Tag Archives: Larry Ellison

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort – Wellness Retreat

Posted on by

To keep the body in good health is a duty otherwise we shall not be able to keep our mind strong and clear.     Buddha

Larry Ellison Ups the Spa Game in Lanai! Four Seasons and Sensei Retreats have formed a new partnership, a wellness company founded by Ellison and renowned oncologist and author David Angus. The Sensei philosophy is one that believes you meet your body where it’s at – that wellness is a journey and what you need now may be different than what you need in two years. For example, the Guides try to focus on developing routines and actions that are doable beyond your stay – this is not a ‘bootcamp’ – and the ability of the guides to connect with the practitioners and utilize the technology as they learn more about each guest really allows for a very tailored approach – maybe that manifests in a change in programming or simply a different way of looking at an aspect of one’s health – how the elements of rest, nourish and move are connected in ways one might not even consider!

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

Welcome to an ultra-all-inclusive wellness enclave on the secluded Hawaiian island of Lanai. Unmatched hospitality, reputable experts, natural beauty, luxury and choice combine to offer a completely customized experience. When Larry Ellison purchased the Island of Lanai in 2012 he had dreams of transforming the island and its old properties into a tropical haven, he has recently achieved both dreams. The authentic and charming Four Seasons Resort Lanai has wowed many of our clients and as of last fall, the new adults only wellness retreat opened. Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort is set in the interior of Lanai, surrounded by towering banyan and pine trees. I’m certain a heaping dose of tailored wellness would be welcome to all of us!

Always included is round-trip airfare from Honolulu on Lanai Air as well as private wellness consultations, spa treatments, unlimited fitness classes, yoga and meditation, dining by Nobu, and enriching island activities in pursuit of movement, nourishment and rest – all in a beautiful and luxurious Four Seasons setting.

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort –

A new partnership with Sensei Retreats introduces a new concept in fully customizable, science-based programming for mind and body, including meals by Sensei by Nobu. Experience an ultra-all-inclusive wellness enclave on the secluded Hawaiian island of Lanai. Unmatched hospitality, reputable experts, luxury and choice combine to offer a completely customized experience and help you discover your greatest well-being.

An evidence-led approach to wellbeing focusses on three practices – movement, nourishment, and rest – which are connected and enriched by one another, helping guests get familiar and maintain a conversation with body and mind. These three practices are the basis for programming and integrating elements from all categories lead to a balance that is at the heart of the Sensei philosophy, as well as helping guests discover new patterns and experiences they can implement in their everyday lives on a consistent and ongoing basis.

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

From private spa hale to world-class cuisine, guest will enjoy a luxury of limitless choices including body treatments; personal training; group classes and lectures in yoga, meditation, fitness, nutrition, mindfulness, Hawaiian culture, art and enrichment, meditation and cultural immersion; and enriching activities on land and sea; all while experiencing the beauty of the secluded island of Lanai.

Customized programming by a Sensei Guide, each customized itinerary is prepared in advance in consultation with a dedicated Sensei Guide. Throughout, the experience is optimized utilizing technology – such as thermal body mapping and sleep analysis – along with coordinated input from the Sensei Guide and a team of on-site wellness practitioners to uncover opportunities for growth and enjoyment and adapt the program to individual guest needs.

At departure, guests leave with a review of learnings and suggestions to continue on a path of wellness once at home, including the option to check in with one’s Sensei Guide. This is a life enhancing program, not a one time visit spa and move on back into the rat race lifestyle!

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort –

Don’t Miss Experiences: Two essential experiences at the Koele retreat are private guided sessions and Sensei featured experiences at the Spa. Guests have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with Sensei Guides, many of whom have Masters degrees in their fields of practice, for guided sessions in topics such as nutrition, fitness, mindfulness, stress management and yoga. Every session is fully personalized according to each guest’s intentions with offerings from a private cooking lesson to a personal Vinyasa class focused on building core strength or refining a challenging pose. The sessions complement the 10 to 16 daily scheduled classes and lectures led by trained wellness staff and visiting experts.  Three Sensei Featured Experiences showcase the key components of the philosophy, offered in the 1,000 square foot private hale.  Private spa hale are designed as individual sanctuaries, with treatment areas, indoor/outdoor showers, infrared saunas, Japanese ofuro bathtubs, private plunge pools and lounge areas; two hale also include watsu pools.

 “Move” is a two-hour treatment focused on the importance of mobility and movement, and features a segment on land or in a private pool where water shiatsu includes floating, rocking, cradling and stretching with the help of a trained therapist.  “Rest” takes the art of unwinding to a new level, beginning with a soothing, skin-nourishing bath and continuing through breath work, face and scalp stimulation, and finally, a transformative full body massage.  “Nourish” takes advantage of the Koele Retreat’s tropical location outdoors among bamboo and banyan, with massage oils and body wrap using local oils and extracts.

Dining at Sensei by Nobu Chef Nobu Matsuhisa has long been at the forefront of innovative cuisine grounded in Japanese sensibilities and clean ingredients. Guests of Sensei Lanai, will enjoy a wellness menu created by Chef Nobu and his team in close collaboration with Sensei’s nutritionists.  On the Sensei by Nobu menu are such Nobu favorites as the world-renowned black cod with miso, as well as a new selection inspired by the bounty of the steps-away Sensei Farm Lanai, and the neighboring islands and waters of Hawaii.

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

A look at a program: for example, one’s day might begin with a simple yet carefully prepared breakfast bowl featuring seasonal fruits and berries, or a traditional Japanese breakfast of baked fish, omelette, miso soup and condiments.  The lunch menu might include a fresh gazpacho with hydroponically farmed tomatoes, avocado and grilled shrimp from Kauai, while dinner choices range from fresh seafood and locally-raised meats to vegetarian options prepared in Chef Nobu’s signature style. Additional options also include the Koele Garden Bar, and private hale, poolside or 24/7 in-room dining is also available.

An island’s worth of recreational opportunities With 90,000 acres of nearly untouched wilderness ranging from pristine beaches to mountains, red lava cliffs and lush rainforests, Lanai is a playground for lovers of all things outdoors. Fresh air in pristine surroundings, sign me up, please!

At the Hotel’s sister property, the beachfront Four Seasons Resort Lanai, guests can avail of a Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course as well as diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing and other ocean-based water sports.

Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort

Beyond the two properties, Lanai City is a charming village within walking distance from Koele, highlighted by boutiques and galleries showcasing the creativity of island residents.  Also near the Hotel, Lanai Ranch at Koele offers horseback riding, there’s the Lanai Archery and Shooting Range, and the Adventure Park has ziplines and rope challenge courses. 

Sensei Guides can also arrange excursions further afield on foot or in a 4×4 off road vehicle, with tips on where to find the prettiest views, the secret beaches and the best spots for a picnic.

All the Details: retreat packages at the adults-only Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort include accommodations in 96 light-filled rooms and suites opening onto private balconies or lanai, newly decorated by Todd-Avery Lenahan of TAL-Studio, who also conceived the overall design of the Hotel.

Also included are flights from and to Honolulu aboard Lanai Air, and ground transportation to the Hotel as well as shuttles to Four Seasons Resort Lanai and Lanai City. The minimum stay is three nights while seven-night vacations are highly recommended to maximize the experience.

Truly an antidote to this current Covid-19 quarantine. Please be well and safe, we are here to help you design and curate the perfect Wellness Program when you emerge from your cocoon!

https://www.fourseasons.com/sensei/

Begin the Wellness Journey Now.

Four Seasons Resort Lanai

Posted on by

Like an attractive gem box, a visit to Four Seasons Resort Lanai proves that good things come in little packages. Lanai, the oft overlooked 140 square mile island, is a quick ferry ride or even quicker helicopter or plane journey from its sister islands.Used with permission from Four Seasons Lanai

Last week, I enjoyed a 45-minute ferry ride across the sparking seas to the snug harbor of Lanai. On arrival at the ferry terminal, I was met by a Four Seasons ambassador; every staff member is capable of managing arrivals, check-in, and will provide personal concierge service during your stay.

Larry Ellison’s newest endeavor in the hotel industry reflects his passion for art and attention to detail in every facet of this stunning preserve. Combined with the renowned perfection of Four Seasons exemplary service and style, the hotel is certain to become a destination resort. Unlike Four Seasons on other Hawaiian Islands, this is a bit isolated; you won’t encounter neighboring hotel guests on the beach, at the bars or on the golf links. This is old Hawaii at it’s zenith. Leisure, fine dining, golf at your own pace with a break for lunch at Views or utilize your GPS operated cart menu and order lunch on the green!  Where else can you enjoy this hospitality?Used with permission from Four Seasons Lanai

The rooms, 217 in total, including 51 suites, are gorgeous, decorated in restful subdued shades of beachy tan and rich dark wood. I would find it challenging to leave my comfy cocoon, perhaps mosey out to the wide deck with stunning sea vistas, but this calming refuge tempts one to do no more than read, lounge and recharge.

The art throughout the resort appears to be carefully cultivated by an owner with a discerning eye for ancient cultures and a collection which grounds the resort with a strong sense of place. Stroll the open halls in each wing and happen on mini-garden sitting rooms. Clusters of sofas circle a lively koi pond overseen by a massive frog sculpture. In another overgrown lush jungle area, an aviary of exotic birds reminds you of the island wildlife. The interior structure has been opened up to provide vistas from every angle, the silky crescent beach is visible from each restaurant. The multi-million dollar renovation on the former pineapple plantation is thoughtful, restful and includes some high tech touches.

If you must rustle yourself out for activities: choose from an extensive list, a list that is expanding each week. The stunning Jack Nicholas designed Manele Golf course is reserved for guests and Hawaii residents only; snorkel or dive with complimentary gear in the protected marine reserve Hulopo’e Bay – where a pod of spinner dolphins call home. An adult’s only pool resembles a natural grotto – the lagoon pool for the kiddies includes a waterfall. Helicopter tours, Polaris ATV rides explore the rough and red dirt up-country. Horseback riding provides a slower pace over a four-mile loop through dry chaparral; the diversity of the island terrain is quite surprising. Tennis and private lessons with a pro is available on property. The island also offers deer hunting; wildlife includes large island sheep and wild turkeys. Something for everyone’s taste or energy level. Deep wooden Japanese soaking tubs are the consummate conclusion to a full day of activity.

Dining – Nobu may draw guests to Lanai on its own! The interior, reached by a massively tall, yet delicate carved door, offers several options for dining. Enjoy refined dining table-side with sweeping panoramic views or shimmy up to the sushi bar, while the talented chef’s prepare classic sushi on a slab. Reserve 24 hours in advance for a dedicated Teppanyaki chef at private teppan tables. Interact with your highly skilled chef while he slices, sizzles and serves personalized plates. Or Nobu Bar serves a light bar menu highlighting innovative Japanese cuisine.

Japanese dining not your style? Restaurant One Forty offers locally sourced ingredients with an extensive steak and seafood menu. Prime and wagyu beef from Snake River Farms and local Hawaiian catch are prepared to perfection. One Forty is a clever nod to the square mileage of the island

Choose from Malibu Farm perched above the bay or dine at Views on the edge of the golf course for more casual lunches. Mark the end of the day with an exciting sunset Champagne sabering ceremony at Malibu Farm.

An on property rental car fleet allows guests to explore Lanai without resourcing an outside vendor. Yacht charters for sunset cruises are also available on property, the hotel manages all aspects of a visit, guaranteeing the celebrated Four Seasons guest-centric service.

Technology is visible in many aspects, from the 75-inch platinum-bezel LED televisions in each room and the iPads that allow you to order meals, read numerous newspapers and be alerted to the spinner dolphins arrival in the picturesque bay! I loved the easy to use in room switch that magically adjusts the mood lighting to day, sunset or relax.

The Lodge at Koele is under refurbishment and will reopen by the end of the year.

Highly recommend an escape to Four Seasons Resort Lanai, a unique Journey.