ASPB Newsletter - March/April 2009 - Let's Go Hawaii

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ASPB Newsletter - March/April 2009

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March/April 2009
Volume 36, Number 2

Location, Location, Location!

As the most remote island group in the world, the Hawaiian Islands are separated from the mainland United States by more than 2,000 miles and a less quantifiable disparity in culture. Hawaii is composed of eight major islands—the Big Island, Maui, Kahoolawe, Molokai, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai, and Niihau—and more than 120 other small islands and atolls. The so-called crossroads of the Pacific, the islands have developed into a unique environment of tropical enticements and a melting pot of cultures. Hawaii is a geological wonder, encompassing within its shores a wide variety of climates and ecosystems.

The awe-inspiring landscape includes rainforests brimming with tropical fruit and desolate remnants of lava flows, all backed by the thundering Pacific. The allure of the land has enticed voyagers from Polynesia, Europe, Asia, and beyond, and today Hawaii is the most ethnically diverse state in the United States (2007 edition travel guide, Let’s Go Hawaii).

This most beautiful setting is the site for Plant Biology from July 18 to 22, 2009. All that Hawaii has to offer—in addition to the symposia, minisymposia, postconference workshop, specialty workshops, poster sessions, and exhibits—makes this journey to the islands a must for every ASPB member!

Want a free guide to Oahu or any other island?
Go to http://www.gohawaii.com.

Escape to Paradise
Accommodations in Hawaii

Welcome to the island paradise of Hilton Hawaiian Village® Beach Resort & Spa. Located on Waikiki’s widest stretch of beach, this impressive property is set on 22 oceanfront acres, offering the perfect mix of exquisite hotel accommodations and classic Hawaiian hospitality.

A Classic Hawaiian Experience Within a Stunning Waikiki Hotel

Discover the unique environment and culture of Hilton Hawaiian Village® Beach Resort & Spa—our exquisite Waikiki hotel. Imagine lush tropical gardens, waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and beautiful artwork. This one-of-a-kind Honolulu hotel resort is the only true resort property in Waikiki. Relax in the luxurious accommodations. Dine in more than 20 restaurants and lounges. Purchase the perfect souvenir. Enjoy a full range of activities for the entire family. Embark on an adventure of a lifetime, just steps from your door.

Set on 22 oceanfront acres
Over 2,800 beautifully appointed guest rooms and suites
Just 20 minutes from Honolulu International Airport (HNL)
Strolling distance to Hawaii Convention Center

Book your reservations here. Conference rates are guaranteed until June 1, 2009.

Click here to check out ASPB’s website for a special rate at the DoubleTree Hotel or if you need roommate matching.

Click here for youth hostels on Oahu.

Click here to see other accommodations on Oahu and compare rates on other travel sites.

Bargain Travel
Getting There

ASPB has made arrangements with both Continental and American Airlines.

Continental Airlines
Continental Airlines offers discounts off published fares of 2% to 15% or Zone fares. Call your travel professional or Continental MeetingWorks at 800-468-7022 for reservations. Refer to Z Code ZTXT and Agreement Code A6G3DN. Or, save an additional 3% off by booking your own reservations here.
Choose your flight times and access your meeting discounts by inserting ZTXTA6G3DN in the Offer Code box.

American Airlines
Attendees from the United States or Canada can make a discount reservation by calling the American Airlines Meeting Services Desk at 800-433-1790 or click here. Refer to Promotion Code A6279AI.
Attendees from outside the United States or Canada need to call the local American Airlines reservation number and refer
to Promotion Code A6279AI.

Island Hopping
Special Rates for ASPB Attendees on Maui and Kauai Before and After the Meeting

Take a great side trip on your way to PB09 or visit one of the nearby islands when you finish up.

Special rates have been arranged for Maui’s most beautiful resort, the Grand Wailea. Special rates for this property are available July 11 to 18 for a preconference holiday and then again July 22 to 28.

Hilton Kauai is offering ASPB attendees special rates from July 11 to 18 and July 22 to 29. Click here for more details on the property.

Hawaii on $25 a Day!

Cheap Eats and Where to Find Them

Whether you plan to stay in Waikiki or nearby, there are many small restaurants and markets where you can find great food and good prices. Below are some that are near the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Convention Center.

Wailana Coffee House

A 24-hour diner, located across from the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki, on the corner of Ala Moana Boulevard and Ena Road. Award-winning, locally owned establishment that’s been there for years. Cheap eats (most items under $10) and broad menu selection. Great portions and service.

Ala Moana Center

Just a few minutes’ walk from the Hawaii Convention Center is Hawaii’s largest shopping center and home to many different cuisines in all price ranges. Click here to see a complete list. A real favorite is the department store Shirokiya. Ala Moana has a food corner located on the second floor that features great inexpensive Japanese and Korean foods. It also has a special buffet from 3:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. every Monday through Saturday.

Not into Japanese food? Don’t worry—the food and beverages at the Ala Moana Center offer a great diversity of cuisines.

Not Your Mainland McDonald’s

Even if you wouldn’t be caught dead eating a Big Mac, this fast food place on Oahu offers more than just standard fast food fare. Dishes include rice and noodle offerings. Check them out and eat well for just a few dollars.

And there are more . . . just Google “cheap eats in Oahu” for a list of places that offer economical meal deals.

To find out more about the most economical eating spots where you are staying, check out the many travel sites online such as http://www.traveladvisor.com or just do a Google search—we found lots.

Make Your Reservations

Click here for information on room rates and how to make your reservation.