If you've ever been bewitched by Maui's special charm, you know how difficult it is to tear yourself away. Even an extended vacation is too short.

There's nothing so depressing as boarding the plane for the long flight home, far from this mystical and magical Pacific jewel.

But it doesn't have to be that way.

Drawn by a soft U.S. greenback and numerous buying opportunities in a lively local market, Canadians are digging into their pockets, pulling out their own revitalized loonies and getting into Hawaiian real estate in unprecedented numbers.



Satisfied international buyers say there's no discernible downside.

A little quick figuring brings this remarkable investment opportunity into clear focus. With the Canadian dollar hovering near par, buyers are paying as much as 35 per cent less for prime Maui real estate than they would have coughed up only a few years ago.

Yet the value of recreational property in Hawaii has steadily appreciated during that time and there's no apparent end in sight.

It's useful to remember that Mother Nature won't be creating any more gems like Maui. Once she achieved perfection, she broke the mould.

A land of lush beaches, gleaming sands, fascinating history, marvellous weather and a thriving artistic and cultural life, Maui casts a spell of languid, lustrous enchantment.

Fond memories of this ocean paradise haunt everyone who ever had the good fortune to visit.

But let's leave visions of scenic splendour aside for the moment. From a practical point of view, there are any number of sound economic reasons why Canadian investors are taking a close look at Hawaiian property, at a time when global markets are volatile and unpredictable.

The world's a big place. But there are a limited number of top-shelf properties to go around. That's why the enduring long-term value and appeal of property in Maui seems assured - particularly when it's able to double as income-generating rental property.

Can you imagine a more restful place to kick back in the sun, sipping a cool beverage, secure in the knowledge that your investment is building additional wealth with each refreshing swallow?

And while you're back in Canada, working hard to prepare for your next visit to the golden sands, accomplished professional management teams can be working on your behalf, maintaining and caring for your invaluable property. It's a simple matter to hire a full-time marketing professional to ensure that your temporarily vacant property is rented and protected during your absence.

Face it, this is a no-brainer, no matter how you slice it. Here's an unbelievable opportunity to combine an intelligent long-term investment with a leisurely lifestyle.

Put it this way. Where else would you rather retire?

Here's something else to consider: those in the know insist that Hawaii remains insulated from the economic woes that many analysts are forecasting for the mainland U.S.

As recently as last December, the New York Times reported there has been no slump in sales of luxury homes or proposed development projects in the Hawaiian Islands.

On the contrary, foreign buyers from Canada and such Pacific Rim countries as South Korea, China and Japan are taking a fresh interest in a real estate market that promises incomparable long-term value.

So don't believe everything you hear about slumping U.S. real estate markets. If anything, things are picking up in Maui and that lends a sense of urgency to the situation for those who are thinking about taking advantage of Canada's healthy currency. An expert cited by the newspaper added that demand from interested shoppers has spurred a wave of reinvestment and high-end speculative redevelopment.

Fortunately, many prime properties remain available and new listings continue to appear almost daily.

Hawaii remains near the top of preferred destinations for vacationers - and home buyers - from around the world.

According to the Times, buyers from B.C. and Alberta have been particularly active in the Hawaiian market while the Islands hold considerable appeal in the eyes of Asian purchasers, because it is considered a safe destination with fresh air and water and very little pollution.

Another real estate professional quoted by the Times added thoughts of his own: "Hawaii has an advantage because it's more attractive than other destinations ... After you go on a holiday to Cambodia, you aren't thinking about retiring there.



However, it's just the opposite in Hawaii."

Clearly, the time to act is now, with a strengthened Canadian currency helping you gain the maximum bang for your buck.

Meanwhile, if you're one of the unlucky few who has never experienced the magic of Maui, you owe it to yourself to take a look, up close and personal. You're in for an irresistible treat, whether you're interested in climbing, golf, whale-watching, hang-gliding, snorkelling, seeking out the rich island heritage and culture, or simply lounging on the world's most magnificent beaches There is a power and a majesty about Maui that can sweep you off your feet, right from the moment you step off the plane. Explore dormant volcanos, surrounded by one of the most desolate landscapes on earth. Travel a few miles further and find yourself in the heart of a luxuriant rain forest.

Fabulous wineries. Historic points of interest. A wildly diverse and entertaining arts scene. Verdant landscapes, pastoral meadows, dazzling surf and some of the most exquisite foliage and wildflowers to be found anywhere.

Readily accessible from most Canadian cities, Maui is a land of limitless appeal. It's also home to the happiest and friendliest people you'll ever meet.

What better locale to enjoy an annual vacation on your own property - in your own home?

Maui can be yours for life and it's time to get busy. Put your rejuvenated Canadian dollars into Hawaiian real estate while this remarkable window of opportunity remains open.

Even the airlines are doing their part. Canadians have plenty of options for daily flights to Maui, including WestJet's new service offering return trips for less than $500 from Calgary and Vancouver.

A home purchase in Maui can mean so much more than just a financial investment. It's more than a gain charted on a balance sheet.

So whether you're thinking retirement or simply about a practical investment for your current lifestyle and portfolio, now's the time for fresh beginnings. It's your time to explore bold new horizons, to enjoy all the pleasures that tomorrow can bring.

Why not seize the moment?

Think Maui.