The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, one of the brand's signature resort properties, reopened in early January following a $160-million, top-to-bottom renovation that infuses the Maui property with a strong sense of place.

The Hawaiian feel begins in the lobby through native Hawaiian artwork, Koa wood panels and a lava stone bar. Guestrooms carry the theme with dark wood floors, area rug designs with Kukui florals and Hawaiian artwork framed in Koa wood. The guest units also feature the latest in technology: LCD flat-screen TVs, iPod docking stations, DVD players and wireless Internet service.

The Ritz's new restaurants, which range in ambience from upscale to casual to poolside, are situated to take advantage of the resort's spectacular Pacific Ocean setting. A new 10,000-square-foot pool area includes a new children's pool and enlarged cabanas with the latest technology. The resort's new fitness center also commands views of the Pacific.

In May, a new 15,000-square-foot spa opens with 15 treatment rooms, including two outdoor couples' cabanas, steam rooms, sauna and hot tubs. Most treatment rooms will open to private outdoor shower gardens.