Andaz being bought out- HELP!

Question

I was notified by Costco travel that Andaz hotel is being bought out during our vacation bookend for June. We will need to either relocate to the Fairmont Kei Lani for the full stay or partial stay. We are not being offered a room upgrade or even the same amount in credits we were getting originally. Costco indicated there’s nothing they can do but make a request for an upgraded room but that is not guaranteed. I am extremely disappointed. This is my first experience with Costco travel.

Has anyone experienced a similar situation where their hotel was being bought out during a stay? I’m very concerned with the impact to the level of service, availability of activities, restaurants being open, etc.

In addition, any thoughts on the Fairmont? This is a family trip with adult children. We chose the Andaz for a reason and am concerned with being disappointed for a once in a lifetime trip. Thank you.

Answer

I'm sorry to hear about your disappointing situation with Costco Travel and the Andaz hotel being bought out during your vacation. It's understandable that this is frustrating, especially since you chose the Andaz for its specific amenities and atmosphere. To help you navigate this, here are a few thoughts and considerations:

1. Similar Experiences: Many travelers have faced situations where a hotel was being bought out, rebranded, or under renovation during their stay. While these changes can sometimes impact the quality of service, availability of amenities, and overall guest experience, it varies by the hotel. Some resorts manage transitions smoothly, while others may face challenges, especially when it comes to maintaining the expected service levels. If you're concerned, it's a good idea to contact the hotel directly and ask for more details about the buyout, such as whether certain services or amenities will be limited, and what adjustments they plan to make during this time. You might even ask if there are any discounts or compensation for the inconvenience.

2. Fairmont Kea Lani: The Fairmont Kea Lani is an excellent alternative, and while it's different from the Andaz, it can still offer a fantastic experience. It's a luxury resort on the Wailea coast and offers spacious suites and villas, which could be an upgrade in terms of room size compared to Andaz. The resort has multiple dining options, a beautiful pool area, and a prime beachfront location, which makes it a good family-friendly choice. However, its vibe is a bit more traditional and less contemporary compared to the Andaz, so it may not have the same modern flair you were looking for. It’s definitely worth checking out reviews for recent feedback, especially regarding service levels during the transition period.

Room Options: While you may not be guaranteed a room upgrade, Fairmont Kea Lani is known for its spacious accommodations, including oceanfront suites. It's worth following up with Costco Travel or directly with the Fairmont to see if they can guarantee you a room with a similar view or experience to what you were expecting at the Andaz.
Family-Friendly Amenities: The Fairmont offers family-friendly amenities like large pools, a kids' club, and beachfront activities. It’s a great option for families with adult children since it has activities that cater to all ages. They also have some great dining options, including a few restaurants that serve local Hawaiian cuisine, so the food scene should be satisfying as well.
Activities and Dining: In terms of activities, check if the buyout of the Andaz will affect any of the activities you were looking forward to. The Fairmont Kea Lani also has a good selection of things to do, including cultural events, water sports, and wellness experiences. If you're concerned about the impact on dining availability or service, it's always a good idea to reach out directly to the Fairmont to confirm which restaurants and services will be available during your stay.

3. Suggestions Moving Forward: If you're feeling uneasy about the switch, you could reach out to Costco Travel and explain your concerns in more detail. While they may not be able to offer an upgrade, they could potentially offer additional credits, or at least a refund or discount to make up for the inconvenience. You might also ask about the buyout situation in more detail, including how it will affect the hotel’s services. Given that this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, ensuring that you feel confident in your new accommodations is essential.

Final Thoughts: The Fairmont Kea Lani is a beautiful resort, and while it may not be the Andaz, it still offers a wonderful Maui experience. Given that you're traveling with adult children, the family-friendly atmosphere, beach access, and spacious suites could make it an enjoyable stay. Make sure to confirm details with the Fairmont about any service changes during the buyout, and don't hesitate to reach out for possible compensation or room adjustments through Costco Travel or the hotel itself.

Good luck, and I hope you have a great trip regardless of the changes!