My wife and I stayed at the KL 07/02 for our honeymoon. Everything was terrific. I've stayed at many FS resorts as well but decided on KL due to the room size and views. We enjoyed hanging out at the pools and liked that it wasn't as pretentious as FS. GW is too large and Disneylike for our taste. Bottom line -- FS is the best hands down if you don't mind the smaller rooms, smaller pools, and less than ideal views. Their service is exceptional. All the FS resorts are in a class of their own.

Why so much concern about hotel selection, pools and service when going on vacation? Expecially to Hawaii.

What sort of service are you looking for.

I don't care about hotel service except for efficient check-in and out and a clean room. You don't need to go to the best hotels for that.

I don't care about a pool when I am staying at a beach; I spend the day at the beach(where there is water to swim in).

I don't care about the view from inside my room because I have spent the day outside...at the beach...looking at the water.

I felt the same way as Gordon when I was 25 or so and on a budget.
But then I got spoiled by places like Four Seasons hotels where, if you can afford it, little things can make a big difference. Like any time something isn't right, no matter how small, they have it fixed without hesitation and make it perfect whenever possible. Everything's the best and it makes the vacation feel that much morte special.

Is it worth crimping your budget for, or running up the credit card to stay there?
Not in my opinion.
But if it's within budget, it's just a nice vaction enhancer.

Does anyone NEED a Mercedes to drive to work?
No.
But it sure makes the trip just a bit more pleasurable.

Stayed in a villa at the Kea Lani this fall. The Villa was extremely disappointing. The furniture was substandard for a luxury resort and the living room was very narrow. Service by the pool was inconsistent as was the overall attitude of the staff. Linens are also mediocre as are the beds.

I will be returning to Maui soon and plan to try the FS.

We saw a couple weddings when we were there for our honeymoon in 7/01. The wedding was performed outside, in a beautiful garden area. Then, there was a separate room for the reception. I think it would be perfect for a small wedding!

Good luck with your planning. If you have any questions, you can email me at [email protected]

By the way, I'd stay away from the Ritz. It's not even on the beach. And yes, Wailea is a dry area; that's why they have to pump the water in. You'll find the hotel area gorgeous and lush. As for the views at FS, just stay in an ocean view room and you won't be disappointed!