ALOHA FROM MAUI 

You might not believe what I’m going to tell you, but it got COLD here this past week. A northern storm swept through the islands, and for a couple of days the temperatures dropped below 70 degrees in the coastal areas. That’s cold for us! I know, I know, we're spoiled here on this gorgeous tropical island. It might even be considered a misnomer to use the word "winter” in relation to Maui, since the weather is generally warm and balmy here year-round. But we love winter here because the weather cools slightly from the hot summer months, AND winter means the whales are coming!

While our eyes have been focused towards the ocean in search of the first few spouts and whale tails, here are a few other highlights of note on Maui:

• - Many Maui resorts and community centers are putting on holiday-themed events in December such as tree-lighting ceremonies, holiday gift markets, special performances, and even outrigger-canoeing Santa Clauses! 
  
  - The 9th Annual Made in Maui Festival drew 7,000 residents and visitors to support the nearly 140 participating vendors and food trucks from Maui and Moloka'i. We hope you'll think about supporting local vendors and crafters during your visit to Maui as well!
  
  - For those looking for a place to work out between Mai Tais during your West Maui vacation, a new Maui Powerhouse Gym is opening in the Lahaina Gateway next fall!