Disney Breaks Ground at Hawaii Resort

Walt Disney Parks and Resorts broke ground for its first family destination resort in Hawaii.

Lt. Gov. James "Duke' Aiona, Mayor Mufi Hannemann and State Senate President Colleen Hanabusa were on hand at the ground breaking and traditional Hawaii blessing ceremony.

The $800 million project on 21 acres at Ko Olina Resort & Marina is expected to open in 2011.

The resort will feature 350 hotel rooms and 480 Disney Vacation Club timeshare villas.

"This Disney destination resort will provide a unique way for families to experience Hawaii," said Jay Rasulo, Chairman of Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, in a statement. "By blending Disney’s high standard of guest service and creative storytelling, we'll create a place where all family members can discover the wonder of these special islands."

Plans for the resort include a pool and water play area, a 18,000-square-foot spa, a wedding lawn, an 8,000-square-foot convention center, a children’s club and two restaurants.

The resort is expected to create 1,000 Hawaii jobs.

Disney Vacation Club serves more than 350,000 members from 100 countries and all 50 states.
Source: Pacific Business News. News from ftnnews.com

• Ubud visitors can observe Galungan celebrations (16 March 2010)
• Increase on European Tourist Flow to Bali (22 October 2009)
• Honeymoon Holidays making your wedding special (25 September 2009)
• Website of the week: oneoffplaces.co.uk (03 September 2009)
• Travel: off the grid in Bali (10 June 2009)
• The new Bali (10 June 2009)
• Holiday packages unveiled (10 June 2009)