hotel help!
 

I'll be spending 5 days in Oahu at the end of September. I'm a senior citizen that will be traveling with my sister who is also a senior citizen. We're looking for an inexpensive hotel (we're on fixed income, so something less than $100/night). We want something that is clean, comfortable, within walking distance to the International Market Place (etc.), has a pool and has a nice, helpful staff. Any suggestions would be wonderful. Thanks to all of your help.

The pool is on the small side, but other than that the Ilima is just what you're looking for. One of the comments under Fodors hotel reviews is about the friendly staff.

$95 per night and fifth night free is the current special.

Check it out at www.ilima.com

Another good choice for you might be the classic old Hawaiiana Hotel, similar to the Ilima in it's reputation for good old fashioned Aloha hospitality.

Rooms are older and basic, but the pool area is very inviting. They'll probably offer a 15 percent discount to seniors if you request a special rate in September which would work out about the same as a free night at the Ilima. It's about a 7 minute walk down a few blocks to the Marketplace.

Another hotel to look at would be the Ohana East, special rates are usually available at Expedia. com.

And right at the International Marketplace is an affordable Best Western Hotel, rather nice and the price is right, though many of the rooms are noisy due to all the activity around that area. A good choice though if they will guarantee you a room on the quiet side.

If you use priceline you can get the 4* Hawaii Prince on the beach for $85/nt. Check out www.biddingfortravel.com. to tell you how to bid. All the 4* and resort hotels are centrally located. Definitely worth a try. Have fun.

I second the recommendation for the Hawaiiana Hotel. I just returned after spending two weeks as their guest and can't wait to go back in March. It is the most lovely property - flowers, grassy areas, trees everywhere. They have two pools - one "regular" pool and one smaller pool 3-5 feet deep. They serve complimentary Kona coffee and tropical juice every morning by the smaller pool which is great. The fresh pineapple they give after you check in is delicious. The staff are more than friendly and helpful. The rooms also include kitchenettes which saved me oodles of dollars on meals. It's situated one block from the beach, 1/2 block from Kalakaua, the bus runs right outside the back gate, there are numerous shops and restaurants within walking distance. You won't be disappointed. Check out their website and see for yourself. Have a terrific trip.