Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, Maui, is host to the annual Celebration of the Arts. This year's April 22-24 event marked the 19th consecutive year and was themed "E na aumakua" a call to all things natural.
Ritz-Carlton's beautiful Maui property is like no other. Respecting and implementing cultural values and traditions, the property is much more than a luxury resort. Clifford Nae'ole is the on-site Cultural Advisor and his influence can be felt throughout the sprawling property. Instrumental in the construction of the Ritz, which is located nearby Hawaiian sacred grounds, Clifford educates and enriches the experience for every guest, from artwork donated from his family that adorns the exquisite open-air lobby walls, to seminars, tours and ceremonies.
The Celebration of the Arts not only provides insight to the Hawaiian culture, but is a spiritual journey as well, suitable for all. Opening ceremonies included "E ala e" - ceremonies to awaken the sun and renew the spirit and "Ka wai a kane" or drinking the bitter waters of Kane, while sitting on hand-woven palm mats. According to Hawaii Modern Luxury Magazine, this is the "Number 1 Rated Cultural Event" in the state of Hawaii.
Chants of the genealogies and explanation of "limu limu" (the seaweeds found on the islands which have medicinal values) go hand-in-hand with arts and crafts for children and adults alike, tours of the on-property garden and an underwater fine art exhibit. Concluding the weekend is a Celebration Lu'au and Show with performances from World Champion hula dancers, local legends and live music.
The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is located on 54 acres overlooking a 23,000-acre resort with historic pineapple plantation. Affording modern luxury with historic tastes, such as the old market that is now a deli and sundries store and the notable historic sacred grounds, guests receive a true Hawaiian experience while enjoying what the Ritz brand is known for - luxury amenities and services.
Ritz-Carlton Kapalua completed a $180 million transformation in January 2008, including all guest rooms, restaurants, fitness facility, meeting spaces, public areas, the pool and lobby. Home to 463 guests rooms, including 107 residential suites, all rooms include "lanais" or balconies, Hawaiian-inspired finishes and artwork.
Jean-Michel Cousteau's Ambassadors of the Environment is home to a unique program in Kapalua. Featuring environmental and cultural education within the on-site center, excisions such as whale watching are a perfect way to enrich any stay on property.
From the golden-sand beach to the Celebration of the Arts, Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is a one-of-a-kind luxury resort. With the 20th Annual Celebration of the Arts just around the corner, guests-to-be are encouraged to make reservations at www.ritzcarlton.com/Kapalua. Prepare for an experience like no other on the shores of Hawaii.
