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Published: December 20th 2012
Swaying in the breeze
Your basic palm treesSheer genius. That’s what it was. Merry Jo came up with the idea far in advance and now we were reaping the benefits. Such foresight and wisdom. Factor in the notion that the trip would be ending right before the Christmas holiday and it takes on an even bigger significance.
Anyone who has traveled an extended period of time remembers that re-entry into their homeland usually involves a “sudden impact” concept, by which one minute you’re on the road, and the next you’re right back where you started, almost in the blink of an eye. You sit and look at one another and ask yourselves, “it’s over already?”
By spending six days in Hawaii before heading back to Ohio for Christmas, we were able to return to the United States and still be on a bit of a holiday. Hawaii is one of those truly unique places in America. You’re in a place where it is clear that you are in the U.S., but the culture is different and we found this to be quite pleasant. The laid back quality of the Polynesian influence is a welcome feeling. We’ve been to Maui, but this was our first time in
Oahu.
A rented condo on the northeastern shore near Hau’ula was our home for the week. Among other things, this meant that for the first time in over four months, we were able to do some cooking. The kitchen had all the necessary pots and pans to do the trick. Eating out for every meal becomes almost a task after while, but now we could get up in the morning, slowly drink some coffee and then eat breakfast when we were good and ready. We also indulged in one of our favorites, pizza. We had it delivered…….it’s great to be back!
The digs were located right on the beach and the view was terrific. The weather didn’t always cooperate, but for some reason we really did not mind, as the wind kicked up and provided a great breeze in the condo, which felt great and made for some excellent sleeping. Wave after wave of showers hit us on most days, with an occasional sun break, which brought out the colors of the island. The weather also provided a convenient excuse to go to the movies, which we hadn’t been able to do on our journey. The place also
Waikiki Beach
One of the more well-known beaches. had a washer and dryer…..clean clothes!!
We did manage to get out the first few days to visit the Dole pineapple plantation and of course, Pearl Harbor. The Dole plantation is an interesting experience into all things pineapple. Seems that the pineapple is not native to Hawaii, but certainly has come to be associated with the state. James Dole was a pineapple baron well over a century ago and did very well for himself. While at the plantation, you can ride a small train and learn all the history, buy any number of pineapple-related things and even try your hand at the world’s largest maze if you are so inclined. We declined.
Pearl Harbor is an important historical place in American history and should not be missed when coming to Honolulu. The grounds and memorial are well done and provide more than a glimpse into a very dark day in U. S. history. The Arizona Memorial is a very sobering place, where thousands of men perished in an instant when well-placed bombs from Japanese planes penetrated the ammunition hold of the ship, causing a tremendous explosion and trapping the men and becoming their watery grave.
There is
North shore beach
Surfer dudes abound.....somewhere. also an excellent example of a submarine along with a museum, the USS Missouri, which is a mega-huge battleship and also an aviation museum. It would be quite easy to spend the entire day at this place, soaking in all the history of a very tragic day which plunged the U.S. into World War II.
In the past we’ve talked to friends who have been to all of the Hawaiian Islands and most if not all prefer the other islands over Oahu. We imagine because of those comments we came with low expectations. Honolulu is a big city but the island has plenty to offer. We enjoyed driving the north and east sides of the island watching the surfers. As it turns out we liked the island much better than expected. The green lush hills, the beautiful beaches and Diamond Head make certain that you feel that true Hawaiian experience.
So, hats off to Merry Jo and her stroke of genius, because now it is back to Ohio for Christmas…….has anyone seen our gloves???
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Lydia
non-member comment
Merry Christmas!
I can't believe your jouney is complete! I was so excited to get the blog during your travels. Guess what? I terminated my unit director.. know anybody? LOL ! Merry Christmas!!