Vacation Rentals by Owner

Hawaii THE BIG ISLAND

Guest: Sandy (Brocton,NY (Westerrn NY))
Date of Stay: 10/21/11 Review Submitted: 11/02/11

This was our first trip to Hawaii, and my sister-in-law and I decided to try a condo vs. a hotel. I research different places on the island and finally decided on Waikoloa Village. Viewing the property on line was a true picture of what to expect. The minute we arrived and walked in, we were transported into a Hawiian paradise. All our expectations were far exceeded. The peacefulness of the surroundings, the beautiful interior design, and the impeccable landscaping, why would you want to stay in a hotel. A plus for anyone who golfs, the course could be seen from the lanai. The pool is directly across the lanai, but not visable because of the landscaping. For those who like to cook out, the pool house has a total kitchen set up with the best grills I have ever used. For those that don't want to travel into town, which is about 20 miles away, there is a small shopping area just before you get to the main road of the complex. Plus the grocery store was much better then the one in Kona. The beaches are about 6 miles away on Rt. 19. They were just beautiful and a good place to take sunset pictures. To get a good history and see the sites around the island, I felt the 12 hour sight seeing tour was well worth it. We did the submarine excursion but really felt that it was overpriced. It only lasted 1 hour and basically all you saw were those little yellow tropical fish. We were told by the natives that over the years the bay has been fished out and they are not allowed to bait the fish into the bay. The kayak ride through the irregation flumes was quite interesting. If you should chose this condo, you will not be disappointed. The owners are within a phone call away, or email them, and they will immediatly deal with your concerns. They were just the nicest people as were the residents of the complex.

Owner response:We enjoy helping to make our guests' stay comfortable and memorable, therefore we are always upgrading and improving Hale O Mele La'i each time we are there. It gives us pleasure to hear the compliments that say that it is worth our effort. Mahalo. Since Hawaii is called the Big Island, these guests are an example of seeing it from end to end, filling their days, and still leaving so much more to do another time. Our centralized location makes this much easier.

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Haven of Aloha

Guest: Sharon (British Columbia, Canada) (Nanaimo, BC, Canada)
Date of Stay: 10/05/11 Review Submitted: 01/10/12

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. This was my 7th time on the Big Island but my first ever condo rental (Sharon). Sylvia made this experience SO easy and straightforward and we felt supported every step of the way. The condo was super clean and had everything we needed and felt like we were home. As two cousins travelling together, having separate bedrooms and bathrooms was fantastic. Would be great for two couples or larger family too, since the bedrooms/bathrooms are on separate levels. We were able to have our privacy and share the beautiful living space together. We enjoyed the sunsets and some dinners on the lanai and breakfasts there. The location is fantastic and we felt part of the Big Island community instead of staying at a hotel and feeling like a tourist. It was fantastic to be able to really enjoy the Farmers Markets and bring home produce to enjoy, with the well appointed full kitchen. We would highly recommend this condo, with its' lovely Hawaiian furnishings. The condo and complex are really well maintained (building and landscaping). Truly a haven of aloha to come home to at the end of busy or relaxing days on the Island. We would come back here again and again, whenever going to Hawaii.

Owner response:We do so enjoy making our condo feel like home, as it does not have just a vacation rental appearance. Every time we ourselves visit we enjoy finding new and different ways to enhance and improve the experience. When our return guests come, we enjoy their comments on what has been added or improved since their last visit. Sharon, we hope that you will have the opportunity to return and experience another visit where we enjoy "speaking aloha".

Recommended for:Age 55+, families with teenagers, families with young children, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

Beautiful, perfect, happy!

Guest: Antonello and Monique
Date of Stay: 07/31/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

The house is beautiful! We are very happy here. We just wanted to tell you that we have had a great time in Hawaii and unfortunately it's time to go back...we were very impressed by your town house...perfect ...nothing was missing, it was just like being at home...thank you again. We will definitely consider coming back to the Big Island in the future and will try to rent with you if there is availability. Mahalo! Aloha Sylvia, The house is beautiful! We are very happy here. Our favorite beach is Kehana Kai state park beach. Not too crowded and perfect for children of any age! Mahalo,

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Enjoyed Colorado cabin and now Hawaii condo!

Guest: David & Pam, Bill & Teri
Date of Stay: 06/18/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

Once again, you have provided us with a very warm, comforting place to stay. Being able to stay and enjoy your place in Colorado and also here has provided us with some very enjoyable times and lots of memories. A week is definitely not enough time to be here and enjoy the sites and scenery and to also find time to relax.

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aloha from modesto,ca

Guest: minh (modesto)
Date of Stay: 06/05/11 Review Submitted: 10/24/11

I did try to post the last review but I could not see it today. Our vacation at Sylvia and Denis condo was truly enchanting. We enjoy the beautifully decorated condo and the tremendous hospitality in every little details and thoughtfulness. I contacted Sylvia off and on by email during our stay and I really enjoyed her enthusiasm. We can't wait to come back. I am recommending this little piece of heaven to all my friends and relatives. I wish I can keep it a secret for me but it would not be nice to Sylvia and Denis.

Owner response:We do enjoy the relationships we build with our guests and the Aloha we share, as we feel that Hale O Mele La'i is more than just a vacation rental to us. We try not to be intrusive and yet always available to enjoy our guests experience vicariously if offered. For that reason, we too enjoyed the e-mails back and forth. You are so kind and we hope to hear from you again. Mahalo nui!

Recommended for:Adventure seekers, age 55+, girls getaway, romantic getaway, sightseeing.

More than perfect!

Guest: Minh and Gary
Date of Stay: 06/03/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

We really had a good time in your Big Island hale. Your condo is way more than perfect. We enjoyed all the little details, and the tips you gave even helped in preparing for our trip. You two are very gracious hosts and Sylvia, you have class!! We will definitely be back. We will make reservations way in advance.

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Perfect peacefulness

Guest: Patty and Page
Date of Stay: 05/28/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

We so enjoyed your beautiful condo! The location and peacefulness were perfect after hiking, snorkeling, beaching, etc! Your home provided everything we needed to make our vacation superb! We will be back!

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Ideal Set Up and Location

Guest: Heather and Brett
Date of Stay: 04/30/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

We so enjoyed our vacation and are trying to adjust back into the swing of things (and weather) in Colorado. We would be glad to recommend your place to friends and family, as well as stay there when we visit the Big Island in the future. The set up and location were ideal. Here are a couple pictures of the kiddos and a turtle at Puako Beach (we loved that beach it is so beautiful).

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Wonderful!

Guest: Steve and Kristi
Date of Stay: 03/08/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

We want to thank you for sharing your wonderful condo!! It was the best equipped one in which we have ever stayed. We would love to return sometime in the future.

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Our 3rd month at Hale O Mele Lai

Guest: Cathy and Bob
Date of Stay: 02/01/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

Thank you for another enjoyable and relaxing visit! A hui hou!

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Another Wonderful Year Here

Guest: Jeff and Shelly
Date of Stay: 01/05/11 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

We have been coming to this condo for many years now and it works perfect for us, feels like coming home. We shared our love of the beach and this condo and the Big island with friends from Texas. With God willing and no surprises we will be back next year. Mahalo.

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Big Island Secret

Guest: Betty and Bob
Date of Stay: 11/14/10 Review Submitted: 10/19/11

Lovely vacation condo in a peaceful setting on a golf course in Waikoloa Village. Decorated so tastefully with Hawaiian accents, and an extremely comfortable bed for a superb nights rest. A real surprise to find a vacation property that feels so much like home. This secret may cost me in the long run as the property may not be open the next time I try and book my vacation to the Big Island."

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Guest: Mike, Virginia and Tara
Date of Stay: 08/26/10 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

We enjoyed our visit and the beaches were wonderful and we used your boogie board! At night it was a relief to come home and feel the breeze. The condo was great with everything here to make our stay comfortable. We hope to come again. Mahalo! Mike, Virginia, and Tara, Alaska

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Guest: Lucy and Betsy
Date of Stay: 04/11/10 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

Aloha Sylvia and Denis, What a wonderful trip (my first)! Thanks for sharing your beautiful home. We were both very comfy here. We really enjoyed the beautiful art work throughout the house. Nice and quiet too. Great sunset our last night from the pool! Lucy and Betsy, teachers in California

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Guest: Diana and Phil
Date of Stay: 02/27/10 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

We have enjoyed staying this month in your condo. The Hawaiian theme throughout the home is perfect. This is our first extended visit to Hawaii and we've enjoyed every minute. (The guests also included an extensive list of their recommendations to visitors of the things they enjoyed doing while here. You will find it in the Guest Book in the condo.) Diana and Phil, Iowa

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Guest: Cathy and Bob
Date of Stay: 02/27/10 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

This was another wonderful experience. This was our second year here for a month and we're looking forward to next year, too! Mahalo! Cathy and Bob, Illinois

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Guest: Shelly and Jeff
Date of Stay: 01/06/10 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

This is our 3rd year coming to your lovely condo for the month of January. This year we b rought our 24 year old son and his 5 year old daughter as we really wanted to share this experience with them. Thank you and we plan on being back next year. Shelly and Jeff, California

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Guest: The Johnsons
Date of Stay: 12/29/09 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

Aloha Denis and Sylvia, What a perfect hostess and host you are. The extra thoughtful gifts immediately welcomed our family. How touching, thank you! We are grateful for your hospitality, you have embraced the Hawaiian culture and extended it to all of us who grace your door. We had a great time! The Johnsons Texas

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Guest: Mike and Marla
Date of Stay: 12/29/09 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

Sylvia and Denis, Thank you for allowing us to stay in your lovely condo. We certainly enjoyed the accommodations and look forward to another stay. Mahalo for the extra treats. Mike and Marla, Meredosia, Ill.

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Guest: Norm and Shelly
Date of Stay: 12/15/09 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

Wonderful, relaxing and comfortable. We felt like residents! Thanks for all the extras. Norm and Shelly, Georgetown, Texas

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Guest: Tara, Jason, & Jonathan
Date of Stay: 10/30/09 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

Aloha Denis and Sylvia, Thank you for providing such a wonderful accommodation at an affordable price. The condo was perfect for our 18 month old son with your Pack'nPlay. The CD's were nice to have in the car for the drive to the Volcano. Mahalo and God bless, Tara, Jason, & Jonathan, Columbus, Oh

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Guest: Boris
Date of Stay: 10/17/09 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

Aloha Sylvia and Denis, Thank you for the excellent accommodation. It is a very comfortable and beautiful condo, convenient access to different parts of the island. Perfect place to stay with family or just alone. Mahalo nui loa, Boris, California

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Guest: Greg and Theresa
Date of Stay: 09/17/09 Review Submitted: 05/24/11

Aloha Sylvia and Denis, Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful home with us. This is our 25th wedding anniversary and staying here, made it extra special. It was so nice to meet you in person. We felt like we were staying in a friend's house. Mahalo, Greg and Theresa Oregon

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Guest: Brad, Lacey, Nolan and Kara
Date of Stay: 08/31/09 Review Submitted: 08/30/09

April 2-12, 2009 Thank you for sharing your condo with our family. The kids enjoyed the pool and we enjoyed having a restful sleep. (Listed many things they did while here.) Our only regret was only being able to stay for 10 short days.

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Guest: Mary & Ray
Date of Stay: 08/31/09 Review Submitted: 08/30/09

August 3-6, 2009 Mahalo Denis and Sylvia for allowing us to stay in your wonderful condo. We have always wanted one at the Villas! Now we are prompted to "look". Everything in the unit was wonderful. Again, Mahalo

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Guest: Bob, Tracy, George, & Carol
Date of Stay: 08/31/09 Review Submitted: 08/30/09

July 10-17 Your condo was perfect for us. We thoroughly enjoyed the pool and the comfort of your home. We would certainly stay here again when we return to the Big Island.

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Mahalo!

Guest: Mary and Ray
Date of Stay: 08/03/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Mahalo Denis and Sylvia for allowing us to stay in your wonderful condo. We have always wanted one at the Villas! Now we are prompted to "look". Everything in the unit was wonderful. Again, Mahalo.

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Very relaxing

Guest: Ohtake
Date of Stay: 06/21/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Mahalo! Your condo was very cozy--felt like a second home. We did enjoy the light breeze throughout the house---very relaxing and the wide selection of movies and CDs. Thanks for everything. The Ohtake-Gordons Golden, Colorado

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Many activities

Guest: Twetos
Date of Stay: 05/15/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Two weeks sure went by fast! Thank you for your beautiful home. First week we enjoyed the beautiful beaches and swimming pool. This last week busy withe ATV riding, jet ski, Blue Hawaiian Heilcopters and the Lu'au and a lot of shopping. Auyana Caknak! (Thank you very much!) The Twetos Alaska

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Kids enjoyed the pool

Guest: Brad and Lacey
Date of Stay: 04/02/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Thank you for sharing your condo with our family. The kids enjoyed the pool and we enjoyed having a restful sleep. Our only regret was only being able to stay for 10 short days. Brad, Lacey, Nolan and Kara Alberta, Canada

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Fantastic time

Guest: Trent and Catherine
Date of Stay: 03/21/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Thank you for the use of your condo. We had a fantastic time visiting the Big Island. We enjoyed deep seas fishing, the beaches, playing golf and the overall diversity of Hawaii. Thank you so much for the late check out. Thank you for the use of your condo. We had a fantastic time visiting the Big Island. We enjoyed deep seas fishing, the beaches, playing golf and the overall diversity of Hawaii. Thank you so much for the late check out. Trent, Catherine and Forrest Colorado

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Beautifully appointed, comfortable and quiet

Guest: cathy and Bob
Date of Stay: 02/18/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Aloha, Thank you for sharing your lovely home. We found it beautifully appointed and clean. You provided a perfect setting to relax. it was comfortable and quiet. Mahalo for all of your thoughtful accommodations! Your extra kindness was greatly appreciated. Cathy and Bob Homer Glen, Illinois

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Green grass, warm breezes, the beach

Guest: The Jones
Date of Stay: 02/03/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Aloha, Thank you for sharing your condo with us. Imagine leaving two feet of snow in northern Indiana for walking in the green grass, feeling the warm breezes and the beach at Hapuna. We love the Big Island. We cooked beautiful meals using the fresh fish and terrific veggies. Thanks again. The Jones Laport, Indiana

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Another perfect month

Guest: Jeff and Shelly
Date of Stay: 01/05/09 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Aloha Denis and Sylvia, We had another perfect month here on the Island in your lovely condo. We plan on being back next year and this is where we plan on staying, if available. Jeff and Shelly Templeton, Ca.

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Guest: Ty & Sharon, Larry & Becky
Date of Stay: 11/28/08 Review Submitted: 11/27/08

May 23-30, 2008 Dear Denis and Sylvia, Thank you so much for your hospitality here,we so enjoyed our visit this week. We snorkeled and explored every day, and it was great to come back to such a comfortable place for the evening. Thanks again for taking care of all the details. You were wonderful hosts.

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Movies to watch with the kids

Guest: Kenin and Ellie
Date of Stay: 08/29/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Aloha Denis and Sylvia, You have a beautiful home and it was great coming back in the evening to such a homey place with wonderful movies to watch with the kids. Thanks again for your hospitality and hopefully our paths would cross again in the future. Kevin, Ellie, Kian and Sheyda Northville, Mi

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Loved it all

Guest: Paul and Cathy
Date of Stay: 07/22/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

We had a great time...horseback riding in Waimea, snorkeling, volcano/lava tube exploring, sipping Kona coffee on the lanai, we loved it all! The condo was very nice and close enough to the pool and BBQ...the kids loved that! Paul, Cathy, Sean and Mary Longmont, Colorado

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Pololu Valley, horseback riding and hiking.

Guest: Dave and Lou Anne
Date of Stay: 07/15/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

We have enjoyed staying at your condo and especially the Hawaiian artwork throughout. It is the perfect location to go to Pololu Valley, horseback riding and hiking. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality. Dave, Lou Anne, Kristen and Brando Columbus, Ohio

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Perfect location

Guest: Jonathan
Date of Stay: 06/14/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Aloha Denis and Sylvia, Thank you for letting us use your home. It is a beautiful place in a perfect location, and it was stocked with everything we could have wanted. We have been to all four major islands and this one is the best! We all hope to come back again. Mahalo! Jonathan, Crystal, Rodney, Collen Wilmington, Il

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About everything vacationers could want

Guest: Gary and Becky
Date of Stay: 05/08/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Aloha, We enjoyed our stay very much. Being able to come back to Hale O Mele La'i was great after a day out and about exploring the island. Your "home away from home" has just about everything vacationers could want. Gary and Becky San Diego, Ca.

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Kids and crib

Guest: Lisa and Shamir
Date of Stay: 04/27/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Mahalo! We had a wonderful time here! Everything worked out great with the crib and kids. It felt just like home. We appreciate your hospitality and thoughtfulness. Lisa, Shamir and family Havertown, Pa.

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Clear of vog, cool at night

Guest: Ursula
Date of Stay: 04/07/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

What a lovely place you have, and so well equipped! From kitchen to lanai to peaceful bedrooms, we felt so at home immediately! This lovely area was clear of most of the vog, cool at night. We'll certainly treasure our memories. Ursula Texas

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Roomy and well furnished

Guest: Kent ad Liza
Date of Stay: 03/22/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

This is a wonderful place to stay. I can't put it better than the rest of your guests have. It is roomy and well furnished and this was an ideal location for our needs. Thanks for your care. Kent and Liza Kodiak, Alaska

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Revived in body, mind and spirit

Guest: Brigette and Richard
Date of Stay: 02/15/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

Dear Denis and Sylvia, Thank you for letting us enjoy your blessed Hale O Mele La'i. We came here tired and stressed from cold and snow. During our days in Hawaii's sunny and warm climate and through our interesting trips around the Big Island we were revived in body, mind and spirit. Brogette and Richard Gurnee, Ill

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Guest: Linda and Ed
Date of Stay: 02/07/08 Review Submitted: 02/06/08

December 28, 2007-January 3, 2008 A-A-A-A-A-H-H ! Just what we needed after celebrating Christmas week in Honolulu with our extended family of 21!

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Guest: Steve and Mary
Date of Stay: 02/07/08 Review Submitted: 02/06/08

December 10-18, 2007 Aloha & Mahalo! What a lovely, clean, comfortable home away from home. I love all of the tropical prints and Hawaiiana accessories. The golf was fun for Steve. We were able to eat in, nap, relax and really enjoy our Big Island vacation in your well appointed spacious clean home.

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Guest: Judy
Date of Stay: 02/07/08 Review Submitted: 02/06/08

December 3-10, 2007 Aloha Sylvia and Denis, Mahalo nui loa for all of your thoughtful preparation for our arrival at your wonderful Hale. It has been a wonderful home away from home. You have certainly made it most welcoming and comfortable. Thanks again.

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Guest: Randi, Beth, Jake, and Joseph
Date of Stay: 02/07/08 Review Submitted: 02/06/08

January 22-29, 2008 What we have to share after our stay in your "House of Happy Songs":..We so appreciated your well appointed condo...A week isn't long enough...It's worth driving down to the beach even if you only have 45 minutes prior to sunset...Hapuna Beach is the best for boogie boarding...A Bay beach for snorkeling....Thanks for all!

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Guest: Jeff & Shelly
Date of Stay: 02/07/08 Review Submitted: 02/06/08

January 7-21, 2008 Aloha Denis and Sylvia, We sure enjoyed our stay here at your condo. It's very lovely and convenient. Had everything we needed! Unless we find something to buy here ourselves, you will definitely be hearing from us again to rent your place. Same time next year. Mahalo

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Beaches!

Guest: Randi and Beth
Date of Stay: 01/22/08 Review Submitted: 02/02/10

We so appreciated your well appointed condo.. A week isn't long enough...It's worth driving down to the beach even if you only have 45 minutes prior to sunset...Hapuna Beach is the best for boogie boarding...A Bay beach for snorkeling....Thanks for all! Randi, Beth, Jake, and Joseph Olympia,Westport, Seattle, Wa.

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