Hawaiian Hospitality Starts At Home

Hawaiian Hospitality doesn’t always start when you step off the plane and onto the luscious grounds of one of the Islands.  Everyone has seen the welcoming images of tourists being greeted with traditional leis, but hospitality can start much earlier.

In my experience, the only hotel brand that proactively contacts me ahead of a visit in the U.S. is the W Hotels. On almost every occasion I get a call or email from the W Insider, a concierge or staff member who looks after special guests.  I never expect anyone from the Sheraton or Westin brands to contact me ahead of a visit in the U.S. – it just doesn’t seem to happen here.

Boy, have I been surprised by the incredible outreach from the Starwood hotels I will be staying at in Hawaii.  I got a personal call today from the Sheraton Kauai. The concierge let me know she’d be at the hotel to greet me and had taken the liberty of preparing maps and other suggestions for me.  She also suggested several restaurants where I might want to make reservations – I’ll be there during the holiday’s so things are already booking up.  I’ve got a hand written card and a pre-printed message from the Westin Maui. It is a bit odd that they sent snail mail in this day and age, but non the less, it was welcome.

I haven’t heard anything from Kona, but it’s still early, I don’t get there until the end of December. I’ve used Starwood Suite Upgrades to ensure upgrades for Maui and for New Year’s Eve – I really want a room with a view of the fireworks.  Maui has been confirmed, but it’s too early for New Year’s Eve to clear. I’ll have to wait a while longer for that.

 

It’s a really nice way to start a vacation – I am looking forward to arriving in Hawaii and experiencing some more Hawaiian hospitality!

 

[Starwood Preferred Guest® Business Credit Card from American Express]

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