HONOLULU–(BUSINESS WIRE)–With upgraded programming, events, and unique dining experiences, travelers have a lot to look forward to this fall when they stay with Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s managed hotels and resorts found in the Hawaiian Islands, the continental U.S., and Latin America. Here’s what’s new and noteworthy for the fall from one of Hawaii’s largest hotel and resort-condo operators.

“Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality Sales, Marketing and Revenue Optimization”

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Aqua-Aston Hospitality Names Ed Skapinok Senior Vice President, Sales, Marketing & Revenue

Ed Skapinok was named senior vice president of sales, marketing & revenue for Aqua-Aston Hospitality, based in Honolulu, HI. In this role, he leads the marketing, sales, revenue management, and reservations initiatives for the company. In 2016, Skapinok was named one of the “Top 25 Extraordinary Minds in Hospitality Sales, Marketing and Revenue Optimization” by the Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International (HSMAI).

WHAT’S NEW ON THE ISLAND OF HAWAII?

Cash in on a $100 Gift Card When Staying Four Nights or More at Aston Kona by the Sea

Aston Kona by the Sea is an intimate, relaxed ocean front condominium resort featuring the simplicity and comfort of a “home away from home.” Fronting a magnificent lava rock shoreline, the resort features a sandy cove where you can sunbathe or watch the waves and unwind in the shade under the swaying coconut trees. Guests will receive a $100 gift card* (may be used anywhere major credit cards are accepted) when booking a four-night minimum stay through the property directly. Booking dates and travel dates are from now through Dec. 31, 2017. To book your stay, please call the property at (808) 327-2300 or visit www.astonkonabythesearesort.com.

Aston Waikoloa Colony Villas Offers Free Daily Car Rental

Aston Waikoloa Colony Villas are home to a luxurious setting within the exclusive Waikoloa resort area. The villas offer stunning views of Mauna Kea and the Island’s world-famous lava fields. There’s no better way to experience the Island of Hawaii than to get in the driver’s seat and explore at your own pace. Aston Waikoloa Colony Villas now offers its Free Daily Car Rental* package in partnership with Alamo Rent A Car. Need more space for traveling families or prefer to ride with the top down? Guests are also able to upgrade from compact to a full-size, convertible, minivan, or a Jeep 4-door. Booking dates and travel dates are from now through Dec. 31, 2017. To book your stay, please call the property direct at (808) 886-8899 or visit www.astonwaikoloacolonyvillas.com.

Spend an Artful Thanksgiving Overlooking Kilauea Crater at Volcano House’s The Rim Restaurant

Volcano House and its signature restaurant, The Rim, are hosting their annual Thanksgiving Buffet on Nov. 23 from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m. The buffet features a Himalayan salt block with selections of cured meats and cheeses, live pasta stations, dry-rubbed pork racks, prime rib, and bottomless wine and beer. The price is $69 per person and reservations are highly recommended. Reservations may be made online at www.hawaiivolcanohouse.com/dining. Volcano House is pleased to announce its partnership with the Volcano Art Center, located just two miles outside the National Park. Volcano Art Center will be providing all in-house guests with a complimentary one-day membership to the Center. Showcasing a collection of handcrafted works by more than 230 local artists, Volcano Art Center’s one-day membership offers discounts on gallery items, art and yoga classes, and free artist presentations on an ongoing basis. For more information, please visit www.volcanoartcenter.org.

WHAT’S NEW ON KAUAI?

Book Your Next Gathering in Aqua Kauai Beach Resort’s Revitalized Jasmine Ballroom

Aqua Kauai Beach Resort‘s versatile indoor meeting spaces, conference facilities and pre-function areas have recently undergone a sparkling refresh. The property’s exquisite 8,611 sq. ft. Jasmine Ballroom features moveable air walls and reconfigures to three flexible function rooms while also offering 1,744 sq. ft. of pre-function space. Whether planning a business meeting or a family celebration, the overall refresh features new carpeting throughout, wallpaper, chandeliers, and ceiling treatments, as well as a dynamic color LED system that creates a unique atmosphere and décor fit for every event. If you’re attending a work retreat, conference, wedding, or family reunion, Aqua Kauai Beach Resort is thrilled to offer exclusive savings on group accommodations of 10 rooms or more*. For more information, please call the property at (808) 245-1955 or visit www.kauaibeachresorthawaii.com.

WHAT’S NEW ON MAUI?

Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s Kaanapali Properties Offer World-Class Whale Watching From Every Angle

Each year, from November to May, humpback whales can be seen off Maui’s Kaanapali Coast making them one of West Maui’s most popular attractions. Guests are encouraged to travel with binoculars when staying at Aqua-Aston’s 3-and 4-star Kaanapali properties: Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach, Aston Kaanapali Shores, Aston Mahana at Kaanapali, Aston Paki Maui, Aston at Papakea Resort, and Maui Kaanapali Villas. Offering multiple beachfront, ocean view, and garden view condo-style living, guests can experience whale watching from every angle. Aqua-Aston’s Kaanapali properties are also conveniently located near other whale watching attractions such as The Whaler Center of Hawaii slated to open later this year, and the Pacific Whale Foundation, which offers a roster of eco-friendly activities. To book your stay at any of the properties listed above, please visit www.aqua-aston.com or call toll-free at (855) 945-4092.

Aston Kaanapali Shores’ “Moments of Fun” Are Designed For Travelers of All Ages

Enjoy “Moments of Fun” every Tuesday and Thursday this fall at Aston Kaanapali Shores. On Tuesdays, join Jason Jerome of Lahaina Music in the property’s South Lobby for complimentary ukulele classes. Participants may join others in the property’s ongoing complimentary hula lessons program for combined musical performances on Tuesdays. Every Thursday, painting professionals from Island Art Party host a new Cocktails & Canvas pau hana (happy hour) between 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. following the property’s weekly craft fair. Here you’ll learn step-by-step instructions on how to paint your own Maui memory, featuring special themes from seascapes to sunsets. The painting pau hana includes the choice of a complimentary cocktail or the option to ship your final piece for free in the $59 admission price for Aston guests (including guests staying at Aston’s Kaanapali properties and Hawaii residents with valid state identification) and $69 for non-guests. For more information, please call the property at (808) 419-3918 or visit www.astonkaanapalishoresresort.com.

It’s a Bird…It’s a Plane…It’s Santa’s Helicopter at Aston Maui Hill!

Set in a tropical setting overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Aston Maui Hill resort has been Santa Claus’ preferred landing pad on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24 for the last 34 years. Arriving by helicopter at 12 p.m., Santa annually greets families and keiki (children) poolside bearing a bag of gifts. Complimentary Hawaiian musical entertainment, family-friendly fun, and barbecue plates are scheduled for the jolly afternoon for hotel guests. Aston Maui Hill is a condominium resort, offering guests great value like free parking, free WiFi and no resort fees, making it a perfect alternative to the more expensive Wailea-area resorts during the holiday season. For more information, please call the property at (808) 879-6321 or visit www.astonmauihill.com.

WHAT’S NEW ON OAHU?

Da Big Kahuna Waikiki Launches Room Service at The Newly Refreshed Aqua Ohia Waikiki

Located in Aqua Ohia Waikiki’s newly refreshed lobby is the local’s favorite tiki bar and lounge, Da Big Kahuna Waikiki – an ideal venue to grab a bite in-between daytime excursions or to sip a drink before heading out for evening adventures. In a casual restaurant setting, sample a tasty menu of contemporary Hawaiian and American plates. Da Big Kahuna’s menu includes juicy burgers, pub-style appetizers, and salads. Known for its iconic Fish Bowl Cocktails, Da Big Kahuna features a full bar and now offers food and beverage room service up to Aqua Ohia Waikiki’s 12th floor where guests can imbibe on their lanai (balcony) gazing out to the energizing city below. Da Big Kahuna Waikiki is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For more information, please call the property at (808) 926-6442 or visit www.ohiahotel.com.

Traveling With Kids? Then Head For The Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head

For families spending fall on Oahu, the Lotus Honolulu at Diamond Head provides an assortment of goodies for children of all age groups. Infants receive a new Infant Amenity Package* complete with infant-safe sunscreen, fragrance-free, all-natural baby bath products, and a squeezable baby whale – just in time for Oahu’s whale watching season. Children ages 12 and under receive a complimentary box of crayons and cultural activity book of fun and educational activities celebrating all things Hawaii. Once the book is completed, children can exchange it for a souvenir gift. The property also offers complimentary souvenir boxes decorated with the child’s choice of anthurium flowers or Hawaiian fish. Onsite or at the beach, kids can choose from a selection of grab-and-go inflatable fish toys, beach balls and slippers for water play, and complimentary beach bags with a pair of children’s sunglasses. To book your stay, please call the property at (808) 922-1700 or visit www.lotushonoluluhotel.com.

Welcome Chef Elmer Guzman and Fish Hook Café to Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites!

Known throughout Oahu for his Poke Stop restaurants, Maui-born Chef Elmer Guzman brings his specialty to the Luana Waikiki Hotel & Suites with his latest concept, Fish Hook Café. Serving breakfast and lunch, Fish Hook Café offers an assortment of locally and sustainably-sourced grab-and-go items including salads, sandwiches, pastries, and gourmet coffee, as well as Chef Guzman’s delicacy: poke bowls, built-to-order. With the opening of Fish Hook Café guests have an additional dining option called Fish Bowl, the property’s breakfast buffet, where Chef Guzman also selects the rotating Hawaiian-style staples such as meats, cereals, pastries, and Oahu-grown fruits. Fish Hook Café is open daily from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. while Fish Bowl’s buffet is served daily from 7 to 11 a.m. For more information, please call the property at (808) 955-6000 or visit www.luanawaikiki.com.

WHAT’S NEW IN ORLANDO?

Wear Your Ears to Two of Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s Florida Properties This Fall

Tuscana Resort Orlando by Aston and The Fountains at ChampionsGate are just moments away from Orlando’s thrilling theme parks such as Epcot®, Magic Kingdom® Park, Universal Studios Florida™, and world-class championship golf courses, including ChampionsGate Golf Club, Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, and Grand Cypress Resort. At Tuscana Resort, enjoy spacious condominium suites with fully equipped kitchens, a beach-style pool, onsite movie theater, and a poolside sports bar. At the gated Fountains at ChampionsGate resort, unwind in 3- and 4-bedroom townhomes with designer kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, spacious bedrooms and master suites, an onsite swimming pool, jet spa, and fitness center. Fall rates start as low as $64/night and visitors can save 20% off each property’s best available rates* by using promo code: “FALL17” for travel now through Dec. 21, 2017. To book your stay, please visit www.tuscanaresort.com or www.fountainsatchampionsgate.com, or call toll-free at (855) 945-4092.

WHAT’S NEW IN COSTA RICA?

Aqua-Aston Hospitality Adds Two Eco-friendly Central American Properties to its Diverse Portfolio

Joining Aqua-Aston’s extensive roster of hotels and resorts are two eco-friendly properties, Crocodile Bay Resort and the future Botánika Osa Peninsula, Curio Collection by Hilton, both in Central America. Hilton’s Curio brand is a rapidly expanding global collection of distinctive, upper-upscale hotels and resorts that cater to passionate travelers seeking local discovery and authentic experiences. Aqua-Aston will provide a full range of management services for both resorts including sales, marketing, revenue management, and reservations; and will handle daily resort operations, and assist in planning, budgeting, and forecasting. For more information, please call Aqua-Aston Hospitality’s toll-free reservations at (855) 945-4092 or visit www.aqua-aston.com.

Crocodile Bay Resort Launches Fall Safari Photography Workshop Programming

Crocodile Bay Resort is an eco-friendly resort located at the crest of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula. Dubbed by National Geographic as “the most biologically intense place on Earth,” the Osa Peninsula is home to more than a quarter of a million of the world’s living species and the perfect destination for a photo safari. Hosted by top-tier, credited photographers, including Canon sponsored Jeff Cable and Photoshop Hall of Fame inductee Matt Kloskowski, these wildlife photography workshops are as unique as they are memorable. Duration and prices vary. For a list of scheduled workshops and more information, please visit www.crocodilebay.com or call toll-free at (855) 945-4162.

AWARDS & ACCOLADES

23 Aqua-Aston Hospitality Hotels Receive TripAdvisor’s® Certificate of Excellence

TripAdvisor®, the world’s largest travel site, awarded 23 of Aqua-Aston’s managed properties the 2017 Certificate of Excellence, including nine on Oahu, five on Maui, three on Kauai, four on Hawaii Island, and two in Florida. The achievement celebrates hospitality businesses that have earned great traveler reviews on TripAdvisor® over the past year. Certificate of Excellence recipients include accommodations, eateries, and attractions located all over the world that have continually delivered a quality customer experience. For the full list of properties, please www.aqua-aston.com/media-room.

Five of Aqua-Aston’s Properties Receive Delta Vacations’ 2017 Quality Assurance Award

The Quality Assurance Award presented by Delta Vacations is an annual recognition of hotel, destination management, and car rental partners for their outstanding quality, customer service, and product delivery. Five of Aqua-Aston’s properties on the Hawaiian Islands have been awarded Delta Vacations’ 2017 Quality Assurance Award for outstanding service and receiving 99% guest satisfaction: Kauai Beach Resort (Kauai), Aqua Palms Waikiki (Oahu), Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel (Oahu), Aston Waikiki Sunset (Oahu), and Aston Kaanapali Shores (Maui).

Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel Receives the 2017 Golden Apple Hotels Award

For more than 45 years, Apple Vacations, has provided affordable, top quality vacation packages from U.S. departure cities nationwide to various vacation destinations throughout North America, Central America, Hawaii and beyond. In September, Apple Vacations’ awarded Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel the 2017 Golden Apple Hotel Award for the property’s earned exceptional customer rating, as well as exceptional standard of quality, service, and value. To book your stay, please visit www.astonwaikikibeach.com or call the property direct at (808) 922-2511.

The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club Tops Condé Nast Traveller’s Hot List for 2017

A coveted distinction, the Hot List represents Condé Nast Traveller UK editors’ top picks of the newest properties around the globe including hotels, beach clubs, bars and restaurants, to open within the past year. Condé Nast Traveller UK has recognized the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club as one of the hottest new hotels in the publication’s annual Hot List for 2017. For more information, please visit www.surfjack.com or call the property direct at (808) 923-8882.

For more information about Aqua-Aston Hospitality or to make a reservation, please visit www.aqua-aston.com or call toll-free (855) 945-4092 for 24/7 bookings support to accommodate all your travel needs.

*Terms and conditions, including blackout dates and amenity fees, may apply. Rates quoted are subject to availability.

About Aqua-Aston Hospitality

With a 70-year legacy, Honolulu-based Aqua-Aston Hospitality is a destination expert that provides management and marketing services to hotels and resort condos in Hawaii, the continental U.S., and Central America, including Aqua Hotels & Resorts, Aston Hotels & Resorts, Instinct Hotel Collection, Lite Hotels, Maui Condo & Home, and international hotel brands Hilton Inc. and InterContinental Hotels Group. The company prides itself in the expertise of its teammates and offers Hawaii’s only locally staffed 24-hour call center to best serve the needs of travelers from across the globe. For more information, visit www.Aqua-Aston.com or call (855) 945-4092. Aqua-Aston Hospitality is an operating business of ILG, Inc. (Nasdaq: ILG), a leading global provider of professionally delivered vacation experiences.

To view images and related captions, please visit the following link http://bit.ly/2wLYjLG. Photo credit: Aqua-Aston Hospitality