Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
Hilo, Hawaii Island's county seat, holds many charms -- from waterfalls and orchid nurseries to the widely acclaimed Merrie Monarch Hula Festival. Unlike the island's sun-baked Kona side, the nation's rainiest city isn't so much a destination as a side trip. But locals know that most afternoons the sun breaks out with rainbows, bringing hours of beach weather, even though it can rain for days on end. Hilo Bay sparkles beneath Mauna Kea, but the bay is more postcard than swimmer friendly. Mid-1900s industrialization wrought pollution that is slowly disappearing, and few swim there. Less than 5 miles east of…
The Hawaiian islands are home to some of the world's best surfing, and that should come as no surprise; ancient Hawaiians were surfing long before Europeans made their way to the islands. Travelers can catch waves at famous surfing beaches, but beware: These swells are not for the faint of heart, or the inexperienced. Hawaii's isolation means it is pounded with huge swells from all angles.
At the opposite end of the island from Waikiki's gentle surf, beach bars and high-rise hotels, the North Shore calls with its wild surf, beaches and laid-back community. Pristine, white-sand beaches and rocky coves extend from Kahena Point on the leeward side to Kahuku Point on the northeastern tip of the island. In winter, waves rise 15 feet high, sometimes 30 or even 50 feet -- monstrous and beautiful at the same time. In summer, the big surf calms, providing sport for surfers of all abilities, while the beach at Turtle Bay welcomes snorkelers and swimmers year-round.
Volcanoes emerging from the depths of the Pacific Ocean formed the Hawaiian Islands, one after another, as the ocean floor drifted northwest over the hot spot -- or as Hawaiian legend tells, Pele, the volcano goddess, moved to one new home after another. The oldest of the main Hawaiian Islands, Kauai, has the fewest volcanic features; instead its attractions include the verdant, steepled Na Pali Coast. Oahu, with its nearly completed lei of sandy beaches, has lost much of its rawness, although Diamond Head is among the world's most famous landmarks. On Maui, a partially submerged crater attracts snorkeling tours,…
Lahaina, Maui, Hawaii, is fun for kids. Their eyes pop at the sight of the giant banyan tree that covers nearly two-thirds of an acre, and before you know it they are playing a game of hide and seek among its many trunks. That fun extends to the local family-friendly beaches. Lather on the sunscreen, get out the bucket, pail and beach towels, and head for the sand. Bring some binoculars and a camera. When a humpback whale breaches the water, those little eyes will be popping like crazy.
A few Hawaiian cities lie in the hills and mountains, such as Waimea, with its ranches on Hawaii Island, and Kula, with its farms in Upcountry Maui, but most developed near the ocean, providing easy access to fishing and harbors. Some of these towns, like Kanaapali, are best known for their beaches, while others, like Honolulu, Hawaii's capital and largest city, are known for many things but also lay claim to some pretty wonderful beaches.
Hawaii is one of the world’s top honeymoon destinations, according to a 2009 issue of Modern Bride magazine. The romantic setting, complete with white sand beaches, lush tropical landscapes and gourmet restaurants, remains a draw for couples celebrating an engagement as well. Some of Hawaii’s largest islands offer opportunities for romantic adventures and attractions.
Hawaii is known for its beaches and ocean views, but it also has a reputation of very low tolerance for public intoxication due to the fact alcohol and turbulent waves do not mix. While alcoholic beverages can be purchased at many restaurants and beach bars, drinking on Hawaii public beaches is illegal. Knowing where alcohol is permitted can prevent tourists and local islanders from fines and possible jail time.
Located in central Oahu just outside of Honolulu, Schofield Barracks is the largest Army Base in Hawaii, situated on 18,00 acres of land. For those visiting loved ones stationed at this military base, Oahu offers plenty of things to do whether you're looking for a nice place to eat off base, or an activity to keep the kids occupied. From the famous Dole pineapple plantation to a visit to nearby Pearl Harbor, you'll find a wide variety of places to visit all within 30 minutes of Schofield Barracks
Everyone on Big Nate Island in the online game "Poptropica" is searching for a 100-year-old time capsule. To beat them to it, you have to travel throughout the island and find objects, then figure out how to use them to achieve your goals. The time capsule is buried beneath the school playground, and a group of girls are standing in the spot where you have to dig. If you ring the bell on top of the school, the girls will return to class, leaving you free to hunt for the capsule. However, the school bell is guarded by an angry…
Hawaii is home to unique plants and animals that are vulnerable to foreign organisms. To protect their plants, shipping or bringing orchids to the islands is not easy. You must follow certain procedures and submit required paperwork ahead of time --- like the import permit. The Hawaii Department of Agriculture (HDOA) regulates the import of plants that enter the islands. The only way to obtain your import permit and to import your plants successfully to the aloha state is by following the HDOA's regulations.
Most dogs love water and enjoy frolicking at the beach as much as people do. Unwind near the shores and soak up some sunshine with your favorite pooch without breaking any laws. City and state beaches enforce many rules and regulations for pets -- if pets are allowed at all. The rules are in place to provide safety for all beach visitors including animals.
White, pink, green and black sand are on various beaches throughout the Hawaiian Islands. The multi-colored sand on Hawaiian beaches derive from natural resources. Most of it is coralline, derived from algae and corals. Black sand is formed by molten lava and pink sand come from iron-rich costal cinder cones. According to Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources it is permissible to take up to a gallon of sand home as a souvenir and there are a variety of ways to take sand home from Hawaii. However, it is illegal to remove black sand derived from the erosion of…
A trip to Hawaii includes taking in fresh air, relaxing by tranquil waters and exploring vast beaches and volcanoes. Visitors often wonder what small gifts they can take back to the mainland from Hawaii for friends and family. Many authentic Hawaiian-made items are sold at craft fairs throughout the islands. Some visitors may be tempted to bring home lava rocks, but this is illegal, and a common belief holds that a person removing lava rocks will have years of bad luck.
Railroad tracks were first introduced in England during the seventeenth century and were advanced even further with the creation of steam-powered trains during the 1830's. Since then, railroad systems have become one of the primary modes of transportation for moving heavy material and individuals. Railroad tracks are used every day for public and commercial use. While each track may serve a different purpose, almost all tracks will contain similar components.
When planning your vacation to the paradisiacal 50th state, you may want to incorporate more than just "aloha" into your Hawaiian vocabulary. Before Hawaii became a part of the United States, the Hawaiian Islands made up a kingdom rich with its own culture and language, and its heritage remains very much alive. Learning to speak some traditional Hawaiian slang will allow you to communicate better with the locals and likely make your experience much more fulfilling.
Working as a hub of shipping for Honolulu, Honolulu Harbor is one of Hawaii's most popular tourist destinations. It was the sight of the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. Presently, the harbor not only works as a transport place for cargo ships, it also is a port of call for many cruise lines.
Souvenirs are small gifts you bring home from trips for friends, family members and fellow workers. They're also keepsakes, reminding you of places and people. Run-of-the-mill souvenirs range from t-shirts with silly slogans to plastic key rings. Delight those you left at home with more unusual and inventive souvenir ideas. Calculate available room inside your suitcases and don't exceed your traveling weight limits.
Whether intended as gifts or a personal keepsakes key chains, mugs, T-shirts, stationery or hats will never preserve those precious vacation memories. A vacation to a new and exciting culture can be an eye-opening experience, and with a little thought and a bit of imagination souvenirs can help preserve that feeling forever.
It's easy to be lured into buying unnecessary souvenir items when on vacation when everything seems exciting and new. Make a plan before you travel to decide exactly how much you want to spend on mementos and who is on your shopping list. Stick with meaningful items that will reflect your adventure long after the trip is over, and you won't regret bringing them home.
Although Hawaii is a place that many people go to for relaxation, there are some dangers to watch out for there. Hiking, spending time in an unfamiliar climate and especially swimming or surfing in strange waters present situations that can quickly turn tragic if you aren't careful. Fortunately, proper planning and caution can greatly reduce your risk of illness, injury or harm when visiting Hawaii.
Some people move out of necessity for work while others move simply for the thrill of living in a new area, like tropical Hawaii. The largest city and capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is located on the island of Oahu. Honolulu, like many large cities, is divided in to smaller neighborhoods. Aiea is one such smaller section of Honolulu and is a suitable option for those seeking to live the Hawaiian island lifestyle.
Kilauea is the youngest of five volcanoes located on the Big Island of Hawaii. In Hawaiian, the word Kilauea means "spewing" or "much spreading." It was aptly named as Kilauea is Hawaii's, if not the world's, most active volcano. According to legend, Kilauea is home to Pele, the Goddess of Fire.
Volcanic eruptions, in which gas, smoke, and molten rock (lava) are spewed outward from inside the Earth, can have a tremendous impact on the environment and human society. These forces are also creative, as it is from volcanic eruptions that many land masses (the Hawaiian islands, for examples) are eventually formed.
Hawaii is a beautiful destination to visit year-round, with clear warm waters, fragrant pink and red blossoms, and balmy temperatures. But, one season in Hawaii that can be the best of them all. Fall holds a variety of reasons to make visiting Hawaii an even more amazing treat.
The art of luring tourists is one that the patrons of many locations would like to master. Countries like France and Mexico perennially rank among the world's most visited locales for the cultures and experiences they offer to visitors. Factors that help attract travelers include the presence of nature and architecture.
Volcanic eruptions are the result of convection currents, which are repetitive actions that occur underground. As pressure builds beneath the surface of the Earth, it pushes rock sediments upwards, releasing molten rock. Otherwise known as lava, this released material can reach temperatures as high as 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit.
Do you want your Hawaiian vacation to be as authentic as possible? Getting a lei as you step off the airplane on your island of choice is the traditional way to welcome you to Hawaii, but everyone who arrives in Hawaii doesn't receive a lei at the airport. Getting a lei greeting requires preparation prior to your departure.
As an economic, fashion and entertainment center and one of the world's largest cities, New York welcomes tens of millions of visitors from around the globe each year. Whether you travel to New York to visit the Statue of Liberty, see a Broadway show, visit Rockefeller Center or to conduct business, you will want to bring home a souvenir to remind you of the time you spent there.
A lei is one of the most popular souvenirs obtained by Hawaiian tourists. But this string of flowers that you place around your neck will not remain fresh and vibrant for long. True leis are made from fresh flowers, which will eventually begin to shrivel and dry out. To preserve the lei for as long as possible, or at least until you get back to California, there are a few steps you must take.
Hawaii is a paradise with many plants and animals that are found nowhere else in the world. It is also a very delicate ecosystem, easily harmed by outside invaders and diseases. The state has taken pride in preventing rabies from entering the islands, and in order to maintain a rabies free state there are many laws and regulations to take into consideration when moving from the mainland to Hawaii with pets. Start preparing for your move early to avoid a lengthy quarantine.
Santorini, the southernmost island in the Cyclades in the Aegean Sea, has some of the most recognizable scenery in all of Greece. In fact, there's a good chance you've seen photos of Santorini without knowing it. With its picturesque white-washed houses with blue-domed roofs sitting atop a cliff that overlooks the watery caldera and a still-active volcano, Santorini is a photographer's dream location. But to fully enjoy this ancient and beautiful island, it's best to know some insider's tips.
Whether you are looking to see historical sites like the Taj Mahal or hoping to see a wild tiger in the jungles of India, there is something for everyone in India. It is important to remember though; India is a third world country and its level of cleanliness is less than most developed nations. A traveler must take steps to ensure his health while visiting. By making the proper preparations and following some simple guidelines, travelers can reduce the risk of getting sick during their stay.
Hawaii is the only state that is free of rabies, and the laws about introducing new animals to Hawaii are therefore a bit more comprehensive than some other states, as it would like to protect its residents, visitors and animals. With a little preparation, your animal could be quarantined only a few days, but some animals may be quarantined for up to 120 days. All animals, even puppies or kittens, must fully comply with Hawaiian laws.
If you are a youth group leader, Girl Scout troop leader, teacher or simply have a lot of young girls in your family, spending $1 on each of them for a souvenir can even add up. Focus on souvenirs that will work as keepsakes and that can be purchased in bulk for a big group. If you can tie the souvenir into a lesson you have taught the girls, it will be even more memorable.
From spectacular sunsets and relaxing beaches to Hawaiian culture and history, Honolulu offers a wealth of activities to create a memorable vacation. Situated on the southeastern shore of the island of Oahu, Honolulu is the state's capital and a bustling city of nearly one million people. While Honolulu is a romantic destination for couples, there is plenty to do for singles and families as well.
With its vibrant visuals, colorful culture and timeless history, it is no wonder why the subcontinent is referred to as "Incredible India." As a haven for spirituality and self-growth, India has been a magnet for seekers since the hippie heydays of the 1960's. Just as dread-locks and nose rings are suitable styles for India, backpacking is the preferred method of travel. Packing too many things distracts from India's raw, unrefined energy. A backpack with only your bare essentials can be a rite of passage and can be liberating for the soul.
Hawaii offers visitors interesting and exotic sights, exciting adventures and relaxing outings. Mauna Loa, a well known Big Island city, offers much more than just a visit to the volcano. While no visit is complete without visiting the attraction, the city offers travelers beaches, golfing, arts and entertainment and museums. Every member of the family will find things to do, no matter their appetite for adventure.
The beautiful state of Hawaii is comprised of six islands: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the Big Island of Hawaii. Each island has its own unique character, but they all remain consistent in their beauty and appreciation of tradition and culture. There are endless activities in Hawaii like kayaking, snorkeling, diving and sunbathing. The most important sights are those that really capture the character and uniqueness of the Hawaiian vacation.
Living on the Hawaiian island of Oahu or visiting for a vacation break can be an enchanting experience. You can find romance in the cities or in the outer reaches, on the white sand beaches or at a lookout point high above. Hawaii is so conducive to romance, you can simply use your imagination combined with a map for exploring. Take your sweetheart by the hand and follow your heart.
Whether you're planning a trip to Hawaii and want to call to secure reservations, want to stay in touch with family or friends fortunate enough to live there or need to call Hawaii for business purposes, don't let phoning the 50th state rattle you. Calling Hawaii is no more difficult than any long distance call you're likely to place within the United States.
With its warm beaches and festive culture, Hawaii is one of the most romantic places on earth. When planning a trip to Hawaii, whether its for a honeymoon, anniversary or just a fun getaway, there are a number romantic options to make your vacation the best ever.
An erupting volcano is a tremendous sight to behold, with giant clouds of billowing ash rising miles into the sky. Red-orange streams of fast moving hot molten lava overtake and destroy whatever lies in the way, and tons of hot ash turn day into night. An erupting volcano can have consequences, good and bad, on the surrounding areas it affects, leaving a lasting impact.
Sea Quest Rafting Adventures provides snorkeling and sightseeing trips to reefs around the Big Island of Hawaii. All of the trips are conducted on Sea Quest rafts helmed by United States Coast Guard licensed captains. Captains spend travel time speaking about island history, legends and lore. The small vessel type is ideal for small groups or families who desire a private adventure.
The state of Hawaii is comprised of a chain of islands. People inhabit eight of the Hawaiian Islands and other, smaller islets are home to beautiful flora and fauna. The six major Hawaiian Islands include Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu, Kauai and the Big Island, which is officially Hawaii; however, locals call it the "Big Island" to distinguish it since all islands are part of the state of Hawaii.
Many children vacationing with their families in Honolulu are content to soak up the tropical sun as they splash in the hotel pool. What's not to like about hanging out in a floatie and enjoying poolside snacks? For kids who crave a little more adventure, say "aloha" to island activities they won't want to miss -- and parents may enjoy, too.
The cost of flying no longer involves just the price of plane tickets. You have to consider other items such as food on the flight and the cost of checking a bag when you compare rates of various airlines. Some airlines still don't charge for one checked bag on domestic flights. Find the airlines restrictions. If they don't fly in your town or have the lowest rate, you can still cut corners by taking only a carry-on and a personal item. Even if you plan to stay at your destination for a while, there's no reason to pay extra.
Mauna Loa is a shield volcano located on the island of Hawaii. It is the world's largest volcano in terms of volume and area covered. The name "Mauna Loa" means "Long Mountain" in Hawaiian. This enormous volcano rises roughly 4 km above the sea and descends another 5 km to the ocean floor. Mauna Loa is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth.
Oahu is the third-largest of the Hawaiian Islands and home to the capital city of Honolulu. The island offers a rich culture, picturesque landscapes and outdoor attractions such as the Diamond Head State Monument, Kahana Valley State Park and the Ewa Forest Reserve. All of these well-known locations are great for a date, but Oahu also offers other fun activities for couples, whether tourists or locals.
Today, calculating the price of your airline ticket means you also have to look at the cost of transporting your baggage. Most airlines allow you to have one personal item, such a purse or laptop and carry-on luggage. If you can't pack everything into the carry-on and have another piece of luggage, many of the airlines tack on an extra charge that varies. You can avoid paying that extra charge and still get the best airline rates if you plan.
