winter sport? But there is an exaplanation… we are well known for our in-depth interview style, artistic merit and our service promise that guarantees our work, but in the case of NBC, the athlete we will be featuring lives on Maui part-time in the off-season. It makes sense that a Maui-based company would be the one sent to produce a piece on her off season training and preparation.

And now we’re in New York, because we’re exploring the possibility of joining the Audi FIS World Cup Alpine Ski circuit in Europe all winter to produce shows for the live skiing coverage. Exciting prospects… I’ll keep you in the loop.

What does that mean for live wedding webcast operations back on Maui? Well, we will be working on a more limited schedule through April and might not be able to accomodate everyone. Please make sure to contact us as soon as possible to reserve your date for a Live Webcast and Video. The sooner, the better the chance of availability.

Live Maui Webcasts and Video in the field for another Maui Wedding
That’s Me, Stephan in the field.

 

Thank you everyone for your support over the years, from website visitors to our thousands of viewers, from our beautiful wedding couples to local wedding coordinators and vendors. It’s truly because of you that we continue to do what we do and prosper.

Mahalo Nui Loa!

Stephan Boeker - Executive Producer Live Maui Webcasts and Video

 

 


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Day of Hope Maui – November 8, 2008

Every year, the Four Seasons Resort Maui spearheads a charity event that benefits cancer research. It’s called Day of Hope. So many people — family and friends — are stricken with the disease and so it is no surprise that people from all over the island (as well as tourists) join in on the 5K and 10K runs to help find a cure.

This year was no exception…

Check out the slideshows below and if you would like to save a high resolution image or even order a print, you can do so by clicking the slideshow window. You will then be taken to the webalbum where you will have those options.

These photos are meant for personal use. Selling them or publishing them without written consent is not allowed. Mahalo!

 

Day of Hope 2008 | Preparation: Four Seasons Employees Hard at Work

 

 

 

Day of Hope | Registration at 6AM

 

 

 

Day of Hope | 5K and 10K Run

 

 

 

Day of Hope 2008 | Reception

 

 

 

Day of Hope 2008 | Keiki Run and Canoe Ceremony

 

 

 


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Hawaii Has Great Deals in These Economic Times

HONOLULU, Hawaii (AP) — Hawaii’s tourism industry is offering new deals, incentives and packages as it grapples with a turbulent airline industry and Americans holding tight to their wallets.

Classic Hawaii

Classic Hawaii

Officials on Wednesday unveiled a $4.5 million campaign to lure visitors for the remainder of the year. The effort is part of the more than $12.5 million in emergency funding that has been devoted by the state and businesses to combat a slump in tourism.

Read the entire story on tourism in Hawaii here…

Many Wailea Hotels have great deals if you ask for them. Call and inquire at the Grand Wailea, Four Seasons Resort Maui, Fairmont Kea Lani and the Maui Prince.

For condos, check out: http://VacationRentalsofMaui.com


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Maui Restaurant Review: Chez Paul Restaurant

*** this restaurant has closed***

QUICK STATS

 

Maui Magazine Romance Rating (out of 3): 111
Maui Magazine Price Rating (out of 3): $$
Suitable for Wedding Night: 4/5
View Rating : 3/5
Type of Cuisine: French

 

Chez Patrick at Chez Paul Restaurant on Maui
Chef Patrick Callarec

Listen to a short interview with Chef Patrick

 

Patrick Callarec began his career at the age of thirteen at the cooking school in Menton, France. At fifteen, he worked in Cannes. First, at the Hotel martinez, then at the Hotel Carlton. Patrick desired to hone his culinary skills abroad and achieve his ultimate goal of establishing a successful career on the North American Continent. He moved to Canada where he worked for the Four Seasons’ Inn on the Park located in Toronto.

Later, Patrick headed south for the United States and went to work for the Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Chicago. Patrick also added to his accomplishments these fine Texas establishments; in Houston the Meridien Hotel, in Dallas; Silvanos Restaurant, The Registry Hotel/Grand Kempaski Hotel, the Seascape Inn Restaurant, and La Bonne Auberge. Patrick rejoined the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company in Atlanta Buckhead, Marina Del Ray California, and finally Executive Chef of Kapalua Maui.

Finally Patrick’s dream came true when he acquired Chez Paul Restaurant, in Olowalu. This was to be his greatest success yet! Since then, his cuisine has been featured and covered by numerous magazines, newspapers, and Television. He has been awarded the coveted Five Star Diamond award, one of the "Chefs in America Award" by the Grand master Chefs Directory, Honolulu Magazine’s "Hale Aina Award", and the list of accolades goes on!

Chef Patrick invites you to experience his cuisine and to be his guest when you are on Maui.

 

REVIEW: Over the years I have heard again and again just how amazing this restaurant is. Friends of mine like Samantha Campbell of Deep Relief Maui (if you need your muscles released, she is the BEST) and even some wedding couples have told me that Chez Paul might quite possibly have been the best meal they’ve had on the island.

Strong words indeed.

I recently got to try it during a business meeting for lunch. I have to say though, that I would have much rather liked to have gone with my girlfriend for a romantic night out. The restaurant is situated in between Maalaea and Lahaina in Old Olowalu Town. You can’t miss it as you’re riding on the Pali. Driving towards Lahaina, it will be on the right hand side.

Walking into the restaurant, you are suddenly transported to another world. Gone are the Hawaiian vibes of beach, sun and surf and very present is the air of a really high-quality French restaurant that will surely not disappoint.

And true to what many have said, I was very pleasantly surprised. This little restaurant that I must have driven by thousands of times on my way to weddings on the west side has FINALLY coaxed me in and wowed me.

The service staff was attentive and friendly, and Chef Patrick — owner and operator — came out to greet us. It’s always nice to feel welcome and special in a restaurant, and Chez Paul delivered on that.

As an apetizer I had a shrimp and scallop dish in an aioli sauce that was delicate and tasty. As the main dish I had the Chez Paul’s classic preparation of fresh island fish poached in champagne with leeks and capers. A nice lunch portion and very very delicious.

Dessert was a simple yet perfect ending to the meal: an assortment of mixed berries in a hard caramelized honey cup with a dollop of fresh whip cream.

All in all, it was a restaurant unlike any other I have been to on Maui. More a french cavernous dining room than an open Maui beach restaurant. Chez Paul doesn’t try to be anything it’s not (a Maui beach restaurant), but it does try to serve up some of the finest cuisine (at a fair price) Maui has to offer, and dare I say comes very very close.

An excellent choice for a romantic dinner with your sweetheart.

 

Location: Chez Paul Restaurant
820 Olowalu Village Rd # B
Lahaina, HI 96761
(808) 661-3843
http://www.chezpaul.net

GOOGLE MAP


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FROM THE RESTAURANT LITERATURE

Located in Olowalu, just four miles south of the picturesque seaside town of Lahaina, you can find one of the most celebrated dining spots, by local residents, Hollywood celebrities and visitors to Maui…

Chez Paul Restaurant. Established in 1968, it is the oldest French restaurant in the Pacific. Owner, and Chef de Cuisine, Patrick Callarec has created the ultimate Island-chic restaurant for an unforgettable night out, special corporate events, private parties or the ultimate wedding reception. So, when in Maui, make sure that you save at least one night for an extraordinary dinner experience with Chez Paul.

 

MENU SAMPLE

APPETIZER

Cappuccino De Bisque De Homard Au Cognac
Cappuccino of lobster bisque with cognac.
Ten Dollar

Gratinee A L’Onion
The classic french onion soup.
Nine Dollars

Les Escargots De Bourgogne
Traditional burgundy escargots in their shell with melted garlic butter.
Twelve Dollars

Pithivier De Champignons Sauvages, Fromage De Brie, Sauce Au Vieux Porto
Wild mushrooms and Brie cheese baked in a flaky puff pastry served with a vintage port wine sauce.
Twelve Dollars

Crevettes Du Pays A La Nicoise
Sautéed prawns with tomato, basil, safron, nicoise olives, and white truffle essence.
Sixteen Dollars

Foie Gras Frais De Canard Sauté Aux Fruits De Saison
Sautéed fresh duck foie gras.
The preparation is delightful but will depend upon the mood of our Chef.
Twenty – Six Dollars


FISH ENTREES

Saumon Du Pacific Au Grand Marnier Et Soja
Shoyu and grand Marnier Caramelized Pacific Salmon with a simple citrus beurre blanc.
Twenty – Nine Dollars

Thon Des Alentours A L’Escabeche Et Coulis De Poivrons
Hawaiian “Ahi” tuna with sweet peppers and onions served with a roasted red bell pepper coulis.
Thirty Dollars

Poisson Des Isle Au Champagne
Chez Paul’s classic preparation of fresh island fish poached in champagne with leeks and capers.
Thirty – Six Dollars

Homard De Kona A La Facon Du Chef
Two generous pounds of Kona lobster served out of the shell.
Availability is depending on the market and the season.
The preparation is always delightful and creative, but depends upon the chef’s mood.
Market Price

MEAT ENTREES

Tournedos Aux Trois Poivres
Sautéed prime cut of filet mignon with a green, pink and black peppercorn brandy cream sauce.
Thirty – Eight Dollars

Carre D’Agneau Paniolo Chutney De Fruits Exotiques
Rack of Colorado lamb accompanied with a paniolo marinade and exotic fruits chutney.
Thirty – Nine Dollars

Canard Au Cassis
Crispy slow-roasted duck, almost boneless with a black currant sauce.
Thirty – Six Dollars

Coq Au Vin
Chicken baked in a cast iron pot with red wine, mushrooms and bacon.
Thirty – Two Dollars

Filetto di Branzino Arrostito – Roasted Hawaiian Seabass, Sautéed Napa Cabbage, Garlic Confit, Roasted Fingerling Potatoes, Warm Rosemary Vinaigrette

Cotoletta alla Milanese – Veal Milanese, Arugula, Cherry Tomatoes and Baby Mozzarella Salad

 

Live Maui Magazine Reviews Chez Paul in Olowalu

 


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