Certain hotels have resort fees. Car break-ins are common in the Hawaiian Islands and some Caribbean islands have had problems with pushy vendors on public beaches. What if another passenger coughs on the plane? You could stay in a favorite of Barack and Michelle Obamathe 5-bedroom, 5.5-bathroom, plantation-style Estate, recommended by Debbie Misajon of the Coconut Traveler. 3. You could use a Marriott up to 35,000-point certificate from the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card, for example, in both destinations. Travel along the Road to Hana to experience East Maui's scenic coastline, explore Haleakala - the world's largest dormant volcano - in the Upcountry and discover the former tribal battlegrounds. If you're planning to travel to the islands of the Caribbean, here are some resources to help you plan your trip during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy. Editor's Note: Those who choose to travel are strongly encouraged to check local government restrictions, rules, and safety measures related to COVID-19 and take personal comfort levels and health conditions into consideration before departure. Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card. If youre traveling to the Caribbean from June to August and worried about a hurricane, pick an island such as Barbados or Trinidad thats outside of the traditional hurricane-prone zone. Emanating elegance, this hillside restaurant served a beautifully crafted seasonal prix-fixe menu highlighting the island's local ingredients. When the uniformed National Guard soldier checked Dukes temperature with a handheld thermometer, he wasnt nervous and instead flashed an excited shaka as we proceeded to the travel form line. Southwest and Alaska Airlines routes to Hawaii are a boon to West Coast travelers. To ease my anxiety, I over prepared by washing our face masks, packing wipes and hand sanitizerand researching the new travel rules. In the Caribbean, youll find historic forts, former sugar cane plantations, rum distilleries and plenty of coffee beans in the mountains of Jamaica. If all you want to do is go have a family resort vacation (and theres nothing at all wrong with that), the Caribbean might have the edge as a family-friendly destination. It is also one of the most popular spots for a photoshoot. Both destinations have fantastic, balmy weather year-round, palm trees and fragrant tropical flowers, white- or black-sand beaches, forests filled with hiking trails, plenty of offshore activities and a ton of ways to get there and stay with miles and points. On the eastern edge of Waikikis coastline, the Diamond Head state monument is known for its breathtaking views, hiking trails and military history. My favorite is the Montage Kapalua Bay [reopening October 15] up at the north end of the island. Starbucks was the only food establishment open in the interisland terminal when we traveled. But here are the best times to visit Hawaii and best times to visit the Caribbean. I took a trolley that looked like a Disney transplant to the car rental area where a friendly attendant asked for proof of my negative COVID-19 test prior to handing me the keys. Find the right card for you. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. Many five-star hotel clients also go to the Grand Hyatt Kauai on the south side of the island, says King. Fly out first. While meals were previously served buffet-style, you can now look forward to multiple-course dishes tableside (think regular restaurant dinner service with a musical journey of the history of Hawaii on stage right in front of you). In fact, Hawaiian Airlines has stated that they arelimiting capacity to 70%during this time. Readers rated islands according to their activities and sights, natural attractions and beaches, food, friendliness, and overall value. This hike is challenging and steep, but the people who conquer it say the views are worth the effort. Almost every Caribbean destination is open to travelers regardless of vaccination status. If you turn inland to Mauka between mile markers 14 and 13 onto Honomu Road, youll be surprised to find an amazing collection of art galleries and gift stores as well as several cafes. Hawaii is home to 137 islands, eight of which are inhabited. Travelers often ask if its easier to visit Hawaii or the Caribbean. Then, of course, youll have to allow time for clearing customs on both the front and back ends of the trip. Alaska Airlines offers a once-a-year companion certificate to anyone who holds the Alaska Airlines Visa credit card. Safe travels! Carry cleaning supplies. Steep cliffs on the coast of Maui, as seen from the Road to Hana. Consider the beachside Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, which was voted the best hotel on the island (and No. Super Wingsepisodes on his iPad kept him still and entertained the whole time. There are a lot of Caribbean islands, broken up in the following way: In Hawaii, the culture derives mainly from ancestral Hawaiian and Polynesian traditions (though Chinese, Japanese and other cultures have made a significant impression). At the arrival desk, a receptionist asked to see my negative COVID-19 result, then handed me a lei that I put on myself for a contactless welcome. It has lots of different options and room types, and all rooms are ocean-facing. I felt safest choosing the most COVID-friendly outdoor activities. I love writing and publishing content for digital nomads, remote workers, and passionate travelers like me. One traveler shares her recent experience of visiting Maui amid the pandemic, including the flight, hotel, restaurant, activities, and more. Here's what it was like to travel to the Hawaiian island during peak season in December amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Settle that difficult "which island to visit" question once and for all. Keyla Vasconcellos is a Los Angeles-based writer covering food, lifestyle, and travel. I think they have the most pools and water activities for kids anywhere in Hawaii, with multiple swimming pools for different ages., Advisor Josh Alexander with Protravel International also loves the Montage Kapalua Bayspecifically, their private residences, which offer larger living spaces and with gourmet kitchens.. When people talk about Hawaii, they want to be in the resort, protected, and not urban. Youll find a range of beach types in both destinations. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. The two flagship properties are Four Seasons: the 213-room Four Seasons Resort Lanai, which overlooks the protected marine preserve of Hulopoe Bay, and Sensei Lanai, a Four Seasons Resort, a property focused primarily on wellness programs and activities, for ages 16+. The park offers picnic facilities, restrooms and concession stands. Most of the Caribbean, with the exception of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, are foreign destinations. (Shutterstock via CNN) By Cnn Com Wire Service |. No trip to Maui is complete without a drive on the Road to Hana with more than 600 hairpin turns, says Diane Crisman of Valerie Wilson Travel. The test must be taken within 72 hours of the flight's departure. In fact, the longest line we encountered at the airport was for Starbucks! You pay $99 for the fare (plus as little as $23 for the taxes and fees). You get the certificate on your cards anniversary. This hike is great as part of a day trip to the monument. If anyone on our team wouldnt recommend it to a friend or a family member, we wouldnt recommend it on The Points Guy either. The most popular, Hawaii, is affectionately referred to as the Big Island and is where most new visitors will land first. A Bostonian could watch two additional full-length movies to kill the extra time it takes to get to Hawaii. Island of Hawaii - Indoor social gatherings of more than 25 . As I boarded the plane, I was given a hand sanitizer wipe and ushered to my seat. We watched the majestic sun rising below us with its multicolored hues, while one of the guides sang a Hawaiian song. But borders are reopening October 15, allowing visitors to present a negative COVID-19 test result within 72 hours of arrival to avoid a mandatory 14-day quarantine. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. Offers may be subject to change without notice. Watch the deep orange sun as it sinks down beneath the horizon, the last traces of light dancing on the waters of the Pacific. It is one of the most expensive islands simply because of the two Four Seasons properties, and there are rentals as well, says King. Hawaii's travel restrictions are evolving rapidly. Are you debating between a trip to Hawaii or somewhere in the Caribbean? The north side, with Princeville and Mount Waialeale in the center, gets a ton of rain, averaging 450 inches a year, says King. You can reserve your tickets for HoMa online before your visit. Stash some snacks. You can have memorable, relaxing family vacations in either the Caribbean or Hawaii. This all day tour starts with pickup from your hotel and takes you to Waikikis Diamond Head volcano for a birds-eye view of the islands majesty. The battleship is open for tours four days a week, and expert guides give in-depth talks on the ships role in the war. Again, a truly cost-effective way to secure round-trip flights to Alaskas Hawaiian gateways, including Honolulu (HNL), Maui (OGG), Kona (KOA) and Lihue (LIH). The following Southwest credit cards are offering a 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first three months. Spend enough time on this oasis, and you could get through most of your bucket list. And of course, a visit to Waikiki to see how the city meets the ocean with endless fine dining options and shopping. Neibaur also loves to recommend the home rental options at the Four Seasons complex, especially for those seeking more privacy now. But, the real question is, should you go to the Caribbean or Hawaii? "We've decided to postpone traveling because of the pandemic." When it comes to the feel of the islands and the distinct culture youll find on each, there are some significant differences that are perhaps more important than the geographical distances. You will find many places along the way where it is easy to rent a paddleboard for the day. The memorial now stands as a historic attraction, welcoming millions of visitors a year. Papaklea Beach or Green sand beach, Big Island, Hawaii. It is known for its endless adventure options, beaches ranging from mild to rough waters, hiking in rain forests, black-sand deserts, Volcanoes National Park with two active volcanoesand great places to stay. They're consistently among T+L readers' favorite destinations; three of them appear not only here but also on this year's list of best islands in the world. 4. (Keep in mind, if you don't wear a mask, you could be looking at a $5,000 fine.) document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); #mc_embed_signup{background:#000000; clear:left; font:14px Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; width:100%;} I was so proud of Duke for wearing his mask, not throwing a tantrum when I refused the complimentary POG juice, and for putting up with constant hand sanitizer (we call it slimeto make it fun). The catamaran offered open-air seating, and I was required to answer health questions before boarding. Some brought blankets, while our charming guide provided warm jackets. Rush Processing; the relatively quicker and costlier option. Most people stay on the Kona side, where there is more sunshine and all the top resorts. During the same period, only six ships call on Hawaiian ports. The Caribbean is also where cruise lines have their private islands, such as Royal Caribbeans Coco Cay, Disneys Castaway Cay and the brand-new Ocean Cay from MSC Cruises. The islands of Hawaii are a magical paradise, filled with natural wonders, pristine waters and rich culture. Thats an incredible value especially if youre flying to Hawaii. Ala Wai Canal, Waikiki, Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii. It does share the beach with Disneys Aulani [opening November 1], which can be a good or bad thing, depending on the traveler. With about 65,000 visitors, the island attracts only a fraction of all the tourists that visit the island group each year. I ordered a specialty cocktail called the 2020 Eraser. What started as a family holiday reunion in Maui ended with a disappointing, but sensible, call: "Honey," my dad said. The daily exhibition features works by native Hawaiian artists including interactive exhibits and family-friendly installations that kids can touch and explore. Instrumental in the battles of World War II and the site of the bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Battleship Missouri was one of the few warships sent to Hawaii to defend the US territory (which later became a state). When I arrived at LAX, two people were in front of me, and after an uncomfortable nose swab, I was in and out in 10 minutes. The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is a stacked card with a rewards rate that will help you earn bonus points on everyday and business-related purchases. That's when the island's generally reasonable room rates take the most significant plunge. Related: Key things to know about Global Entry. 7. Suddenly, two curious whales breached the surface of the water, not 50 feet away. If youve got your heart set on a tropical cruise, your options are much more plentiful and therefore more affordable in the Caribbean. My guide picked me up at my hotel and asked a variety of health questions, in addition to the customary temperature check. Hawaiibetter known as the Big Islandis the largest of the island chain, with more than 10 diverse climate zones. You can do all the research and preparation, but know that there is bound to be some turbulencewhether it is a change in policy, a long line or a toddler tantrum. I opted for the ahi poke dish with rice chips as the prologue to my meal. This point is an excellent photo spot and was once the place where spectators stood to watch Amelia Earhart take her first solo flight from Hawaii to the mainland United States. To adhere to safety regulations, the passenger numbers were limited for safe social distancing, and all tables were spaced six feet apart. Youre not there for nightlife, but for the beaches, exploration, and privacy., As youre choosing where to go, know the weather differences between the north and south side. The wildest of all the islands, Kauaiknown as the Garden Island has been the backdrop to myriad Hollywood movies and TV series, thanks to its white-sand beaches, rain forests, coastlines, waterfalls, rivers, and climate. What is the processing time and price? For those in the middle and eastern parts of the U.S., the Caribbean is also much easier on kids when it comes to jet lag. The Caribbean may have more specifically kid-focused lodging options, but there are plenty of full-service resorts in Hawaii that also cater to kids. Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. ), Related: How to rent DVC points to stay at Aulani for less. 3, Maui is beloved for its something-for-everyone attractions, from rain forests to national parks and 30 miles of beaches, as well as its five-star lodgings and what one reader deemed "amazing food. The Mauna Kea, part of the Autograph Collection, has been a standard for Californians, and they have villas, as well.. Children younger than 2 years old should not wear a mask. All restrictions on intercounty travel have been lifted, meaning no pre-travel testing or quarantining is needed for travel between the Hawaiian islands. I think well see a significant number of requests for bookings to Hawaii., Hawaii is in rare form right now, says Debbie Misajon, founder of the Coconut Traveler, and a destination expert specializing in Hawaii. I think Kauai may be Hawaiis strongest draw now, says Neibaur. The Caribbean has kid-focused resorts such as the Nickelodeon Resort in Punta Cana and family-friendly, all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica, the Dominican Republic and beyond. I had a whole row to myself, and felt safe knowing all the other masked passengers had a negative COVID-19 test, too. The other restaurants and the Hawaiian Airlines Premier and Plumeria Lounges were closed. You can hike, sail, dive or snorkel in either destination, though whale watching is definitely better in Hawaii. Oahu Hidden Gems Tour + Snorkeling with Turtles #1 in Best Hawaiian Islands to Visit Though it's perhaps most famous for the fabulous coastlines of Ka'anapali Beach and Wailea Beach, Maui is a great option for first-timers who are looking. But there is plenty to do, says Kingbeaches, snorkeling, humpback whale viewing during January and early February, golf courses, and fine dining, like the famous Mamas Fish House. You'll find a variety of projects like tree planting, self-directed beach cleanups, ocean reef preservation, and more. CNN . Disneys Aulani resort on Oahu is one option if you want kid-focused and Hawaii all in one. Humble Market Kitchin is a chef Roy Yamaguchi restaurant. When we booked our flight and selected seats a couple of weeks in advance, I was encouraged that the airlines safety procedures said that middle seats were blocked off to promote social distancing, so our family would not have to share our row. Find comfortable masks. Travelers must fill out the Hawaii Safe Travel program application form. This new form is mandatory for all interisland travel as of June 16. The most popular tours are still in effect, even during COVID, and there is much to see and do in this Pacific Island chain. If youre looking for an itinerary like that, research British Airways fifth-freedom island-hopping routes in the Caribbean that do go between certain islands on certain days, starting at just 4,500 points in each direction. Kilauea is considered to be one of the most active volcanoes on earth at the moment. Maui has numerous resorts, where travelers tend to go and spend time. Prices depend on the dates you chose and start at USD $314 for both adults and children. We pulled our masks tighter, wiped every inch of the seat, buckled up and hoped for the best. (The one exception for now is the Big Island of Hawaii: If youre arriving at Kona airport, you must take a second test upon arrival in addition to showing a negative test result. Book a guide to drive you up, so you can learn about the dormant volcanic crater and its history. The luau had just reopened four days before I attended, and the new arrangement included reduced seating, resulting in a wait-list for the rest of December. With nearly endless reservation options to fly or stay, book your next getaway near or far at Travel + Leisure GO. And guess what? Book a guide to drive you up, so you can learn about the dormant volcanic crater and its history. You will find many places along the way where it is easy to rent a paddleboard for the day. As if air travel with kids isnt stressful enough, throw a pandemic into the mix. Get your heart pumping and visit some of the island chains most famous beaches by bike. If youre staying in a house or villa, request that your provisions come from a local farmer or rancher, she said. The 243-room property has seven swimming pools, a full service spa, and a 1.8 million gallon swimmable aquarium with marine biologists at the ready to teach you about the 90 kinds of tropical fish that live in it. One of our favorite luaus in Hawaii is the Smith Family Luau on Kauai, which has been a family-run business for decades. We say theres no universally bad time to visit either destination. On the island of Oahu, the Safe Access O'ahu program, which required proof of vaccination or a negative test to enter businesses such as restaurants, bars and gyms, ended March 5. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua has its own take on a work and play package, called OOO (Out of the Ordinary)families can get away together and still be productive at work or school in residential suites with small kitchens; they can move to the poolside cabana if they just need to listen in on the Zoom call. Required fields are marked *. Of course, there are also beaches with a more traditional look for example, the basically perfect Mauna Kea beach on the Big Island.
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