Maui 2008

After spending only a few days on Maui in the past, we decided that this year we would spend some time on the island. Every day the sun was shining and we had nearly perfect weather each day.

After another long cold winter here in Minnesota (in fact, we expect to get more snow today), it was like dying and going straight to heaven!

We started our vacation by having lunch with Irwin Yamamoto - the Maui Contrarian. While I rarely mix business with pleasure, I've long desired to meet Irwin in person and our lunch did not disappoint. (Irwin writes a popular value focused/market-timing newsletter and I was impressed by him greatly.) In addition to great conversation, he refused to let me pay for lunch. Irwin also provided a list of recommendations on what to do on the island not to mention a gift certificate to enjoy at one of the best restaurants in Maui. Boy, it's nice to have friends!

Most of the time on the island was spent outside enjoying the weather. We did a number of hikes and sightseeing and I even managed to get some golf in! Here are only a few of my favorite photos from the trip:

Because so many know of our love for the Hawaiian islands, I'm often asked what to do when visiting. For those of who who wish to travel to Maui, here are some quick recommendations that may help you enjoy your vacation:

• Travel guide: Between Irwin's "insider" recommendations and the travel book, Maui Revealed by Andrew Doughty, we had everything we needed to enjoy the trip!

• Dinners: Ma'alaea Waterfront, Mama's Fish House, & Flatbread Company

• Lunches (scenic view & good food): Kula Lodge, Pineapple Grill, & Kimo's

• Lunches (just good food): Dina's Sand Witch, Manana Garage, & Pita Paradise

• Beach: Maui Prince

• Golf: Wailea Golf Club (both Emerald & Gold courses)

• Activities: Warren and Annabelle's Magic Show, Skyline Eco-Adventures Haleakala Zipline, Road To Hana, Kipahula & Ho'omau Church, & scenic drive around West Maui

• Hikes: Pipiwai Trail at Ohe'o Gultch & Waihe'e Valley Trail

• Shopping: Lahaina & Shops at Wailea

• Hotel: We stayed at the Maui Prince this time and thought it was too expensive for what you got (though in all fairness that same complaint can be said about most hotels on the island). Although we liked the location and evening sunsets, we will probably venture elsewhere on our next trip to Maui

All in all, it was great to get away and spend some time out in the sun and away from the trading desk.