Astronomer leads starry cruise

LAHAINA » A Pacific Whale Foundation stargazing cruise with professional astronomer Harriet Witt will depart at 7:30 p.m. Thursday from Lahaina Harbor.

Witt is an astronomy writer and speaker whose writing has been featured in Sky & Telescope and Spirit of Aloha magazines.

The cruise includes hot and cold appetizers, unlimited soda and juices, and up to three alcoholic beverages (Maui Brewing Co. beer, wine, mai tais and tropical well drinks).

For reservations, call 249-8811, ext. 1, or visit www.pacificwhale.org.

Kohala Coast Collection premieres

WAIKOLOA, HAWAII » Outrigger Hotels and Resorts recently added another condominium option for visitors. The Kohala Coast Collection offers guests high-end residences, including one-, two- and three- bedroom condominiums in gated enclaves located at Waikoloa Beach Resort and Mauna Lani Resort.

Travelers staying at the residences also can access all the resort amenities at either resort, including championship golf courses, restaurants, shopping and spa facilities. For information, call 800-OUTRIGGER or visit www.outrigger.com/kohalacoastcondos.

Local travelers park for less at Plaza

Kamaaina on their way to short vacations on the neighbor islands or the mainland can get discounted parking rates at Best Western’s hotel, just a half-mile from Honolulu Airport.

The hotel’s Relax, Park and Fly program offers kamaaina room rates starting at $109 per night with a special discount parking rate of $10 per night. A minimum one-night stay is required to qualify for the parking rate discount. The program is offered through Dec. 21.

Parking at the Best Western Plaza Hotel includes free 24-hour airport shuttle transportation and a savings of $3 per day compared with airport parking. Guests prepay their parking fee, which allows them to simply drive away when returning home from their vacation. Unused or overpaid parking fees will be refunded.

For information, call toll-free 800-800-4683 or visit www.bestwestern.com.