Kiri (second from right, above) flew courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines and enjoyed a stopover in Honolulu at Prince Waikiki, the only hotel in Waikiki offering all ocean view rooms. A great experience while there was the creative canvas class led by a talented local artist.
“If you haven’t thought about flying Hawaiian Airlines before to the States, I highly recommend it,” says Kiri. “Great airline and making a stop out of it was the best idea.
“We went straight from the plane to the ocean. I had a good look around and the Prince Waikiki was absolutely stunning – we had the most amazing seafood buffet and cocktails.”
On arrival in California, Kiri learned that North Lake Tahoe was all about beautiful ski days. The group was looked after by Ski Butlers, delivering ski rentals directly to them, and enjoying full support if something didn’t fit correctly.
“We skied Diamond Peak (the views are out of this world, it doesn’t look real). Palisades Tahoe is California’s largest ski resort and there is no way that you can explore it all in one day.
“Northstar California is the ultimate family destination for skiing, snowboarding and more. There are so many surrounding cool spots and a unique snowy beach, this part of the world is incredible!”
In North Lake Tahoe, the group were hosted by East West Hospitality, staying in the bustling village of Northstar. They also offer luxurious private homes, cabins, villas and condominiums.
“We were also treated to a fabulous lunch and site inspection of the Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe and an authentic Italian dining experience at Osteria Sierra, at Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa and Casino.
“Mammoth Mountain lived up to its reputation with its huge snowfall. We experienced 76cm overnight! It transforms into a winter wonderland, even in spring.
“Mammoth did not disappoint. There is something for everyone there. Amazing food, incredible terrain with the altitude to help the snow conditions stay perfect.
“Due to the high altitude, the dumping that we received over two nights made it the best spring snow I have ever skied…and I have done nine seasons all over the world.
“Richard (another participant) has been heli-skiing and he said to me that the runs we were doing were better than his heli-ski experience!
“It was pure magic and the people in Mammoth were all so friendly and accommodating, unlike some resorts I have been to. There was no ‘competition feeling’ – it was just a feeling of everything was there to just have a bloody great time.”
The group was hosted by Outbound Mammoth, an all-season alpine retreat featuring new guestrooms, chalets and villas. The group retreated to expert wine-tasting and enjoyed smores by the fire-pit.
For a final stopover, the group stayed at the picturesque Marina Del Rey Hotel for a tranquil coastal experience in LA’s most soothing neighbourhood prior to journeying home to Australia.
“If I had to sum up the trip it would be amazing food, amazing company, amazing scenery and perfect snow. What more could you want?”
