#Luau Dinner Honolulu

[meleluau]

Website : https://www.meleluau.com

Address : 91-1780 Midway St #1, Kapolei, HI 96707

Phone : [phone]

Mele Luau is Oahu's newest luau, performing at Coral Crater Adventure Park in Kapolei, Oahu Hawaii! Come experience Hawaii's newest and most exciting Luau production, Mele Luau. We are a luau near Ko Olina and a short Rountrip Waikiki Shuttle ride to the major hotels in Waikiki Beach and Honolulu.

#Polynesian Luau Oahu #Best Luau in Waikiki 2022 #Honolulu Luau Tickets #Last Minute Luau Tickets Oahu #Luau Dinner Honolulu #hula show waikiki

[somedaysstaygoldforever]

Have you ever had a bucket list of places you would love to travel to, but never thought you'd have the chance? That was me right before my trip to Hawai'i. When I think about my last vacation I couldn't be more appreciative or thankful for the experience I had. Let's get into it!

November 5th my group of twelve all boarded into a few cabs and headed to Pearson Airport. We were flying from Toronto to Honolulu and heading to Disney's Aulani in Oahu. 

The first thing I did once we were settled in our room was head out to Costco (you thought I’d say the beach didn't you?). Nope. Costco. I had never been to an American Costco before but always heard about how great they were! Spoiler alert, when you go to Costco on an island, it’s really not cheaper than at home. (Except for the bottle of 600 tablet Benadryl for $6.99 and the vast alcohol selection).

BUT, I’m getting off-topic here. Once I got back from Costco I headed to my first booked activity - Family Fun Animation. We learned how to draw Pua from Moana (Did you know Moana is the first Disney movie to be dubbed in the Hawaiian language? Auli'i Cravalho who does the voice of Moana also voiced the Hawaiian dub!)

After being awake almost a full 24 hours I couldn’t wait for my head to hit the pillow.

Once the sun decided to rise the next day, I was on my way to the beach. Looking out to the line the sky meets the sea you could see some of the Naval ships patrolling the waters and a brief look into the sky would reveal Army jets flying overhead. It was only then that I remembered we were in a US State with a Naval Base nearby. As a bit of a history buff, I appreciated the chance to see the vessels in real life, even if my ears didn’t appreciate the sound of the jets. 

I treated myself to a Stitch Dole Whip and spent by day by the water while the rest of the group went out and explored the Island.

Day Three was a water/pool day and a few laps on the Lazy River. I enjoyed a Mickey Shaved Ice and even paid extra for the Mickey Ears. It was delicious.

This was also the day I discovered the delicious mozzarella sticks! I explored the resort and learned a lot about the history of the Island. We got to experience a real Ukulele lesson from an Island local and it was an experience I’ll never forget!

Did you know Maui is a huge part of Hawaiian Culture? His story is told everywhere throughout the Island. 

Thursday marked the halfway point through our week, but was the day I was looking forward to most. That evening we were going to a real Disney Hawaiian Luau!

The day was wonderful and I made it my mission to meet as many Disney characters as possible. Goofy, Minnie, Stitch, Mickey, Chip and Dale and Moana were on the list for the day. Moana asked if Toronto was like Elsa cold and I laughed at the comparison - yes Moana, yes it is. 

Yes, I am 38 years old. Yes, I met the characters alone. No, I did not regret it at all! What I did regret was my inability to not yell “ITS MICKEY” out loud. 

The Luau was incredible. We were able to get Hawaiian “tattoos”, try Tarro, and get lei’d before the show began. There was a full Hawaiian buffet dinner with Hawaiian drinks and a Luau. The food was delicious and I even ventured away from my normal picky eater menu items. We experienced an amazing performance and storytelling all in the styling of Disney. 

I legitimately sat at the table, felt the breeze, heard the sounds, tasted the food, and just took in the full Hawaiian experience.

On the list for the next day were, Daisy and Donald Duck, Angel, Pluto, and Max (and yes I asked him about the “Leaning Tower of cheeza”).

I also was so looking forward to seeing the sunset that evening… I don’t know about you, but there’s something about seeing the sunset over the horizon and all the colours dancing in the sky that makes me so happy. I took 100+ pictures of the view and helped myself to a pizza with Hawaiian Pineapple on it. This is the ONLY time pineapple is acceptable on pizza by the way.

My final full day on the island was filled with more sand, sun and water… plus a few more Dole Whips and Shaved Ice. It was also the day I realized my sunburn was way worse than I originally thought.

A beautiful sunset and poolside show tied the day, and the week together nicely. With that, I prepared myself for the long haul home.

I thought my fun vacation was over until we had our ten-hour layover in Vancouver. While the rest of the group rested, I explored the airport a little. I was looking for directions when I heard a familiar voice behind me - it was KallMeKris! (click her name if you're not sure who she is!) We had an awesome conversation and I was elated. I couldn’t believe my luck. 

Once we boarded our flight the reality set in that I was going home. But I was going home to my dog, my animals, and my bed and I was so grateful that. 

Have you ever gotten to travel somewhere you never thought you’d see? Where? Let me know in the comments!

#Youtube #hawaii #aulani #kallmekris #wanderlust #disney

[hollywoodfamerp]

ALOHA, FAMERS!

Pack your bags because on the morning of Friday May 27th to the evening of Monday May 30th, Hollywood Fame is going to be in paradise on the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii. Please remember, this is a mandatory trip - meaning all celebrities (regardless of hiatus or RA status) must be in attendance. Sometimes called “The Gathering Place,” Oahu certainly lives up to its name. The third largest Hawaiian island is home to the majority of Hawaii’s diverse population, a fusion of East and West cultures rooted in the values and traditions of the Native Hawaiian people. Oahu is a U.S. island in the Central Pacific, part of the Hawaiian island chain and home to the state capital, Honolulu. Highlights of the city include historic Chinatown and the Punchbowl, a crater-turned-cemetery. Waikiki is an iconic beach, dining and nightlife area.

All celebrities will be staying at the luxurious ESPACIO Luxury Resort or otherwise known as ‘the Jewel of Waikiki.’ There are nine luxury suites available, each occupying an entire floor and featuring Italian marble, Moroccan metalwork, and amenities curated to your specific tastes. These amenities include a rooftop infinity swimming pool, complimentary in-suite shopping by Neiman Marcus, and gourmet rooftop barbecue station. More information for the hotel will come on the roommates post!

There will be NO kids on this trip so parents, enjoy your weekend kid FREE. Roommates will be posted on May 25th after the activity check to assure that the list will be most up to date. Some activity suggestions are located under the cut of this post! Please note these are some activities that your celeb can do throughout the days but the only mandatory event is the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau Buffet Dinner on Sunday May 29th. You can tag all your Hawaii posts with ‘hfrphawaii’. We hope that your weekend is relaxing and as tranquil as the islands are!

Mahalo iā ʻoe, Famers!

SUGGESTED ACTIVITIES: 

Molokini and Turtle Town Snorkel Tour: Snorkel in the extinct volcanic crater of Molokini on a thrilling adventure in Maui. Continue to Turtle Town to swim with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles.

Shark Cage Dive on the North Shore: Enter the shark cage and get close to the magnificent sharks on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. Alternatively, watch the sharks from the boat and discover the beauty of the sea life.

Waterfall & Rainforest Hiking Tour: Discover Maui’s natural beauty on a guided hiking trip to some of the island's most impressive waterfalls. Enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterfalls and optional hotel transfers at your disposal.

Volcano National Park Tour: Join a full-day nature tour offering an in-depth look at Hawaii. Discover diverse landscapes as you explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Waipio Valley waterfalls, and Punalu’u Black Sand Beach.

Oahu Helicopter Tour with Doors On or Off: Soar above Hawaii's iconic attractions on a helicopter tour from Honolulu. Admire the views over Oahu with your choice of doors on or off.

Afternoon Turtle Town Snorkel Cruise: Cruise to Lahaina Turtle, considered one of the best snorkel spots in Maui. Dive into the clear waters to see Green Sea Turtles, Nenue, Goatfish, Octopus, Black Durgeon, Frogfish, and Parrotfish.

(MANDATORY) Voyagers of the Pacific Luau with Buffet: Transport yourself to ancient Polynesia and experience Hawaiian culture in an enchanting oceanfront setting on Kailua Bay. Delight in an island-inspired buffet complete with a captivating luau show and thrilling Samoan fire-knife dancing.

#hollywoodfameevent #hfrphawaii

[go2goio]

[funthingstodoinhawaii]

Fun Things to Do When Visiting Hawaii

Are you interested in visiting Hawaii and looking for some exciting things to do? There are many great options from Oahu Island tours to explore and enjoy. From sightseeing to off-the-beaten-path activities, there are plenty of fun activities for all ages and any budget. Read on to discover some of the top activities on the islands.

 Adventure & Sightseeing Tours

One of the best ways to explore Hawaii is by taking a tour. Oahu Island offers something for everyone, from sightseeing and touring popular attractions to more adventurous activities.

Enjoy an aerial tour of the island in a helicopter, or take a jeep to explore some of the wilder parts of the island. If you'd like to discover the rich history of Hawaii, many guided historical walking tours are available.

 Beaches & Water Activities

No trip to Hawaii would be complete without a day at the beach. There are plenty of scenic beaches to enjoy on the islands, from breathtakingly beautiful Waikiki Beach in Honolulu to the wilder beaches at Ka'ena Point State Park.

Oahu has some of the best surfing spots in the world, and kayaking is also popular in the area. For a different beach experience, check out the tide pools and coral reefs for snorkeling or scuba diving.

 Hiking & Outdoor Activities

For a unique way to explore the island, take advantage of the many great hiking and outdoor activities available. You can trek up to the top of Diamond Head to enjoy stunning views of the ocean and city below, or go on a guided hike to Koko Crater.

Moreover, birdwatchers can take a birding tour, and those seeking a more relaxed experience can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the lush rainforest at Kailua.

 Experience the Hawaiian Culture

Hawaii is home to a rich and vibrant culture, with some great ways to experience it up close. Take a guided tour of the Polynesian Cultural Center or spend an afternoon learning stone carving or batik dyeing techniques.

You may also visit a local crafts market to find unique souvenirs or stop by a luau to enjoy a traditional dinner, Polynesian entertainment, and hula dancing.

 Food & Shopping

Wherever you go in Hawaii, you'll find a vibrant food scene. From mouth-watering food trucks serving up some of the best local dishes to high-end restaurants with stunning ocean views, there's something for everyone.

Furthermore, shopping is also a must in Hawaii, and you'll find plenty of unique gift shops and souvenir stores in Honolulu, as well as world-famous surf and streetwear stores.

 Take Away

Oahu Island offers an incredible range of activities to keep everyone entertained. From outdoor activities and cultural experiences to relaxing on the beach and exploring the local food scene, there's something for all tastes and budgets.

Start planning your perfect Hawaii excursions today as you check out Go Tours Hawaii. We are a local Hawaii tour operator that specializes in Oahu tours. Visit their website at www.gotourshawaii.com for more information about us, what we do, and the tours we offer. https://gotourshawaii.com/

#Oahu Island tours #Hawaii excursions

[alixcitement]

Goodbye beach air, palm trees and sunshine, Hello beach air, palm trees and slight cloudy weather!.. 4 and a half days later I have finally returned from my vaca in Hawaii! (Waikiki to be more precise)

I didn't bring souvenirs for any of you, BUT I do have a tale about the fun little adventures me and the family did while we were there.

LET'S LUAU!

Day 1

It was the dead of night when we arrived so all we did was unpack our things and ordered in some food🥡I had to share a bed with my middle sister and I gotta warn ya, she's a kicker... But still got a good nights rest nonetheless. The real vacation didn't start until early in the morning.

Day 2

Early in the morning we went out for breakfast at this little café a few blocks away from our hotel. They had sooo many pancake options that it hard to pick which one. So I just had your typical blueberry pancakes🥞(Can never go wrong with those P; ) Then we went sight seeing around the city we were staying at, and I thought our town a lotta palm trees🌴My feet were burning so I looked around the shops and found these 150$ sandals!👡👡I bought them anyway cause they were cute as Hell! >B0 We took a break from shopping I had the best damn shaved ice my taste buds have ever tasted!! It was the Taiwanese kind, the obviously superior kind of shaved ice🍨It was getting dark so we took a bus all the way in the mountains for a luau. We bought a few drinks and souvenirs before the show started. Apart from some TV shows that had luaus in them I never really seen a real one and it was 1000 times better then what television can provide! Anything to do with juggling fire will always gram my attention🔥Of course you can't have a show without dinner. It was a nice spread of traditional Hawaiian foods, though I'm not sure if store bought vanilla cake counts.. It all goes down one hole anyway🍰

Day 3

We've rented a car for a whole day, so the first thing we did was drove to a very popular bakery that sold these pastries called malasadas. (It's like a doughnut, but an Alolan variant🍩) Good thing we got there early cause the line for these things was about to get long, like wrapped around the whole street long!.. And just like any other doughnut they were AWESOME! Just so we can enjoy more peace and quite we drove to the countryside of Honolulu and had a small picnic at the beach. It was a every tropical place and there were chickens everywhere! Good thing we didn't brought any chicken sandwiches with us haha!🐔 Just across the street there was this trail that led all the way to a waterfall and we walked alllllll the way over there and had to walk alllllll the way back... (That's one way to burn off lunch pfft) The water fall was a bit tourist trapy, but it was a nice hike around the forest~ Walking back was the best part cause we found this trail that was both shady and had 0 people~!🌲🌳Just before it would close we went to the Dole factory for pineapple ice cream. We didn't get to do a lot there, but at least we bought a few pineappley things🍍It was getting late and we were still hungry so we drove back to the city and looked for a place to eat at. We settled for this one restaurant you need to use an elevator to get to. It was one of those restaurants where the chef does a few tricks with your food right in front of you. We had shrimp, lobster tails, and of course BEEF! Almost burned my face off, but it was worth the meat!🥩

Day 4

Before it would get crowded we headed to the beach in our city and went surfing!🌊I may not know a lot of surfing tricks, but I sat on that surf board like a pro! <BD As soon as I dried off on my beach towel I walked all the way to the nearest doughnut place and bought a bunch of fancy lookin' donuts for me and the family, but mostly for me. Got myself a passionfruit one to feel tropical. They were warm and crunchy and I wanted another one!🍩🍩Afterwards I did some shopping around the city until we took a break for some street pizza and then shopped some more🍕Later we booked a boat ride around the island just so we can take a few pics and enjoy the scenery .....Only to find out that we booked a party cruise instead... Luckily for me and my sisters we're natural born party goers! ...Not so much our parents though... We at least got a nice view of Waikiki, even with music ponding our eardrums🎶If you wanna enjoy a good boat ride I suggest going to the front of the boat since that's where most of the fun is, which me and my sisters spent a lot of our time at. It's interesting having a relaxing time on the front boat with the wind in your face while a party was going down right behind you. BP Even the sea life joined in on the fun as on the way back a bunch of these dolphins were racing our boat from all around! Who knew dolphins loved hip hop~🐬All that partying sure worked up an appetite and I've been craving sushi since we first got here. We had expensive sushi cause we wanted to eat like kings!👑(and cause it was the only place in walking distance..) Any sushi that doesn't need soy sauce to taste better is good in my book~🍣

Day 5 (The Season Finally!)

We only had a few hours left until we had to leave so we packed up everything in advanced and squeezed as much time as we had lift in the city. I did my own thing at the time, and to me a time eating food is a time well spent! ;U I went to the same doughnut place that I went to yesterday and got the tangerine flavor instead, and it was even better then the last one!!!🍩🍩🍩And just before the line got any longer I went to this little store that sold homemade spam musubis and bento boxes. I got an egg, eel musubi and a tempura shrimp roll, and they were a nice treat to snack on while walking to the beach🍙I took a few pics and collected some seashells by the seashore until it was almost time to leave🐚Since I still had a bit more time to kill I quickly bolted to the nearest café and bought a watermelon gelato on the way back to the hotel🍧(Gotta enjoy as much time as you have left on vaca ya know~) I made it back just as we were about to head to the airport. I got to take one last good look of the whole island as soon as the plane reached to skies✌️

Epilogue

All in all this trip was definitely a stoke and a half! Got to do a lot of new things with the family, like fly all the way to the stratosphere on a dinky old plane twice hehe... .^.

I wanna pick the next vacation this time!🌸

#ali blogs #ali #hawaii #waikiki #alixcitement #ali art #art

[littleredroseonthevalley]

Hawaiian Staycation

Summary: Bryce surprises his overworked girlfriend with a living room luau.

Rating: T - Suitable for teens, 13 years and older, with some violence, minor coarse language, and minor suggestive adult themes.

Words: 1000

Notes: Feelin’ fluffy, might delete later. Jk.

Looking around the tiny living room of his apartment, Bryce had to congratulate himself. It looked fantastic.

He knew Casey Valentine, his girlfriend, wanted to go out on vacation, preferably somewhere sunny to soak up on the sorely-missed heat in Boston, and get her head clear of hospital thoughts, but with the way they were working right now, he was not too sure that it could happen. Money was very tight and their schedules were packed to the brim with patients, with the budget cuts at Edenbrook and the increased demands.

Now, Bryce had his flaws, like everybody did, but there were three things he took pride in: his jokes always landed, his hair was always on point, and he was a very loving boyfriend.

So, being the dedicated and attentive boyfriend he was, as he was back home for his day off, he set a plan in motion for the coming weekend, while Casey was out, working hard at the Diagnostics Team.

First, he looked around the apartment, and then he had taken some time out to brainstorm what he could make it happen in the following few days.

Breakfast in bed would be cool, for one, as it would serve to emulate the pampering of those large continental buffets they put out on hotels, but he could not cook very well, and that seemed a bit too common, like a Mother’s Day obligatory celebration. Perhaps he could take Casey to a pool? No, those were crowded in weekends, and he wanted to be alone with her. How about lunch? Or dinner, for that matter?

Eventually, Keiki took pity on his poor soul and came up with the concept. Hawaiian Staycation. He had to admit, it sounded cool. She drew up the decorations, while he provided funds and put his experience as a tourist-trap bartender from high school to good use.

With his sister in toll, he got on to work. Going out and buying a small plastic pool, putting it on the living room floor, cleaning it out thoroughly and filling it with water and bathtub toys, getting the lawn chairs set out around it, putting up some lights and posters depicting coconut groves and wearing a painfully stereotypical flowery shirt and shorts, with a handmade, plastic bag lei around his neck. He had even rented out a machine and meticulously polished all the hardwood floors first, to avoid the water stains from the pool and to leave a nice, tropical smell through the hallway.

With everything perfectly set up, he sent Keiki off to the mall with 150 dollars and instructions to crash at Casey’s penthouse.

The girl laughed at his frazzled appearance and waved off with a, “Don’t do anything I wouldn’t!”

To which he responded, “We’ll do plenty of stuff you shouldn’t even think about!”

The entire weekend was finally planned to absolute perfection and he just needed Casey to arrive and to be free. Fortunately, he had the forethought of checking her schedule at the nurses’ station and, if it was anything to go by, she would be coming over shortly.

Soon enough, the doorbell rung through his apartment. While Casey climbed up the stairs, Bryce turned up the music, put on his flamingo sunglasses and picked the drinks up.

"Bryce Lahela!" She gasped when she opened up the door and looked around to see how the place was set up. Dinner, ham and pineapples, was served on the table concealed by banana leaves, the fairy lights giving a strange aura to the room, fake coconut trees all around and the soft sound of a Beach Boys music coming from the TV set.

“Aloha!” He greets, all smiles. He placed a lei around her neck, put on a straw hat and offered her a pineapple drink. “Welcome to your Hawaiian luau!”

She smiled and laughed at his display. “What are you doing, honey? You look like a Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort cast member.”

“I worked in the service industry, I can make fun of it every once in a while, can’t I?” The man smirked. “Do you like your drink? It is my specialty!”

She took the hint and sipped the liquid served inside a coconut and with an obnoxious paper umbrella and a crazy straw. “This is really good! What is it?”

“Pirate Coco-Loco Virgin Coconut Grove.” He responded, with a lopsided grin. “I worked at a kids’ area bar, at a resort in Honolulu.”

“Not that I don’t appreciate being greeted home with a Pirate Coco-Loco Virgin Coconut Grove and a Beach Boys song playing on the radio, but Bry, what came up to you to do this tonight?”

“Er, you see, you’ve been so overworked lately, and with the whole thing of Diagnostics Team and no raises, I thought you wouldn’t be able to take a vacation this year. So, Keiki and I came up with this.” He responds shyly, hands behind his head as he scratched his neck. “Did you like it?”

Casey drops her coconut drink, pulls him down by the lapels of his tacky flower shirt and kisses him hard on the lips until she is breathless.

"Thank you." She whispered against his lips, choking up on the words, and Bryce knew he did something good, pulling her close against his chest.

“Now, come on!” He grabbed his girlfriend by the shoulders. “Change out of your sensible doctor clothes and put on a bikini! We’re having a pool party!”

She shook her head, smiling at his antics. “I don’t have a bikini here.”

“Keiki bought you one at the mall this morning, and she wouldn’t let me see.” The man pouted.

The young doctor twirled her hair and smirked at her boyfriend. “I’m sure you must be very curious about it.”

He nodded eagerly. “Yes, yes I am.”

“Well, perhaps then I should let you help take it off tonight, shouldn’t I?” She tapped her index finger on his slack jaw and laughed on her way to change.

#open heart #bryce lahela

[stevebell59]

Big Island of Hawaii Jan 2022

Since I had already been to the island of Oahu (Honolulu), we chose the Big Island for Ann’s first trip to Hawaii.

The volcanoes make the island a geographical oddity. Eleven of the twelve global climates are represented there - weather is always a’ changing but the resort coast is almost always perfect.

Southwest Airlines recently added Hawaii to list of destinations. The price of ticket from the US central time zone to the Honolulu zone (HST: -4 hours) was less than half the price I paid about eight years ago on American.

Prices in and around the Kona/Kohala side of the island are very high for most everything except, surprisingly, alcohol. Groceries: bacon $14/lb; bread $5; eggs $5; cheese $8 and up/lb. Gas: $4.75 (when it was $3 in Houston).

After traveling all day and checking in to the Hilton Grand Vacation Bay Club, we were tired and hungry. There are no fast food places or delivery services. We freshened up, jumped on the shuttle and headed for Kings Shops mall for a bite and a few drinks. Restaurants near the resorts are pricey, as expected. We loved the vibe and bar service at A-Bay’s, so we returned three more times during our week in paradise. It’s a favorite of local restaurant workers so we met several who shared their stories about living in Hawaii. Love ‘em, hate ‘em!

The Legends of Hawaii luau experience at the Hilton was very nice. Sunset, stage show, and great table service was on the menu. Open bar (beer, wine, Mai-Tai, Blue Hawaiian), chips/poke appetizer, salad, a buffet dinner and dessert filled is up royally.

Day 2 ended with a gorgeous sunset catamaran trip out of A-Bay that lasted about ninety minutes. The fun crew of three kept pouring drinks and served us a bowl of teriyaki chicken and rice.

We booked a circle bus tour of the island for Day 3. A miked up driver took twelve of us to several stops in a Sprinter van. Christopher was extremely knowledgeable about island history and geology. He has lived and worked here his whole life. His pronunciation of the Hawaiian words and places was totally believable, but you can’t prove it by me. He waited on us hand and foot when we stopped for breakfast at Greenline Coffee Farm, the southernmost bakery in the US for donuts and at the Volcano Winery for lunch. There were three stops in Volcanoes National Park before heading toward Hilo. We took a route through the rain forest waterfalls, mountain vistas and into the sunset near the town of Waimea as we headed home.

The next day was spent at the pool and grilling a steak on the gas pit nearby. We had met a jeweler at the luau that provided delivery service of a Peridot (state gem of Hawaii/August birthstone) ring for Ann. Kai is back in the family jewelry business with his mother and his wife - great guy.

Over the course of our ramblings around the resort area, we saw a shaggy looking guy in a green bandanna five times, once at the bar. He wasn’t carrying a bunch of belongings and wasn’t panhandling. I asked a bus driver about him. He said he is definitely homeless and was probably sent here by a religious ministry in California. That comment made me think back to my seeing people “backpacking” along the highway from the Kona airport. The bus driver explained that some religious groups send their problems to Hawaii so they don’t have to deal with them long term. Sad.

Time for the beach! We had to take the shuttle ten minutes and then cut through the Marriott for public access. (All beaches in Hawaii are open to the public) The sand is a mix of black and light brown graduals with lots of golf ball-sized lava rocks around. After pictures of driftwood on this beautiful bay, we had lunch on the beach at the Lava Lava Beach Club.

Just as we were posting pics of the beach and our food, Southwest Airlines sent me a message: “Tomorrow’s flight home has been postponed 24 hours. We hope this isn’t an inconvenience.” Another day in paradise? I guess we can manage it! By luck we were able to spend an additional night in our suite at the Bay Club.

This trip ranks pretty high up there on the “trip of a lifetime” list. If you ever have a chance to go to Hawaii, I recommend the Big Island for its diversity of scenery and variety of destinations. Mahalo!

[russellandpaulette]

Best part of living in Hawaii is all of the amazing Luau’s 💃🏽 Beautiful sunsets 🌅 you get to enjoy ☺️ and the 🔥 dancers 🕺🏼 that entertain you while you enjoy your family dinner 🍽 #hawaiilifestyle #hawaiilove #hawaiilife🌺 #ohanamahaalo #paradise🌴 #alohaland (at Honolulu, Hawaii) https://www.instagram.com/p/CXAne5rrWzR/?utm_medium=tumblr

#hawaiilifestyle #hawaiilove #hawaiilife🌺 #ohanamahaalo #paradise🌴 #alohaland

[toaluauthebestluauinhawa-blog]

If you are planning a vacation in Hawaii, then visit Toa Luau at Waimea Valley to experience the most authentic Hawaiian Luau on the Northshore of Oahu. Our packages include cultural activities, dinner, a Polynesian show and admission to Waimea Valley cultural site, botanical garden, Waimea Falls and more. To enjoy the best luau in Honolulu, please visit us at https://www.toaluau.com/

[diningcondanielle]

@hawaiian_bros is officially in my weeknight rotation! Love the fusion of flavors that they offer. I got a plate with huli huli (teriyaki) chicken and Honolulu (garlic/sesame) chicken with white rice, macaroni salad, and pineapple and it was delicious! My boyfriend tried the luau pork which was also a winner. Huge portions, fresh and delicious food, and super affordable- the perfect weeknight post-workout dinner! 🍍🍗🍚 . . . #hawaiianfood #teriyaki #rice #pineapple #chicken #luau #pork #macaroni #noodles #fusion #fusionfood #chicago #chicagofood #chicagofoodie #foodstagram #coolfoodies #chicagoeats #chicagofoodporn #foodie #foodporn #weeknightdinner #asianfusion #teriyakichicken #alwayshungry #foodiesofinstagram #feedfeed (at Hawaiian Bros - Chicago, Sedgwick St.) https://www.instagram.com/p/CK4EdJ2hoWM/?igshid=u01vszl1a7d7

#hawaiianfood #teriyaki #rice #pineapple #chicken #luau #pork #macaroni #noodles #fusion #fusionfood #chicago #chicagofood #chicagofoodie #foodstagram #coolfoodies #chicagoeats #chicagofoodporn #foodie #foodporn #weeknightdinner #asianfusion #teriyakichicken #alwayshungry #foodiesofinstagram #feedfeed

[preranajshah]

Hawaii is not a state of mind, but a state of grace.

Paul Theroux

Yes I know it is a crazy idea to do Hawaii in just 3 days but trust me you won’t regret it. We were flying from Seattle and had to take a stopover in Hawaii before flying to Australia. And we are glad we got out of the airport, and enjoyed this paradise for the little time we had.

Day 1

We landed in the afternoon at the Honolulu Airport. It is the most open airport with least security I have ever visited. The airport has an open chinese themed garden inside its building and it is beautiful. The city is only half an hour from the airport so Uber/Lyft is reasonable. We stayed in Waikiki Hotel La Croix to reduce travelling time. After freshening up, we headed to the night markets near the Hilton Hotel only after seeing the most beautiful sunset from the Waikiki beach. The market has quite a few restaurants, shops, and live music. This is the place to be at night in Waikiki. During the day, this area is bustling with people sunbathing, learning to swim in the Lagoons, surfing or just chilling at the beach. The famous Hawaiian Cookies co has a store here and gives free tasters, what more do we need. There are a lot of pearl shops here, a lot. Do your research beforehand and don’t get mugged. Being vegetarian is not that easy in Hawaii so we stuck to Subway veggie patties.

Sunset at Waikiki beach

Night market near Hilton Village

Day 2

Our aim and goal was to do snorkelling in Hawaii and what better location than Hanauma Bay. It is a reef that was created after a volcanic activity several years ago. So the environment is the best for corals and fishes to flourish. The entry is only $7.50 per person from 7:30 am to 5 pm. You can find more details about parking, daily updates etc here. There is a shop to hire snorkeling glasses and fins. But we got ours from Snorkel Bob as we needed prescription glasses and they are cheaper than the one at the park.  There are also lockers with unlimited access so you can remove anything any time. Also reef safe sunscreen as not all sunscreens off the shelf are good for marine life. We had not done snorkeling before ever so this was our first time and not ot mention without a guide/tutor. And trust me we enjoyed a lot. The videos and pictures will only help your imagination. Only thing to remember to take food and water as it is expensive to buy at the park and there is only one restaurant. Snorkeling is a tiring activity so that evening we relaxed taking a stroll around the city and supermarkets to buy essentials.

Day 3

The morning started with a walk to the waikiki beach. A little crowded but a lot strong current. Compared to Hanauma bay, the waves were really fast. So we took a stroll to the nearby luxury stores. There is a lot of shopping options for all age groups and in all price ranges. In the afternoon, we left for the Luau ceremony in Paradise Cove. It is traditional Hawaiian dinner ceremony which has been commercialised for tourists with dance performances and traditional activities of Hawaiian culture. It is a one time must experience if you are visiting first time. And yes they do serve vegetarian food. The best part was the sunset. It was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen in my life. The sky had turned orange, and the sun was going down at the end of the sea. Almost felt like I could see where the earth ends or atleast curves. The horizon was blue as the sea took it waves, the orange sun was going down and the green land in between was where I stood with the love of my life. This was the end of our Hawaii trip but the memories are still in front of me.

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To read more about our travels, do check here. Happy Travelling!!

  3 days in Hawaii Hawaii is not a state of mind, but a state of grace. Paul Theroux

#3daysinhawaii #Hawaii #nature #oahu #thingstodoinhonolulu #travel #USA

[cooltomwhelanposts-blog]

December being a holiday season with Christmas and New Year at the door step, it is time for you to decide your holiday destination and pack your bags. Be it a street party that you are looking for or a peaceful celebration with a fancy dinner; USA has it all.

Following are the seven places that you should look forward go to this Christmas and New Year.

Honolulu, Hawaii

Whether you want an urban style celebration like Waikiki or the tropical style of Oahu such as north shore, you will find it all in Honolulu. One thing unique to this place is the traditional luau such as the Waikiki Starlight Luau at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Go to Ala Moana Boulevard at the Aloha market Place, you will be able to take part in the New Year’s Eve part known as the “Party of the Year”. Sway to the tunes of live music and break some leg to the thundering music of DJ. Food trucks serve hot and cold local delicacies which you can savor and satiate your hunger pangs with. After this at midnight you can see some amazing fireworks at display. If you wish to have a different view of the fireworks show, you can hop aboard Dolphin Star or Star of Honolulu.

Los Angeles, California

One of the biggest reasons to apply for US tourist visa this year should be to enjoy festivities in Los Angeles. The City of Angels sure knows how to celebrate the spirit of Christmas and it definitely knows how to party hard when it comes to welcoming the New Year. The biggest celebration for New Year happens at the Grand Park downtown with live music on many stages and food trucks that serve roadside food with a twist. Being a family event, it is alcohol-free, yet many bars nearby host New Year parties. The “Prohibition” is another themed event with deejays, live music, open bar and burlesque dancers. This roaring 20s theme is a unique experience you’ll enjoy to the core. If you are thirsty for some unique events along the Long beach hop on aboard Queen Mary which has live music, international delicacies, unique bars and stunning fireworks at display.

Walt Disney, Florida

Considered one of the busiest places on earth during Christmas and New Year’s Eve, Walt Disney brings out the child in you. To make celebrations interesting most of the Walt Disney parties are food based with meals at Monsieur Paul and watch some mouth watering dishes at California Grill while watching fireworks. Live Band, drinks, dance, drinks at Atlantic Dance Hall are some of the few attractions. If you buy your own VIP ticket you can have access to your own bar tender and a special dessert bar. Being one of the most crowded places on earth, it is imperative that you plan your activities well in advance.

New York

With more than 1, 00,000 places to celebrate Christmas and ring in the New Year, you will be spoil for choices in New York. One of the most famous New Year’s Eve destinations is the Times Square, the iconic public square. Either purchase passes for the official party at Times Square or goes past it to the premium open bars. Or for a view that overlooks the Hudson, go to the STK Rooftop and enjoy the live music and dance to the ground shaking music of the in-house DJ. Order some soul satisfying food with the menu spruced up especially for Christmas and New Year. Any place you choose to be in New York, we can say this much that it will be a rocking day for you.

[Also Read : New York Museums]

Las Vegas, Nevada

The city of entertainment, Las Vegas knows how to celebrate Christmas and New Year in style. Be it over-the-top parties or lavish light shows or huge Christmas Tree, Las Vegas has it all. When you are in the sin city you will be spoilt for choices to do activities. Head to the Bellagio conservatory and botanical gardens which is completely converted to a Christmas wonderland. With stockings and snow globes filled with presents, you will be awestruck. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the sight of beautifully decorated and lit Christmas Tree. And guess what it’s free? Head to the ice rink at The Cosmopolitan or just watch the Bellagio fountains as they dance with special lights and music. And do not miss the countdown to new year where crowds gather and cheer in the New Year.

New Orleans, Louisiana

One of the best party destinations through-out the year, New Orleans treats you with friendly locals, bars that open till late in the night and some hot dining options. People walking down the road with adult beverages are a common sight here and make an inviting climate for tourists. To enjoy new year in a unique way go to the Jackson Square where New Year is celebrated in historic French style with entertainers playing band and watching stunning fireworks. You can continue partying at clubs and bars at the Bourbon Street in the heart of the city. If you want to go for cruise, go aboard the Steamboat Natchez or Creole Queen and watch spectacular fireworks while enjoying music, dance, and mouth-watering dining options.

Atlanta, Georgia

If you want to enjoy Christmas and New Year New York Style but want to avoid crowd, the head to Atlanta. The peach drop ball of Atlanta is the same as Times Square ball of New York but just in a smaller scale. Head to the place above Underground Atlanta and enjoy local food and drinks where deejays and entertainers rock your mood. There are also live shows and bands by some big names of the industry. With free admission you can enjoy the festival mood and yet be light on your pocket. The chick- fill-a –peach bowl and many other planned activities you never run short of options to celebrate the festive mood in Atlanta. And don’t miss the famous fireworks next to Stone Mountain to the eats of Atlanta.

Conclusion

USA is one of the best places to visit across the world for its sheer magnificence, amazing weather, warm people, and the fact that it is a destination of every happening activity. So, if you’re starting your journey of wanderlust, start it from USA- a perfect destination for all kinds of travelers.

The post Amazing Best Places to visit in USA During The Magnificent Christmas & New Year Eve appeared first on USA Travel Blog.

[paralleljulieverse]

When Julie Andrews arrived in Honolulu in June 1965 for the start of location shooting on Hawaii she stepped off the plane as a newly minted member of the global superstar A-list. In the space of a few short months, she had headlined two of the biggest film hits in history, Mary Poppins and The Sound of Music, and also picked up an Academy Award for Best Actress. All of a sudden, she was the Hollywood It-Girl and everyone wanted a piece of her. “So-called ‘overnight sensations’ power in on Hollywood periodically,” declared one press report of the time, but “the town has seen nothing to equal the impact made by this wholesome, jolly, apple-cheeked bundle from Britain” (Heffernan, 13). 

The measure of Julie’s meteoric film stardom had been made starkly apparent at the outset of Hawaii’s production when, in early May, she journeyed to Sturbridge Village, Massachusetts to shoot externals for the film’s New England scenes. Even though the crew was only on site a matter of days, word got out that Julie was in town and hordes of curious onlookers descended. On what one reporter described as “the most crowded movie set in years,” “men, women, children, a few dogs and a flock of sheep” came to ogle, gawk and be entertained (Crosby, 8).  “[H]undreds of inquisitive schoolchildren” arrived “eager to demonstrate their fondness for Miss Andrews by serenading her with songs from ‘Mary Poppins’“ and one of Julie’s bonnets mysteriously disappeared from wardrobe “presumably added to the collection of a zealous souvenir hunter” (“‘Hawaii’ Down East”, 5:1). The situation got so unruly that police had to be called in to rope off the set and calm the crowds.

For Julie, a seasoned performer who was no stranger to public attention, this kind of borderline “mad mobbing” was something altogether different and the experience proved unsettling:

“People started to converge as I was walking to my dressing room trailer with these rather husky policemen. People would be on one side being pushed back, and then they would circle around and come back from the other side…They didn’t mean any harm. It was a lark for them. But when I got into the trailer, I was alone in eight square feet of space. Alone in this island! You could hear the crowd outside giggling and joshing and pushing. They were scratching at the walls. And the trailer began swaying. I pulled down the shades and sat there alone. I thought, ‘My God, how alone I am! I can’t get out’“ (Donald, 27)

By the time the star jetted in to the Hawaiian islands the following month, the studio realised the need for more stringent control. Her arrival had been heralded by almost daily updates in the local press – “Julie Delays Her Arrival”, “Julie Due Tomorrow”, “Julie Andrews Arrives Today” – and a swarm of people was waiting at the airport to greet her. Julie paused on the tarmac “to accept a half dozen leis” from officials and “to accommodate the press” for questions and photographs, but the public was kept at a safe distance “behind a fence fifty yards from the plane” (Butwin, 1-2). The star was then whisked away in a studio car parked conveniently on the tarmac, leaving many fans in tears. For some, it “was their third trip to the airport to welcome Julie – twice before her plans were canceled – and all they got was a long-range glimpse. ‘What can we do,’ moaned [one]…We’ll never see her up close’” (Butwin, 2).

This air of protective restriction informed much of the rest of the location shoot in Hawaii. The film set, located in a military reserve on the northwest shore of the main island, was strictly closed to visitors and Julie was helicoptered in and out daily from her high-security residence in Honolulu (Krauss, 25). Eager fans were not so easily dissuaded, though, and “[e]very day a parade of pink-striped Jeeps rented by visitors” would make the hour and a half drive to the distant film set where an “assorted band” would “assemble on the beach behind the barricades…their own cameras in hand, stand[ing] for hours in the searing sun” hoping to get a glimpse of the star (Sutton, H9).

In such a context, everyday activities like going shopping or dining out proved an almost impossible dilemma. “[I]n a place like Hawaii, where there are so many tourists, it can become a bit sticky,” Julie noted, so the star spent “most of her nonworking hours behind the gate of her oceanfront home” where she would “entertain fellow workers and visitors” in safe seclusion (Thomas, 25). On the rare occasion she would venture out on the town, such as a trip to the ballet with the Von Sydows or a dinner at a restaurant, reporters were on hand to cover her every move (Tobin, D6). 

The film’s publicist, Howard Newman remarked that “I have had to play the villain with the press and the public here to protect [Julie] from the crowds wherever she goes.” “The islanders have gone wild over her” and “she is invited to every tea, celebration, bar mitzvah, wedding, picnic and luau in this 50th state…But [Julie] takes it all in good spirit and I have never yet seen her lose her equanimity or her graciousness,” adding “I have never worked with anyone I have loved as much” (Cohen, 10).

In a widely syndicated newspaper profile published as Julie was at work on Hawaii, columnist Bob Thomas wrote:

What a difference a year makes in the life of a girl, if the girl happens to be Julie Andrews. A year ago she was floating in luxurious limbo…She was able to travel about with ease, recognized by only the most discerning of fans…Now Julie is in the post-Oscar, post-‘Poppins’ phase of her career and her life will never be the same” (Thomas, “One Year”, 25).

“Yes, I sometimes look back fondly on those days,” the young star commented with wistful regret, “I’m certainly not as free as I used to be” (ibid.)

Sources:

Butwin, David. “Julie Thinks Hawaii’s a Loverly Place.” The Honolulu Advertiser. 14 June 1965: 1-2.

Cohen, Harold V. “Communique from Oahu.” Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. 24 September 1965: 10.

Crosby, Joan. “’Hawaii’ in Massachusetts – With Blossoms Ties on Trees.” Santa Cruz Sentinel. 24 May 1965: 8.

Donald. C.J. “The Day Julie Andrews Became a Star.” Movie News. 3: 4, April 1967: 10, 27.

“‘Hawaii’ Down East.” The Philadelphia Inquirer. 2 May 1965: 5:1.

Heffernan, Harold. “All Studios Want Julie Andrews.” The Indianapolis Star. 9 July 1965: 13.

Krauss, Bob. “Julie Andrews Will Ride in a Taxi With a View.” The Honolulu Advertiser. 3 June 1965: 25.

Sutton, Horace. “Hollywood With a Hula.” The Baltimore Sun. 29 August 1965: H9.

Thomas, Bob. “One Year Has Made a Might Big Difference in the Life of Julie Andrews.” The Cincinnati Inquirer. 20 August 1965: 25.

____________. “Hawaiian Fans Put Rush on Popular Julie Andrews.” The Progress Index. 2 September 1965: 34.

Tobin, Riv. “‘Hawaii’ Film Personalities on the Go.” The Honolulu Advertiser. 19 September 1965: D6.

© 2017, Brett Farmer. All Rights Reserved

#julie andrews #hawaii #fiftieth anniversary #1966 #star #hollywood #classic film #fans

[hawaiiphotograph]

The way the waves hit the shore. It’s the people. The air. The happiness. Oahu has everything imaginable from shark adventures, fine dining, luaus and more.

There are many reasons why Oahu is the best place to visit for vacation. This island is the number one tourist hot spot because of the sheer amount of activities that any family can enjoy. For transportation, the writers of Hawaii Photography have you covered. We highly recommend renting a moped but there are plenty of other options to tour the islands as well. Just be careful of the taxi fares. Try the bus if you are looking for a more affordable adventure. Honolulu has one of the most extensive public bus systems in America, which is very reliable. However, the perfect way to explore the island is on a moped. Mopeds are a breezy way to get around and the perfect solution to limited parking. Whatever it is you choose, getting around the islands is easy with a little bit of planning.

There are thousands of places to eat in Honolulu the only big problem is choosing one at a time. Some of the best places for breakfast are Anna Miller’s and Wailana Coffee House. Both venues serve stacks of breakfast food that include shortcakes, eggs benedict and poached salmon.  Hawaii Photography writers recommend starting the day at Wailana Coffee House because of the quick access to Waikiki. It is an easy way to get the agenda on track while being totally family friendly. For dinner, try Kobe Japanese Steak House & Sushi Bar which is located near the Hilton Hotel offering a fun place to eat with entertainment and excellent chefs.

Kids Activities are Number 1 on Oahu

Oahu offers family friendly activities ranging from water parks to snorkeling adventures at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve. There are also numerous hiking trails scattered all over the island. Diamond Head and Koko Head trails are both kid friendly but we recommend packing extra water for the journey. Expect the top of these trails to be windy with amazing views. For maximum fun travel to Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park located in Kapolei. This park is packed with rides and accommodates large families with a range of ages. At some point find the perfect break from the heat. For an alternative to the water park, Sea Life Park and the Honolulu Zoo offer animals from around the world. This environment is a calm way to spend the afternoon and has a concession stand perfect for lunch.

Check out some of our other articles for tips and other information from the Hawaiian Islands.

#what to do in honolulu #things to do in honolulu #things to do in waikiki #honolulu attractions #honolulu things to do #activities in honolulu #things to do in honolulu hawaii #things to do honolulu #what to do in waikiki #things to do in hawaii honolulu #honolulu sightseeing #fun things to do in honolulu #best things to do in honolulu #attractions in honolulu

[alwaysontheside-blog]

…Hawaii, helicopter, check and check!  My list is long but I will get them all checked off.  I am excited about all of the adventures ahead of me.

It has been a few weeks since I have written a blog because we were in Hawaii! My parents came along with us. It was an amazing 2 weeks! We had so much fun!

To make the flight doable (12 hours to Hawaii from Philadelphia) we spent 2 days in Los Angeles. We went to Universal Studios with VIP passes. That is the only was to go, highly recommended! A great tour of a working studio set. We also were able to go into the props warehouse. It looked like a huge consignment shop.

They fed us a fantastic lunch made by the chefs that cook for the stars on set. We were able to go to the front of the lines for all of the popular attractions and shows. Then we went to Honolulu and where we spent 2 days prior to boarding our cruise ship for a 9 days cruise trough the Islands. The food in Hawaii was incredible, the shopping was great and the scenery was mind blowing! We visited some of the great islands; Honolulu, Maui, Hawaii (The big Island), and Kauai. At the end of the trip we spent 2 days in San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf, prior to going home.

Pearl Harbor was amazing! The story behind Pearl Harbor and the overturned ship that is still in the water is a sad history and something that everyone should see and learn about. When you are standing on the memorial over the ship, you can see the ships bottom. It is very sad how many men lost their lives and the fact their bodies are still under the water in the ship.

We did lots of excursions. Rich and I flew in a helicopter over volcanos and waterfalls. We drove segways through Lahaina.

We toured the Dole Plantation, more like ate pineapple Dole Whip, at the Dole Plantation. We went to a macadamian nut farm and sampled their yummy treats. Visited a Kona Coffee farm and had way to much caffeine! We sampled chocolates at the Big Island Candy Company and drank more coffee. We drove ATVs through a muddy plantation and I was able to swim in a waterfall….Magical!

We ate Poi amongst other things and watched a great luau in Lihue. We visited a volcano park and many beautiful beaches. We say actual lava oozing from a volcano. We took any and all excursions that were available and we were able to tour the islands and learn about the culture and see nature at its finest! One of my favorite part of traveling is going to where the locals are, not the tourists. We asked around and found this great out of the way restaurant. We found a great restaurant in Kona called Quinn’s Almost by the Sea. It was a bar and grill that was unpretentious and full of locals. Rich and I shared the fish and chips. I ordered the Ono fish….Hawaiian specialty caught fresh that day. It was beer battered and served with homemade tarter sauce and pineapple coleslaw. OMG….Amazing! The servers were so friendly and eager to please. It is a great gem of a hangout! We also shopped on the Big Island for the day. They had great jewelry.

  The cruise itself was fantastic! We booked suites on the ship which allowed us a dedicated breakfast and lunch specialty restaurant. The food was amazing! We also tried some other specialty restaurants for dinner on the ship and they exceeded our expectations. The regular restaurants and buffets were just ok. We were provided a butler on the ship, her name was Georgia. One of the sweetest women that I have ever met. She took care of everything and because I told her I love pineapple, we had it in our room every night. It is nice to walk into your room everyday and have a treat waiting for you. We had chocolate covered strawberries and pineapples, pates, cheese and fruit, champagne, you name it we had it. We also had a great balcony with 2 lounge chairs and a table and chairs for dining. It was so relaxing to sit out on a private deck. We read, napped and gazed at the sunsets. I told Rich that I could stay there forever, I just needed our dogs (Teddy and Havana) sent to us!

San Francisco, Fisherman’s Wharf was a lot of fun. The fish was water to table and the taste was beyond delicious. We found a great place called, Scoma’s. I ordered fish that they caught that day. My parents also ordered seafood and it was one of he best meals we have ever eaten. There is nothing like fresh fish caught in an ocean and cooked hours later! The sourdough bread bowl with chowder was to die for. Rich and I went to Ghirardelli Square and had their creamy, yummy ice cream. I ordered mint chocolate chip and chocolate ice cream. There was also some great shopping there as well.

We met a lot of great people along the way from all over the world. Getting away for a while really puts your world into perspective. Work hard, play hard! People, you need to use all of your vacation days. It is part of your benefits and is healthy for mind, body and soul, not to mention the people around you.

Food Porn, you are welcome!

  Hawaii was Hawowey! ...Hawaii, helicopter, check and check!  My list is long but I will get them all checked off.