I have stayed at various Four Seasons, with the Chiang Mai and
Hualalai properties being my two favorite. The latter ranks as
#1 in celebrity honeymoons.
Gayot and
Travel + Leisure rate Haulalai as #1 in Hawaii. There was a period 14 years ago when the hotel just opened when my staff and I discussed the possibility of drilling for warm water and providing cold deep ocean water for a unique spa providing full range of "natural" temperatures. Hualalai is a volcano which shows potential for geothermal energy. I guess there is a negative connotation to this too.
The hotel chain started as a Canadian company in 1960, but was bought out by Bill Gates (yes of Microsoft) and Prince Al-Waleed in Talal of Saudi Arabia (who is only worth around $10 billion) in 2007. There are 82 Four Seasons in 35 countries, all featuring terrific service.
Their signature restaurants are good. The Japanese steak I had (twice) in Chiang Mai was the best I ever had anywhere.
They also are very expensive, although the current downturn in business opened up Kamaaina rates in Hawaii. Effectively, almost half price, plus a certificate for $250 covering food, services, etc. Parking is $20/night and a rental golf set costs $70/day.
The Jack Nicklaus designed golf course at Hualalai is better than Mauna Kea Beach's, but still, lacking. Too many volcanic rocks. I lost a dozen golf balls today, but, that was over 36 holes. However, no problem, for they were providing Titleist Pro-V-1 practice golf balls at their driving range. So I surreptitiously borrowed a bunch and conveniently returned them every three holes or so.
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The Dow Jones Industrials surged 76 to 10,230, while world markets were mixed. Gold went up $7/toz to $1190 and crude oil is at $77/barrel.
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That disturbance in the Caribbean remains projected to enter the Gulf of Mexico and begin affecting the oil spill area.
Tropical Storm Chanthu will attain typhoon strength around the time it begins to affect eastern Hainan Island.
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