Disney's Resort to be a Major Draw for Ko Olina

The Ko Olina resort destination of Oahu is often thought of as the most compelling vacation draw in all of Hawaii. Many believe it to be among the best ocean resorts anywhere. And now, one of the globe's most well known corporations is about to make its mark.

In November of 2008, the Walt Disney Co. broke ground on an expansive parcel of land in Ko Olina, Oahu. The long anticipated Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina will be located between the Marriott and Ko Olina Beach Villas. In that area is the vast expanse known as the Ewa Plains. The Ewa Plains landscape will be remade into a lush oasis with a huge artificial volcano, windy rivers, blue lagoons and vast lawns.

Slated to open in 2011, the resort will include 350 hotel rooms, 480 timeshare units, an 18,000 square-foot spa and an 8000 square-foot conference center. Also in the works are Hawaiian cuisine themed restaurants, a Disney kids club, a wedding area and extensive network of water activities and features. Visitors will even be treated to water rides down the slopes of a volcano.

The Ko Olina region is one steeped in Hawaiian culture and customs. The Disney Company has, on several occasions, affirmed its commitment to local concerns and sensitivity to Hawaiian customs.

Disney has brought attention to its plans for educational programs with respect to Hawaiian culture, music, dance, arts and crafts. In addition, the architectural design and decor will incorporate Hawaiian motifs and materials such as lava stone, thatch and local woods. Also, a central building with the lobby entrance, called "Hale Aloha" will be designed along the lines of a Hawaiian Canoe House.

Disney executives also anticipate incorporating traditional Disney themes into the project. A senior executive with Disney Vacation Club Hawaii has stated he can't imagine a better match them the storytelling of Disney along with the storytelling of Hawaii."

Ko Olina, Hawaii was not just chosen because of its desirable resort location. A long-standing relationship exists between Disney and Hawaii. In 1937, the Mickey Mouse short "Hawaiian Holiday" was filmed by Disney. A Polynesian Resort can also be found in Walt Disney World in Florida. And to top it off, ABC (a Disney owned company) films its hit drama "Lost" in the islands!

In the midst of difficult economic fortuntes for global tourism, it's worth observing that the resort constitutes a major bet by Disney. Approximately one thousand people will be employed at the multi-million dollar resort as it draws visitors from around the world.

The project also constitutes a significant vote of confidence in the Ko Olina resort region. The addition of the Disney resort will continue to increase the attractiveness of Ko Olina as a marquee resort destination for vacationers, honeymooners and participants in executive retreats and conferences.