Do I splurge for one night to end-cap my 17 month dream trip? I just might.
Standard vs. deluxe ocean view for a measly $50 more? That was the easy decision.
After exploring four of the Hawaiian islands extensively, I opted to “go for it” instead of visiting the additional, quiet paradise of Molokai. I know not everyone would have agreed but it was just one of those things I HAD to do.
I never thought I would have the opportunity to come back to the aloha state, so I was exceedingly thankful and grateful for 21 days to get lost. So my 24 hour countdown in Mickeyland had me bouncing around the oceanside resort trying to soak it all in for this once in a lifetime visit.
Pre-booking the shuttle from the airport was a breeze, and landed me in the front lobby for an early checkin at 12:45pm. I was granted a 10th floor room overlooking the luau and I was overwhelmed with joy. I shedded my bags and took off to find some characters dressed in their Hawaiian garb, float along in the lazy river, people watch poolside, soak in the infinity pool giving way to spectacular beach views, weaved my way around the lush grounds, hit the gift shops for exclusive merch and get in my last visit to the ABC store (seriously, it is just a convenience store).
I even had my own magical moment waiting for me in in my room mid afternoon….. a friend had the executive chef make me a tray of Mickey chocolate treats! Omg!!
After a quick shower, I knew I had to view my last sunset on the islands from the man-made beach lagoons and just take it all in. The sky lit up once again and I dug my feet into the sand for a final memory.
Then I raced up to enjoy my own balcony picnic overlooking the hula dancers and authentic Hawaiian storytelling. Meanwhile, twilight magic was in full effect along the horizon and it was a setting straight out of a fairytale. Truly an unforgettable moment.
I naturally couldn’t sleep, so I made a slow loop around the Ko Olina lagoons, soaked my tired feet in the bright blue Disney pool water and spent a better part of the evening reminiscing on my balcony.
With a long travel day ahead, I was pleasantly surprised that I popped up easily to partake in my last sunrise from the beach lagoons prior to making the inevitable trek back to the airport midday.
So….. Disney’s Aulani was the icing on the cake on this adventure of a lifetime and a memory that will forever bring a BIG smile to my face!
FearlessAdventures 