Historical Relaxation at The Old Wailuku Inn

Anyone who visits Hawaii knows that the tiny island of Maui is a land dedicated to the blend of traditions and history with the new and modern.

Any luau you go to or trail you hike is reminiscent of the customs and concepts of the Hawaiian past, but designed to accommodate today's traveler.

As budget travelers, often with more time to travel than the average vacationers, we like to find a place's real cultural attractions.

After enough time on the road, the hotels, natural attractions, and food tend to blend together.

That's why I sought out a Hawaiian-themed Bed & Breakfast to base myself as I traveled around Maui.

Even Hawaiian architecture is indicative of the time it was made, crossing European stylings with adjustments made for the natural light and warmth offered up by the beautiful islands.

If you're looking for a place to stay in Hawaii and want to see the blend of old and new for yourself when you wake up every morning, then The Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono is the ideal spot.

Originally built in 1924 by banking industry pioneer Charles Dexter Lufkin as a wedding present for his son and daughter-in-law, The Old Wailuku Inn is known as  the “Queen of Old Wailuku” homes and has been registered and recognized by the Hawaii Historic Preservation Division as a noteworthy building, and it's easy to see why.

Lufkin adapted his building plan to the natural resources available on what was then called High Street, the most desirable piece of property on the island.

An H-shaped floor plan allowed the valley's cooling trade winds to serve as nature's air conditioner, and the many double-hung windows allowed plenty of bright light in.

What this means for people without architecture degrees is that The Old Wailuku Inn is just as comfortable as it is beautiful.

However, like all beautiful things, the building eventually lost much of its luster and fell into disuse and disrepair, until it was purchased by hospitality specialists Tom and Janice Fairbanks in 1995.

I bet it was the ideal place for urban exploration in Maui.

Tom and Janice spent the next two years restoring and renovating the building with the help of some of the top architecture firms in Maui.

I should also mention that a B&B is only as good as the owners.

Tom and Janice are the type of personable Innkeepers who will greet you when you arrive, chat with you at breakfast, and make sure you find your way to the off the beaten track restaurants, natural wonders, and events.

They add the personal Hawaii touch to the property because unlike most hospitality workers who migrate from mainland U.S.A., both were born and raised in Hawaii.

And they are just as passionate about living in Maui as those who chose to move to Hawaii on their own free will.

In 1997, they opened the doors to The Old Wailuku Inn, originally a seven-room bed and breakfast sought out by travelers the world over.

But in 2002 three additional rooms were opened in the separate building where I stayed, known as Vagabond's House. Is it a coincidence they placed me there?

The Old Wailuku Inn is located a short walk away from many stores and attractions downtown, but it's possible you'll just spend the day talking with other travelers.

Meeting classical charm and modern stylings, The Old Wailuku Inn is the best rest in Maui.

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My trip to Maui was provided in collaboration with Maui, the Magic Isle. Opinions expressed above are my own.