ALOHA!

Far removed from the islands Captain James Cook happened upon in 1778, Hawaii is truly the Aloha State. It melds peoples and their cultures to make it a true melting pot. Admitted as the 50th state on August 21, 1959, it is a great place to visit for rest and relaxation. The people are beautiful, the food, "ono" (delicious), and the climate, comfortable. For this reason, many that visit return once and again. Truly, stay a while and there is a feeling of "ohana" (family).

I hope this section will give you a different take on Hawaii than other sites you may visit. While it has been a number of years since I've lived there, the moment I deplane, it feels like home. Of course, it's hard to ignore the heat and humidity embracing you, but you adjust (or try to) when the fragrances and lush greenery surround you. So grab your swimsuits and rubbah slippahs and here we go…

My favorite time to visit Hawaii is October through May. I like it when it's a little bit cooler. I have a hard time dealing with the humidity during the "summer" months, particularly July, August and September. It does rain more during the "winter months," but except when there is a storm system, rain in Hawaii is warm and short-lived. Trade winds also have a cooling effect that makes acclimating to Hawaii easier. Look out for "Kona wind" days though. Blowing from the south, this warm, humid breeze can make it uncomfortable. But no matter when you visit, the ocean is usually a stone's throw away. So enjoy the beauty and, in true local style, the food!

http://www.gohawaii.com/weather/
http://www.hawaii.edu/News/weather.html

Each section will feature links that will provide relevant information. In addition, there's mention of some places that I think are great. I will be updating the site with information from friends and e-mail from you. I may, of course, need to trial test each of your recommendations! And, if relocating to (or from) Hawaii enters your mind as you lay on the beach, let me know.

Miscellaneous Kine Stuff

Assimilating to this island culture is not too difficult. Go with the flow. Hang loose. Of course, there are some helpful hints that will reduce confusion and make assimilation easier. We present them here for your edification and entertainment.

• Don't confuse Hawaii (the Big Island) with Hawaii (the state). Most locals will say "the Big Island" when talking about the island of Hawaii.
• Continental United States is referred to as "da mainland."
• When a fad hits Hawaii from da mainland, it takes off like wildfire. You must buy at least one of each kind or color.
• Local couples never wear matching muumuus and aloha shirts.
• Everyone takes off their slippahs/shoes before they enter someone's home (usually, Japanese homes, but more often than not, all homes.) (No, you can't take better pair when you leave!)
• When you've been bare foot (without slippahs or shoes) outside, wash your feet before you go in da house.
• If you are sightseeing and driving slow, pull over. Locals are trying get to work, aunty's house, the Zooper Sale, etc. On the other hand, you have to get used to Hawaiian time. Things move at a slower pace in the Islands (people too). If you are invited to a party, wait another 10 minutes before leaving. If you are throwing a party, don't worry they'll show up…eventually.
• No swipe (take) fruit (or flowers) from somebody's yard.
• Don't give "stink-eye" to somebody (or even stare too long). It can be dangerous. If they say, "what, baddah you?" You should say, "No" and continue on your way.
• If you're not an accomplished swimmer and familiar with the ocean, do not swim or surf when the surf's up. Waves can carry you farther out than you should be. Always look for posted warnings for riptides or undercurrents. Never swim alone.
• Watch out for submerged rocks and coral! A stubbed toe or scrape can be pretty nasty. Do not walk on coral reefs.
• Jellyfish or Portuguese-man-of-war can sometimes be found floating your way, especially if Kona wind is blowing. Pretty as they may seem, their tentacles below the water's surface can leave you with an unpleasant string of welts. Signs will be posted. Stay out of the water.
• The floor of the ocean in uneven. It can drop off unexpectedly. Children and adults should venture out with caution.
• Do not take any lava rocks from the Big Island. Legend has it that it will result in bad luck. If you choose to test Madame Pele, they can be returned in person or by mail.
• The water-filled bottles that adorn front yards are supposed to keep dogs from "visiting" your yard.
• Watch out for the mosquitoes and cockroaches. The mosquitoes are voracious, the cockroaches, big! We also have geckos and mongoose (they are not long squirrels).
• In Hawaii, you stop eating when you're tired, not when you're full.
• Many people say they 'Eat to live.' In Hawaii, you live to eat. Definitely.
• Everybody is called uncle or aunty even if not related by blood or marriage.
• Ohana (family) is very important in Hawaii. This includes grandma and grandpa, and extends to and embraces friends as well. This makes for very big parties.
• Everything rusts in Hawaii. Fact of life.

Hawaii Links of Interest

Hawaii Government
Hawaii State Legislature
Hawaii Department of Education
Hawaii Web
Vacation Planning with Go Hawaii
Alternative Hawaii
Frommers Destination Hawaii
This Week Magazine: Hawaii

Photo Gallery - Please enjoy this sampling of photos(click on the thumbnails to view larger images) and also be sure to visit the Honolulu Community College Photo Galley for some excellent photographs of Hawaii!