Oprah Winfrey speaks live on Maui at the MACC - June 26, 2017

Living here on Maui, "Magic" just happens!

June 26, 2017, Oprah Winfrey, our celebrity resident on Maui, was called upon to give a speech at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center (MACC) to promote Maui living, good health, focused intention, gratitude, and talk story!  She is a wonderful motivational speaker and she knows how to entertain with her great sense of humor.   I really enjoyed the presentation.

Over 5,000 people attended

The event was advertised June 19th.  Eventually Maui’s coconut wireless reached my friend Rob who told me about the event with only 24 hours left to enter the sweepstakes.  I said, "YES let’s do it!"  It was not easy for him to enter, and I also tried with no success.  I however gave up, but pleaded and encouraged Rob to keep trying :).  And try he did for more than an hour until he finally got us entered.  He had to go as far as to make several telephone calls.  Mahalo mahalo Rob!  I spoke with other people who  also experienced technical difficulties and they gave up.  So we were lucky to get entered at the last minute and awarded two free tickets to the event sponsored by Hawaii Medical Service Association (HMSA) and its app called Sharecare.

Those who downloaded the app to their cell phone were entered to win tickets. Sharecare allows HMSA subscribers to track their health, fitness, level of happiness or stress etc.  Sharecare app goes beyond HMSA members, their goal is to have the app go statewide.

HMSA Chief Executive Officer Michael Gold called the event a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity."

"We know that her ability to inspire will be a huge boost to our efforts to advance health and well-being across Hawaii,” he said.

More than 5,000 people showed up for the free event.  There was a long line stretching out to Kahului Beach Road.  The mood was festive and positive.  The day was warm in the sun, but well worth attending to see Oprah speak in her first ever live appearance on Maui.  This was a dream come true for me and many others.

I created a 4 minute video with snippets from her speech that focused on the “why” she moved here and her take on the Maui Magic.  My visual quality is not very qood on the video, for that I apologize.  Take in the message the audio is good and her message profound.  She reveals the reason why she moved here.  I added some pictures of upcountry, Kula, the beautiful land she speaks of on Maui so you will get an idea that our island is more than just pretty beaches…We have forests and jungles too.

It is a great place to live for those brave enough to take the leap but if not, an annual visit to our lovely island will leave you rejuvenated and in awe.

For the full hour Oprah Winfrey speech click this link to see the video.

Remember bring the Aloha spirit and mindset with you and take it back to the mainland with a full heart.  Let us make this world a better place.

Kathy McCartney RS#77317
La Costa Realty Hawaii LLC
Maui Vision Rentals LLC
www.mauivision.com
www.mccartneyfineart.com
https://www.facebook.com/MauiVisionRentals

Maui Ocean Center: Hawaii's Premier Aquarium

The Maui Ocean Center allows you to explore Hawaii’s marine world up close and personal. With over 60 exhibits that include sharks, stingrays, turtles and a diverse collection of tropical fish, that reveal Maui’s colorful marine life.

With the world’s largest collection of live Pacific corals and breathtaking exhibits that capture the magnificence of the thriving marine ecosystems of Hawaii’s underwater world, it’s no wonder it was given the recognition as Top 25 Best Aquariums in the U.S. by Trip Advisor. Guests of all ages will enjoy discovering the beauty of Hawaii’s marine life as it unfolds in front of them in this intimate setting.


The Maui Ocean Center offers a mixture of interactive presentations, behind-the-scenes tours and indoor-outdoor exhibits, such as the 750,000 gallon shark tank, 360 degree glowing jellyfish tank, Marine Mammal Discovery Center, Living Reef and Turtle Lagoon. There are also multiple pools where you can touch and interact with the sea life. Most notably, the facility’s Shark Dive Maui® program is Maui’s only shark diving activity. This fascinating experience allows SCUBA certified individuals to enter the Open Ocean Exhibit and dive with sharks, stingrays and exotic fish.

Also known as the The Hawaiian Aquarium, the Center integrates Hawaii’s rich cultural history within its exhibits, defining the strong relationship of its people and the sea. This is beautifully captured in the Hawaiians and Sea Exhibit, which continues to be a highlight of the Aquarium. There’s no other place that provides such a unique learning experience and allows its guests close interaction with Hawaii’s marine life.

The Seascape Ma’alaea Restaurant is an ocean view dining option that is open 10:30 am-3 pm daily for the Center’s guests. There is also a gift shop (Maui Ocean Treasures) that is open 9 am – 5 pm daily where you can pick up souvenirs and locally made products.

For more information regarding ticket prices and hours of operation, visit the Center’s website: https://mauioceancenter.com/

Diana Ross Motown legend performs at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center June 2015

I have some more Maui fun and Maui music to share with you.  I went back through my archive of concerts and created a few short videos of different performers.

It's a treat to have famous performers visit our state like Motown legend Diana Ross June 2015.  I heard she was here for a family wedding and she decided to perform during her Maui stay.

Mahalo Diana Ross for the amazing show!

Aloha

Enjoy our Maui beauty.  I hope our movies takes you back to the land of Aloha!  Share the love!

Book your next vacation rental today www.MauiVision.com
Telephone: 808-989-6369

We welcome you and want to earn your business.

Kathy McCartney

Finding Your Perfect Condo Equals More Maui Fun

Tips for Finding the Perfect Maui Condo

View from Island Sands Rental in Maalaea

The Aloha state has always been a gorgeous vacation spot, but people are changing the way they relax in paradise. Visitors and locals are choosing beautiful condos and beachfront rentals over hotels in Maui. More and more, visitors prefer that “home away from home” accommodation while on their vacation. Low mortgage interest rates and increasing hotel prices are adding to this trend.  Here are some tips for finding the perfect Maui condo:

Weigh Your Options

Makawao upcountry

Paia

Kihei / Wailea

If you’re looking for a home-like feel on Maui and a relaxing, fun-filled experience, Maui Vision Rentals is the perfect place to begin your search. When looking for the perfect condo, it’s important to ask yourself questions like, would I like to spend my time in  Kihei/Wailea, Paia, Wailuku, Hana, or Lahaina/Kaanapali etc., all popular Maui destinations? You may want to consider a vacation on the beach or inland. Weighing these options will help make your Maui rental search smoother and easier!

Get to Know the Area

Red Sand Beach Hana

At Maui Vision Rentals, our diverse condos range from quiet beachfront resorts and stunning ocean view properties to centrally located condos in downtown locations. It’s essential that you know what you want to do on your Maui trip, i.e.: Do you prefer to spend most of your time on the beach, swimming, fishing, or surfing? If so, you may want to stay at one of our beach homes.

Lahaina

If you plan on experiencing Maui’s nightlife, arts and entertainment scene, then you should search for centrally located condos near shopping, dining and cultural venues. Our vacation rentals fulfill that option too.

Fleetwoods on Front Street
Performers Sammy Hagar, Mick Fleetwood and Willie K

The fun experiences on Maui are island wide and often the most difficult task is to decide on which show or experience you most want to do during your vacation.  The longer you stay the more you can soak in the Maui life and culture.  Some of our guest’s favorite excursions include snorkeling, diving, sunset dinner cruises, shows at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center (MACC), live music, and dancing. Fleetwood’s on Front Street is a personal favorite and snorkeling off the island of Lanai’s coast.  Maui hosts four community town parties for visitors and locals every week.  Join the fun at one of rotating Friday Town Parties.  The Friday lineup starts first with Wailuku, second Lahaina, third Makawao, and the fourth Friday belongs to Kihei.

Maui's Road Less Traveled

There are fun gatherings and local things to do off the beaten path, away from the tourist scene and crowds…There really are so many choices!  Since we live on an island you can get to most places in a short drive no matter which Maui Vision Rental condo you decide to book.  The condo location is your base from which you will move around and explore.  Make sure it is a location where you are most happiest in spending your down time.  This is your precious vacation time.

Consider the Costs

Rental C516 at the Kihei Akahi in Kihei 

One of the reasons why Maui vacation condos are so popular is because they combine privacy and relaxation with cost efficiency. Whether you’re looking to take a week-long vacation or stay for a month or even longer, cost can play a huge role in choosing your next Maui rental. If you’re on a budget, it’s important to plan your trip ahead of time. At Maui Vision Rentals, our condos are reasonably priced, beautifully decorated, clean and comfortable. The longer you stay we offer discounted rates.  We encourage you to start planning your Maui vacation now.


At Maui Vision Rentals, we provide clean, elegant and comfortable condos for a romantic getaway for two and larger properties to accommodate reunions with family and friends! 

Why wait another day? Get started by contacting us at (808) 989-6369 or visit MauiVision.com 

Kihei Akahi C516 - Sale Nights Discounted Spring/Summer 2017

Maui is one of the top vacation destinations in the world. 

We have the perfect accommodation for you.  C516 is a lovely ocean view condo at an affordable price per night.  Stay in comfort and style.  This condo is located on the 5th floor in building C at the Kihei Resort in South Kihei.

Enjoy wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean, Mount Haleakala, tropical gardens, and glowing sunset skies.  This Hawaiiana style home will help put you in a tropical state of mind.  This beautiful 655 square foot home has a remodeled kitchen and bathroom with granite counter tops and dark wood cabinets including a new Pier 1 dining table and chairs, fresh paint, and new Queen size sleeper sofa with 6 inch memory foam.  AC in the living room and free secure Wi-Fi Internet access for your laptop and other devices. The bedroom has new hypoallergenic Berber carpet and new bedroom furniture with King size bed with a Sealy memory foam top and gel overlay for your sleeping comfort.  The condo has tile floors in the main living areas and bathroom. 

The well maintained Kihei Akahi complex has two swimming pools, BBQs, and a tennis court surrounded in a tropical landscaped setting. This complex is directly across the street from popular Kamaole Beach Park II and another five minute stroll to the border of Wailea and then Keawakapu Beach.

Write us for availability and take advantage of our latest Spring/Summer sales price starting at $99 per night!  Visit our website:  MauiVision.com

This privately owned vacation condo is operated in full compliance with Hawaii law. General Excise and Transient Accommodation taxes are collected and transmitted to the State of Hawaii on all rentals:   Hawaii GE and TA 201-758-1056-01 

Shep Gordon's New Year's Eve Extravaganza on Maui 2016 - 2017

Dave Mason and me

Me and "Weird" Al Yankovic

There are many things to do on Maui New Year's Eve! You can enjoy a simple celebration with your own fireworks on one of our many beautiful public beaches (as of this writing they are legal) and watch spectacular fireworks at the stroke of midnight launched from a barge out over the ocean in Wailea and also Lahaina.  Sometimes the best things in life are free.  Plus we have great weather year round that help make our celebrations enjoyable and comfortable.  We are indeed spoiled!

Many Maui restaurants, bars, and hotels offer tickets for their private parties if you want a more intimate, upscale experience that includes dinner, dancing, and kick off at midnight.

My video shorts of the fun event.  You will see great actors and singers 

not pictured in this blog.  Watch to see who the surprise celebrities are.

Fergie and Lynda Carter

Steven Tyler

This year December 31, 2016 I celebrated by attending Shep Gordon's New Year's Eve extravaganza!  What a blast.  My bucket list item fulfilled.  It was pricey but well worth it for the entertainment.  They served light pupus at 7:30 pm and I do mean light, so be sure you have dinner before you arrive. The bar served drinks all night long.  The ticket price increased this year 2016/2017  compared to Shep's previous parties.  My ticket was well over $600.  I'm not sure how many people attended.  Perhaps it was a couple hundred?  I liked the fact it was not too crowded.  I felt it was the perfect amount of visitors.  There was plenty of space to move and dance.  I met  interesting people who tell me they make this event their annual celebration.

Who is this man? 
Does anyone know?

Me and Shep Gordon

If you do not know who Shep Gordon is check-out this entertaining documentary of his fascinating life "Supermensch" produced and directed by Mike Myers.  It is funny.

Many of the famous performers are local Maui residents. The event is a fundraiser for the Maui Food Bank and the Maui Arts and Cultural Center.  It is good to know that the price of the ticket helps our Maui community.

Me and Diana Krall

Me and Alto Reed

I had so much fun. It is one of the best events I have experienced here on Maui.  The celebrities sometimes sit in the audience to see the other entertainers perform.  I was able to meet a few during and after the show.

About 11:30 pm we left the ballroom of the hotel and headed to the rooftop of the Marriott hotel to experience the firework show over the ocean.  It was beautiful from above and I have seen it below in past years on the beach walk.

I created a short video of the event....Since I was dancing  and filming I decided to use a tool in YouTube that stabilizes the video it worked!  However, the words I typed are a little jumpy.  It took forever to upload to YouTube so I don't plan on fixing that minor issue.  I hope you enjoy the video and get a feel for the fun!

Alice Cooper and Damon Johnson

You never know who Alice Cooper's friends will be.  They keep it a surprise and mystery until the moment you are there.