TORONTO — Hawaii’s ALOHA Canada 2024 event made for a lively gathering yesterday at The Dorset, part of Toronto’s newest dining and retail hotspot known as The Well.

Destination partners and representatives from all four chapters were on hand to share information about the character and unique experiences of the islands. Attendees got a taste of Hawaiian culture by participating in a hula dancing demonstration.

The primary purpose of the visit was to clarify the situation in Maui following the August 2023 wildfire. While extremely tragic, the Lahaina fire resulted in a damaged area not as large as many people likely envision, according to reps, who compared the size of the affected area to about four city blocks in Toronto.

Bottom line? While the town of Lahaina is still in reconstruction mode, the island of Maui is very much welcoming travellers, with accommodations and attractions ready to receive visitors.

For example, Mᾱla Ocean Tavern in Maui recently reopened following the wildfires and is offering new culinary promotions and experiences to complement its oceanside views and fresh seafood menu. Along with late-night entertainment, guests can build their own mimosas and prepare their fresh caught fish. Go to MalaTavern.com to learn more.

Maui’s resort industry partners, in conjunction with the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, have launched a special Maui Offers page with resort deals for clients. This fall, visitors to Maui can benefit from free rooms, rates up to 30% off and US$250 daily resort credits.

Consult www.GoHawaii.com/MauiOffers to see what’s available.

Travel agents looking for resources and destination information can access the Hawaii Destination Specialist Program by going to agents.GoHawaii.com.

To learn more, visit GoHawaii.com/ca. The Hawaii Tourism Authority is represented in Canada by VoX International.