‘Aulani Resort: Notes from Self-Confessed Disney Fanatic

I’m not going to lie to you – I love everything Disney.  Well, maybe that’s a little too broad…I wasn’t exactly the biggest fan of the Enchanted Tiki Room in Disneyland, and Nicolas Cage’s “The Sorcerer’s Apprentice” left a lot to be desired.  However, all in all, I have been a fan of Walt & Co. for as long as I can remember.So, you can imagine how truly happy I am to be witnessing the rise of the beautiful ‘Aulani Resort right here on Oahu!  Designed as the 1^st stand-alone Disney Resort outside of their two landmark amusement resorts in California and Florida, the ‘Aulani truly does promise a lot of exciting new things for us here on Leeward Oahu!

Located just past the 2^nd City of Kapolei in the Ko’olina Resort, ‘Aulani is under construction as we speak!  Fitted with both hotel and time-share rooms, a world-class selection of shops and restaurants, a “lazy river” type pool attraction at the heart of the resort, a Volcano water slide, Disney character meet-and-greet opportunities and much more – all done through the creative minds at Disney with an eye for the Hawaiian culture.  Needless to say, I’m STOKED to see this happening!!  Chance to take my daughter to meet Mickey Mouse without taking a 5-hour flight?  CHECK.  Riding what amounts to an actual Disney ride through a volcano while in my board shorts?  CHECK.  Having yet another alternative to avoid the traffic and congestion of Waikiki?  CHECK.continued below…

Now, I’m sure that they won’t get everything right.  Take, for instance, their keiki fun center, aptly titled “Aunty’s” something-or-other.  I’m pretty sure MY Aunty never had a multi-million dollar fun center with Playstation 3’s, mouse- shaped grilled cheese sandwiches and..well, you get the point.  Nevertheless, I am 100% confident that the ‘Aulani will have a positive impact on our islands — bringing the Disney touch to our own special brand of hospitality.  I for one can’t wait to walk through those doors and feel that special tingle that only Disney seems to be able to give me.

Ko Olina on Dwellable