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Rosanna // The Place Atelier's avatar

I loved this, Anne Marie. To read a story that is so wonderfully human in my feed of forgettable trends and immaculate hospitality imagery. A reminder of finding simplicity in a world that has become too beholden to data, systems and specialists.

The Upgrade | Anne Marie's avatar

Thank you so much, Rosanna! My grandfather was such a character. I loved diving into the articles about him out there. I’ll continue to publish pieces like this and excerpts from my father’s book in Hotel History for paid subscribers.

Leah Nanpei's avatar

What a great read! It is always amazing what could be done so informally back then. I also think this highlights the value of relationships which your grandfather seemed to understand.

The Upgrade | Anne Marie's avatar

Thanks Leah! Crazy that he could by a lot in Waikiki for $5k. That’s $119k today. I think we forget how untouched Hawaii was back then. Here’s the Royal Hawaiian hotel from the WWII era