Guide honored, Hawaii Forest and Trail expands
HONOLULU — Hawaii Ecotourism Association (HEA) celebrated its annual awards luncheon on Nov. 13 at the Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel. The event honored tour operators, tour guides and volunteers who are committed to promoting sustainable tourism.
In addition to Sustainable Tour Operator of the Year, HEA also recognized Sustainable Tour Guides of the Year from Kauai, Oahu, Maui and Hawaii Island. Guides must be highly skilled, provide exceptional customer service, implement authentic cultural experiences, and promote conservation.
On Hawaii Island, Garry Dean, of Hawaii Forest &Trail (hiking guide), was honored.
Also, after 25 years of building an acclaimed reputation on Hawaii Island, Hawaii Forest &Trail is launching three never-before-offered custom outdoor adventures on Oahu.
It’s offering pick-ups in several Waikiki and Kapolei locations. Guests climb aboard first-class vehicles where they immediately experience Oahu from a different perspective.
“Our job is to connect people to this place,” said Rob Pacheco, Hawaii Forest &Trail founder and president. “Whether we go to serene getaways or more populated places, everything we do centers on creating the opportunity for our guests to forge personal connections to the places we go. That’s what Hawaii Forest &Trail has always been about and we are excited to bring our adventures to Oahu.”
Pictures with Santa in Waikoloa
WAIKOLOA BEACH RESORT — A special VIP visitor returns to Queens’ MarketPlace this week, with free photo ops through Dec. 22 and holiday entertainment to make the season bright.
Families are invited to bring their keiki and their cameras to meet Mr. Claus by the clock tower (between Island Gourmet Markets and Romano’s Macaroni Grill) where Santa’s helpers will assist with photos in a festive setting.
On Sunday, pictures with Santa will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. On Monday-Friday, Dec. 17-21, pictures will be 5-8 p.m. daily. Pictures will be 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Dec. 22.
Info: www.queensmarketplace.net or call (808) 886-8822.
Sanjiv Hulugalle joins Mauna Lani as general manager, vice president
Auberge Resorts Collection has announced that Sanjiv Hulugalle has been appointed general manager and vice president of Mauna Lani on the Kohala coast.
Hulugalle will lead the next chapter in the Mauna Lani journey, as the resort is re-envisioned over the next several months in preparation for its relaunch in Nov. 2019. The new Mauna Lani will feature a redesign of its guest rooms and public areas, a renovation and refurbishment of its gardens and grounds, as well as the addition of new guest programs.
Hulugalle brings to his new position leadership experience in both city hotel and resort management, having worked in Australia, Canada, the U.S., the Indian Ocean, China, Hawaii and the Middle East.