Imagine driving an ATV through a tropical rain forest that leads to a jaw-dropping coastline where surfers are riding the waves, riding a helicopter over waterfalls and lush valleys so remote that the only way to see them is from the air, and horseback riding through a working cattle ranch — all in one day. These were just some of the activities experienced by a group of ICPA planners who participated in a Big Island educational tour sponsored by the Fairmont Orchid, after the ICPA annual meeting on Maui in November.

Orchestrated by destination management company Kathy Clarke Meetings & Incentives, our “Lava Man Journey” was an eye-opener into the diverse activities that the Big Island of Hawaii has to offer corporate groups. We learned that this largest island in the Hawaiian chain contains about 23 of the worlds 30 ecosystems, from arid volcanic lava fields to snow-capped mountains. The ever-changing landscape, dominated by two dormant volcanoes, was a constant inspiration during our excursion.

Fairmont Orchid News

With 540 guest rooms, 30,000 square feet of indoor meeting space, and 76,000 square feet of outdoor function space, the elegant Fairmont Orchid can easily accommodate large meeting and incentive groups. Its low-rise architecture in two six-story wings, tropical gardens, and outdoor spa huts blend beautifully with the breathtaking Kohala coastline. Among recent news: 10 new outdoor massage houses nestled among waterfalls and tropical foliage; the reopening of Brown's Beach House restaurant; the opening of Brown's Deli, for takeout and casual dining; a new Japanese restaurant; and the Fairmont Orchid's Gold Floor, 45 rooms with with extra service and amenities.