Gina Stevenson asked:


Are you interested in taking a Hawaiian sightseeing vacation? If you are, you may want to visit Big Island. Big Island is Hawaii’s largest island. What does that mean for you? It means that you often have more attractions to visit and more activities to participate in. That alone is what increases the popularity of Big Island trips.

When it comes to planning your next Big Island sightseeing vacation, you may want to start making your travel arrangements right away. While it is more than possible to not do so, you may first want to take the time to examine Big Island, namely what you can do and see while there. Doing so can help you pinpoint the perfect overnight accommodation for you, especially when it comes to location.

As previously stated, one of the many benefits to taking a Hawaii vacation on Big Island is your options. There is so much for you to do and see. What is nice about examining Big Island activities and attractions is that you have a number of different options. For instance, you can use the internet to your advantage. A standard internet search should help you familiarize yourself with Hawaii vacation activities, namely those for Big Island. If you plan ahead enough, you can also request free vacation guides.

Although it is relatively easy for you to examine Big Island vacation activities on your own, there are two places that are often referred to as “must visits,” by vacationers. One of those locations is the Hamakua Coast, which is located in Hilo. Hilo is the capital of Big Island. In addition to driving down a forty mile stretch of coast and examining the scenic mountains and waterfalls, there is much more for you to do. For instance, you can also visit the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, visit the “Valley of Kings,” as well as hike up the Akaka Falls.

Another must visit, if you are looking to plan a Hawaii sightseeing vacation on Big Island is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. As with the Hamakua Coast, you will find an unlimited number of things to do and see at the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. For instance, you can hike, drive, and bike to examine summits, craters, and much more. You can explore certain areas of the park on your own or you can take guided hiking tours. In fact, you can even camp at two main campground areas, which are free with park admission.

Once you have developed a list of Big Island attractions that you would like to visit, as well as Big Island activities you would like to participate in, you may want to then start examining all of your overnight accommodation options. As previously stated, doing the proper amount of research first will better enable you to choose the Big Island vacation rental that is perfect for your next Hawaii sightseeing trip. If you are truly looking to have a fun and memorable vacation, this is important. So, what harm can a few minutes worth of researching Big Island vacation rentals do?

Speaking of your overnight accommodations, when on a Big Island vacation, you will find that you have a number of options. These options include hotels, resorts, vacation home rentals, villa rentals, cottage rentals, condo rentals, as well as apartment rentals. While you do not necessarily need to decide which type of vacation rental you want first, you may find that it makes searching for the perfect rental a little bit easier. If you are interested in staying in the same place for your whole trip, you may find a vacation rental, such as a home, villas, condo, or cottage to be your best option, as they are ideal for extended vacations and most are private.

The above mentioned steps are just a few of the many steps that you will want to take, when planning your next Big Island sightseeing vacation. To have the perfect Hawaii sightseeing vacation, you will want to carefully plan all of your vacation, including your overnight accommodations, the activities that you want to participate in, and the attractions that you want to visit.



Tara

Douglas Farmer asked:


Are you interested in visiting Hawaii? If you are, you are in luck. Hawaii is one of the top vacation destinations in the world. Hawaii is popular due to its beautiful beaches and warm weather. But, did you know that Hawaii is also popular because Hawaii makes for the perfect sightseeing vacation? When visiting Hawaii, you can examine volcanoes, waterfalls, mountains, beaches, and just about everything in between.

Should you decide to take a Hawaii sightseeing vacation, it is important that you get started with planning right away. Although all Hawaii trips should be planned well in advance and with care, it is particularly important to do with sightseeing vacations. This is because there is so much for you to do and see in Hawaii. Preplanning your vacation will enable you to get the most out of Hawaii and all that it has to offer.

One of the first things that you will want to do, when looking to plan a Hawaii vacation, is examine the type of vacation that you want to have. When sightseeing in Hawaii you may want to stay on one island, such as Big Island, or you may wish to visit as many Hawaiian Islands as possible. With inter-island flights, this is more than doable, but it will have an impact on your overnight accommodations. That is why you may first want to map out your intended routes, namely the sights and attractions that you want to visit.

One of the best ways for you to fully research Hawaii and all of the great places that you can visit is by requesting free travel guides. These travel guides can easily be found online, namely with a standard internet search. In addition to free travel guides, you can also purchase Hawaii travel guides, which can offer you assistance before and during your Hawaii trip.

Although you can research popular Hawaii attractions on your own, there are a few that you should know about. If you are interested in visiting Big Island, you will want to examine the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and the Hamaukua Coast. When visiting Maui, you will want to take the time to examine the Iao Valley State Park and the Haleakala National Park. As for Lanai, you will want to visit the “Garden of the Gods,” go dolphin watching in Hulopoe Bay, or hike the Munro Trail. When visiting Oahu, you will want to examine Waikiki Beach, and visit the memorials at Pearl Harbor.

As a reminder, the above mentioned attractions are just a few of the many that you can visit, on Hawaii’s most popular islands. In fact, that just goes to show why it is first important to focus on your intended activities before your overnight accommodations. Once you have an idea of what you want to do and see and where, you can better choose your Hawaii overnight accommodations. Unfortunately, those taking Hawaii trips do not always take this important point into consideration.

Once you have highlighted a number of attractions that you would like to visit or activities that you would like to participate in, while on your next Hawaii trip, you will then want to focus on your stay. Should you decide to visit a number of Hawaiian Islands, with an inter-island vacation, you may find vacation resorts and hotels your best option, as many do not have required minimum stay limits. You may also find their costs attractive and appealing.

If you are interested in spending your Hawaii sightseeing vacation on one island, such as Big Island, you will want to examine Hawaii vacation rentals. These vacation rentals, which include vacation homes, condos, villas, apartment rentals, and cottages, are ideal for those on Hawaii trips. They often come stocked full of features, such as swimming pools, dishwashers, washers and dryers, cable television, and internet access. Just be sure that you choose a Hawaii vacation rental that is conveniently located near the attractions on your must visit list.

The above mentioned points are all points that should be taken into consideration by those, like you, planning Hawaii trips. As a reminder, you may find the best success with first researching popular Hawaii activities and attractions.



Jackie

Darlene Berkel asked:


Hawaii is both the name of the chain of islands that constitute America’s 50th state, and the name of the Big Island that dominates the chain in the Pacific. Hawaii, the island, is not usually called such by those native to the islands  they just refer to it as the ‘Big Island’. The name, really, is unimportant  however you choose to refer to it, you can be sure you will have a wonderful time when you visit!

Lots For Tourists

The Big Island Hawaii is really “big” on attracting tourists. In fact, it is safe to say that the island is mainly geared for tourism. This is evident in some of the touristy flavored activities that the average person eagerly looks forward to doing on Hawaii. In case you don’t know what we have in mind, here are some a few options. You can still participate in luaus, still go walk up a live volcano and still girl watch (or boy watch) on the beach. You can also dance the hula and wear leis.

Want more touristy ideas of things to do? You can drink little cocktails with umbrellas in them and listen to a ukulele player. Don’t get me wrong, there still is a big demand for the cute or quaint places catered just for foreign tourists in the Big Island, Hawaii. But the average tourist seems to thrive on the typical Hawaii tourist attractions mentioned above.

Broaden Your Horizons

There’s more to Hawaii than just sun-tans and tequila  you can learn about the area and it’s culture, and pick up new skills whilst having fun. Take dancing lessons, learn coconut leaf weaving, or get your fortune read. You could even take a helicopter tour of the islands to see them from a whole new perspective.

Perfect For Eco Tourists

The ‘Big Island’ is home to some of the most interesting and unique forms of flora and fauna. If you are interested in seeing some of the fascinating wildlife, in beautiful, well preserved and natural environments, then look for some eco-tourism packages heading to Hawaii. You can hike, bird watch, go kayaking or snorkeling, go camping, or ride horses around the island  getting close to nature, while doing everything the environmentally friendly way.

Traditional American Fun

All your normal favorite activities can be enjoyed on the Big Island too  shopping, golf, and tennis for example. Hitting the links on a beautiful island with perfect weather, and ocean views is a tremendous experience. Then you can relax on an evening, take in a movie or a concert, and sample some fine Hawaiian cuisine. Check in with the Hawaii Tourist Board for details of current events.



Ashley

Richard Teesdale asked:


Have you just finished making your Big Island vacation rental reservations? If you have, you may be looking for fun things to do and see on the Hawaiian Island of Big Island. The good news is your options. You may be surprised just how many great activities and attractions there are for tourists, like you to enjoy.

1 – Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

The most well-known and popular tourist attraction on Big Island is that of the Hawaii Volcanoes National park. This park is a must visit for you and your traveling party. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is 377 square miles of absolute beauty! It is also an attraction that is designed for individuals of all ages, which is great if you are taking a family vacation. The park can be explored by bike, foot, and car.

As for what activities you can enjoy while visiting the park, there is so much for you to enjoy. Sightseeing is a popular activity enjoyed by tourists. You can visit the Kilauea Volcano and see a road where lava once flowed over. If you ever wanted to get up-close and personal to a volcano, now is your chance.

Camping is another popular activity, but if you have already booked reservations for a Big Island vacation rental, it may not be right for you.

2 – Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park

The Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park is another popular attraction on Big Island. It is great for travelers with vacation rentals on the northern end of the island, as they may not get a chance to visit the above mentioned Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. The park is known as being sacred ground. It is a great place to experience the beauty of Hawaii, while familiarizing yourself with the island’s culture and history.

As for what you can do and see while visiting the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park, each year there is a cultural festival. This festival, which is known as Na Mea Hana Lima na Kupuna celebrates the history of working Hawaiian ancestors. You can also walk the royal grounds, enjoy a nice picnic, and take in the beauty of Hawaii.

As for sightseeing, an area in the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park was once home to those who broke the law and were seeking refuge. There is a large, great wall that separates this area from the above mentioned royal grounds.

3 – Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site

Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site, not to be confused with the above mentioned National Historic Park, is another must visit attraction for those visiting Big Island. Here, you are provided with the perfect opportunity to explore and learn about the history of Big Island the Hawaiian ancestors who called the area home.

This Pu’ukohola Heiau National Historic Site is home to the largest temple in Hawaii. The template plays an important role in the history of Hawaii. It once was a scared place of worship. According Hawaii’s Official Tourism Website, it is also a great location to look for humpback whales.

4 – Waipio Valley

The Waipio Valley is another must visit attraction for those looking to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii, as well as take in the beauty of the Hawaiian land. This valley is also referred to as “The Valley of the Kings.” Due to the steepness of the valley, the area can be entered into by hiking or with the use of a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Although you are able to explore a part of the area yourself, you are encouraged to take a guided tour of “The Valley of the Kings.” Tour guides are familiar with the best areas to target, such as ones where you can see tara fields and beautiful waterfalls. The valley is also home to many “hidden treasures,” including ancient burial caves.

The four above mentioned must visit Big Island Hawaii attractions are just a few of the many that you should visit. When choosing which attractions you would like to visit, you are encouraged to take the location of your Big Island vacation rental into consideration. The less time you have to spend on the road, the more likely you are to enjoy your vacation.



Anita

Chris Chew asked:


Millions of people travel to Hawaii every year. Amongst the visitors are thousands of young couples getting married or are having their honeymoon in tropical Hawaii. In order make the honeymoon even more romantic and memorable, many couples choose to go on Hawaii honeymoon cruises. There are many marriage agencies to help these couples to get married, plan their honeymoon and book cruises for them.

Hawaii made history when Pearl Harbor was bombed by the Japanese during world war 2. Since then many movies have re-enacted this event. Many other movies were also made about Hawaii because of its lush tropical landscape, volcanic mountains and beautiful romantic islands.

Elvis Presley starred in perhaps the most well known movie about Hawaii in the romantic movie ‘Blue Hawai’. Another well known movie was the musical ‘South Pacific’. All these movies presented to the world the beautiful exotic charm of the Hawaiian Islands and depict the state as a romantic holiday destination.

Given this romantic representation of Hawaii, it naturally attracts romantic couples to the Hawaiian shores. Since the Hawaii is made up of many pacific islands, what better way to honeymoon in Hawaii than choosing Hawaiian honeymoon cruises?

Hawaii a paradise filled with beautiful beaches, scenic volcanoes and many other tourist attractions. The Hawaiian islands are located in the Pacific Ocean near Polynesia. It is the fascinating and awe inspiring natural landscape that draws millions of tourists to Hawaii every year.

Peak tourism months are November to March. During this time, Hawaiian honeymoon cruises must be booked way well in advance. This is also the peak season for surfing and whale watching making the northern shore of Oahu and Maui islands very popular for honeymooners to disembark and enjoy themselves on the Hawaiian shores.

Popular islands for visiting tourists are Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii’s Big Island. These islands are all networked by two local airlines with inter-connections between islands. Nine in every ten visitors will visit Oahu where the famed Waikiki Beach and the state’s capital city, Honolulu resides.

It is fun to immerse yourself in the culture of the Hawaiian people. Couples can try their hands at dancing the hula hula and taking part in a luau (Hawaiian feast).If you are interested in the local culture, go and discover the uniquely blended Hawaiian, Portuguese, and Mexican cultures – still alive and celebrated among Hawaiian paniolo (cowboys) on the island’s big ranches.

If you are a history buff, do take a visit to the historical Kealakekua Bay where Captain James Cook was killed in 1779 by the islanders or Pearl Harbor, the scene of destruction by the Japanese on the navy US fleet more than half a century ago.

Thinking of going for a romantic honeymoon? Try Hawaiian honeymoon island cruises and have a memorable vacation.



Ricardo

Jon Kelly asked:


Why choose Hawaii for a holiday? If you are looking for a holiday destination which can offer everything then you must consider Hawaii. Even the Hawaiian weather has something for everyone. The warm trade winds come in from the north east leaving a rainier and blustery side of the island while the weather is dryer and calmer on the other side. The island is surrounded by ocean which is warm all year and suitable for water sports all year round. These islands are lucky enough to be placed so that it rarely experiences hurricanes, there are earthquakes, but even these are unlikely to be severe enough to upset your holiday. Hawaii is more than just an island; it is a whole group of islands, each one with something special to offer.

Without the weather to worry about, what are you going to fill your days with? If you are a keen water sports enthusiast, then there will be more than you could ever possible manage in one holiday. The islands offer beautiful oceans for snorkelling and diving. Due to the islanders understanding of their environment, they are careful to nurture the extensive coral reefs which provide homes for exotic wildlife and the perfect experience for divers, whether you are experienced or a novice. If you are looking to learn snorkelling or diving there is no more stunning a place for your first experience. The only problem will be that diving in other places afterwards will struggle to compete! There are plenty of courses which can either be booked before arrival or through your hotel when you are Hawaii.

If you are more interested in hiking and on land sports then there are wonderful hiking trails which you can explore on your own or with one of the islands tour operators. This is a great way to see the island. If you want to get a feel for the islands, but do not want to hike your way around there is another way – helicopter tours. These can be organized once you are at your hotel and have started to plan your time. These tours will give you a chance to see what to expect from your holidays and at the same time you get to see the beauty of the island almost in an instant.

The Hawaiian Islands are forever associated with romance and hence are a popular destination for couples choosing to marry abroad. This popularity means that many of the islands hotels are prepared for weddings and offer packages for the bridal couples to choose from which will take a lot of the work out of organizing a wedding – the difficulty will be in the deciding what you want. The climate of the Hawaiian Islands means that you can have the perfect weather for your wedding in almost every months of the year. Then of course you will need to decided if you want your wedding indoors or outdoors. All the options are there, the choice is yours!

Whatever you are looking for Hawaii can offer it! Many people believe that everyone should experience the Hawaiian Islands at some time in their lives. Book your holidays and enjoy!



Gerald

George Finnerin asked:


Are you interested in taking a Hawaii Big Island vacation? Hawaii’s Big Island isn’t only known as being the largest of all the Hawaiian Islands, but it is also known as being a great place to visit, especially when on a vacation. If you have recently decided that you would like to take a Hawaii Big Island vacation, you are advised to book your reservations in advance. Why you may be wondering; because there are an unlimited number of benefits to booking any vacation, including a Hawaii Big Island vacation, in advance.

Perhaps, the biggest benefit to booking your Big Island vacation is advance is the likelihood of you getting exactly what you want. For instance, in Hawaii, Big Island vacation rentals are highly sought after, especially beachfront rentals. For that reason, there are a fairly large number of vacationers who are all trying to reserve a rental. While there is always enough Big Island vacation rentals to go around, booking your reservation in advance will help to ensure that you get your first choice vacation rental. If you wait until the last minute, to book your Hawaii Big Island vacation rental, you may find that your first choice has already been reserved. That is why it is important that you book your reservation in advance, especially if you are looking for something in particular.

Another benefit to booking your Hawaii Big Island vacation in advance is the amount of money that you may be able to save. Of course, there is always a chance that you can save money on last minute vacations, but there are really never any guarantees. In most cases, you will find that you save the most money by booking your reservations in advance. It is possible to save money on your Big Island vacation rental, airline reservations, and car rental, all by making your reservation a decent amount of time before your trip is scheduled to take place.

Another one of the many benefits to booking your Hawaii Big Island vacation in advance is planning. The sooner you make your reservations, the sooner you can start planning your trip. For instance, once you know exactly where you will be staying, it will be easier to develop an itinerary. That itinerary could include Big Island activities and attractions that you would like to participate in or see. Of course, you can also start preplanning your vacation activities ahead of time, but it is much easier to do so once you know where you will be staying on Big Island. That is why you are advised to make your Big Island vacation reservations in advance.

It was mentioned above, numerous times, that you are advised to book your Big Island vacation reservations in advance. Are you wondering exactly what advanced it? If so, you will find that different individuals interpret the word early differently. There are some who feel that planning their vacations early means planning them a year early and then there are others who feel that early is about three months before their trip is set to take place. In all honestly, early should depend on the reservations that you plan on making. As previously mentioned, Big Island vacation rentals tend to quickly fill up with reservations. If you would like to book a stay at Big Island vacation rental, you are advised to make your reservations at least five or six months in advance. However, if you are simply booking a stay at a hotel or vacation resort, three months may do. You have the power to decide when you want to make your reservations, but it is always advised that you use your common sense.

As you can see, there are a number of benefits to booking your Big Island vacation reservations in advance. In fact, the above mentioned benefits are just a few of the many that exist. Whether you are looking for something in particular or to save money, it is best that you start making your reservations as soon as you decide to take a Big Island vacation.



Margaret

Richard Teesdale asked:


Have you recently decided that you would like to take a Big Island, Hawaii fishing trip? If you have, you are definitely not alone. While Hawaii is filled with destinations that are perfect for fishing, the Hawaiian Island of Big Island is referred to as one of the most popular.

When looking to make your Hawaii travel arrangements, for your Big Island fishing trip, you will want to start with your airline reservations. You will need to make reservations aboard a Hawaii airline. When doing so, you may want to examine online travel websites, particularly those that deal with Hawaii vacations. This enables you to eliminate much of the research and just find a flight that can get to your Big Island fishing destination.

In addition to making your Hawaii airline reservations, you will also need to make arrangements for your overnight accommodations. Although your first thought may be to book a stay at a traditional hotel or a vacation resort, you may want to take the time to examine Hawaii vacation rentals. Hawaii vacation rentals come in a number of different formats, including Hawaii villas, condos, homes, and apartment rentals. In fact, did you know that many Hawaii vacation rentals are considered beachfront rentals? Even if you are unable to book a stay at a Big Island beachfront rental, many Hawaii vacation rentals still provide you with ocean views.

Once you have officially booked your Hawaii travel plans, namely the reservations for your air travel and your overnight accommodations, you will want to shift your focus to the fishing aspect of your vacation. When planning a Big Island Hawaii fishing trip do you know that you have a number of different options, in terms of how you can fish? You do and a few of your options are briefly touched on below.

If you have a boating license or at least proof of a completed training course, you may be able to rent your own fishing boat or sail boat. This is an option that many tourists enjoy. Perhaps, the only downside to this approach is the trouble or the “red tape,” that you may have to go through. Most boat rental companies and boat owners will not just hand over the keys to their boats to anyone. With that in mind, if you are able to successfully rent a boat for your next Big Island fishing trip, you may enjoy the peace, quiet, and freedom that you have.

Another one of your options is to charter a boat. When you charter a boat, you will be passengers on the boat in question and have full use of it, but you will not be responsible for driving or navigating. Even when chartering a boat for your next Big Island fishing adventure, you have a number of different options. For example, you may be able to make reservations aboard a privately chartered fishing boat or a group chartered boat.

In keeping with chartering a fishing boat, if you are looking for peace, quiet, and relaxation, a private chartered fishing boat may be your best option. On the other hand, if you are more concerned with price, a group chartered boat may be your best option, as the rates tend to be a bit more affordable. You may also want to examine additional activities, such as snorkeling or scuba diving. Many Big Island boat chartering companies offer multiple activities aboard their vessels. This is great if you are traveling with your family or another couple, as everyone may gain access to an activity they enjoy.

Finally, it is important to examine supplies. Depending on your fishing supplies, you may be unable to bring them with you on your trip. You may need to rent instead. With that in mind, you may find that the cost of a chartered fishing boat included supplies, such as fishing poles. If not, you may want to rent fishing supplies for your whole trip and store your supplies in your Hawaii vacation rental. This will give you the opportunity to come and go fishing as you please, even if it isn’t aboard a boat.



Yolanda

Aaron Wilmont asked:


Like other tropical locations, the weather in Hawaiian Islands is generally pleasant and warm but at higher elevations, the weather changes abruptly. Millions of seabirds as well as wetland birds find habitat in these remote islands. It is said that out of (roughly estimated) 283 species in Hawaii, 90% are found nowhere except Hawaii. The beauty of Hawaii and large variety of birds makes it a perfect place for birding.

In the main land, the class of birds, that strikes the visitors is, seabirds. Noddies, Albatross, Frigate birds, Terns, Tropicbirds, and ******* are some of the seabirds in Hawaii which don’t require visitors to search for them. These can easily be seen from land, anywhere in Hawaii. Don’t forget to see the Hawaiian Petrel and Newell’s Shearwater. If you are interested in watching the breeding birds, you will have to catch some height to have a better view of it. It will also give you a chance to see some rare migrant seabirds.

Most famous wetland species in Hawaii are Laysan Duck, Nene and Koloa. Laysan Duck is limited to Layson Island. Koloa can be seen in Kauai, where it is found in large number. Nene is Hawaiian goose and named as the state bird of Hawaii. This endangered specie is still fighting for its long-term survival, as currently; only 500 nenes exist in the whole Hawaiian Islands. You can see nene in the state parks of Maui, and the Big Island. Moreover, Alala is the Hawaiian native crow which is endangered as well.

Another must-see bird in Hawaii is Pueo, the Hawaiian owl. The locals consider it a good sign if you spot a Pueo. Maui, Kauai and the Big Island are the islands where you can see the short-eared owl at any time in the day. You can visit Waimea Canyon for watching Pueo as well as other topical birds.

Molakoi and Kauai are two islands which you must visit if you are looking for birding. In some states; Native endangered birds of Hawaii have been kept under special care and strenuous protection in parks to give them natural environment. If you visit the state I suggest you grab a rented Nissan or other vehicle and explore all the islands if you have time.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and Mauna Kea State Park in Big Island are two destinations in Hawaiian Islands which have good varieties of native birds. Flora and fauna are the birds, worth to be seen in the Volcanoes National Park. Kilauea Point which is located at the north shore of Kauai is an ideal place for seabirds sighting.

Kokee state park in Kauai is one of the biggest sanctuaries for endangered native birds of Hawaii. Red colored apapane and iiwi, endangered albatross and olive-green colored amakihi must be seen here. You can also watch the Red Polynesian Junglefowl and honeycreepers which are the most common native bird in Hawaii. Nearly 32 species of these alien birds are known to breed in this park.



Lillie

Adam Singleton asked:


Because of the rise in wellness tourism business owners on the Big Island of Hawaii have got together to promote a travel initiative that they collectively hope will prove so successful that it will eventually be adopted by the rest of the state.

The Hawaii Island Wellness Travel Association, composed of 120 business owners and holistic professionals, has set up a meeting with both the Big Island Visitors Bureau and Hawaii County officials to take the initiative further at which they hope to agree marketing strategies, develop effective packaging and adopt a set of rules for health and wellness travel to Hawaii, which they regard as a booming business.

As recently as 2005 almost $50,000 was set aside by Hawaii Tourism Authority to be used to quantify how well wellness tourism could be developed in the archipelago. A leading research company was approached to produce a comprehensive study of the health and wellness tourism market for the state of Hawaii. However, significant progress stalled once the report had been produced, and only now, some two years later, is the idea being re-launched.

One of the most vociferous proponents and advocates of wellness tourism Lew Whitney, co-founder of the Kokolulu Farm and Qigong Center based in North Kohala said: “We’ve been trying for years to persuade the Hawaii Tourism Authority that this (wellness) offers a great opportunity for the whole state of Hawaii and not just the Big Island.” Over the last nine years the Center has offered a range of cancer retreats and meditative healing programs and Whitney admits that it has been a struggle getting the message across to tourism chiefs. However, Whitney highlights that the Center, located on the northern tip of the Big Island, has been successfully trading for almost 10 years, and with little promotional help from the Hawaii Tourism Authority has managed to remain in business, albeit with the help of some charitable contributions.

Indeed, leading research group Mintel produced a comprehensive Market Research document which looked at wellness tourism being offered throughout the world in places as far flung as Japan, Hungary, India, Austria and Thailand. It concluded, amongst other things that markets were expanding as more and more people, of all ages, made their vacation choices based on health and wellness travel demonstrating that that the sector had a bright future.

As more people take to using alternative and natural remedies, tying wellness into hotel deals in Hawaii could herald a bold new initiative that in the long run may well add an extra string to the already well developed tourism bow for the state.



Ramon