Get the most out of Hawaii

By Marc Ferguson

Hawaii is one of the most sought after vacation destinations for many travelers every year. The beauty that is found is one that is unforgettable and is only unique to Hawaii. It offers more than breath taking views. It offers fun activities, anything from surfing to relaxing in the sun, or enjoying a one of the kind meal.

If you are looking for a quick vacation this might not be the best pick for you. Depending on where your home town is located, it can take as long as 1 day to travel to Hawaii. However, if you can look past the long flight, than you will experience a vacation of a lifetime. It is recommended that when visiting travelers rent a vehicle to truly experience everything that Hawaii has to offer.

You may even want to consider a flight or boat ride to one of the many neighbor islands of Hawaii. Each of hawaii's islands has it own name and unique natural features. The Hawaiian Islands include: Maui (the Valley Island), Kaho'olawe (the Target Island), Lana'i (the Pineapple Island), Moloka'I (the Friendly Isle), O'ahu (the Gathering Place), Kaua'i (the Garden Isle), and Ni'ihau (the Forbidden Isle).

Each of the islands of has a number of its own hidden treasures. Kauai's Napali Coast is one of the world's most pristine hiking trails. Molokai's Kaupoa Beach is a calm peaceful ocean-side getaway. Maui's Haleakala National Park offers hillside views make you feel like you are all alone at the center of the world.

With more than 55 state parks, 2 national parks, and a sorted number of historical parks, it always offers something new to see or visit. If a traveler wants to see a volcano without the risk, they can visit Haleakala.

The Hawaiian culture grew out of the native Polynesian's who inhabited the islands around 800 AD. The culture of these native people can still be seen in the local languages and is preserved in the names of locations and businesses. However, much of the culture has been lost of the years as it was melded with immigrants from Europe and Asia. Today the population of Hawaii is as diverse as much of America, with a majority of citizens being of Filipino or Japanese descent. Regardless of the country of origin, most Hawaiians are American's first, Hawaiian's second, & then they reference their ancestral nationality.

There are a few customs that mainlander's should be aware of before visiting Hawaii. First and foremost, Hawaii is a US state. That said, you should never ask a Hawaiian if they take US currency or have been to the United States. Much like other states, people who are "From Hawaii" live in American houses and wear American clothes, very few people in Hawaii have every worn a grass skirt or lived in a hut. If you come to Hawaii expecting to see third world island homes, be expected to be called a Haole or foreigner.

Hawaii offers unique views that cannot be seen anywhere else. When vacationing take your camera and remember to bring extra memory cards. Whether traveling for the culture, pure beauty, or the rich history, this is a vacation to remember. - 31999

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