Wow, I can’t believe this is the first Hawaii news round up for 2009. There’s quite a bit of news and deals to share so, let’s dive in.

* Wendy Perrin offers some excellent advice about when to buy airfare. The Conde Nast Traveler guru says, “Airlines usually don’t even begin introducing fare sales until at most four months ahead, and these days the lowest fares are often popping up only one to two months ahead.” Do take the time to read her article. I’d like to add that, if you see a good fare to Hawaii and it’s more than four months out, nab it! To determine what a good fare is, I like to use the Hotwire tool TripStarter that shows you the history of fares by month.

* Speaking of airfare, Hawaiian Airlines has a new sale with fares starting at $278. You must book by January 16, 2009.

* Hotels.com has a $199 sale on Kauai Marriott rooms. (See my Kauai Marriott review.)

* The Dragonfly Ranch invites adventurous travelers wishing to contribute an hour a day to the national park or the Dragonfly’s organic garden to stay for a 10 percent discount. The Dragonfly Ranch is a treehouse-like unique getaway on the Big Island’s sunny Kona Coast near Pu‘uhonua O Hōnaunau National Historical Park.

* Evelyn has issued the first carnival of Aloha for 2009. (Hey Kris, I think you should participate in  next month’s carnival. )