Ready for a Big Island vacation with family and friends? The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii has current deals that offer relaxation, recreation and incredible memories.

This lovely hotel, formerly part of the Starwood chain, fronts the Pacific with 32 acres of manicured grounds on the island's northwestern coast. The 540 guest rooms embody the luxuries of island life. After a good night's sleep from what may be exhausting travel, the hotel touts great activities and ammenities. Activities include ocean play, sports, culture and wellness activities, including 90 minute sessions of seaside yoga, snorkeling, surfing, tennis; almost anything for your type of lifestyle.

If the island breeze doesn't quite do the trick, rejuvinate with your teen or alone at the Spa. It offers 10 waterfall hales (huts) and five oceanside cabanas with an extensive menu of services. Whether it's a sensual seaweed wrap or a full body sports massage after a day of surf.

The Fairmont Orchid offers the Adventure Package, families can try the resort's "Gathering of the Kings" Polynesian production and feast, read an island adventure guide book, and pick one adventure tour offered by Hawaii Forest & Trail. Their varied repertoire includes Kilauea Volcano, Kohala Waterfalls, Mauna Kea Summit and Stars tours, or the Pinz Trek off-road Kohala Wai adventure.

Hawaii Forest & Trail features top locales, great customer service, relaxed easy walks and hikes. Professionally-trained Interpretive Naturalist Guides share their knowledge of the extraordinary landscapes, legends, and an inside scoop on Hawaiian life.

For the Adventure package, rates range upwards of $489/N single occupancy and $529/N double occupancy through Dec. 20, 2008.

The Fairmont Orchid is also offering families who want to enjoy a little privacy a special 2-for-1 rooms offer. The Family Package starts at $879/N plus tax for one guestroom, and a second adjacent and guaranteed connecting room comes free. Perks include two complimentary Keiki Aloha program passes for children ages 5-12, which guarantees two children one full day or one child two full days at the resort's acclaimed children's program (valued at $85/child per day). Additionally, your family can feast on four complimentary brunch buffets at the Orchid Court.

This offer is valid through Dec. 20, 2008 with a maximum of two rooms for $879/N. Families who have the luxury of time should stay longer and combine this great deal with the Fairmont's 6th Night Free offer for those who book and pay for the first five nights.

For additional information or to book any number of the packages, contact your travel agent, call the resort at 800/845-9905 or visit www.fairmont.com/orchid/. Note that The Family Package cannot be booked online.

by Molly McDonough

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