Hawaii - Make it "Your" Getaway!

There are several beautiful islands on the planet, Crete ( Greece ), Bali ( Indonesia ) and Sicily ( Italy ), but Hawaii is the most beautiful island of the world. Why? Despite the small size of the island, it is world of wonders that words can't define but that luckily for you can be revealed live and in color place by place. Here you'll find everything you need to enjoy your stay. From natural wonders --  warm beaches, spectacular volcanoes, fantastic waterfalls, and nature sanctuaries -- and unique hospitality to modern wonders -- tall buildings, Olympic stadiums, transportation  network -- and amazing traditions -- as the "lei", the "hula dance" and the surfing. For this reason, no other island on Earth can compete with Hawaii. In addition to these selected wonders, Hawaii is a world-class resort destination with state-of-the-art accommodations. Certainly Hawaii seems to have discovered the secret of successful: Tourism.

The 47th largest state in the United States, Hawaii is the size of Northern Ireland. It is an American state of 132 islands stretching over 1,500 miles across the Pacific Ocean. The eight main islands are: Oahu, Hawaii, Maui, Molokai, Kahoolawe, Lanai, Kauai, and Nihau. Thanks to its natural wonders, Hawaii now has one of the highest standards of living in Oceania. Certainly Hawaii is a great example of what happens when the modern technology is applied to the economy.

Mauna Loa - A Natural Wonder of the World

Hawaii is also well-known for its famous volcanoes and craters. Haleakala --  the most popular tourist spot on the island of Maui -- is the world's largest dormant crater. The crater measures about 20 miles around and is about 3,000 feet. From the top, you can see the principal islands of the archipelago. But Haleakala is not the only volcano. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home to one of the world's most amazing volcanoes -- Mauna Loa ( 13,680 feet ). Here, too, is Kilauea volcano ( 4,009 feet ).

Like the Galapagos islands ( Ecuador ), Tanzania's Mount  Kilimanjaro and Nepal's Mount Everest, Mauna Loa is one of the world's most attractive natural wonders. Mauna Loa is not violent because the eruption occur only in limited sections of the crater. This eruption is one of the most impressive spectacle on Earth. It is surrounded by fern forest.

The Most Beautiful Girls

Here you can see some of the most beautiful girls of the world. Curiously Hawaii is an ideal place for fashion photographers, film directors, and models agents. Like Venezuela, Texas, and India, Hawaii is famous for its beautiful women. Certainly it is birthplace of several spectacular girls -- Nicole Kidman ( actress ), Patricia Ford ( fashion super model ), Carolyn Suzanne Sapp ( Miss America 1992 ), Tia Carrere ( singer and actress ), Renee Alway ( super model ), Kelly Ho ( actress ), Angela Perez Baraquio ( Miss America 2000 ), Agnes Nalani Lum ( top model ), Kelly Preston ( actress ), and Maggie Q ( actress ). In addition to this, Hawaii has won four Miss USA crowns and one Miss Universe title. In 1952 Kananiopepau Edsman finished second at the First Miss Universe pageant in Long Beach, California.

Astounding Oahu

In this island there are so many different types of scenery and climate. There are lots of beaches, where you can go swimming, fishing, surfing and sailing. Oahu is home to Waikiki Beach, one of the most popular beaches on Earth. It offers a mixture of wonders: world-class resorts, luxury restaurants, night clubs, and water sports facilities. Oahu is also home to Honolulu, the capital city. Honolulu - which is actually the biggest city in terms of population --is one of the world's top destinations for businessmen. Besides all that, the island of Oahu has other fantastic places. Diamond Head, an extinct volcano, is one of the world's most famous promontories and one of Oahu's most popular tourist spots. But it isn't the only wonder. The Underwater Coral Gardens of Kaneohe, in Heeia, is an amazing marine world.

There's also lots of beautiful historic buildings where you can stop. In Laie, for example, you can visit the world's most beautiful mormon temple. It is an architectural gem of the modern world.On the other hand, Nuuanu Pali, at the upper end of Nuuanu valley, offers an amazing view of the northeastern coast. And it was here that Kamehameha I won a battle.

To appreciate the history of Hawaii, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific is recommended. Here are the remains of the more than 16,000 persons who lost their lives during the World War II and the Korean War. Under this historic atmosphere, you also can visit the Pearl Harbor Naval Base. This place, one of the largest natural harbors in the Pacific Ocean, is used as an American naval base. Sixty-eight years ago, Japan attacked Pearl Harbor plunging America into World War II. The battleship Arizona, sunk in the Asian attack, rests here.Finally, Makapuu Beach offers its outsiders a charming and comfortable environment. This beach -famous for its "perfect waves" - is a sanctuary for many body-surfers in the Pacific Ocean.

Hawaii - The Island of Orchids

Each Hawaiian island is a wonderland - a mixture of the modern, natural and the old. In this context, Hawaii  --the largest Hawaiian island- gathers many of the most beautiful orchids on Earth. In this island, there are more than 20,000 types of orchids. Here, too, is Pu'uhonua o Honaunau, a national park since 1972, which was an ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary for criminals, ex warriors and other fugitives.

Captivating Kauai

Kauai -- a masterpiece of landscape gardening -- is home to one of the world's most stunning natural wonders : Hanalei Valley, also known as the birthplace of rainbows. With its unique tropical landscape, here you will find the most beautiful rainbows on the planet. According to many travel writers, it is Hawaii's greatest tourist spot.But it isn't the only wonder.  It's also home to Waimea Canyon -- it has an amazingly colored gorge 3,600 feet deep.  Waimea Canyon offers beautiful scenery for photographers, hikers ands naturalists. On the other hand, Mount Waialeale, in the center of the island, is the wettest spot on Earth. It has an average annual rainfall of 460 inches (1,170 centimeters).

Akaka Falls

Much of what offers to the tourist is amazing and unique. In addition to its black sand beaches, snow-covered mountains, perfect climate and other natural wonders, Hawaii is also home to some of the world's most beautiful waterfalls. In this land, the nature lover can satisfy a lifetime thirst for beauty in the incomparable waterfalls. The most important waterfalls in the island is Akaka Falls, 442 feet high. It, near Hilo (Hawaii island), is a long, slender waterfall on Kolekole stream. Likewise, Akaka is one of America's largest waterfalls.

Floral Print - Not Just for Shirts!

Even before mainlanders discovered surfing men's Hawaiian clothes have been around the fashion scene. If you are looking for ad a little spice to your summer wardrobe you really need to have a Hawaiian shirt in your closet. You don't have to buy one of those crazy wild prints that screams "I am a tourist", there are classic prints available that just ooze class and style.

The smell of the beach is very intoxicating - it is tempting. One sniff of it can make one think of relaxing thoughts and yet, there is this inviting kick that could make anyone take off his shirt to dive and swim away.

But before you decide to hit Hawaii, aloha shirt, you have to buy! A men's Hawaiian shirt is mostly printed with collar and is usually short sleeved. It has buttons all the way down and have a V-neck cut. The hem is straight and no, it can't be tucked in.

Floral patterns complete the Hawaiian look or sometimes, Polynesian designs are imminent in the fabric. These shirts are not just worn on beach holidays but on beach-themed parties as well.

In the year 1930's, a certain Mr. Ellery Chun of King Smith Clothiers and Dry Goods devised the Hawaiian shirt in Waikiki and from then on, Aloha shirts made its history. Most of aloha shirts are made of 100% cotton for they resemble the laidback, relaxed outlook of the ocean life.

Some designs can get too loud and some can be as subtle as they can be - the thing is the choice is up to you. Pirate, surfing, coconut tree and parrot designs are one of the most popular choices.

So start surfing and enjoy the breeze of the beach - wear the most comfortable Hawaiian shirt and have the time of your life. Pull off the look and be stylish - like the real man that you are - Aloha!

Hawaiian Realestate Advice - Honolulu Area

Honolulu is the capital of Hawaii, and the largest city in Hawaii.  Properties near Honolulu are in high demand due to the fact that the Honolulu harbor is the busiest and most important port in Hawaii.  Investment opportunities are sought after in this area, because buying property in the Honolulu area can potentially become a great investment, and will eventually make you a lot of money.

There are a lot of reasons why you may choose to purchase property in the Honolulu area. You might have decided to purchase a retirement home in this island paradise, or maybe a place to call home during your vacations.  Another reason is for investment purposes.  Since available land is such a rare commodity in this island state, property values are relatively high.  Since this is a prime vacation spot for many tourists, developing land for hotels and restaurants is a prime investment opportunity.

Many potential buyers make the mistake of avoiding Realtors, in favor of dealing with the seller directly.  People have the misconception that they may be able to get a better deal bypassing the Realtor.  This could potentially become a very expensive mistake on the part of the buyer.  By not dealing with a Realtor, you may not be able to take advantage of the best values on the market.  If you are in the process of purchasing property in Honolulu, you may want to consult with a Realtor who specializes in property in that area.  They will have all the information available, and they will help you get the best deal.  A Realtor will also be able to negotiate with a seller to benefit you.

The contract you sign to buy property is a legally binding one. Avoid signing an improperly written contract, because it could cause you lose thousands of dollars!

So remember, as a rule of thumb, always use the resources available to you, you never know what kind of breaks you might get.

More Tips From The Hawaiian Guru

For those who like to be on the go, love beautiful places, and enjoy the surf, Hawaii is the place for you. If you do your homework and shop online, you will find that Hawaii is a vacation spot that will remain in your memories for a long time.

Here are some tips that will make your vacation manageable and affordable.

#1 Save Money by Vacationing Off-Season

Travel during the off-season (spring and winter excluding holidays), you will find that you can save substantially on your vacation. In fact, the difference between a flight to Maui May 31 and June 4 is $300.

#2 Leave on a Tuesday

If you leave in the middle of the week and return in the middle of the week, you will save money and get extended days of vacation practically free. Instead of leaving on Monday, leave on Tuesday. This simple change meant you could stay until the next Monday for $50 more than leaving Monday to Friday. That means you might get three extra days including hotel for $50.

#3 Book Activities in Advance

By building an itinerary, you will be able to manage your trip and keep those idle times to a minimum. You went there to do everything. You don't want to get there and have nothing to do. Or worse, get there, want to do something, and then discover it is sold out.

Additionally, when you book in advance, you can receive special package discounts. For example, many Luaus cost more if you purchase same day. Buy purchasing your tickets in advance, you avoid the same day ticket price.

#4 Carry Around Water and Snacks

You can have more fun if you stay hydrated and have some snacks. Your pack can provide you with the opportunity to do both without having to stop and buy something to drink or get some food.

Food and beverages are the most profitable items for the tourist businesses. Since Hawaii focuses mainly on tourism, food can be the most expensive for you. You will find that when you get thirsty the only thing available is expensive "tourist" drinks. Carrying your own will allow you to spend on things you want.

#5 Plan Your Meals

Mix up meals by choosing some fast food restaurants and making some picnic lunches with snack foods. Planning your meals will save you considerable cash. Food will be a major expense if you don't plan ahead.

Managing your meals is like managing your money. The more you save on meals, the more you can spend on fun. If you are a foodie, then plan when and where you will go out to eat. Otherwise, you might miss out on the one place you really want to go.

#6 Don't Overspend on Souvenirs

Lastly, decide how much money you are willing to spend on souvenirs. Don't buy souvenirs on a credit card, pay cash. If you decide to spend $200 on souvenirs, have that much money in cash. Credit cards are just too tempting to use for souvenirs and they don't get the best discounts. Many souvenir shops in Hawaii are self owned. Therefore, if you pay cash, you can get a better deal.

Control your spending by limiting your purchases to cash. As your cash goes down, you will stay on budget.

With these tips, you will find you will have more fun and spend less money. Not going bankrupt on a vacation is an enjoyable event also. Have fun!

Waikiki Beach - Oahu's Beautiful Waterfront

Chances are, you have heard of this place. Waikiki Beach on the south shore of Oahu is a 1 1/2-mile stretch of white sand. Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and its natural allure is the aquamarine water lapping the palm-fringed shores. Beach goers can relax on the sand and stare at the calm ocean waters and the magnificent Diamond Head volcano looming in the distance, or engage in some water sports. The weather here is always warm (temperature never goes above 90 and below 70degress), and the skies, cloud-free.

Waikiki Beach is not as big as most people usually think. Plus, half of the waters are marked off for surfers. Still, it is one of the most sought spot by beach goers from every part of the world. The ocean waters are clear, and waders could open their eyes underwater without getting stung by salt. The surf breaks are long, making them ideal for tandem surfing and long boarding. Up to some distance of the ocean, the waters are shallow and friendly to children and beginners. Some parts of the beach are rocky, though, so waders have to be cautious where to put their feet.

Part of the attractions of Waikiki Beach is its readily accessible amenities--- all are just a walk away from the surf and the shore. A string of high-rise hotels, historic hotels, restaurants, shops, and the Kapiolani Park front this much-sought beach destination.

Cool Things About Waikiki

• It has the Waikiki Aquarium, the third oldest aquarium in the US. This underwater aquarium that served as inspiration for Jules Verne's submarine in the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
• Guests are welcomed by the open-armed statue of the Hawaiian hero and "Father of Modern Surfing" Duke Kahanamoku
• Waikiki Beach hosts "Sunset on the Beach," a free movie event. The beach becomes an outdoor movie theater- here guests can watch free movies on a 30-foot outdoor screen.
• Once a month, it hosts "Brunch on the Beach," too. Island chefs serve delicious foods at bargain prices: Kalakoa Avenue becomes an outdoor café.
• Off Kaluana Avenue beside the Waikiki Police Department, the Wizard Stones are believed to possess the spiritual force (mana) of four Tahitian priests (kahuna).
• The white sand of Waikiki Beach was imported from Manhattan Beach, California and Molokai when the beach had erosion problems in the early 1900s.

Hawaii Vacation on Oahu - Things You Should Know and Travel Advice

Choose where you want to go

The best tourist area on Oahu is Waikiki, where you will find an array of restaurants and shopping opportunities, beach activities, night shows, Hawaiian luaus and a wide selection of hotels ranging from budget to luxurious. If you prefer a quiet and relaxing Hawaii getaway and you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, you will find many vacation rentals on the island.

There are airport shuttles that will take you to your hotel and pick you up on the way back. Also, Oahu has a good public transportation system that covers almost the whole island.

Keep in mind that allot of streets in Waikiki and Honolulu are one-way streets and if you don't have a road map with you, this can cause some confusion. Also, drive slowly and be careful because Oahu is a very busy island and traffic jams are common.

This totally depends on your schedule. The summer months from June to August is travel season, so accommodations, flights and car rentals are significantly more expensive during that period. If you plan to vacation in the winter, keep in mind that it usually rains more during this time. But heavy and long-lasting rains are rare on Oahu (and especially in Waikiki, which is located on the sunny south shore), so even if it starts to rain, it usually doesn't last very long.

Things to bring

• Your passport and visa. If you are vacationing from a foreign country, you will need a passport and maybe also a visa to enter the U.S. If you are a U.S. citizen, you only need your driver's license or other government-issued picture ID.
• Your health insurance (especially if you're from a foreign country and are not familiar with the U.S. medical system). Medical costs in the U.S. are expensive.
• Bring enough money. Hawaii is a very expensive place to visit. A party of two will need at least $50 a day for food (if you don't plan to dine out).

Hawaii Vacation - Beat the Boredom and Hit The Streets

One of the problems with going on vacation is that the days are so filled that you don't have any time to rest and recharge your batteries. This is usually the case for those who head to the islands of Hawaii. Hawaii's tourists often spend so much time soaking up sun that they wear themselves out! The best way to combat this problem without throwing away a day in paradise by staying in your hotel is to take a a look around.

One exceptional spot is located near popular Waikiki is the ten-mile hike up Mount Tantalus. This is a drive you'll want to take slowly so that you don't miss any of the scenery. If you travel too quickly, you will miss the many pull offs that give you a chance to enjoy the breathtaking views of the island. Do not be surprised if you get caught in a quick tropical storm and witness a rainbow emerge from the rain! Almost at the top of the mountain, you'll find Pu'u Ualaka'a State Park, which gives you a panoramic view of Oahu, including popular locations like Diamond Head and Waikiki. Enter the highway through the town of Wahiawa, and head towards the North Shore. You will pass the famous Dole Plantation, so be sure to roll down the windows to enjoy the smell of fresh pineapple fields. To the left you will see towering mountains while the turquoise ocean will be on the right. As you continue your drive, you will find that you are driving right along the Pacific Ocean. The water is so close that you can literally touch it from your car!

A trip down Interstate H-3 in Oahu is something you should not miss. There is even a tunnel through the heart of the mountain!

For a shorter drive, go to the eastern end of the island, and drive from Waikiki to Hanauma Bay. This drive will start at Kalakaua Avenue and head towards Kapiolani Park. When you are finished at the park, head to Diamond Head, where you will enjoy the view from Diamond Head Beach. Continue following the road through the richest neighborhoods of Oahu. Taking a drive is one of the best ways to relax on your Hawaiian vacation.

Beautiful Weather - Vacation Time All Year 'Round

Honolulu, Hawaii is situated on the tropical island of Oahu, in the Pacific Ocean and enjoys a warm, humid year-round climate, with pleasant breezes and sunny, tropical weather. Located on the coast, Honolulu has only two long seasons - summer and winter. The average temperature during the winter climate only varies slightly from the summer, making Honolulu the perfect holiday destination.

During the summer, from May through October, the climate and weather in Honolulu is very warm and mainly dry, although the odd shower can occur. The only time during the year that it becomes less than desirable is the Autumn months, when it can rain for several days at a time!
 
Don't let that discourage you though. The rainy season is great for all fisherman looking to bigger sport! So come to Hawaii and experience the breeze!