|
Hawaii –
America’s Tropical Paradise
Mark Twain called it, “The loveliest fleet of islands that lies
anchored in any ocean”. You will call Hawaii “paradise”. It is
a favorite destination for any age – honeymooners, families or
seniors. Part of the appeal is that the US dollar is the currency,
and English is the spoken language.
There are six major islands that make up the Hawaiian
Islands and each has its own cultural heritage and unique beauty.
Oahu
This is where most first time
visitors start out. The capital city of Honolulu offers
international commerce combined with beautiful beaches and
breathtaking vistas from Diamond Head, the island’s dormant volcano.
Added to that is Pearl Harbor which played such an important part in
America’s history in World War II. On the northern coast of Oahu are
some of the most famous surfing spots in the world. The Polynesian
Cultural Center with its in depth looks at the cultures of all of
Polynesia make it the perfect “Gathering Place”, as its name
translates.
Maui
Also known as the Valley Isle, Maui is often referred to as the best
island in the world. You can find everything here, whether it be by
land, by sea or by air. The beaches on the western shore are rated
among the best in the world. The flora is unique. The dormant
volcano, Haleakala, offers a phenomenal viewing place for the
sunrise. Maui is the stage every winter for the thousands of
humpback whales that migrate here for breeding. The road to Hana on
the eastern shore is dotted with waterfalls throughout the 360
hairpin turns in the road. Nearly every major hotel company has an
outstanding resort located on Maui.
Kauai
"The Garden Isle", Kauai, comes by its nickname honestly. Never have
you seen such a lush and green setting. Kauai even has its own
“Grand Canyon of the Pacific”, Waimea Canyon, where hikers can
explore to their hearts’ content. And at Hanalei Bay on the northern
shore, you’ll swear you just stepped onto the set of South Pacific.
The adventurer will not want to miss the Zodiac tours along the
otherwise inaccessible Na Pali Coast.
Hawaii
Popularly known as "The Big Island”, Hawaii is home to the world’s
most active volcano. It is also twice the size of all the other
islands combined and is still growing, thanks to the lava flows.
This is where you will find the famous Black Sand Beach and Green
Sand Beach. Sportfishing is popular along the Kona Coast, and you
can even visit a coffee plantation on Hawaii.
Molokai
Still the unspoiled island, Molokai features pristine barrier reefs
for snorkeling and scuba diving, majestic sea cliffs and lush green
valleys. Outdoor exploring and eco-tourism are in abundance here.
Lanai
Known as the Pineapple Island, Lanai is a great place for seclusion!
Once it was home to numerous pineapple plantations but now it is a
laid back tropical getaway.
|
