A few times a month we receive a call or an e-mail from clients and travel agents requesting tropical vacation opportunities without the perceived hassles of customs, immigration, and passports. Our usual response, have you considered Hawaii?

For many travelers, Hawaii is one of the few destinations within the United States to offer a tropical vacation experience (our other suggestion is Key West). Hawaii is a diverse destination including cosmopolitan Honolulu, the laid-back vibe of Kauai, the diversity of Maui, the natural wonders of The Big Island including rainforests and deserts on one island (a United States alternative to Costa Rica) and of course, the luxury or no passport required for travel or currency exchange.

For those who appreciate the ease of flying into Honolulu on Oahu yet wish to avoid the hustle and bustle of the city, check out Ko Olina’s Beach Villas.  Just 30 minutes from the heart of Honolulu, this luxury vacation rental offers a spectacular two bedroom beach villa with all the amenities of a 5-star resort. This unit sits 200 feet from the water’s edge on a peaceful ocean lagoon. As a first-level unit, guests have the use of a grassy front lawn and a private entrance/exit to the beach for easy access.

The luxury villas, designed by Philpotts & Associates and kitchens by Chef Roy Yamaguchi (his restaurants a fixture in Hawaii) impress as do the amenities including a private fitness center, two pools and an owners-only beachfront bar. Within close proximity are additional resort amenities including a fabulous hotel, fine dining, championship golf course and world-class spa. Swim in the four crystal blue lagoons, go for a walk along the beautifully manicured seaside trails, and set sail from the resorts private marina with 330 full service slips. For those who like to hit the links, the 18 hole championship golf course, designed by Ted Robinson, and home to the LPGA Fields Open, offers challenging play and private instruction. Enjoy a fabulous dinner after at the acclaimed Roy’s Restaurant (knowing your kitchen was designed by the master himself).

The Big Island: Also known as Hawaii Island, the Big Island is a popular destination for those who desire luxury and amenities with a sense of privacy and exclusivity. The island itself is a unique destination with a diverse collection of micro-climates comprising of desert, rainforests and active volcanoes.

Hawaii has come through the recession better than mant destinations. Tourism numbers held steady  this past spring as many visitors who had considered Mexico revised their vacation plans and traveled to Hawaii. While prices have dropped and deals are available, the influx of Asian clients due to the loss of value of the US Dollar is propping up the Hawaiian tourism economy. The best deals are flat and estate rentals on the smaller, less popular islands away from the major resort enclaves. We suggest contacting our partners at Ali’i Resorts on Maui.  From now until December 14, 2009, the 3rd night is free on select properties, new bookings only, not valid with other promotions, discounts or offers.