Site Meter Honolulu, HI » hawaii travel

hawaii travel

5 Activities to Explore Oahu This Summer

Friday, May 23rd, 2008

at_the_beach.jpgI’ve decided that I’m going to do everything I can to make this summer great for me and my kids. Since they are going to be home with me, I wanted to do something different and make it interesting and fun – a summer they’ll never forget. Since it’s been one of my personal goals as a parent to expose my children to the various cultures that exist in Hawaii, I came up with a list of things I’d like to do with my children. A few years ago, when one of my children was studying Hawaiian culture, I wanted to take him to the Big Island. Well, maybe this is the summer that we’ll finally get to go there. (more…)

Are There Anymore Cheap Airfares?

Thursday, May 22nd, 2008

American_Airlines_1.jpg

I read in the paper that Hawaiian Air just increased their airfare and American Airlines is now going to start charging for any checked in luggage. Yes… including the first bag.

I thought things got bad when we started to not have meals during the red-eye flights to the mainland. Things got worse when they brought back the food and made it an option to purchase charging about $10 for it. (more…)

Planning a Vacation in Hawaii?

Wednesday, May 21st, 2008

140923259_e99b78a507_m.jpgSummer vacations are not out of the question! Yes, you can consider traveling to Hawaii or even traveling within Hawaii for your next get-away. Hawaii hotel chains are offering many freebies, kids eat free, and even free activities for kids. I’ve even seen some sites where the children’s airfare has been reduced as part of an incentive for a travel package.

As you plan for your next trip to Hawaii, here are some great links to help start off your vacation cost research. Keep in mind that the deals are subject to change. Check the website links for more info. (more…)

A Fresh Start for Aloha Airline’s Former Employees

Monday, May 12th, 2008

The closing of Aloha Airlines represents a marked change in the face of Hawaii’s airline industry. Whoa! That basically leaves Hawaiian Airlines and competing go! Airlines as our two options air travel in the islands. Ummm… I’ll take Hawaiian Air! (more…)

Reasons to Invest in Hawaii Real Estate

Monday, October 15th, 2007

140923259_e99b78a507_m.jpgI attended a conference today about the real estate market. I got to thinking about all the great reasons why Hawaii is such a prime location to invest and worth every penny. It’s all about the dream! On top of that, every market goes up and down and there’s no doubt that over the long haul, Hawaii real estate will always go up.

Well, there’s really no new land that’s being created and the land that is being created is well – lava. That’s probably, not such a great place to live in. It’ll be smelly (sulfur dioxide) and hot! And since there’s no new land, supply is limited.

Here are the top reasons why investing in Hawaii Real Estate is a good idea. (or just come for a visit)

1. Property values will always go up. Every market goes up and down, but no matter what state you live in, property values aren’t what they were 30 years ago.

2. The longest one way trip you’ll ever make on an island is at most 100 miles.

3. No matter how far inland you are, you’re never really far from the beach.

4. The Big Island (Hawaii) is roughly 50 minutes away by plane.

5. Winter temperature low’s are in the low 60’s, high 50’s. Summer temperature high’s are usually in the low to mid 90’s at most. If it gets too hot, just go to the beach!

6. You can enjoy life in the balmy tropics and still capitalize on convenience stores and Starbucks.

7. You’re kids will know you’re the best parent a kid could every have if you ever gift your Hawaii real estate to them!

, ,

Hawaii Superferry Timeline

Thursday, October 11th, 2007

1348379510_921fef1788_m.jpgThe Honolulu Advertiser published a timeline of events for the Hawaii Superferry.
Here’s a summary of what it said
.

2004

The Hawaii Superferry starts laying the foundation of its business by agreeing to purchase two catamaran vessels. Even the U.S. House appropriates some money for ferry service between Hawaii and Alaska. Late 2004, we begin to hear complaints that of industrialization and congestion on Maui.

2005

Early in the year, the request for an environmental impact statement arises. (more…)

go! Airlines Enters 4th MDA Hawaii Benefit

Saturday, September 1st, 2007

Businesses and non-profit agencies make a good combination! Starting today through September 14, 2007, go! Airlines will contribute $1 to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) of Hawaii for every roundtrip purchased. Travel must be between August 31, 2007 and September 14, 2007 in order to qualify.

go! Airlines, the originator of cheap inter-island travel, is doing its part in raising MDA awareness here in Hawaii. “We are glad to contribute to our community’s efforts in raising awareness of the many ailments known as muscular dystrophy,” said Jonathan Ornstein, MESA Air Group Chairman and CEO.

Corporate giving is on the rise averaging an increase of 4.7% for top companies. There’s even a study done in 2006 attempting to link increased profits and corporate giving. The study suggests that businesses selling consumer products since they already advertise to the general public. In addition, businesses have an opportunity to use a “back door” approach to sales. By advertising the donations, they can ultimately see an increase in their revenues.

Is this really the cause of revenue increase? I really don’t think anybody knows. Honestly, how can you really prove something like that? However, I think what should matter most is that somehow businesses are getting involved in aiding community causes. We are seeing businesses commonly taking on more social responsibility and that’s a good thing. We should probably just leave it at that.

, , , , ,

Aloha and Welcome Hawaii Superferry

Monday, August 27th, 2007

The Hawaii Superferry sure is getting a lot of press these days. Its inaugural sail which was reported to leave many feeling sea sick also brought about some environmental concerns. Now, I’m not too familiar with the whole process, but the concept of the Hawaii Superferry is not new. Right when they are just about to open for business, there are potential environmental issues that need to be addressed? Couldn’t they have been addressed sooner? Like maybe when they weren’t yet committed to transporting passengers?

An article in the Honolulu Advertiser this past Sunday reported that neighbor island passengers could be stranded potentially should environmentalists decide to set up a picket line. Bummer! Can you imagine being a passenger having to cross a picket line just because you’ve already paid for a fare? Does this label me as “non-environmentally friendly?” Really - I just want to take advantage of the $5 fare and I really do love the environment.

Anyway, here are some great photos on Flickr showing the Superferry. You can even view them in a slideshow format if you wish. The Superferry’s webpage has more professional shots taken (can you see the difference a lens makes? – amazing)

I’m personally excited about the Hawaii Superferry. Who wouldn’t be? You can essentially take you and your car to a neighbor island for the cost of an airline ticket. Besides, it’s a new thing. I do have one question though. Is my car insurance rate going to go up if I transport it on the ferry? Just wondering.

,

Body Surfing at Point Panic

Sunday, August 26th, 2007

So what do we do here? Body surfing! Well, I don’t body surf. I don’t even swim very well, BUT many people here do!

Check out what it’s like with this YouTube clip.

, ,

What’s Cool and Refreshing at the Honolulu Zoo?

Tuesday, August 14th, 2007

DSC01601_1.JPGWalking around the Honolulu Zoo is great but at some point in your walk, you’re going to need some refreshment. Located just in the back left corner of the zoo in the heart of the Savanna are two great places to do just that - “Via Veneto” and “Fresh Squeezed Lemonade”.

And no doubt, cool and refreshing these places are! Owned by Drake Nishijo, these stands are located in just the right spot to keep you refreshed during your visit to the zoo. Open 7 days a week from 10am – 4pm, these stands offer the greatest tasting lemonade around; not to mention the best light, fruity and refreshing Italian ice in Waikiki.

The flavors of the Italian ice vary from week to week, but some of the most popular flavors are mango, strawberry-banana, rainbow (which is a combination of cherry, blue raspberry, and lemon) and cotton candy. The flavors do rotate, but you’ll never be disappointed with the choices available! Every flavor is great! DSC01614_1.JPG

You may have seen his face around working various events at places like the Aloha Stadium and Blaisdell Center. While working for Bull Dog Concessions, Drake purchased these two stands at the Honolulu Zoo about a year ago and it’s been a ride for him ever since! He’s always loved serving both the people of Hawaii and the island’s visitors as well.

Drake is probably one of the friendliest guys I know. Always joking around and never failing to give a great smile and a warm welcome to all who come to visit him. His friends claim that “There’s never a dull moment with Drake.” Drake is certainly a person who embodies the “Aloha Spirit” of the islands.

If you’re ever around the Waikiki area, drop by and visit the stands for some of the coolest, most refreshing treats available at the zoo!

, , ,

Hawaii Is Just So Beautiful - Kauai

Sunday, August 12th, 2007

When you think of Hawaii, what do you think about? Is it the lush tropical flora or the balmy beaches that add to Hawaii’s appeal? Hey, I live here and it certainly works for me! While I can think of so many places to visit, I really can’t think of any place else I’d rather live.

Here’s just an introductory (with more on the way) of one of Hawaii’s islands – Kauai. Most of the islands pretty much look like this, with Oahu definitely being one of the most commercialized of them all.

Enjoy this clip from YouTube on “Hawaii Scenenery”! There’ll be more pictures and clips in the future so stay posted!

If you have a place you’d like to feature, send me a message!

, , , ,

Hawaiian Air: On Top and Rising

Thursday, August 9th, 2007

Hawaiian Air’s story is amazing. Just several years ago, this company was filing Chapter 11 and today, they are leading their industry in airline performance.

A 2006 Airline Quality Rating (AQR) study ranked Hawaiian Air #1 out of a possible 18 airline carriers. The study included performance factors such as best on-time, fewest mishandled bags, denied boarding performance, and number of consumer complaints. Additionally, consumer surveys performed by Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure, and Zagat all ranked Hawaiian Air as the top domestic airline serving Hawaii.

Mark Dunkerley, President and CEO, says “Our employees have earned Hawaiian this award by giving customers the kind of uniquely refreshing in-flight experience one would expect when flying Hawaii’s flagship carrier.”

Here’s another reason why Hawaiian Air continues to be a leader in their industry. They understand the need to improve a customer’s online experience. Not only do they master domestic air service, but they also hope to master the online customer experience as well.

Geoff Galat, Vice President of Marketing and Product Strategy, says “Hawaiian Airlines recognizes that, for today’s consumers, the online channel is an increasingly important method of making travel purchases.” The company is working with an online customer experience management, Tealeaf, Inc. to provide outstanding online customer service that Hawaiian Air has built a reputation for.

Stories like these are inspiring. It’s great to see a company believe in its leadership and their employees to make something like this happen! Props for Hawaiian Air! We’ll be sure to be on the lookout for good things from you!

,

About Honolulu, HI

About Honolulu, HI focuses on the people who make experiencing Hawaii better! Hawaii, with its exquisite beauty and charm, is an excellent place to visit and an excellent place to live. In this blog, you’ll find out about Hawaii local events, Hawaii’s great dining and shopping as well as the latest news about what’s going on in Hawaii, but you’ll also find that this Hawaii blog is a lot about the people that you’ll meet everyday. You’ll also find useful Hawaii resources for locals and visitors alike. Have fun and get to know Hawaii by getting to know the people of Hawaii!

Honolulu, HI Author(s)
    » Coreen-Nishijo
    » Coreen-Nishijo

Blogging Flair

Blogging Blogs - Blog Catalog Blog Directory

American Cities Channel Posts

  • Vickery's 25th Annual Crescent Crawl this Sat. August 23rd
    Vickeryʼs Bar & Grill is proud to celebrate its 25th Anniversary with Crescent Crawl presented by SweetWater Brewing Company. 3pm: Crescent Crawl Registration 4:20: Vickery's Party [...]
  • Why Recycle?
    Why recycle? It’s one of the “greenest” things you can do. When you recycle a plastic bottle: It keeps that item out of the landfill, or trash heap, or ocean; It allows [...]
  • CSI, L&O:CI and Channel 3
    Well, it's now official: Two of America's top sleuths will be leaving us ... but two more are waiting in the wings, ready to take their place! As we'll see over the next few weeks, Gil Grissom, [...]
  • Kindergarten Days Remembered
    Today, kindergarten enrollment begins, huh?? Geez ... how well I remember: No, we didn't have the luxury of kindergarten back when I was a young'un ... but the teachers I had growin' up in [...]
  • Titanic Aquatic opens at Georgia Aquarium August 22
    Remember about a year ago when there was the Titanic exhibit at the Civic Center? Well if you missed it, the same organization, RMS Titanic Inc, has paired up with the Georgia aquarium and is [...]
  • Tulsa's Dog Park Opens
    Tulsans and their best friends showed up Friday for a Media Preview Event at Tulsa’s first official dog park, the Joe Station Bark Park, located at 2279 Charles Page Blvd. The dog park is [...]
  • Sports Wrap Up and Coming Up
    Wrap Up of results from August 11 - August 17 D.C. United (MLS) 8/12 vs. New England Revolution Won 3-1 8/16 @ Chicago Fire Won 1-0 Washington Glory (NPF) 8/11 vs. Akron Racers Won [...]
  • Rally for Obama by Hillary Clinton and friends: Espanola NM Style
    [caption id="attachment_915" align="alignnone" width="500" caption="Were there violins?"][/caption] This could be a long story, so let me find some music to go along with this. How does [...]
  • Seattle Weekend Edition for 8/16/08
    It's a great weekend in Seattle for the budget conscious with lots of free things to do! Brasilfest When: August 17 2008, 12:00pm Where: Seattle Center $$$: Free Follow the drumbeats to [...]
  • What's up Austin: The Weekend Edition for 8/16/08
    [...]

Hot Off The Press

  • Did Paris Hilton have a boob job?
    Hey guys! I know you missed me as I missed you. And no, I didn’t go for another ‘hibernation,’ my computer got corrupted from some virus I do not know (come on, I’m not really a [...]
  • Weeds: "The Love Circle Overlap"
    So we've accused Rescue Me of making it up as it goes along, but this strikes me as ten times worse. Like, do they write these episodes after the previous one airs? Everything just ends abruptly and [...]
  • Peridress - Bargain Wedding Dresses, Bridesmaid Gowns, Prom Dresses and more!
    A coworker told me about a site her sister purchased her wedding dress off of called Peridress. Their inventory is GIGANTIC and affordable! Another great perk is they offer Free delivery and [...]
  • The Side Effects of Switching to Vegetarianism
    There's a common issue faced by nearly every new vegetarian. Worldwide, people changing their diet to a meat-free one are seeing the same thing happen. I experienced it a few years back when I [...]
  • New Homes Going Up in New Orleans!
    Thanks, guys, for your approval on the letter to Ms. Barr! I want to open the floor up to you on that one - if you've got a letter you'd like to send Ms. Barr, put it in the comments or contact me! [...]
  • More Season 3 Spoilers – Adam, The Petrellis, Sylar
    The spoilers just keep on coming and today I have tidbits from E! Online’s Kristin and TV Guide’s Matt Mitovich.  **Spoilers Ahead** Kristin revealed that David Anders will indeed [...]
  • Fred Willard and Kerri Kenney to Guest Star on Pushing Daisies Season 2
    Comedy institution Fred Willard and Reno 911's Kerri Kenney are guest starring in Pushing Daisies. Their episode will air in November. WIllard will play an illusionist while Kenney is his assistant. [...]
  • Kid's TV on DVD Releases for 8/19
    Here is this week’s edition of new releases of DVDs that feature kids shows. Some are previously seen episodes from television while others are straight to DVD episodes or movies based on kids TV [...]
  • Writing and Inspiration
    “One of the illusions of life is that the present hour is not the critical, decisive hour. Write it on your heart that every day is the best day of the year.” Ralph Waldo Emerson If you [...]
  • BlizzCon Tickets Up for Grabs
    While I won't have the luxury of attending myself, Blizzcon has always sounded like a fun filled event for enthusiastic MMO gamers, and I'd love to have the chance to go one of these days. [...]