Travelling to Maui as a family with teenagers

(66 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Dawn Thompson

Bremerton, WA

South Island New Zealand Travel Agent Specialist

“Certain things in life simply have to be experienced” -Paula Coelho!

I'm delighted to share my story with you, especially if you're ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand. My travel od...

“Certain things in life simply have to be experienced” -Paula Coelho!

I'm delighted to share my story with you, especially if you're ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand. My travel odyssey spanning three decades has been a whirlwind of adventure and exploration, and I'm here to help you make the most of your travels.

I'm Dawn and my unwavering passion for travel and exploration has guided me along an extraordinary path in the realm of travel planning. For more than 30 years, I've been devoted to creating indelible memories for travelers who seek to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and distinctive culture of New Zealand.

Allow me to provide you with some concrete figures that underscore my commitment: I've meticulously orchestrated over 600 trips to New Zealand and Australia, each as unique as the travelers I've had the privilege to serve.

What distinguishes me from others is my commitment to staying at the forefront of the constantly evolving tourism scene in the captivating islands of New Zealand. A prime example of this commitment is my biannual trips to New Zealand, ensuring that I remain well-versed in the dynamic tourism landscape of these remarkable islands. Additionally, I'm proud to hold the 100% Pure New Zealand Certification, a distinction I've diligently renewed every year since 2007. This certification isn't just a decorative piece on my office wall; it symbolizes my deep connection with New Zealand and underscores my unwavering dedication to preserving its unspoiled beauty. Beyond being a mere business certification, it encapsulates my fundamental values and forms an integral part of every curated journey I create.

I share a profound, personal connection with New Zealand. It is not just a dot on a map; it is ingrained in my soul. The breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and warm-hearted people have left an indelible imprint on my being.

New Zealand, my true love. Its dramatic fjords, snow-capped peaks, and lush meadows are nothing short of awe-inspiring. New Zealand is a realm of contrast - a place where you can journey from glaciers to beaches in a single day. And speaking of contrast, did you know that New Zealand boasts more sheep than people? A delightful fact, and it speaks volumes about the vast, untarnished landscapes you'll encounter on your travels.

Now, let's turn our focus back to you. If you’re a seasoned traveler, you possess a treasure trove of life experiences, and you understand the value of truly unique adventures and I'm here to ensure that your journey to New Zealand is nothing less than extraordinary.

However, it's not exclusively seasoned travelers that I cater to. First-time visitors to these splendid lands hold a special place in my heart. I can vividly recall my inaugural visit to New Zealand, as if it were yesterday - the exhilaration of unearthing the unknown, the thrill of immersing oneself in new cultures, and the sheer wonderment at the beauty of nature. It's a sensation I wish for every first-time traveler to experience.

My mission is to transform your travel dreams into a vivid reality. Armed with my wealth of experience and expertise, I will ensure that every facet of your journey is meticulously planned, from the moment you disembark from the plane to the final farewell. I want you to savor every moment, relish every experience, and return home with a heart brimming with cherished memories.

Together, let's embark on a journey where every day is an adventure, and every landscape takes your breath away. From the rugged beauty of New Zealand's South Island to the diverse cities of the North, I will craft a travel experience that is uniquely yours.

So, whether you're in the prime of your life, yearning for new horizons, or a first-time traveler eager to explore, I'm here to transform your dream trip into a tangible reality. Let's create a journey as unique as you are, and I'm eagerly anticipating the honor of being your trusted guide on this extraordinary adventure.

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My teenager who loved his Maui Vacation and Snuba

As a travel agent and a devoted mother, I had been dreaming of the perfect family vacation for months. So, when the opportunity finally arrived, my husband, our teenage son, and I embarked on a thrilling journey to the breathtaking island of Maui. Our adventure was nothing short of extraordinary, and the memories we created together will be cherished for a lifetime.Our home away from home was the magnificent Sheraton Ka'anapali Beach Resort. From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in the warm embrace of Hawaiian hospitality. The lobby's gentle breeze carried the scent of tropical flowers, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore welcomed us with open arms. The resort's pristine beachfront location was a dream come true, with the mesmerizing Pacific Ocean stretching out as far as the eye could see.Our first unforgettable experience was swimming with the majestic sea turtles. The crystal-clear waters of Maui's shoreline provided the perfect backdrop as we glided alongside these gentle giants. The feeling of being so close to these incredible creatures left us in awe of the natural beauty that surrounded us. Snorkeling was another highlight of our trip. We donned our snorkel gear and ventured into an underwater wonderland. The coral reefs were alive with vibrant colors, and schools of fish danced around us. It was as if we had entered a living aquarium, and every moment was a new discovery.One sunny afternoon, we set sail on a catamaran cruise along the coast. The gentle swaying of the boat and the soothing sound of the ocean created a sense of tranquility that was simply divine. We even spotted a playful pod of dolphins, leaping gracefully in the distance, much to our son's delight. One evening, we attended a traditional luau, where the rhythmic beat of drums and the swaying of hula dancers immersed us in Hawaiian culture. The feast that followed was a culinary delight, with mouth watering dishes that showcased the island's rich flavors and heritage.One of the most memorable days of our trip was our epic 10-hour drive around the entire island, including the famous Road to Hana. The journey was a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds, with lush rainforest's, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking vistas around every bend. The scent of tropical blooms filled the air as we marveled at the diverse landscapes of this paradise.My teenage son, in particular, had a blast during his surf lessons and snuba adventure. Snuba, in particular, was a game-changer for him. The chance to explore the depths of the ocean, breathing freely while connected to a floating air supply, was an experience he couldn't get enough of. We practically had to pry him out of the water; his new found love for the sea was evident in every smile.Throughout our journey, we couldn't resist stopping at countless lookout points to capture the beauty of Maui's pristine beaches. The views were simply breathtaking, with the turquoise waters meeting golden sands, framed by lush greenery. It was a photographer's paradise, and our family photo album was quickly filling up with snapshots of these precious moments.And, of course, there was the delectable Hawaiian cuisine. Fish tacos became a daily ritual, and the flavors of fresh, locally caught fish, accompanied by tropical salsas and creamy sauces, were a delight for our taste buds. We also loved visiting small roadside stands for refreshing coconut water and homemade banana bread, each bite bursting with the sweetness of ripe bananas.As a self-proclaimed pancake aficionado, my personal culinary highlight was indulging in coconut macadamia pancakes. The combination of fluffy pancakes, toasted macadamia nuts, and the sweet aroma of coconut syrup was pure heaven. It was the perfect start to our mornings in paradise.Our trip to Maui was more than just a vacation; it was a journey of exploration, connection, and discovery. From the enchanting underwater world to the picturesque landscapes, the island of Maui offered us a tapestry of experiences that left us deeply grateful for the time we spent together as a family. It was a trip that we'll forever hold close to our hearts, and a destination that we can't wait to return to in the future. Maui, you captured our hearts, and we're forever under your spell.