Somehow I did not see this thread before completing my recent stay at Sensei, and thank KristenNix for starting it. I've been traveling to Lanai since the hotels first opened under previous management in the early 1990s. This was our first stay at the Koele property since it was FS-ized. I'd thought I'd share some observations:

The public indoor space has been transformed from hunting-lodge chic to a more contemporary and brighter/lighter feel. The gardens have been significantly improved, as have the exercise/pool facilities. The grand entrance of the old Koele, with the croquet field off to the side, has sadly been gardened-over (thanks to [MENTION=1831]schriste[/MENTION] for providing that photographic reminder). We were really pleased that the 18-hole putting course has been maintained--it is a real gem.

As Goodmorning2U noted, attracting, training, and retaining good talent on an isolated island is a difficult task. The staff we found mostly were competent and caring in a way that only can be found on Lanai. However, there were some that would probably be fired in a more competitive environment.

We dined at the Nobu's restaurant for breakfast and lunch, and had their dinner menu for our in-room dining. The food was great, with fresh veggies and fruits grown on island, and presented in an appealing fashion. My only quibble was getting three small slices of lamb and chicken for our respective dinner entrees.

The housekeeping staff was pretty good, although there were some things forgotten on almost all of our days.

For our first pandemic-era travel, it was really a remarkable experience to avoid the main airport terminal and drive to the FBO and just walk aboard what turned out to be our private flight to Lanai, be met on the tarmac and whisked to the hotel. The departure was great as well, boarding our flight 20 minutes after being picked up from the hotel. Just a magical way of traveling.

For those who golf, let it be noted that the Cavendish Golf Course is located next to the hotel. It is a free/public 9-hole course that we found sparsely populated. The eighth hole is closest to the hotel, and is a great place to make one's first "tee." We played it daily after our coffee and before our late breakfast. A great way to start the day!