Army, Air Force, and Navy Times....

THE HALE KOA:

HAWAII'S R&R ALOHA

Hawaii has it all. Tropical weather, beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and ritzy resorts mean Hawaii has something for everyone. But for military members, Hawaii has even more. Hawaii has the Hale Koa.

The Hale Koa Hotel (the Hawaiian name of "House of the Warrior") is ideally situated on Honolulu's Waikiki Beach for the exclusive use by military personnel and their families. It's mission is to provide the best in resort facilities at affordable rates to all members of the Armed Forces--all ranks and grades; active duty and retired.

The first-class resort opened on Fort DeRussy in 1975 and was constructed at a cost of $20.5 million. The Hale Koa was built entirely with funds generated by profits from military clubs and exchanges. It was built for service people by service people and no taxpayer funds were used.

The Hale Koa currently has 419 comfortably furnished guest rooms, all featuring private bath, color television, air conditioning, and a lanai (balcony) with a sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean or verdant Koolau Mountains. Plans are underway to add a new 396-room 12-story tower annex to the resort as part of an extensive recreation improvement program at Fort DeRussy.

Superb dining and entertainment facilities make the Hale Koa a complete resort for military members and their families. Exciting dinner shows, quality lounge entertainment, and other options like luaus on the beach are all available at affordable prices.

Dining possibilities include: Happy's Snack Bar for quick meals and local-style food throughout the day; the Territorial Coffee House for modestly-priced meals; and their signature restaurant--the Hale Koa Room (the Sunday Brunch is legendary).

As can be expected at this R&R mecca, recreational facilities abound. Waikiki Beach lies right at the Hale Koa's backyard, making it perfect for snorkeling, sailing, and surfing. A freshwater swimming pool, fitness center, tennis courts, and volleyball courts are located on the grounds.

The Hale Koa offers every convenience to the military traveler. Self-service laundry facilities are located on each guest floor. An Activities Desk, Post Exchange, car rental concession, barber and beauty shop, military discount tour and travel office, and the exclusive Jewels of the Hale Koa will meet the needs of most travelers.

When most people think of Hawaiian beaches, Waikiki on Oahu usually comes to mind. This gleaming ribbon of sand stretches two miles from the Ala Wai Boat Harbor. The generally gentle surf and unlimited recreation options make it a great Hawaiian beach and the Hale Koa makes it better.

Because the Hale Koa is such an outstanding value, it has an historical occupancy rate of 98%. Reservations can be made up to 365 days in advance. The Hale Koa is definitely the perfect vacation spot, but it's also idea for TLA, TDY, conferences, or an enroute delay when on PCS.

It is estimated that more than one million military personnel and dependents use the Hale Koa's facilities each year. The Hale Koa is truly a benefit that all military personnel should enjoy. Space available flights, special airline rates, and the Hale Koa's affordable prices make Hawaii and Waikiki Beach the perfect spot for R&R.

SIDEBAR:

HALE KOA CONTACTS

--All active duty and retired military personnel from all branches of the U.S. Armed Services (including Reserve and National Guard Members) are eligible to use Hale Koa guest room accommodations. Cadets and midshipmen from the service academies on active duty for training are also eligible, as well as individuals classified by the Veterans Administration as 100% Disabled and Reserve Components who are retired without pay. DOD civilian employees on TDY to Hawaii or when travelling to or from Hawaii on PCS orders are also eligible.

--Guest room rates vary depending on pay grade and present status, as well as room location. Both active duty and retired military pay the same guest room rate, based on rank. The price range for double occupancy is currently $42 to $109 per night.

--Reservations can be made 365 days in advance. A toll-free number is available from the Continental U.S. direct to the reservations office (800/367-6027, from 0800 to 1600 daily, except federal holidays). The address is 2055 Kalia Rd., Honolulu, HI 96815-1998. The regular phone number is 808/955-0555.

--For further information about Waikiki, Honolulu, and Hawaii, contact the Hawaii Visitors Bureau at the Waikiki Business Plaza, 2270 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815, 808/923-1811.{ET{ET