Posts filed under 'Hawaii Holidays'
Can you hear the Caribbean beats yet?
It’s that time of year when Latin America meets the islands for Cinco de Mayo. Hawai‘i celebrates with a huge street festival in Downtown Chinatown, complete with bright, bold colors, African drums and horchatas. The festival encompasses the Hispanic vibe in more ways than one.
With Hawai‘i’s apparent diversity, it’s no wonder Cinco de Mayo’s such a big deal in the islands. The festivities bring awareness to the more than 120,000 Hispanics that make up O‘ahu’s population alone, according to the event’s website. They come from 22 nations and get to show off their dance moves and cooking skills for this festival.
My mouth’s already watering for the spread of ethnic eats – from tamales to pasteles to chicken mole and green rice. Most people go straight to the lunch-wagon eateries; otherwise, the local Mexican, Puerto Rican and Cuban restaurants in Downtown offer seasonal specialties. Make sure to save room for dessert, though, because the French crepes and cheesecakes are definitely worth the extra calories.
There’s plenty of reason to celebrate every fifth of May. It’s not only Cinco de Mayo but Children’s Day and Boy’s Day as well. All are popular Hawai‘i holidays, so take your pick and enjoy this special day in May with family and friends.
CINCO DE MAYO STREET FESTIVA / Intersection of Hotel Street and Nu‘uanu Avenue in Downtown Honolulu / Live music 6-10pm, music, dance, food / www.cincodemayo.com
Photo Courtesy: Cinco de Mayo Street Festival Facebook
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
May 4th, 2013
The Hawaiian Easter Bunny has arrived in the islands and will be hopping around for some egg-citing happenings. While you could always hide eggs in your hotel room, it'd probably be more fun for the kids to take part in the following Easter egg-travaganzas:
Egg Hunt at the Honolulu Zoo (O‘ahu)
Combine a trip to the zoo with the annual Easter egg hunt; most likely the only egg hunt in the islands where the orangutans cheer on guests and noisy giraffes stretch their long necks into the action. It will cost $7 to $10 plus regular zoo admission to participate in the hunt. Very well worth the price, as it is a day of family fun for the entire family.
Easter at the Waikoloa Beach Resort (Big Island)
Not only is the Hawaiian Easter Bunny hiding his eggs, but he's busy tucking in the tykes, too. The Waikoloa Beach Resort promised to have the Easter Bunny tuck the little ones into bed for Easter weekend. In addition, the Bunny's been busy taking pictures with them and hiding his eggs around the resort.
Maui Wowee Easter Decorations (Maui)
When the Easter Bunny hits up Maui, he goes straight to Queen Ka‘ahumanu Center. Complete with photos, free coloring books and Easter egg decorations, the Bunny sure does cover all bases. Get hoppin' with this Maui Wowee Easter Bunny.
Easter Bunnies + Ponies (Maui)
Ponies, petting zoos and Easter egg hunts offer an eclectic array of activities at the No Ka Oi Horsemanship's annual event. It's only in its second year but has already attracted a large following. Be prepared to hang outdoors for most of the day – sunscreen, protective sunwear and lots of water.
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
March 29th, 2013
Dating's easy in Hawai‘i because there are so many ways for lovebirds to find romance. Whether it be flirting in a forest or getting intimate at the beach, even visiting couples can experience true island-style love.
Dates aren't only limited to the night time either. Hawai‘i has beautiful weather all day long, with even the rainiest of days considered romantic, so go for a day date, too. Those traveling with kids might want to look into getting a hotel sitter. The service has been expanding to the major islands and can be a welcoming option for frazzled parents in search of some R&R.
Valentine's, anniversaries or just because, there's never a shortage for romance in the islands. And if this is one of those "first dates," then you'll surely impress your honey with these courting ideas:
Bundle up at Hale‘akala
There's something special about that moment the sun peaks out from behind Hale‘akala Crater. It's inspirational, rejuvenating…and cold! Wrap yourselves up in a fuzzy blanket for two while sharing a cup of hot cocoa. If that doesn't warm you up, then perhaps a steamy kiss will!
Say, "I lava you!"
The fiery-red lava flowing from Kīlauea Crater will surely send sparks flying at this Big Island date spot. For the full effect, visit the volcano on a clear night, when the stars are at their brightest.
Give her a garden
Forget about getting a flower bouquet. How about treating your date to an entire garden? Allerton and McBryde National Tropical Botanical Gardens on Kaua‘i features nature at its finest – including tropical foliage and a secluded waterfall.
Blow fishy kisses
The Waikiki Aquarium can be the perfect date spot for couples wanting to do something indoors. Relax to the sounds of the sea and get entranced by the underwater world, as it unfolds before your eyes. But most importantly, be sure to seal the date with a fishy kiss of your own.
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
February 13th, 2013
It's never too late to get that dream Hawaiian wedding you've always wanted. More and more couples have been choosing to renew their vows here in the islands, in tandem with an anniversary trip or a honeymoon getaway. And for good reason, too.
Hawai‘i's tropical scenery and warm weather help set the tone for any romantic occasion. The barefoot beach walks and enchanting sunsets can arguably be just as beautiful as marriage itself. And that's just a small slice of romance in Hawai‘i. There are tons of options – from a quaint setting at a local botanical garden to a site where you can really say "I Lava You," next to the ever-flowing Kīlauea volcano.
Because you probably already spent a lot on your wedding, it's not necessary to go overboard when renewing your vows. Look for free vow renewal programs, such as those at the Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach and the Outrigger Reef. Hawaii Vacations also offers vow renewal packages for a small fee.
Valentine's Day will also be the perfect time to keep an eye out for affordable vow renewal packages. The Willows restaurant in Honolulu usually offers complimentary renewal ceremonies and promise ceremonies (for couples not married yet) during this time of year. They issue commemorative certificates and as part of the V-Day package, offer a prime rib and lamb dinner ($42.95 per person).
It's up to you how big or how small you want the ceremony to be, and if you want it to be religious or nondenominational. The ones I've been to in Hawai‘i were very informal and often incorporated a few Hawaiian traditions. You could choose to have a Hawaiian priest renew your vows or have traditional Hawaiian music playing in the background. The couples usually go casual in their attire, too, aloha wear and flip flops are a perfect fit for those beachside weddings!
Photo Courtesy: Cathy Navares
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
February 9th, 2013
What's more romantic than a candlelit dinner for two?
A candlelit dinner for two on the beach. Travel+Leisure recently ranked the most romantic restaurants in America, and a Hawai‘i restaurant made the list. The Beach House, located on Kaua‘i, is much more elegant than its name implies. It's actually a fine-dining restaurant just steps away from Po‘ipu Beach, with picturesque sunsets served daily.
The food is just as beautiful. Lemongrass and kaffir lime crusted sea scallops and fresh ceviche will surely set the mood, and with a name like "Desire," you know the chocolate mocha tart will tantalize your taste buds.
While Travel+Leisure listed several other romantic restaurants, the truth is, you can find romance in Hawai‘i at any restaurant, at any beach, at any time of day. You don't need a fancy-schmancy meal (and a huge bill) to be romantic. You can have a candlelit dinner where ever you choose, and it doesn't even have to include candles, for that matter. How about a small campfire or clear moonlit night to really paint a picture of romance?
Luckily for my boyfriend, I'm a cheap date. If it were up to me, I'd vote on the latter. Dinner on the beach is not only more affordable but also a lot more intimate for any couple. There won't be any waiters to interrupt conversations or background chatter buzzing throughout the evening. The only sound you'll hear is the rippling ocean waves that dance along the shore.
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
February 7th, 2013
Eat your heart out for this season of X's and O's. With Valentine's Day a kiss away, the annual Quisine of Hearts event at the Hilton Waikoloa Village will be setting the mood for all lovers and friends.
Every year, with the help of local culinary students and chefs, the Big Island hotel whips up this feast of love; love for your significant other and love for food that'll surely tantalize anyone's taste buds. Judging by the menu of bruschetta and eggs benedict, guests will be plenty full by the end of the day.
And what's Valentine's without chocolates? I love how the event brings in local chefs, bakers and choclatiers – including the award-winning pastry chef Eddie Enjardo. He'll be whipping up a heart-shaped mousse made with local dark chocolate, ginger, oranges and macadamia nuts. If that's not an aphrodisiac for you, love birds, then I don't know what is!
Perhaps flowers for your sweetheart? There'll be a silent auction of floral arrangements and fancy catered dinners. I personally can't wait to see what the kids come up with when they present their cookies and cakes for sale.
Because it's a classy event at a fancy hotel, the tickets are a little pricey. It's $45 for adults and $20 for children. Yes, the keiki are welcomed to join. In fact, I remember a few times going with my parents on their V-Day date nights. It turned out to be a nice family dinner!
Q'SUINE OF HEARTS / Hilton Waikoloa Village, 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Dr., Waikoloa, HI 96738 (Map) / www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com / Tickets $45 adults $20 children
Photo Courtesy: Fern Gavelek Communications
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
February 4th, 2013
On the first of the month, the Honolulu Star-Advertiser ran a calendar of Christmas events to highlight the multitude of happenings all over the island. One that caught my eye was the very popular free nighttime ferry ride through Pearl Harbor. The tour takes passengers to see the battleships decorated for the holidays. I had done this several years ago, really enjoyed it and wanted to do it again.
At that time, the procedure was to show up on one of the three nights it was running, get in line and wait for the next boat. This year, however, advance Will Call tickets were required via e-mail prior to the event. (This is just like the daytime tours to the Arizona Memorial.) Immediately after we bought our tickets, they posted a sold-out notice on their website, so I felt really lucky.
We showed up at 7:30 p.m. for our 8 p.m. time slot, as instructed. Tours take about 15 to 20 minutes. Although it was a sold-out event, the turn out itself was low. That's why we were able to jump on an earlier boat. The volunteer showed me a tall stack of no-show tickets, expressing their disappointment at the unexpected poor turnout.
The volunteer also told me that the interest in this activity is usually really high and always attracted large crowds. However, this year's low turnout could be due to the new ticket system and the high wind advisories that were in place. Pearl Harbor can actually handle this type of weather while still being comfortable for a ferry ride, but apparently, not many people knew this.
Regardless, I was still looking forward to the ferry ride and the lights. It is really nice to be out on the water during that time of night – to see the lights of the city sprawling up the hills and listen to Christmas music. Children love this and get to have their pictures taken at the wheel of the craft. It’s cool to see these massive battleships and subs decked out in Christmas color. The boat's crew members are in charge of decorating.
I noticed that even the number of participating boats was significantly less than my first time going. Perhaps some were out of the port. It’s still a treat to see them fairly close, even if they're not decorated. You can also see the beautiful Arizona Memorial glowing in the harbor.
If you are planning on visiting over next year’s holiday and want to see Pearl Harbor at night, check their website next December (http://www.nps.gov/valr/) or email them at holidayharborlightstour@gmail.com. You could reserve tickets in advance or perhaps by next year, they'll change back to their original policy of showing up and jumping in a boat. The standard rules apply for the evening too: No bags or purses but cameras are acceptable.
Posted by Katherine Finch Follow me on Twitter @kfinches
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
December 23rd, 2012
To bring a wrapped gift or not to bring a wrapped gift to the airport?
That is the question, especially during the holidays, when a flurry of travelers head home to be with loved ones. Like Santa, they'll bear a bag of gifts (maybe a beard), but with the added security measures at the airport, wrapping them becomes questionable. No one wants to see their beautiful wrapping job go to waste when security rips it to shreds, nor do they want to spoil the surprise for the person they're giving it to.
Unfortunately, there's no getting around either of those scenarios, unless you ship them beforehand. Otherwise, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recommends that travelers do not wrap gifts – whether checked in or carried on. TSA security officers may need to unwrap the gifts to inspect the contents further, so wrap them upon arrival.
If the gift happens to be a liquid that's more than 3.4 ounces (wine, beer, jams, jellies), then travelers must send it through a checked-in luggage. TSA suggests not sending any valuable or expensive gift items through checked-in luggage. This includes electronics, fragile items and jewelry; travelers should carry them on instead.
The good news is that there are ways to avoid spoiling the surprise of the gift. Travlers can wrap them in bubble wrap because it's see-through but should use rubber bands instead of tape to secure the wrap. This makes it easier to remove if security needs to inspect further.
Another way to get around being a Christmas killjoy would be to wrap the gifts after going through the TSA checkpoint. Gift bags, wrapping paper, boxes, tape and scissors (with blades smaller than four inches) are allowed for both carry-ons and checked luggage. However, if you need to transfer planes, you could find yourself in another holiday hurdle at additional screening checkpoints.
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
December 22nd, 2012
If there's one thing you should do on your trip to Hawai‘i during the holidays, it's take a tour of Honolulu on the decorated double-decker AlohaBus. Twinkling Christmas lights and festive tunes ring in the holiday spirit, as passengers enjoy the open-air cruise through the city.
I had so much fun on board the "Honolulu Holiday Lights Tour" this year. The snazzy red bus was packed with revelers of all ages and smothered top to bottom with Christmas cheer. Even the grinchiest of the bunch would turn their frowns upside down in the spirit of the holidays!
The tour (from now until Dec. 30) runs continuously every 30 to 45 minutes between 6 and 10 p.m. Riders get picked up and dropped off along several stopping points from Aloha Tower Marketplace to Ward Center to Downtown Honolulu. The bus also stops at Ala Moana Shopping Center, Hilton Waikiki Village, Eggs N Things, Duke's Statue, Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, Ohana Waikiki West and the Aqua Palm Hotel.
Almost everyone stops at Honolulu Hale to get a close-up view of the City Lights. Luckily for us, we happen to show up on the night the Star Wars Stormtroopers were in town. I really don't think it gets more festive than the AlohaBus' holiday tour and am excited to do it again next year!
HONOLULU HOLIDAY LIGHTS TOUR / AlohaBus tour from Aloha Tower Marketplace to Waikiki, runs every 30-45 min between 6-10pm (now to Dec. 31) / Adults ($23), Children 4-12 years ($15), Children 3 and under (free) / www.alohabus.com / 808-457-4300
Photo Courtesy: AlohaBus
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
December 20th, 2012
The fireworks show from Aloha Tower is one you don't want to miss this New Year's Eve. Why? Because the same company that usually does the fireworks at the Olympics will be in charge of lighting up Honolulu skies this year. So not only will the show be grander than usual, but it'll also be of the same worldly standards as this elite sporting event.
How's that for kicking off the new year right?
The fireworks show will just be the icing on the 2013 cake, though. Up until the first midnight blast over Honolulu Harbor, there will be events just as explosively fun. Aloha Tower is planning to have a huge block party on its premises, where all of its shops and eateries will take part in celebrating the new year with music, dance, food and adult beverages.
I'm excited about the 8 different stages scattered throughout, each themed something just as unique as the next. Planet ROCK, Disco BALLROOM and Hot LATIN NIGHTS will be among the mix. And around the historic tower of Aloha, there will be a foam pit and Chinese lion dancing going on.
Whether kicking off a new year or celebrating Cinco de Mayo, block parties are always the best way to go. They're conveniently situated in one area, so you don't have to do much driving. Plus, there's a little something for everyone – food, music, dancing and drinks. Also, it's close to Waikīkī hotels, so you can walk to the event or catch a cheap cab.
Be safe, and have a Happy New Year!
NEW YEAR'S EVE ALOHA TOWER BLOCK PARTY / Dec. 31, 2012, 7pm-midnight (21+) / For info and to buy tickets, www.alohatowernye.com
Posted by Alyssa S. Navares Follow me on Twitter @Uamalie87
Published by Bruce Fisher
Since 2006 Bruce Fisher has been publishing the Hawaii Vacation Blog and the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast which, create daily content about Hawaii Travel and Tourism. This Blog is the only online resource providing Hawaii-based information aimed at travelers seven days per week. Postings reflect the Hawaiian Islands, their culture and their lifestyle as accurately and thoroughly as possible.
December 13th, 2012
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