Imagine getting off an airplane and having your nostrils engorged with the scent of aromatic blossoms. The flowery experience continues for those coming to Hawai’i, America’s gem in the Pacific Ocean. Upon entering the O’ahu terminal, scantily-clad bronze women put flower wreaths called leis around passengers’ necks; then they board Wiki-Wiki (fast) buses to gather their luggage and begin an interlude on an island paradise, far from fast-paced hustle and bustle of their busy lives elsewhere. Palm trees sway in the tropical breezes created by unique trade winds, skirted by metal bands to prevent unwanted ascenders such as a giant rat or mongoose. Plumeria trees, which lend their strong, luscious scents to the island, abound. These pink and white dotted trees that appear to be covered with cotton candy pieces were once called “graveyard trees” because their roots would seek passage into wooden coffins to leech nutrients from deceased inhabitants. Now they symbolize the welcoming spirit of aloha to sun-seeking travelers from every corner of the globe.
For those who crave high-end shopping, luxury row awaits in crowded Waikiki, with chop suey stands and surf shops nestled between the designer boutiques. Bustling hawkers shout out in a babel of languages at the International Market, hoping to sell their wares to tourists. Just seconds from this cacophony, beach combers are gathering a myriad of shells while others lay on tatami mats tanning and relaxing. An outrigger canoe may pass by novice surfers—the experts head for the North Shore and its famous Banzai pipeline and refreshing shave ice, elsewhere called snow cones.
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Indeed, cuisine is as abundant and distinctive as languages in multi-cultural Hawai’i. Live sashimi, with fish still breathing while being eaten, and lobster sushi on a bed of tiny orange fish eggs, are among the delights for Japanese-oriented diners. If one wishes to eat local food, luaus offer pig wrapped in taro leaves and cooked for a day in the ground, or huli-huli chicken rotating on the spit. Some choose a hukilau, with fish falling from net to fire. Chinese dim sum and cake noodles, Thai curries, Korean bibimbap with kimchi or fiery BBQ, and Vietnamese spring rolls are among the other delicacies that await those ravenous after a day in the sun. While much of the noodle and dumpling dishes mildly entice, those spicier dishes nearly assault the nose. The strong smell of pungent chili peppers may sting nose and eyes, even making one’s eyes water. With this varied choice of dining selections, none leave hungry.
The chain of beautiful Hawai’ian Islands offers a diverse escape that suits any taste. Populous O’ahu has cosmopolitan night life, breath-taking bays, and stately I’olani Palace where the last monarch, beloved Queen Lili’uokalani, served out house arrest at the hands of the United States territorial governour. From the mauka (windward) side, one can see the silhouette of tiny Moloka’i, renown for Father Damien and his self-sacrifice to help rejected lepers. Agricultural concerns dominate in Lana’i, an island devoted exclusively to raising pineapples. The complex Island of Hawai’i, commonly called the “Big Island,” boasts rare black and green sand beaches, vast cattle ranches, savory coffee and macadamia nut plantations, hieroglyphic-like ancient petroglyphs, skiable snow year-round, and one of the world’s few active volcanoes. The garden isle, Mau’i, offers stunning, even blinding, sunrises at the Hale’akula caldera, great snorkeling and diving in waters featuring multi-coloured fish such as the state’s own long-named humuhumunukunukuapua’a, and a shark or two waiting for the unwary. Aspiring newlyweds often head for the lush jungle-scape of Kau’i, one of the wettest places on earth, to exchange their nuptial vows on colourful flower-bedecked boats amid graceful hula dancers.
Another compelling draw for those adventurous journeyers considering Hawai’i is constant outdoor activities. In a temperate, tropical state where the temperature has never fallen below a warm 12 degrees Celsius, one can hike, swim, or engage in almost every sport any day of the year. Several famous annual spectator sporting events occur in Hawai’i, including the challenging Iron Man triathlon and the popular Aloha and Pro football bowl games. It rarely gets too hot or too cold to be outdoors, and nearly every afternoon a quick shower ensures appearance of the eight-hued rainbow that gives this state its nickname. Lucky travelers may see double rainbows as they delight in the afternoon freshness. Hawai’i consists of islands borne from volcanic bursts which give it fertile soil. This makes every island perfect for growing flowers, specialized foods, and other tropical flora and fauna. Indeed, this state contains more endangered species than any other in the United States, which give visitors dramatic vistas and views not found anywhere else. Combine a remote, lush setting with serene beaches, crystal water, and each island’s unreplaceable vibe—from cosmopolitan O’ahu to rural Lana’i, and it is no wonder throngs of individuals and groups head for Hawai’i annually. For transients and residents alike, Hawai’i lives up to its reputation as No Ka ‘Oi—the best.
