3 years ago
I work in hospitality, and have my entire life. I...
I work in hospitality, and have my entire life. I've run out of superlatives, and cannot wait to return. This is a post-renovation, Dec 2017 stay. Ellison buying the Island may be a "so far so good" moment for the residents, but it's obvious he's tailoring true hospitality to your destination experience. Limiting the amount of outside interference so that the guests are truly catered to, and allowing occupancy to not become too overwhelming such that the intimacy of the experience isn't jeopardized by the desire for a stronger bottom line on a profit loss statement... it's just glorious, and so rare. Hearing how he has helped rebuild some of the community is also heartening, but it's truly Lanai's people are what make it such a singular experience. Maui is full of great hospitality professionals, but I had not experienced such honest Aloha in my 35 years of visiting that island. We used to visit Hana, but I can't imagine a more Ohana-type of vibe and experience than what is happening in Lanai.
Your in room tech is seamless, and where most technology is disruptive, I admit I was overly impressed with your integration into the PMS, and the simplicity of the controls. The RFID key bracelet was particularly simple, forgoing the silliness of some "app" to open the door with a smartphone, we appreciate how you only use technology for ease of hospitality, and not for gimmick or to remove the human element from the experience.
Your staff at both the pool and beach were amazing, and charming. Your hotel restaurant was superb, and we had some of the best seafood ever. But the fact Ellison got Nobu is just surreal, and we have completely destroyed our ability to enjoy fresh fish on the mainland. We truly had some of the greatest dining of our life. Your room service was also delightful.
Rick Lane, your F&B manager was AMAZING, and Shaw Cote from your spa was incredible. Truly dedicated and experience luxury hotel pros. It was wonderful speaking with them, and learning more about your property. I cannot remember all the other people's names, but I will come back to make sure and remember, next time. Even the bad weather's rain and wind couldn't dampen our spirits for one single day.
You are executing at a level of hospitality that no one in the world is accomplishing, and it's likely because of a more philanthropic and "slow" approach to operations than the majority of management groups are used to. The opportunity to create a serene and calming experience for your guests is unparalleled, and I cannot wait to speak to more people about all that you achieve.
Thank you Thank you Thank you. Can't wait to return.
We came the Friday, Sat, Sun, and extended Monday night, the week after Thanksgiving. It seems that the Tuesday morning was quite a bit busier at breakfast, and it seems we found the perfect lull in the year. Is there a post spring break, pre-summertime shoulder that dodges more families or guests? Because see you there! =)
Cheers to you, and all you do. Aloha, Mahalo, and thank you.