FOCUS ON THE FAMILY
Everyone knows that Hawaii is a hugely family-friendly destination – just look at the jam-packed kids programs offered by many hotels and resorts, and the many family-oriented attractions on offer in the destination. But how do you create a truly memorable family holiday for your clients? Well, you need to remember that families are increasingly seeking out a variety of experiences – from watching lava flowing out into the sea at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island to exploring the breathtaking Waimea Canyon on Kauai.
It's also important to consider all members of the family, from the little ones to the grandparents, with more and more travellers now booking multi-generational trips.
And don't forget the educational aspect of an overseas holiday – Hawaii isn't just a sun-kissed island destination – it's also a place with a fascinating culture and history. Do your homework by learning about key historical figures like King Kamehameha, who established the Kingdom of Hawaii, and Duke Kahanamoku, who became known as the Father of surfing. Each of the Hawaiian islands has a unique history and learning about each one will give you a better overall knowledge of what sets the islands apart.
LEVERAGE ON LUXURY
While the Aloha State is known for offering great value, to focus purely on this as a consultant is to neglect an ever expanding and lucrative segment – luxury travel. Billions of dollars are currently being poured into luxury product, especially Hawaii's five-star hotels and spa resorts.
The recent obsession with travel among Australia's cashed-up baby boomers and the growth of time poor younger professionals means that Hawaii is in a prime position to tap into the luxury market. It's relative proximity also works in its favour.
And the destination's vast array of leisure attractions make it an alluring option for such travellers, who want to experience something out of the ordinary. This could be one of a multitude of choices, like enjoying a spa treatment with the sounds of the ocean in the background, taking a cooking course in regional cuisine or enjoying a coastal drive and visiting secluded beaches, as luxury resorts can be found on all the islands, you need to be able match the right islands to your clients' interests.
TEAM WITH THE THEME
Hawaii may be best known for sun, surf and sand but it's also a destination for themed trips – and the most lucrative of these are destination weddings. There's no finer location for saying "I do" than on a stunning beachfront, whether it be in buzzing Waikiki, on the tranquil shores of Kauai or at the edge of a sea cliff on Molokai.
Hotels and resorts can often help couples plan their wedding and honeymoon remotely, but as an agent, you should make the most of the opportunities presented by such an important event for your clients. Honeymoons in Hawaii are also big business; there's an endless variety of honeymoon getaways and romantic places to explore on the six islands of Aloha. Vow renewals and second honeymoons are also popular.
Hawaii's world-class golf courses with their stunning coastal vistas also make this a sought after destination, with over 70 courses around the island chain to choose from. The world-renowned Kohala Coast resorts of Waikoloa, Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea feature courses that have given the Big Island its reputation as the Golf Capital of Hawaii.
