Smart Meetings

What's not to like? Hawaii possesses an exotic hideaway allure, yet offers all the ease of doing business domestically. Language and currency barriers are absent, while value abounds. And then, there's the aloha spirit, that captivating intangible that absolutely no other destination delivers. Core strengths as a leisure escape bolster Hawaii's viability to host business meetings.

Just as diverse is island recreation. From land, sea and air, visitors discover an infinite array of thrilling activities. The varied topography invites groups to explore and enjoy. And those seeking more laid-back pursuits will relish island-style dining, shopping, festivals and museums.

And then there's golf. Etched within Hawaii's dramatic landscapes are over 80 courses, showcasing championship layouts designed by legends of the game. The NFL is a first-class organization that goes all out to treat business and incentive groups like all-stars during Pro Bowl Week. Add in spending a week in Hawaii during February and the payoff is a rewarding, invigorating experience that helps inspire increased sales and more business. Hawaii actually serves as the NFL's incentive destination with the annual Pro Bowl.

Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows is geared for groups with its Hale Hoaloha Pavilion. The $3.5 million facility features 10,800 square feet of interior space, plus a 2,000-square-foot lanai and 13,200-square-foot lawn. Areas accommodate up to 1,000 for receptions, 900 for theatre seating and 600 for classroom. The property has also refreshed its grand ballroom, meeting rooms, lobby and accommodations.

At Hilton Waikoloa Village, a $46 million two-phase project is slated for completion by year-end 2006. The $21 million first phase included a complete makeover of the 25,000-square-foot Kohala Sports Club & Spa. In addition, high-speed Internet access is now available in all guest rooms, indoor ballrooms and meeting facilities, while high-speed wireless Internet access is offered in public areas. Over 235,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor meeting facilities have been enhanced with refinished woodwork, new carpeting, Hawaiian-inspired wallpaper, new lighting and new sound systems.

The 22-acre Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa welcomes groups ranging from 20 for breakouts and board meetings, to receptions for up to 1,200 in the Keauhou Convention Center. Outdoor venues accommodate groups from 200 to 1,800.

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Getting There

Hilo International Airport (hawaii.gov): Daily flights from the continental U.S. are operated by ATA (ata.com).

Kona International Airport (hawaii.gov): Daily flights from the continental U.S. are operated by Aloha (alohaairlines.com), American (aa.com), Delta (delta.com), Northwest (nwa.com), United (united.com) and U.S. Airways (usairways.com).

Daily Interisland service is provided to both airports by Aloha (alohaairlines.com), Hawaiian (hawaiianair.com), go! (iflygo.com) and Island Air (islandair.com).

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What's New?

United Unites with Hawaiian on Codeshare Agreement | United Airlines is teaming with Hawaiian Airlines on a new codeshare agreement that will compleme...

Abrupt Adieu to Aloha Airlines | After 61 years of service to and from the Hawaiian Islands, Aloha Airlines operated its final fli...

Big Island Airport Gets Big | Kona International Airport (KOA), on Hawaii’s Big Island, launched a $2.8-million upgrade p...

Water Works | The Hawaii Superferry has announced that it will resume service between Oahu and Maui on December...

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