Where am I? asked:


Our grannie wants to take my husband and I to Hawaii, but instead of camping on the beach ( like she wants and she’s 78), I’d prefer at least a bed. I’ve never been to the islands, so where are good accommodations, on which island and if you know the average cost per night. We could share a rooms as the 3 of us.

Clyde

David Kucic asked:


Oahu is one of the biggest islands on Hawaii. This beautiful island is considered as a wonderful place to reside. It has great climate which suits the needs of all. If you are looking for place that is less than hour drive to countryside, then Oahu is one such destination. It has variety of diverse recreational activities, which includes windsurfing, sailing, golf, world-class surfing, kite surfing, paddling, tennis & hiking. For sociable people, there are different communities with their own character. It has small group of minorities (i.e. people from different countries) and they live up their spirits. They believe in harmony and prefer unity. It is due to their efforts that have made Oahu a great place to live. Even tourists who visit the place are amazed to see the preservation of rich flora and fauna here.

Some of you might find food here to be very expensive and yes it is. 90% of the food in Oahu is imported and you can buy the food from one of the chain stores there. Buying the food from regular market can be really expensive. If you think to have your meals from a good restaurant then check out their price menu before ordering a lavish meal.

To some cost of living may appear to be high but here you pay for quality living. The prices here of town houses and apartments vary from place to place. So when you contact a real estate agent for Oahu real estate asks him about the posh areas and middle class areas. They both are equally good but you need to check your pockets and budgets as well.

 



Pedro

beenthere asked:


I want to move to Hawaii. I have land there and cannot wait to move. I have little skills so to speak meaning I have no degree. However, I am willing to do almost any job to live in paradise. I want someone who lives on the Big Island only please to give me some advise as to where the best place would be to find work, especially a decent paying job with benefits? I think I would prefer to work in Hilo (my land is near Pahoa) and really would rather not commute too far if I don’t have to. Any and all information would be welcomed. Please do not tell me about other islands as I am not going to move anywhere else as I have my land already purchased. If there is any other insider information about the culture, websites you recommend, etc. please let me know. I am craving for information about this part of Hawaii and it is so hard to find information about it. Thanks in advance.

Karen

bpchevyguy asked:


is i stay at the same company hotel on oahu, maui. kauai, and kona, will i save more money? thenk they offer some kind of package for a two week stay? can anyone recommend and hotel roughly around 200 a night? for that price must be at least 3 star if not more. also looking for booking travel tours around the islands, and opinions? how to use for the cheapest? stay away from…? thanks for all the help in advance!

Allan

Jon Kelly asked:


Hawaii is well known as a tourist destination, and every year vacationers travel from around the world to bask on the glorious beaches, enjoy the magnificent ocean views and observe the exotic plants and wildlife on the islands. This island state has many advantages as a tourist attraction, including miles and miles of beautiful coastline, a pleasant tropical climate and some of the most amazing scenery in the world. But in addition to all of these features, Hawaii also has a rich cultural heritage that is unique to this chain of islands. And while most tourists on vacation are exposed to a few aspects of Hawaiian culture during their stays, many people who travel to Hawaii miss out on a true understanding of Hawaii’s cultural background. There is more to Hawaiian culture than the forms of traditional clothing and dance that are on display at popular tourist destinations. Learning about the cultural traditions of Hawaii can make your vacation experience more interesting and enriching.

It is believed that Hawaii was first settled by Polynesians some 1,500 years ago. Confirming the date of Hawaii’s first settlement is very difficult, however, because no written records exist from that time period on the islands. Instead of a written history, the culture of Hawaii has a longstanding oral tradition that preserves its language, arts and other forms of cultural expression. Hawaii’s cultural history has been passed from one generation to another, with elders teaching the younger generations about their past.

Over time, many aspects of Hawaiian culture have changed, including the system of government. Though now part of the United States, Hawaii was originally a kingdom. Yet the significance of Hawaii’s traditional rulers is still commemorated. For example, a statue of King Kamehamea, regarded as the greatest of Hawaii’s monarchs, is located on the Big Island. Also on the Big Island is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a site with great cultural as well as geological significance. The park’s name makes reference to the two volcanoes which can be found there, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. According to tradition, Kilauea is home to the goddess Pele, who causes the volcano’s eruptions. Kilauea has been active since 1983, and the cultural importance of Kilauea is appropriate considering that the islands of Hawaii were originally formed through volcanic activity.

Because traditions are such an important feature of Hawaii’s culture, there are individuals and organizations trying to prevent these traditions from fading away or being forgotten. Every spring, the Merrie Monarch Festival serves as a venue for displaying and promoting traditional Hawaiian art forms, especially traditional music and dance. Though it is a major draw for visitors, this festival is not simply a production geared toward tourists. Instead, the festival is part of the Hawaiian renaissance, an effort to keep Hawaii’s traditions alive. If you plan to visit Hawaii for a vacation, keep in mind that the visit can be much richer and more vibrant if you take some time to learn about the islands cultural heritage before you go.



Jacob

Me-Shell Mijangos asked:


If somebody asks you to name a beach in the world, one thing would normally come into your mind – Hawaii beaches. But what makes Hawaii memorable, that a visiting tourist would normally dream of going back to the islands over and over again? Hawaii is a place of enchantment. Far off in the Pacific lies this paradise on earth. It is year-round tropically hot and sunny; has rich native culture, beautiful flora, amazing volcanic formations; has rich history; and most of all it has the world famous pristine blue waters and powdery white sands beaches. Although Hawaii is a chain of small islands, there are a lot of activities that can be done whether it is on land, air or water.

Here are the top 9 things you must do on your Hawaiian Islands Vacation:

9. Visit World War II Remains: Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona

To get to know a place, you must first know its history. Visiting Pearl Harbor then is a must for all tourists to pay tribute to the war heroes who died during the bombing of December 7, 1941. This naval base used to play a major role in US military strategy and is a significant part of the nation’s history. Today, it is one of the top tourist attractions in Hawaii. You may also proceed at the Arizona Memorial and for yourself the remains of the sunken USS Arizona below the glass floor. The best thing in touring these places is that the entrance is free to both!

8. Experience a Polynesian Luau

Get a taste of Hawaiian culture! A Hawaiian experience is never complete without attending a Polynesian Luau. It is a showcase of Hawaiian cuisine and culture through a feast of food and entertainment. The usual native dishes served are the kalua pork and teriyaki. You will also be delighted by the native entertainment- traditional Polynesian music, fire dancers and hula dancers in grass skirts.

7. Go Volcano Watching

Because Hawaii is popular for its volcanoes both dormant and active, take a drive to the Volcanoes National Park located at the south of the Big Island, where you can find two of the world’s most fascinating volcanoes. First, Mauna Loa, the world’s largest dormant volcano, reaching up to 13,677 feet high. Second, Kilauea, an active volcano, which produces steam and flowing lava and interesting volcanic formations. There are other volcanoes in Hawaii that you may visit but these two are really noteworthy.

6. See Waimea Canyon

Waimea Canyon is located at the Koke’e State Park. It is the largest canyon in the Pacific and is even nicknamed as “the Grand Canyon of the Pacific”. It is around 10 miles long and 3,600 feet deep. The canyon is the creation of centuries of floods due to the overflowing of the rivers of the dormant Mount Waialeale. The walls of the canyon show traces of carving by volcanic lava, creating interesting patterns and formations.

5. Watch whales and dolphins

If you want to see whales up-close, go to the Big Island between the months of December and April. Some areas of the coast attract humpback whales after their migration in the cold regions. The island is also home for other species like killer whales and ***** whales. If you want to see dolphins instead, you can visit Oahu Island during the first week of May as plenty of dolphins draw together off the coast.

4. Enjoy a Helicopter Ride

If Hawaii is beautiful up-close, it is also gorgeous from an aerial view. Take a helicopter ride to see a bird’s eye view of the entire state of Hawaii so that you will realize how such beautiful scenery can be packed in so little an archipelago.

3. Try Snorkeling

Every island of Hawaii has its own share of sea life. However, of all sites, the crescent-moon-shaped island of Molokini seen from the island of Maui tops them all. It is in fact a marine life park, listed in the top 10 of the best snorkeling spots in the world. There you can watch schools of color-adorned fishes, some species of which are unique to Hawaii alone. There is also another option for those who do not know how to snorkel. They can rent a boat with a glass bottom to view the sea life underneath!

2. Chill out on the beach

How could a Hawaii vacation be called a “vacation” without the beach? Everywhere you go in Hawaii, you see the beach, all in its sapphire waters and bleached sands. The most popular beach in Hawaii is the Waikiki Beach, located at the south of Oahu and the home of the most luxurious Hawaiian hotels. You have two choices in the beach -to engage in action in some sea activities or just lie back, relax and get a tan. Either way, you’ll surely have fun!

1. Surf! Ride the Waves

Well, what else is on the top of the list? Surfing, of course! Hawaii is also very popular to surfers because of its waves. Although all of Hawaii have beaches where you can surf, nothing is better than the North Shore. There, waves can reach up to a height of 30 feet especially during the first and last 3 months of the year. If you are looking to learn how to surf, Maui is the choice destination. Warm waters and gentle waves make this island a learner’s paradise.

A Hawaiian experience is truly unforgettable no wonder it keeps bringing in millions of tourists every year. What makes Hawaii more special is the warmth and hospitality of the Hawaiian people. There is no other place in the world where you are greeted with aloha and smiles. It truly is a tropical heaven on earth!



Mildred

Marianna asked:


I’ve heard ouaho is the best, but i’ve also heard other Islands are. Any Hawaii locals have any adivice? I really want to shop and go to a beach and go to aquariums and maybe swim with dolphins. Any suggustiions? thx

Gail

Bob Freer asked:


The second in our series of Hawaii vacations, this article focuses on the island of Maui. Maui stands apart from the rest of the Hawaiian Islands. It offers adventure in paradise at every corner. If you have only a week to spend in Hawaii, this is one of the best places to be.

Accommodations are widely available on Maui, including many resorts, bed & breakfasts, cottages, inns, and condos, many of which offer spectacular view of the shores. Several world-class golf courses are also found on Maui.

For such a small island, Maui is packed with “leisurely adventures”–and at comfortable temperatures, hovering from 75 at the lowest and the low 90s at the highest. Plus, its waters are warm year-round (varying from 70 to 80 degrees).

With its outstanding beaches and multiple resorts, Maui has many activities. Helicopter tours, golfing, water sports, even submarine rides can be found on Maui.

Its landscape is incredibly diverse. It is often known as the Valley Island because of the large valley that extends between two volcanoes. On the wet, eastern side of the mountains there are acres of rainforest. On the dry,leeward side of the island,resorts and golf courses abound. And in the central valley, located between Haleakala volcano and the West mountains, sugar cane grows abundantly.

Offshore, one can see marine life found nowhere else on earth. The island reef is home to hundreds of species which makes this a paradise for divers and snorkelers. In winter, humpback whales crowd the waters off the southern coast. Maui provides some of the world’s best whale-watching activities. Thousands of Humpback whale migrate to the warm waters off the coast of this Hawaii Island between November and April each year.

Many people drive to the top of Mt Haleakala for a view of the spectacular sunrise. You can rent a car or take one of the many tours to the top. It will be cold at the 10,000 foot summit, so bundle up and bring a thermos of hot coffee or tea.

The road to Hana is considered one of the most breath-taking drives in all of the Islands. It is a slow, winding road through a lush paradise.

The island’s beaches are not only plentiful, they are varied. From the white sands of Oneloa in West Maui and Palaueau Beach in the South, to the Red Sand Beach (Kaihalulu) of Hana and the volcanic black sands of Pa’iloa Beach in Wai’anapanapa Park, Maui’s beaches offer diversity.

On the North Shore, Ho’okipa Beach Park is perhaps one of the best places in the world to wind surf, body board or kite surf.

Kapalua Beach, located on the west side of the Keanae Peninsula in South Maui, is a golden–sand beach, with a terrific view of Molokai. It is protected from big waves by both coral reefs and lava formations on both sides.

An excellent family beach, Wailea Beach is on the island’s sunny south shore.Protected by lava outcroppings it is safe for families with children. Wailea is wide and about 1,000 feet long in a crescent shape.

Palauea Beach is perfect for young children and families because it’s sheltered from the winds and the water is shallow. It’s also located south of Polo Beach in one of the least developed spots on the island.

One of Maui’s best snorkeling locations, Ulua Beach offers an excellent reef about 100 yards offshore. Ulua is between Wailea Beach to the north and Makena Beach to the south.

Oneloa Beach–Referred to by locals as “Big Beach,” Oneloa Beach in Makena State Park is more than 3,000 feet long and 100 feet wide, made up of sugar-white sands that meet a crystalline ocean. This South Maui beach is the island’s longest beach.

The islet of Molokini, just off the west shore of Maui, is one of Hawaii’s most popular spots for divers and snorkelers. Accessible only by boat, this crescent-shaped crater is a natural sanctuary and marine-life preserve. It provides an an exquisite opportunity to view tropical fish, lobsters, crab and living coral, including black coral.

Finally, if you want to explore other islands, day trips can take you to Lanai or Molokai by ferry. Ferries leave daily from the dock in Lahaina, Maui.

Whatever you do during your time on Maui, this vacation will likely inspire you to return again. In the meantime, you can cherish the memories.



Darren

Liam G asked:


Situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, roughly 2,400 miles off the coast of California, lies one of the worlds most remote yet popular tourist destinations – the state of Hawaii. Hawaii is well endowed with outstanding natural beauty, a rich culture and a welcoming nation so its popularity has been well earned.

Hawaii has been a state of America for less than 50 years and has some notable features that are not shared with any other state, such as not being geographically located in North America, being entirely surrounded by water and having a royal palace.

In total there are roughly 130 islands and atolls (lagoons encircled by coral), the majority of which are uninhabited – of the main eight islands, only six are open to tourists.

The largest of these known as Hawaii Island, or commonly “The Big Island” to avoid confusion is twice the size of all the other Hawaiian Islands combined. This island is also the most environmentally diverse, with 12 different climate zones; ranging from the tropical forests of the east to the arid regions of the south.

Much of the diversity is down to the islands volcanic activity, with the world’s largest volcano, Mauna Loa and the most active Kilauea being situated here. The Big Island has it all from extreme sports, to fine resorts and a bustling nightlife.

The country’s second largest island, Maui has been voted the best island in the world. Much like its larger counterpart it has a wealth of things to do etched into a diverse and beautiful environment, on the east side for instance, you can drive down one of the most scenic roads in the world to the tiny village of Hana.

Honolulu, the country’s capital is situated on its third largest and most populous island, Oahu. Some consider this to be the most unattractive of the island’s purely because of the tourists traps that have developed over the years, those that are able to look over this though will be deeply rewarded.

With just one hotel, the island of Molokai is Hawaii’s most peaceful and retains much of its native way of life, making it the ultimate in seclusion. It is also home to Hawaii’s longest white sand beach and the origin of the hula dance.

As mentioned, Hawaii is a popular tourist destination offering all manner of holidays. Although some packages can prove quite expensive it is possible to find cheap holidays. This is best achieved online, where you will be able to source holidays from hundreds of operators.



Lance

Ken Smith asked:


There’s no doubt that Hawaii is many people’s idea of a perfect paradise. With tropical beaches, dramatic sunsets, towering volcanoes and lush vegetation, the Hawaiian Islands are a showcase of natural beauty at its most spectacular. Add to this the laid-back island lifestyle, friendly locals, a rich cultural history and a great climate and it’s easy to understand why so many vacationers and homebuyers are drawn to this archipelago of islands in the Pacific Ocean. While people of all different backgrounds and lifestyles find the Hawaii real estate market extremely attractive, homes for sale in this tropical region of the United States are particularly popular with those who enjoy outdoor recreational activities.

Consisting of eight main islands and dozens of smaller islands, Hawaii has plenty to offer with regard to geography and outdoor space. Whether you prefer water-based or inland activities, Hawaii has endless opportunities for every recreational enthusiast. By purchasing your own piece of Hawaii real estate on any of the volcanic islands, you’ll be putting yourself in a prime location for enjoying nature, wildlife and sports. As a homebuyer, you can even select a community that will suit your lifestyle needs perfectly. From the capital city of Honolulu to secluded inland towns and rural communities, Hawaii real estate is available in a variety of different regions and locations.

Of course, one of the most popular features of Hawaii and the Hawaii real estate market is the vast number of incredible beaches. Offering everything from white sand beaches to black sand beaches, Hawaii has coastal areas suitable for a wide variety of different activities. Hawaii real estate owners with children can enjoy picnics as well as kayaking and swimming in calm waters at any number of family-friendly beaches such as Oahu’s Kaimana Beach. Avid surfers are also drawn to Hawaii real estate, as both Sunset Beach and Waikiki Beach are known for their excellent waves in addition to their beautiful scenery. Other beaches that attract outdoor enthusiasts to Hawaii real estate near the water include Maui’s Ho’okipa Beach, extremely popular with expert windsurfers, and Hanauma Bay, the best place on Oahu for snorkeling.

With so many fabulous beaches gracing the shorelines of the Hawaiian Islands, it’s no surprise that beachfront properties in Hawaii are incredibly popular. From condominiums and townhouses to private family homes and luxurious mansions, waterfront homes for sale in Hawaii will appeal to people with many different needs, preferences and lifestyles. Not only do these properties offer easy access to beaches and places for water-based activities, they also feature breathtaking views and a front row seat for truly spectacular sunrises and sunsets. With many homes also coming with a host of other great features, beachfront Hawaii real estate consists of some of the hottest properties on the island market.

Nevertheless, while Hawaii’s beaches are indeed stunning and offer excellent opportunities for numerous different sports and activities, many active and energetic owners of Hawaii real estate also enjoy the inland lifestyle. With gated communities, condo developments, hillside homes and communities centered on golf courses and country clubs, inland Hawaii real estate comes in many types and styles. Best of all for the recreationally-inclined is the fact that homes for sale in Hawaii’s inland regions offer easy access to many locations that are perfect for enjoying a wide range of outdoor sports and leisure activities.

For example, owners of inland Hawaii real estate enjoy living in close proximity to a number of different golf courses. On the island of Oahu alone, there are more than thirty different courses, many of which are open to the public. The Hawaiian Islands are also a paradise for hikers, with a multitude of scenic trails offering routes for beginners to ******** hikers. Among the popular hiking trails in Hawaii is the picturesque Diamond Head Crater hiking trail, which offers sweeping panoramic views of Oahu’s mountains and Waikiki Beach. The Kalalau Trail is another fantastic route, particularly popular with experienced hikers, which runs along the renowned Na Pali Coast, providing views of lush valleys, majestic waterfalls and sparkling beaches.

When outdoor adventurers purchase their own piece of Hawaii real estate, they will also be able to enjoy a host of other year-round activities. Local sky adventures include skydiving, parasailing and hang gliding, while jogging, cycling and horseback riding are excellent ways to enjoy outdoor recreation on land. Hawaiian residents appreciate the fact that these activities not only provide great ways to keep fit and active, they also offer unique ways of experiencing the islands and all of their natural beauty. With so many incredible opportunities for sports and recreation, Hawaii is truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. So if you love outdoor adventure and want to take advantage of everything the Hawaiian Islands have to offer on a year-round basis, finding your own piece of property on the Hawaii real estate market is a great place to start.



Lloyd