Gay Maui hotel gets Travel Channel makeover
Despite outstanding reviews, the owners of Maui Sunseeker resort have struggled with operating their LGBT-friendly Hawaiian oasis.
Located in Kihei, on Maui’s beautiful south shore, Sunseeker is the largest gay owned and operated hotel in Hawaii serving the LGBT market. Unfortunately, the owners of the hotel amassed enormous debt and fell behind in the upkeep of the property. To help save the property, owner Chuck Spence and general manager Michael Waddell enlisted the help of Travel Channel’s “Hotel Impossible.”
Anthony Melchiorri, hospitality expert and host of “Hotel Impossible,” visited Sunseeker in September to help transform the properties dated rooms and amenities.
With the help of designer Blanche Garcia, Melchiorri identified problem areas and directed some initial renovations. The experience was captured and aired Monday on the Travel Channel.
Since the initial filming, nearly all of the 25 guestrooms have been renovated and the hotel’s clothing optional roof deck has been transformed with modern outdoor furnishings. The resort also reports that reservations have increased.
More information about Sunseeker is available at www.mauisunseeker.com, and general information about visit Hawaii can be found at www.gohawaii.com.
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