Who says Gulliver was the only one who traveled?

Now Hawaii. Where do I even start?! Amazing place full of beautiful scenery and an amazing  culture. I've actually been twice. Once with my family a few years ago then again March 2010 for  my college spring break with a special someone ;). Both times I've had amazing experiences.

So we went to the island of Oahu. Oahu holds the state capital, Honolulu, which you'd be flying into. You get off the plane to an outdoor airport, flowers everywhere, aloha ,NOT HAWAIIAN, shirts galore, and genuinely happy people. Now depending which airline you fly, you may or may not get leis when you get off the plane. We didn't either time and it didn't make my experience disadvantaged. Oahu is nicknamed "The Gathering Place; people from all over the world come to experience the beautiful Polynesian culture in Hawaii. There are also many festivals in Oahu. We caught one! I'll be sure to include those pictures.


Culture:
Hawaiian's are known to have the "spirit of aloha"; they are very welcoming and loving people. There are many job opportunities in tourism and hospitality for the citizens of hawaii, note: I did not say locals or natives, through performing in luaus, giving tours, scuba diving, showing the non-touristy places, etc. Oahu became quite the melting pot overtime and many races are represented there, not just hawaiian. Some citizens do speak Hawaiian, but English is the most common language. And yes, they use the U.S. dollar, seeing that they are the 50th state. You may laugh, but I've been asked that question after both visits. :)



Areas of Oahu:

• Waikiki - This is the area we always go to. Very touristy, and a lot to do. It is nicknamed "sprouting waters"and for that, it is a very popular place to surf.                                                                          Attractions: http://www.visit-oahu.com/sec/areas/waikiki/attractions.aspx                                         (we did all that stuff!)

• North Shore - North Shore has a more of a rural, country feel, if you can imagine a "country" feel in Hawaii ;). Like the other areas, there are beaches and beautiful scenic drives. Since it is more rural, they have unique shops and attractions available. Most of the North Shore citizens grew up there and sometimes don't like the vast amount of tourist flooding the area. It is a less touristy spot. Not saying be afraid to go there, they can just spot tourist out and may not be the most helpful :P. BUT if you do go you have to go to the jumping rock at Waimea Bay!!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2bvO_8GrvU                                                         Attractions: http://www.visit-oahu.com/sec/areas/northshore/attractions.aspx

• Winward - Right next to Waikiki and home of the Diamond Head Crater. You can see this from the shores of Waikiki. You can climb that also! We didn't. I only brough sandals. Woopsies ;) Attractions: http://www.visit-oahu.com/sec/areas/windward/attractions.aspx

• Leeward & Central - Home of Pearl Harbor! I definitely suggest anyone to go take the tour. I did this when I went with my family and it was awesome! There's also many museums and planations that you can tour. Lastly, and for all the SPORTS fans out there, there's the Aloha Stadium. The Aloha Stadium is home to the PRO-BOWL...and the Hawaiian flea market for the rest of the year. I also strongly suggest going there and getting some souvenirs for family and friends! I got a chocolate flavored cigar for a friend, many leis, and a coconut bra and grass set for myself! You can also bargain with them!                                                                                                             Attractions: http://www.visit-oahu.com/sec/areas/leeward/attractions.aspx

• Honolulu - Of course, the capital! With it being the capital, it is the most historic place on the island and an art hub. Chinatown!?...in Hawaii? Yes! There is a chinatown in downtown Honolulu. Honolulu, in general, is a great site seeing spot. Make that #1 on your list to visit!             Attractions: http://www.visit-oahu.com/sec/areas/honolulu/attractions.aspx