Latest news with #GrandWailea
Yahoo
25-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Yahoo
Gardens of Eden: Lush ‘wellness weddings' surrounded by nature are the latest trend
Once upon a time, he put on a top hat, she lowered the veil and the whole family headed for the chapel. But these days a wedding isn't just a ceremony, it's 'self-care.' 'As self-care becomes a priority to our clients' daily lives, we're witnessing major changes in how people experience and integrate wellness in their lifestyle and travel plans,' said Tracy Lee, founder and president of TLEE Spas + Wellness, which creates spa environments for resorts like the Little Nell in Aspen, Auberge's Stanly Ranch in the Napa Valley and Waldorf-Astoria's Grand Wailea in Maui. At the Grand Wailea, a lush and romantic oceanfront retreat, a recent 'wellness wedding' went down within the property's Kilolani Spa and featured Rachael McCrory, Hilton's regional director of spa and wellness. 'It heralds a trend that will likely gain momentum, as couples seek out alternative wedding venues that highlight mindfulness and human connection,' Lee wrote in her company's 2025 Future of Wellness forecast. Hawaii, sure. But where those alternative weddings venues aren't is the asphalt jungle. That's why lovebirds are seeking out increasingly natural and lush locales for their weddings… er, we mean 'holistic and immersive healing journeys.' For a domestic destination venue, nowhere has more heart, soul or greenery than Living Sculpture Sanctuary in south Florida. This former plant nursery located just 20 minutes inland from Fort Lauderdale, or 40 minutes north of Miami, is now a verdant and sacred ceremony space where 'I dos' happen in natural surroundings. 'It has vibrant flowers, an organic vibe and tropical scenery and ambiance,' said May Luz Rodriguez Alvarez of the 5.25-acre grounds she landscaped with her husband Robert J. McKee. 'Couples love to incorporate heliconias and birds of paradise, or more unique flowers. Our specialty cultivar is bonsai desert roses,' That's adenium obesum to McKee, who moonlights as a bonsai master. Both attorneys, these green thumbs originally began building out the venue for their own wedding a little over 10 years ago. It took over two years to realize their vision of a garden filled with waterfalls, koi ponds, ancient oaks and even a 'Zen suite,' where massages, sound baths, and meditations are part of the wedding journey. 'I wouldn't say that we transform it, as much as the land transformed us,' said only natural materials like wood, granite and onyx to build the pavilions and structures, Alvarez adds that she was guided by the five sacred elements: earth, fire, water, air, and spirit. 'In south Florida we have the incredible ocean, but it can be really windy, or there can be some city ordinance issues. Here you can enjoy the wind and you can enjoy the water as elements,' she said. 'We have a lake with three waterfalls that are known as the healing falls. The one in the middle symbolizes love from which everything flows. The one to the right symbolizes abundance, and the one to the left symbolizes health. Those are the attributes necessary in order to live a balanced and a healthy life.' Currently, the venue hosts weddings of up to 120 people, but later this year an expansion will allow for up to 200. And there's no ordering off the menu here: each package is bespoke so you'll have to send off an inquiry and talk it out to tie the knot drenched in Florida flora. But, no matter what a certain Muppet said, it's pretty easy being green. Travel advisors specializing in booking wedding parties point to Mexico, Costa Rica and Hawaii as a few surefire spots to trick out your nuptial rite with luscious leaves. 'Some of the destinations that are really hot are Hanalei Bay [in the Hawaiian isle of Kauai] and Riviera Maya [Mexico's Yucatan coast running from Cancun to Tulum]. It's really special, especially when you're talking about nature and getting into that really lush wilderness,' said Adam Schwab, the co-founder and CEO of the travel company Luxury Escapes. In Mexico, Schwab recommends booking at Unico 20°87° Riviera Maya, just 30 minutes outside Tulum. Its 'terraza verde' weddings go down next to its Esencia Wellness Spa, a secluded spot surrounded by nature. It's also the perfect opportunity to go big, as it can handle receptions of up to 800. Or, for something smaller, their 'Soul Green' ceremony is eco chic with flowers hung from a primitive wood structure. Best of all (or worst of all, if you have a favorite little niece or nephew) it's an adults only resort. Over in Hanalei Bay, the 1 Hotel is really your only option for luxe-meets-lush. It's a brand that already specializes in eco-everything, the flowing palm trees are just the cherry on top. In Costa Rica, El Mangroove, part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, is nestled into the jungle environs along the Gulf of Papagayo. It's aptly named Union Garden is 8,820 square feet of tamed tropical vegetation — think 'The Secret Garden' mixed with the 'The Jungle Book.' Or skip the beach entirely and go deep inland into the country's wild south, where Hacienda AltaGracia, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, offers 360 degree greenery. Buy this 29-room resort out and you'll be spoiled for tropical wedlock locales: There's a lake-front garden, the castle gardens, and orchard fruit trees and vineyard vines next to a sexy stone barn. But don't jump the gun and get married to just one location, warns Schwab. 'Somebody wants a jungle wedding, and they have a specific resort in mind — well, that resort may not be suitable, be booked out or just not really want the business,' he said, noting that when booking big blocks of rooms agents can get deals you can't — and keep you from booking during the wrong season for that part of the world (say, Thailand in August.) 'Specific resorts and hotels are often substitutable. It's rare that there really is only one and often the best option is somewhere that the customer doesn't even know exists.' Call it the law of the jungle.
Forbes
21-03-2025
- Forbes
Sourced In Maui: Seafood-Forward Local Cuisine Rules At Grand Wailea
Maui is one of Hawaii's most popular tourist destinations. Known for stunning beaches, a warm local community and rich cultural heritage the devastation of the raging wildfires in 2023 made visiting the lush paradise seem out of the question. Nevertheless, the community in Maui rose to the occasion, rebuilding and rallying around the local businesses and residents in a successful effort to keep the island running. The Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, originally opened in 1991 and has been part of the local community ever since. It's also one of the largest and most well-regarded hotels on the island with over 800 guest rooms, multiple pools and even a chapel. As such, they've incorporated even more of the local touches into their own rebuilds. These widespread integrations reflect the traditions of the region and even highlight some of the lesser known ingredients. With so many upgrades, in fact, Chef Urig finds it redundant to put 'Made in Maui' designations onto the menus. 'We are proud that the vast majority of our produce (80%) is local.' Executive Chef Ryan Urig Early 2024 saw the reopening of Kilolani spa with a renewed identity developed by the in-house wellness team and meant to actively integrate the Helu Pō, or moon cycles, from the Hawaiian calendar into various treatments. The spa features native botanicals and made-in-Maui products all while following the waxing and waning of the moon. This isn't limited to the spa, however. Seafood-forward restaurant Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa, named after the a local reef trigger fish, debuted to much acclaim and just as many local ingredients the same year. 'We have worked to create local partnerships.' Says Chef Urig. 'Much of the locally sourced produce integrated within dishes has been grown under traditional Hawaiian practices aligning to the Helu Pō of the state. We work with local farms to highlight their masterfully raised product such as taro, pineapple and Kālua pig.' A selection of fresh seafood served at Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa Each of the culinary stops serves up local flavors from Olivine's Italian-fusion to seafood-forward Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa. By tapping into local restaurants like Sale Pepe, Maui's premiere Italian restaurant that was affected by the 2023 Wildfires, a partnership was born. Onsite Italian fusion restaurant Olivine utilizes pastas made by the Sale Pepe team. The point, according to Urig, is to make a 'wholly unique Hawaiian touch to a classic Italian dish.' Fast-casual Loulu has a farm-to-table vibe with distinctive nods to the region and with Nobu soon to open, there are about to be even more options. A cocktail served on the aquarium bar at Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa How are they able to source so many local ingredients? It's a multi-pronged tactic sometimes with lesser know ingredients from Hawaiia. 'Through one of the artisans at our weekly jewelry and craft fair, we were introduced to Mother Mushrooms.' Chef Urig explains calling his mushrooms second-to-none. Mother Mushrooms farm is located in Makawao on the slopes of Mount Haleakalā where they grow gourmet Oyster, Lion's Mane and Shiitake mushroom varietals. The chef also has a partnership with Blue Ocean Mariculture and Tropic Fish Hawaiʻi both programs that responsibly raise and cultivate local seafoods. Blue Ocean focuses on Hawaiian Kanpachi using submersible sea pens off of Keāhole Point in Kona located on the Big Island of Hawai'i. They are renowned for sustainably providing ingredients without harming the surrounding ocean biosphere. Hawaiian Kanpachi is a main draw but they also offer Kona lobster, abalone, oysters, sea asparagus and ogo. Tropic Fish is known for being a pelagic fishery with a remarkably sustainable footprint. A snapshot of the offerings at Grand Wailea It's not just seafood, however. Grand Wailea partners with a wide range of local farms and businesses including Surfing Goat Dairy, Kula Country Farms, Aliʻi Lavender Farm and Kumu Farms. As well as housing honeybees to contribute to the island's agricultural thumbprint. Alas, with food comes waste but Chef Urig has a solution even to that. In a nod to the full-circle approach of the moon cycles, Chef Urig affirms that they donate all food waste to local farmers. Curious about what dishes at Grand Wailea use which mushrooms? See below for some of the not-to-be-missed favorites and where to find them: Botero- Crispy Mushrooms (appetizer): Mother Mushrooms, Pea Tendril Salad, Chimichurri Aioli Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa- Local Wild Mushrooms (side dish): Black Pearl Oysters, Lion's Mane Mushrooms, Maui Onion, Smoked Ponzu Olivine- Harvest Wood Oven Pizza: Wild Local Mushrooms, Macadamia Nut Pesto, Surfing Goat Feta
Forbes
20-03-2025
- Forbes
Fairmont Kea Lani: A Lush Retreat On Maui's Postcard-Perfect Polo Beach
Fairmont Kea Lani and Polo Beach Sweeping views of the gardens, pools, and ocean from the resort lobby It doesn't take long to fall in love with Fairmont Kea Lani resort in Wailea. From the moment you arrive at the capacious open-air lobby with gleaming stone floors, romantic archways and domed ceilings, lush gardens, and peaceful waterfalls, the resort's many charms are on full display. Then, you see the jaw-dropping views of Polo Beach, the glittering ocean, mesmerizing mountains, and postcard-perfect volcanic islands just across the way. Here's what to know about this destination-worthy Wailea hotel — the only all-suite and villa luxury resort in Hawaii — before you book your trip to Maui. Lobby The Fairmont Kea Lani opened in 1991 as Hawaii's only all-suite and villa luxury resort — a title that it's held ever since. The resort got a substantial makeover in 2024, with newly designed accommodations and refreshed communal spaces. Fairmont Kea Lani resort on Maui The newly-opened Pilina bar & lounge at sunset The resort boasts an enviable spot in the luxe resort community of Wailea, about a 30-minute drive from Kahului Airport. From the main building, the resort slopes down past lush gardens and swimming pools to Polo Beach, a secluded 600-foot stretch of white sand protected by black lava rock formations on both ends. (From the beach you can walk the easy path along the dramatic and stunning coastline, strolling past the Grand Wailea, Four Seasons, and Kea Lani's other high-end neighbors.) Courtesy of Fairmont Kea Lani The resort's suites and villas, pools, restaurants, and lounges are all positioned to maximize its incredible views of the surrounding mountains and pristine coastline. The small islands of Kaho'olawe, and Molokini — the crescent-shaped volcanic crater that's a great destination for snorkeling — dot the horizon. (You can talk to the hotel about booking a half-day cruise to the famous marine preserve.) Lower pool at sunset Oceanview villa Stand-up paddleboarding is just one of the watersport options available on site Sunrise at Maui's Fairmont Kea Lani Kō restaurant Villa private lanai and plunge pool Villa bathroom Kea Lani translates to 'heavenly white' in Hawaiian, and that describes the resort's architecture and decór too. The light and bright contemporary spaces have a Hawaiian coastal chic vibe that showcases the vibrant and showy flora just outside, and panoramic views of the sparkling ocean, surrounding mountains, and neighboring islands. King suite Suite living room Ocean views from a King suite lanai The bright and airy suites range from a roomy 860 to 1,100 square feet. With comfy living areas with bistro tables, sumptuous marble bathrooms, and large private lanais with sweeping views of the ocean, mountain, or gardens, guests have ample room to spread out, relax, and really make themselves at home. Villa kitchen and dining area Views from an oceanfront villa Villa bedroom The ultra luxe 2-story villas, which can house a maximum of 6 to 8 guests, range from 1,800 to 2,200 square feet. The 2- and 3-bedroom villas come with lots of bells and whistles — from fully equipped kitchens to living rooms with top-of-the-line entertainment systems, sleek Italian marble bathrooms, and lush outdoor spaces with ocean views, private plunge pools, and grills — making them a great option for families with kids, and groups of friends or multi-generational families traveling together. Kō restaurant The sushi boat experience at Pilina The resort offers several options for dining and drinks throughout the day. Breakfast is served daily at Kea Lani Restaurant. AMA Bar & Grill offers casual lunches like salads, sandwiches, or Buddha bowls served on the lanai, or poolside. Nick's Fishmarket is the place for seafood and a stellar wine list with views of the vibrant gardens. But the best, most panoramic views of the stunning coastline are upstairs at Pilina bar & lounge and Kō restaurant. The sexy new lounge offers top-notch impeccably fresh (and extra beautiful) sushi, served alongside creative cocktails. Kō has received awards for its inventive regional Hawaiʻi cuisine like ahi with orange-ginger miso cooked on a hot lava rock, and the Paniolo bone-in ribeye with a Hawaiian rub, fern shoots, and a sweet potato croquette. If you need grab-and-go meals or snacks, the resort's MAKANA Market + Cafe is well-stocked with made-to-order smoothies and sandwiches throughout the day. It's also the perfect spot to pick up some edible souvenirs and other locally-made products before you head home. Spa massage cabana The spa features Hawaiian rain experience showers The sleek spa has indoor and outdoor cabana treatment rooms for massages, facials, and more services centered around traditional Hawaiian practices and locally sourced oils, herbs, and other products. Allow extra time before or after a treatment to take advantage of the men's and women's lounges, which have high-tech hydrotherapy options including steam rooms, saunas, and sleek Hawaiian rain experience showers. The fitness center, which has Technogym equipment, Peloton bikes, and lovely views of the grounds, is open 24 hours a day. Or, enjoy the scenery at golden hour with fitness classes like sunset yoga. Hawaiian canoe experience The resort participates in a wide range of initiatives aimed at reducing their environmental impact. That includes solar panels that generate 20% of the resort's monthly energy, several water conservation programs, biodegradable food containers, and refillable water stations for guests throughout the resort in order to combat single-use plastics. 70 percent of the resort's produce (and 80 percent of its fish) is sourced locally. And in order to reduce food waste, the resort also donates hundreds of pounds of food to a local pig farm, and turns hundreds of gallons of cooking oil into biofuel, on a weekly basis. Courtesy of Fairmont Kea Lani / KORAY ERKAYA For more information or to book a stay, visit Fairmont Kea Lani.
