"What has taken me so long to return?!"
Travel as you may througout the world, there is no place on earth like Hawaii. The aloha spirit is evident in everything from the swaying palm, the sweet fragrance of the plumeria to the people who live there. Connect with the red dirt, respect and frolick in the aquamarine waters, gaze on the craggy mountains that appear cloaked in green velvet, feel the "Aloha".
Below are listed a few things to do on the island of Oahu, and some links that may assist you in exploring this wonderful area.
Out of all the shows you may see while on the islands, this will be the most informative and enjoyable. Plan to spend the whole day there exploring the villages and taking in the night show. I highly recommend taking a tour, as it's an exhausting day.
INTERNATIONAL MARKETPLACE - (Sadly, this historical site is to be destroyed in 2005 for new construction, it is not known where the hawaiian craftsmen will relocate to. They WILL be missed.) Located in the core of the Waikiki area, this is a marketplace that is built around a huge Banyan tree that is over 100 yrs old. Apart from the many kiosks and stores that have every imaginable garment to curio, the Market features Hawaiian crafts from painted dry coconuts that can be sent home as a "coconut postcard"; (say hi to Linda while there) to tiki carving and lei making. Go by the lei stand in the front of the marketplace beside the waterfall to say 'Aloha' to Margaret or Pam, get a fresh plumeria to put behind your ear for free, and purchase some lovely smelling plumeria leis to take home or wear.
HONOLULU ZOO They have natural habitats for the animals, and it's a lovely walk through the exhibits with lots of great photo opportunities.
WAIKIKI AQUARIUM One of world class caliber I'm to understand. It's very close to the Honolulu Zoo, and quite doable with the zoo in a day. It concentrates on indigenous species.
KODAK HULA SHOW Located close to the Zoo, this show is held outside in the Waikiki Shell. Showing the different dances, including instruction on how to hula, it's entertaining, a great photo opportunity and free. Open Tues - Thurs at 10am. You will be sitting for over an hour, so if you wish to sit in the shade, arrive early!
