Blogs from Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii, United States, North America - page 7

Our last day at The Kahala Hotel was too short. Though both Deke and I were both suffering from one physical affliction or another, it was still difficult to leave. I tried to soak in views from our balcony, and remember details—the humidity in the air---the dolphin lagoon below, and the leisurely and pleasant breakfasts. Deke liked the breakfasts most of all; he really loves great service. I learned from people who live in Hawaii that there is something called the “VOG.” Apparently, the VOG is a volcanic fog created by volcanic ash; it can cause respiratory distress and sickness. A couple of people thought that maybe my cold symptoms had come from the VOG. When our driver took Deke and me to the airport, he stated that the longest word in the English language is ... read more

Upon awakening, I went to my beloved veranda before dawn. This time, there was more staff than usual buzzing about. I found out from one of the employees that their work was under inspection today. I think that sometimes we forget that our vacationing comfort is due to other people’s hard work. The sunrise was magnificent. Even though I got some good shots, I don’t think that I managed to capture the shot that encapsulated the glory of the experience. I suppose that I am turning into a true shutterbug like my mother, “Mama S.” I used to get frustrated with Mama S because she was always behind the camera, always trying to get us to pose for her shots, but now it looks like I am this way. I have really wanted to go snorkeling, ... read more

Deke woke up this morning and felt better. In contrast to how he was feeling yesterday, he almost did cartwheels in celebration. Additionally, the morning was stunningly beautiful, clear, and there was practically no breeze at all. I woke up early, and made my way to the lobby. The collective mood of the guests even at 6:00 a.m. was optimistic and happy. Not many hit the pool and beach scene yesterday because of the weather, but today looked perfect for fun-in-the-sun activities. The hotel was very busy and it took us a while to get a table at breakfast though we had a reservation. Deke was happy and talkative; he was a new man. People swarmed to the beach and pool. It was as if people were trying to make up for what they were not ... read more

This blog entry and especially the photographs are dedicated to my mother, “Mama S,” for her birthday. Thanks for giving me life over fifty years ago. However, Mama S informs me that in my case, my birth was the easiest part in rearing me. The winds were blowing steadily in Honolulu today. Deke and I could hear them whistling on our balcony, which is on the tenth floor. I wasn't sure if today would be a good day to hang out on the beach and by the pool, but it turned out to be quite comfortable when we did so. We had a lovely breakfast at the hotel overlooking the Pacific. Deke liked the table so much, he reserved it through the rest of our stay. As I have mentioned before, Deke has taught me that ... read more

Day 17 – Jan. 27, 2015 – Port of call: Honolulu, HI on the Island of O’Ahu – Weather forecast: mostly sunny – temperature: 75°F/24°C The ship docked in Honolulu Harbor, which is used for commercial shipping and is south of Pearl Harbor, which is reserved for military uses. The pier we tied up to is near the Aloha Tower about half way between Waikiki Beach and Pearl Harbor. We got up early in anticipation of our 7:15 am departure and had our breakfast in the room. Unfortunately the ship did not actually dock until 7:30 setting everything back ½ to ¾ of an hour. When we arrived at the stairwell leading to Deck 3 we found it blocked by everyone eager to get off and away on their tours but cleared quickly once the gangway ... read more