i miss waikiki

I was looking through our Hawaii trip pics in my facebook... then I stopped at this picture of Waikiki sunset. I didn't know I miss this calm and serene moment that much...

a nice island called Kauai

One of our favourite port of calls on the cruise is the island of Kauai. This is a quaint and laid back village that is relaxed, casual and friendly. We took a walk to the shops outside the pier and did some shopping at Honolua Surf Co. I got a few sun dresses and tops and DH got himself few surf shorts. I thought that was a fabulous shop to walk around! Kauai had been hit by many hurricanes over the years and the latest one was Hurricane Iniki. The hurricane brought extensive damages to the island and more properties and condos for sale had been built in the last two years. The most famous destination in Kauai would be the Napali Coast, a favourite filming spot for the Hollywood film makers which saw many movies being made including Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones. I'll post the photos in another post.

Here are some photos from the island of Kauai...





Clayton enjoying the wading pool at Marriott, Kauai

we are in Maui!

I cannot tell you how frustrating it is when it takes more than 5 minutes to load a page in our stateroom... then I found out that we were on dial up! We have been so spoilt with broadband and wireless connection so dial up is so pathetic! Worse still, it is expensive getting an internet package on board the ship - 240minutes for $100 USD! But DH and myself need it so we know it's one of those things we can't save! I had some writing to do, including a drug rehabilitation related one and DH had his option trading to keep track.

I am posting this on the waters of Maui - one of the top 10 popular islands in the world - oh yes, Maui is beautiful but we aren't going to do much in two days. DH is off to snorket in Molokini crater tomorrow, a top 10 diving sites in the world while I babysit Clayton in the Maui Ocean Center.

So if you don't see any posts in the next few days, you know it has something to do with the connection in the cruise ship. And again, we are on vacation :)

reports from the pride of america cruise

It was an exciting experience as both DH and myself had never been on a cruise in our lives! We arrived at Pier 2 to board the Pride of America, a 7 day cruise to 3 Hawaiian islands. Those of you who had travelled with little ones could understand the challenges of checking in and out the airport with a child which explained why I had decided to book into a cruise like this to experience the islands.

Clayton was all enthusiastic about getting into a cruise liner! The check-in was fast and we were surprised at the crowd even at an early check-in. I mean, we were going to be on-board a cruise ship that could house 2,000 over passengers! I chose the higest deck for our balcony stateroom at 11^th deck and it was nice up here. We were so eager to see how our room was like since we had never been in a cruise. To our surprise, it turned out to be better than expected. We had a big Queen size bed that looked more like a King and a sofa bed next to it which we didn't use. I must say that it wasn't easy trying to fit in 2 big luggages and a couple of smaller bags but we managed it somehow.

Obviously, we took a tour around our 'cruise ship' and was happy with the fact that we were on the floor where the coffee house was situated, as well as the 2 huge pools. The ambience of the cruise was great upon arrival – relaxing, pleasant, filled with Hawaiian singing and music, smiling and curious faces...etc.

The ship sailed late due to the some snow-stranded flights in some airports but nevertheless, we were too busy checking out the shore excursions and other facilities while waiting. It didn't bothered us a bit. While lunch was at Aloha Cafe and dinner was at Liberty steakhouse. Aloha Cafe, like all coffee houses, was a big buffet cafe and you could almost anything you wanted to eat here. From the east to the west, there was something for everyone here, we were happy to be sitted at the Kids Cafe area, which was pleasantly decorated with bright and cheery colours.

Surprisingly, opposed from the critics and reviews I read about this cruise ship, the food turned out alright for some fare, especially the roast beef. It was so yummy that I went for second helpings. I loved the baked potatoes too, not forgetting the fresh local papaya and mangoes cut right before your eyes.

Ok... though I really want to tell you more, the internet connection on the ship is expensive and slow, unless the Hilton Hawaiian Village... til then, I'll post more reports and photos when the wireless is on again!

a lovely day in Kailua and more charming sunsets

Many of you would have known that Waikiki is filled with more Japanese tourists than any other place. After a while, you tend to think that every Asian looking individual is a Jap... I have been mistaken as a Jap too in retail shops and a Hawaiian girl in some - all thanks to my natural tan. I guess I look very Hawaiian too - lol.

It has been a week of great fun and relaxing moments. We had a wonderful day in Kailua, the windward town of Oahu on Thursday. The beaches were beautiful with clear waters that are calm and the waves, gentle. It was nice sitting by the shore with Clayton, waiting to be swept by the rolling waves... he had so much fun. This was the first time he would run in the waters and splashed around freely - but he was still very cautious - he is a city boy lah!

I had a great time in Tiffany when DH went for his surfing lessons too! Though I couldn't afford those diamond pendants, I bought a beautiful Elsa Peretti pendant that I had been eyeing for. Honestly, when you see the price tags in Tiffany here, you tend to think that they are so affordable - just don't convert into ringgit currency! I guessed I got carried away and ended up with a few items after one hour in the shop.

That's it for now and there'll be more reports as we set sail in the Pride of America today for the next one week. Here are a few photos of Kailua, the famous Waikiki sunset (they look different everyday!) and the fireworks at our hotel last night.

our waikiki trip photos - pt 1

I have posted some photos of our Waikiki trip... more coming up! The weather has been perfect since we arrived on Sunday and I bought my swim wear!



the penguins at Hilton Hawaiian Village, just below our hotel tower



the clear blue skies of waikiki



featuring diamond head



Sunset at Waikiki beach outside our hotel.



the salt water got into Clayton's eyes - the city boy's first encounter with the beach

all set to visit Haleakala National Park

In case you don't know, next to Waikiki, the next most popular destination in Hawaii is Maui. In December, we will be part of the 2.5 million travelers to set foot on its sunny shores. From what I read, Maui has lots to offer in every sense - nature, sun, mountains, ocean and the waterfalls.

We are planning for a trip to the Haleakala National Park during our two nights there. I heard that watching sunset at the summit is the best experience anyone can have yet I am not sure if we can ever make it with a three year old :P Those who have traveled with little children know that we can't have high expectations when we travel with kids. Be realistic is the best way to make everyone happy. If we can't have the best, we must be prepared for second best.

Maui is an ideal destination for families. With the many Maui condos in the area, it's easy to find one that suits your needs and budget. If you need help on accommodation search, the Hawaiian travel blog is a good source of information, hosted by Hawaiian Beach Rentals, a booking site for all accommodations in Hawaii. Choose from the huge list of condos and vacation rentals, all listed along with detailed information and photos on the website. And if you need any help, don't hesitate to drop them a line.

driving to Kauai beaches

Many travel guides suggest that if we stay in the Waikiki area, we will not need a car since everything is in close proximity. Shopping is near, restaurants are in abundance and I picture it as a place where I can stroll casually at my own pace. And that's what a vacation is all about.

But we plan to get a rental car for a few days so that we can drive to other side of the island. I have heard so much about Kauai beaches and its natural beauty so we are definitely checking that place out. If only we have more time in Hawaii, I will book a couple of nights with Kauai vacation rentals to fully enjoy the idyllic beaches and explore more of its environs. I also realized from my research that Kauai is home to many artists and designers and there are lots of specialty boutiques for shoppers looking for handmade and local stuff. I believe there are more Hawaiian vacation information available at Hawaiian Beach Rentals. So yes, we are all set for a visit to Kauai and its beaches!

our hawaii vacation research continues...

My research for our Hawaii vacation has halted a little as I get busy with work. Every now and then, DH will ask me on the progress and I'll telling him the same stuff. Sometimes, I wish that I can put aside all work and focus on my research, everyday seems like a rush these days.

After reviewing all the Oahu vacation rentals, we have settled for Waikiki beach area for its convenience and location. I know it sounds a bit touristy but we are tourists, after all :P Looks like I have to work abit faster and harder in putting our itinerary together. Perhaps, do more reading on Hawaii Travel Information at Hawaiian Beach Rentals website since there are lots of valuable information for holiday makers and tourists. After looking at the map of Oahu, I don't think we can cover all places with only 8 days on the island, there are so much to do there. Besides, DH has already planned to do a surfing course on the first day and I'll be checking out on the malls with Clayton. Research for our Hawaii vacation continues...

tranquil beauty of maui

I just watched a virtual tour of all the Hawaiian islands from a travel resource site and I was impressed with the bird's eye view of the islands. The waters looked so clear in the big and little beach in Maui island that I couldn't helped it but kept telling DH to watch it with me.

Maui looks serene, scenic, natural, friendly, exotic, casual and peaceful. From what I understand, it is not as busy as Waikiki and the beaches are definitely more captivating and unspoilt. While reading the Hawaiian vacation information, I was admiring some of the luxurious Maui condos and only wished we could stay in one of those. But since we have booked ourselves on the Pride of America, accommodation will be in the oceanview cabin.

Having read all the reviews, most tourists will base themselves in Oahu island and with the massive options on Oahu vacation rentals, it won't be hard to find a place to suit your budget and preferences.

stopping by Kauai via Pride of America

Looking at the itinerary of our 7 days Hawaii island cruise, one of the ports we'll be visiting is Kauai, the 4th largest main Hawaiian islands. I read that during the winter months (Dec through April), humpback whales can been seen in Kauai waters so I'm looking forward to capture these playful creatures as we cruise along. Moreover, I'm sure it'll be easy to spot them as we are in Deck 11 - the cruiseliner has a total of 14 decks.

Though we can't be staying in one of the Kauai vacation rentals, I'm sure we'll be taking note of the nice ones and hopefully, make a return trip in the future. As for our Oahu vacation rentals, it'll be great if we can travel with some friends or families next time as most of the vacation homes come with more than 2 bedrooms. For reviews of the vacation homes, check out the Hawaiian vacation information.

chinatown in oahu island

Do you know that there is a Chinatown in Oahu island? Like the Chinatown in Malaysia and Singapore, I suppose it is a place filled with open-air markets, cart stores, restaurants, shops, galleries and Asian eats. I just read that Chinatown in Oahu is home to more than 30 galleries, the Hawaii theatre center, the Hawaii State Art Museum and the lively atmosphere of eateries, music and people. I don't think DH will fancy visiting Chinatown and neither do I. He is looking forward to some surf boarding lessons on Waikiki beach.

I did take a look at the Oahu vacation rentals but there weren't many Waikiki accommodations that were suited for our small family. Most of the vacation rentals are great for big groups as many of these homes have 3-5 bedrooms. Besides, we are not planning to stay outside Waikiki since we have only 7 days before going for our Hawaii cruise. I should check out the Hawaii travel blog for more activities nearby Waikiki so that we can save time on too much driving.

looking forward to our Oahu adventures

Let me make a confession here. I used to think that Hawaii is just about Waikiki beach and nothing else. But a German friend of mine corrected me on this many years ago that Waikiki is in Honolulu and they both belong to the island of Oahu. Since I have not bothered about finding out more about Hawaii until I decide to make this our family vacation destination. For your info, I have attached a map of Oahu just to show you how big this island is.



Perhaps I should book us for a grand circle Oahu island tour just to get a good overview of the different sights and views around the island. I'm definitely keen to go on the Atlantis Oahu Submarine Adventure where the submarine descends 100 feet below the water surface. I can imagine the fun we can have as a family.

I have confirmed our accommodation in Hawaii after looking through all the Oahu vacation homes in the web. The Hawaii Travel Information has provided some great insights on the Hawaiian islands and accommodation reviews that would be useful for anyone planning to travel to this beautiful island.

great water adventures at the Big Island

Oh yes, we are going to Kona and I'm excited to take Clayton on this cool submarine expedition! This is an unforgettable 35-minute journey aboard an Atlantis 48-passenger submarine, and you may remember seeing it in featured in National Geographic television. Clayton will be so happy to see these colourful sea creatures at a depth up to 100 feet! He has seen it in Little Einstein's TV but very soon, he can experience it for real!



If you are planning for a trip to Kona, here are lots of nice Big Island vacation rentals to choose from. You can also find more travel ideas and tips at the Hawaiian Travel Blog if you are planning on your Hawaii itinerary. Some of these vacation rental homes in Big Island have the best oceanfront views and they do command a higher price. But the scenery of the Big Island is as dramatic as the setting sun, which glows with an enchanting beauty as the ocean beckons. This is what a real vacation is all about, isn't it? To behold the beauty of Mother Nature and all of its surrounds.

love those maui vacation homes

Did I tell you we are heading to big bear cabin for New Year's eve? This is all going to be exciting. I believe the kids are going to have great fun as all four of them hang around in one big cabin. I can also imagine the kind of noise they will make. Well, how I wish Anne and Francis' family can join us for our Hawaii vacation. How nice if we can all rent one of the nice, cosy Maui vacation homes together? This is a wonderful way to catch up with each other since we don't see each other as often as we want to.

We will be visiting Maui via the cruise which means we don't need to worry about where to put up during our 2 days in Maui. I have read reviews in the Hawaiian Local Travel Blog about the beautiful waters and idyllic beaches at Maui. Many travelers from other travel forums rave about the friendly locals and relaxing ambience in Maui. It sounds like we are going to have a great time!

luxury of waikiki

After some late nights of research, I've finally confirmed our Hawaii trip itinerary. We'll be spending 8 days (all in all) in Honolulu and another 7 days on the Hawaii cruise on Pride of America. Looking through the Wakiki hotels and Hawaii home rentals, it looks like I need to raise our budget if I like a condo with oceanview. The ones along Waikiki beach are exorbitant but the location is ideal. Imagine waking up to a golden sunrise or ending the day with a beautiful sunset... unobstructed ocean view! Outrigger has many luxury properties in Waikiki and the prices are nothing less than $250 for a one bedroom!

I'm still going to look through the popular pages atHawaii home rentals, just to reconfirm my selection and options. Well, I haven't revealed the rates to the man of the house... he may freak out - lol. Here are some pictures of the hotels/condos in Waikiki...

heavenly sea

In the Hawaiian language, Lanikai means "royal sea" or "heavenly sea." It can't be wrong when the locals have voted Lanikai for being the best swimming beach. When I read that Lanikai beach is blessed with beautiful sunshine, surrounded by lush tropical plants and turquoise waters, I can imagine how scenic this place can be to sit back and unwind.

Understanding from the Hawaiian travel information, Lanikai is situated at the windwide side of Oahu and it is almost a must to kayak to the nearby twin islands to experience the gorgeous seascape and natural bird sanctuaries. Both islands are popular among boaters, surfers, paddlers and kayakers with many coming to the smaller beach for picnics or a nice swim on the weekends. Choose from mountain views, garden views or ocean views, the apartments found in Lanikai are reasonable and affordable with a studio apartment starting from $135 per night.



The Banyan Hideaway looks like a charming vacation home that can accommodate up to 5 persons with Bali settings and decor to lure you into an instant break from the hustle and bustle of life. These are only 2 of the many excellent vacation homes in Lanikai... now, it is hard to make a choice.