Often, being in Hawaii means getting better information. After the quake, I was able to talk to people on the ground that I trusted and get a much better read on damage than MSM. That's part of the reason for this blog. So feel free to send me questions, and I'll try to answer them as possible.

Here's one from Dale F. : "I have been attempting to determine the extent of the Kona by the Sea damage from the quake. I can not find an official source for information and calling the hotel brings glib comments. I have had no response from ResortQuest, and so I am left in the dark as to just how bad the water damage is and if there are other structural problems?? Any updated info or advice on who I can contact to find out now that some time has passed??"

Hawaiirama: Dale, I can tell you for sure that the Kona by the Sea did not suffer any structural damage. I checked with a few people I trusted on this one. I also did speak to someone from ResortQuest about the water damage and they told me it was minor, only affecting a few rooms, due to burst pipes, and had been cleaned up. To be save, upon check-in specifically request not to be put in any rooms that were damaged by the water pipe problems. That should do the trick. And do let me know if I was led astray. However, do insist on an airconditioned room. The ones without require ceiling fans and open windows, which can mean lots of noise."

Trip Advisor Review (Ranked #7 of 33 hotels in Kona area)

Image via Expedia

—Alex, 10/29/06