A quick update. Decided to actually check at the front desk to see if any renovated Kai suites happened to be available. There was at first some confusion as he was under the impression that all of the suites had been redone. But when I told him that my suite didn't look anything like the one in the digital photo frame there at the desk, he was immediately apologetic and started searching for a replacement.

I told him that I would be happy in any type of room in the xx3x series as I wanted the waikiki/DH view.

Well, he would not stop until he found me a Pualani suite on a high floor. Initially I was reluctant to take it since I preferred the xx3x view. But he gave me a key and said, trust me, just have a look.

Well, night and day. It's in the new style, and the view from the bedroom is not as limited as I had initially thought.

Quite pleased with the resolution here. ^ Now I'm sitting in the lounge admiring the spectacular view. Life could be a lot worse, kids.

Going forward, I think I will send a note ahead the next time I'm staying here asking for a preference to be noted in my reservation for a renovated Kai suite. But I am quite pleased with the Pualani as well.

Now I just have to cross my fingers for similar luck at the Moana tomorrow. From what I hear, suites probably won't be likely as they're fully booked.