The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority launched its official search for a new CEO under a legislated salary cap and increased political oversight, raising questions about candidate recruitment for the scrutinized position.
Banyan Drive’s Latest Redevelopment Plan: Demolition First, Vision Later.
State lawmakers are funding the demolition of Hilo’s vacant Country Club Condominium Hotel amid sea-level rise concerns on Banyan Drive, underscoring the urgent need for a cohesive regional master plan.
The Price of Paradise (Cove) and Progress
The closure and planned $135 million redevelopment of Ko Olina’s Paradise Cove reflects a transition toward upscale mixed-use experiences, signaling a shift that intensifies Hawaiʻi’s tourism value pressures.
Disney Elevates Kimberly Agas at Aulani
Disney promotes Kimberly Agas to Executive Director at Aulani after a decade as general manager, expanding her strategic role and underscoring the critical importance of local community integration.
Hyatt Doubles Up in West Oʻahu
The opening of a dual-branded Hyatt Place and Hyatt House in West Oʻahu creates shared operational efficiencies, highlighting the strategic pivot toward capturing non-traditional hospitality demand in growing residential areas.
Mufi Exits to Polite Applause… and Quiet Sighs of Relief
Mufi Hannemann’s retirement from the Hawaiʻi Lodging and Tourism Association caps a divisive decade of leadership, raising existential questions about the organization’s future purpose and its role in industry advocacy.
Speed Lawmaking, Hawaiʻi Style: Final Scorecard
The conclusion of Hawaiʻi’s legislative session brings mixed outcomes for tourism bills, with HTA surviving under a weakened mandate, underscoring the industry’s ongoing vulnerability to political budget fights and shifting priorities.
And our final fun at the legislature, Green Fee Sleight of Hand
Hawaiʻi lawmakers are heavily modifying the Green Fee’s initial project recommendations during budget negotiations, reinforcing industry concerns that the dedicated environmental tax is morphing into a general state spending pool.
Leadership Shuffle at Waikīkī’s Biggest Hotels?
The sudden dual General Manager vacancy at the Moana Surfrider and Sheraton Princess Kaiulani sparks rumors of high-profile executive transitions, signaling a major upcoming reshuffle across Waikīkī’s top hospitality leadership.
Fairmont Orchid Names Todd Temperly as General Manager
Fairmont Orchid’s appointment of Todd Temperly as General Manager returns experienced leadership to the Kohala Coast, signaling a strategic push to elevate operations at the luxury resort.
