Hi I am new here, cool site! I am thinking about going to Hawaii next week. I haven't been to Haiwaii yet. I have just quickly looked at this site.
I don't really know which island to pick. Also know from travelling, that what looks great on-line isn't as great when your there and vice versa.
So what am I looking for? Well, 3-5 star resort. Some resort that prides itself on service and upkeep. Not run down, unclean etc.. I want what any seasoned Haiwaii traveller comes to know: which resort has Value. That becomes the "spot" to go when in Haiwaii or at least the spot to go to for that particular island. Something in the 100-140 USD a night area...
Also, I would like at least one night at a 5-6 star resort, too and doesn't have to be on the same island.
I have a feeling that the Hyatt, Nikko, Le Meridian, Club Med, Ritz Carlton will all be more pricy than their Bali or Malaysian locations because it is on US soil. So, if there are any best kept secrets in the high-end hotel/resorts -value /package etc please tell.
For instance, booking on-line for Bali is about 3 times more pricy than simply getting a simple package for 1-2 nights locally here in Taiwan and upon arrival, booking at one of the 6 star resorts above in Nusa Dua! That is a big saving! Any tricks for saving on resorts or hotel in Haiwaii
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I guess the last things I want to know about Haiwaii are about location and things to do:
What did you do in Haiwaii that you loved? What did you pass up on or forget to do that you wished to heck you did and will do next time yourr there?
What areas were best for photography?
What locations were the most fun and lively?
What areas were most scenic?
What areas just brought about ZEN in you? etc...
Anyway, thanks in advance! Reply to this Hawaii is one of my favorite places in the world! I've only traveled around Oahu, but first things first, take up surfing! Waikiki beach is a good place to start since the waters are calm and beautiful, plus you're right by all the hotels. And if you muster up the courage, nearby is Diamondhead where the waves are a bit bigger, but watching the sunset IS zen 😊 Also, you should rent a moped and drive around the whole island. It takes like half a day, but it's totally amazing! Aside from surfing, skydiving was the craziest, most breathtaking experience yet. The ocean was crystal clear, the sky was flawless, everything was just so calm...
As far as booking a place to stay...well it's true, it can be extremely pricey, but you should definitely do some research online. Have you looked online anywhere? A friend of mine actually worked with hotelrooms365.com and he told me they offer great low rates and their customer service is fantastic. I luckily got to stay at someone's apartment, but when I do go back (he no longer resides there) I'm definitely going to check out the site. If you do book through them, let me know if I should too!
Reply to this Aloha,
Well as someone who came to visit and never left, I must say The Big Island of Hawaii has a little of everything. I love O'ahu and Maui and Kaua'i is beautiful but the Island of Hawai'i has captured my heart. It has rainforests, lava fields, an active volcano, beautiful beaches of black, green and white, excellent restaurants, great people, marvelous sights and destinations. In fact, with the exception of the big city life and all the people in Honolulu and the commercialism of Maui, the Big Island has everything the other islands have all rolled into one. The windward or Hilo side is wet, green, lush and has waterfalls of distinction. The leeward side or Kona side is dryer but has some of the most beautiful coastline of any of the islands. In the middle is Waimea which is some of the greenest rolling hills I have ever seen. North Kohala is also a sight to see with its "old Hawai'i" charm and of course Pololu Valley and Waipi'o Valley. There are many places to stay. One of them is Hawaii Island Retreat in Kapa'au. It is a serene and magical place with its turn of the century flare and its peace and quiet. If anyone is visiting the Big Island I highly recommend it. I moved out from Southern California and I love living here. Come check it out for yourself and you will see.
Aloha nui
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