WE are going to Kauai in September. We want to stay in a cottage south shore away from the busy stretch. I found what seems to be a good place (Hale Holoko Kai) thru Glorias Vacation Rentals but I can't find a review of the agency or the house anywhere (in books or on line) which has me a bit nervous. Has anyone heard of theses guys or rhis cottage? Any info would be appreciated. WE were going to stay at Garden Isle Cottage but decided we didn't want to be on an inlet and found bettter view (if the pictures are real!!!) from this new place.

Glorias got good recommendations from friends of mine, and I have just arranged to rent a property in Poipu'u through them. Bob (who was very gracious even though I called at 6 AM island time - forgetting about the time difference) and I have had three phone conversations and several e-mail contacts, and the whole process is smooth, open, and friendly. Cancellation policies are straightforward, and they have a nice range of homes to offer. I'm sure they would give you references, and they were certainly very open with me about any shortcomings a property might have.

You could also check with the Poipu'u chamber of commerce and visitor's center - they likely know about any significant complaints (and are on the Web).

Why not call? (Later in the day than I did.)

Thank you John. You have alleviated some of my fears. I am sill hoping to hear from someone who has been there.... I have never done a big vacation like this and I am finding it stressful!! I see why some folks use travel agents but I like to be in control!!

Oops John. I ment to ask which property you are renting and why. We are 3 adults... my mom being a bit up there in age to no really rough terrain though she is actaully pretty hardy.

My sister stayed at Gloria's B&B on Kauai for her honeymoon in April. She loved it. The property was beautiful, service excellent, and all was as represented on Gloria's website. My husband and I are renting a cottage from Gloria next January.

Glad you were reassured. Actually, after replying the first time, I took a closer look in Fodor's Hawaii 2002 - Gloria's Spouting Horn B&B is referenced on page 311.

We will be there in January/Fenruary at one of their properties near Baby Beach.

It's been ten years, bur I stayed in that area, rental home, with my Dad who was 75+ at the time - he had a ball!

The whole area around Poipu is residential and I don't recall any real "rough spots." Most of the properties are in leisure home neighborhoods.

The homes in the area are uniformly nice - range from pretty simple to deluxe. Bob (at Gloria's) will probably be able to give you a run-down on the properties.

You can see the properties on the web at http://www.gloriasvacationrentals.com,
and they have an 800 number for information and reservations.