The Good, the Bad and the Ugly

This will be my final post regarding our Hawaiian escapades. We have discovered alot and acquired even more knowledge about Oahu. I have compiled a list, which I hope will be able to help others decide where to go or to use their better judgment when making a decision. This list is our personal opinions and based on our own experiences. Travelling to another place for vacation can be both exciting and nerve wracking as one has to hope for the best, but be prepared for the worst. Sites such as TripAdvisor are instrumental in giving a first hand look at what hotels, restaurants, and activities have to offer. I am a reviewer on this site and frequently check out places before I go to them. In a time where technology connects us instantly, businesses must not just meet customer's expectations, but propel themselves in providing the best service possible. If not...there is always the next place, which will be more than happy to accommodate an unsatisfied patron. I will start by listing the good of this list: Seaside Hawaiian Hostel @ 419 Seaside Avenue.
Originally, we had booked a four star Resort, but after rethinking how much time we would actually be in our room, I cancelled and rebooked 17 nights at the hostel. In doing so, we gave up air conditioning, the luxury of a swimming pool and some privacy. In return, we gained intermingling with other guests from all over the world, wonderful conversations with Richard and snorkeling in the ocean near us. We also had the ability to use the money saved to book up over a week of tours; including one to Big Island and see the active volcano. Additionally, the nights we were able to partake in the planned meal activities proved a good decision. The food was both hearty and delicious, and for only $5.00 a plate, a very affordable way to eat! Next…Ailana Shave Ice is a must! Try the explosion of fresh, natural ingredients infused with shaved ice, I was treated to the Azuki Lovers mixture of sweet azuki beans and homemade mochi. I asked Aaron to show me the process of how it works; the varying degrees of shaved ice particles and I asked to taste a few samples. He met all of my requests and more as he gave me many free small samples to assist me in my decision. His friendly approach, great product, and nice smile made it a worthwhile trip (-: Rainbow Drive- In had wonderful plate lunches. Duke's Waikiki was the best place for all you eat Breakfast Buffet @ $14.95 it was a great meal to see you thru a day at the beach right out front. We also returned for Duke's famous Hula Pie; imagine an eruption of flowing chocolate overtop mounds of macadamia ice cream on a layer of chocolate crust. Simply heaven! Our one-day trip to Big Island was made brilliant by Discover Hawaii, our fantastic tour guide, Johnny and our stop to Candies Big Island, which would be on our amazing list if I had one! Two tantalizing places for steak and other savory meals is Blazing Steaks DT in Honolulu, where I ate some of the best Ahi Tuna. HI Steaks gave us terrific customer service and delicious food that we kept on coming back for more. Another must is to travel to Honolulu Farmer's Market at Blaisdell Center on Wednesdays 4-7pm. We ate a combination of crab corn chowder, tempura Ahi Tuna, and Soul Food; a feast of cornbread, chili, deep-fried chicken and coleslaw. A fantastic find was PACIFIKOOL, which served me a cool ginger drink and has a vast customer base who loves their beverages (including me). I wanted to move into Champion Malasadas after tasting their light, flavorful treats. They are filled with custard or just plain, despite a long bus ride, this place was worth the travels! I took my boyfriend to Bubba Gump’s. This was my second time visiting the franchise, as my daughter and I went to a Bubba Gump's in Florida (one of the places I have given a good review on TripAdvisor). Our server, Brandon was terrific and his honest suggestions helped us save money and avoid disappointment. My all time favorite (besides the wonderful collection of Forrest Gump memorabilia) remains the Coconut Shrimp with Cajun Marmalade (make you ask for seconds right away). Me's BBQ was another cheap, fulfilling place to get a big meal for a small price. Chart House overlooking the ocean and a marina is a great place to have a romantic dinner. The food and portions are worth every penny. Ted's Bakery on the North Shore served up the best crab and bacon sandwich I have eaten. They have enormous pies for sale that I wished I had a fridge attached to me, so that I could fill up. Speaking of which, I think my body has slightly morphed into what looks like a box shape as all my time at the gym has been in vain. When I went to the spa, I stepped on the scale and it showed that I had actually lost 10 pounds! I think it must be set wrong to make a person feel good while vacationing (-: There are endless gift shops offering everything from Obama head bobbles (President Barack grew up in Oahu) to plumeria hair accessories. On every corner are ABC Stores, which we shopped daily and carry everything from Pineapple wine to chocolate dipped pineapple~ a real treat and must have! One of the upscale shops we liked to shop in was Hawaiian Accessories at 2335 Kalakaua. The manager, Patty was always helpful, friendly, and offered suggestions; never pushy, she did not made you feel rushed, but always welcome in the store. At Hidden Treasure Christian Bookstore, the friendly staff  chatted with me about our travels and my book. They have inspirational gifts of every kind and I only wish I had more time to shop. Cameron, the driver from Valley of the Rainbows Adventure Tour was a brilliant guide and I would highly recommend this tour. Since we were vacationing for 17 days, there were alot of places to add; I wanted to share a more descriptive list on the good and only mention the bad and the ugly briefly, as our trip was a magnificent time. Therefore, in no particular order are the following, which made it onto the other side of this review. A few places tied for the worst customer service received: Polynesian Adventure Tours (Hawaii Discounts) for their rudeness to me and still have not reimbursed us back our $140.00 for the Oahu Land Tours~ Grand Circle Island Tour. We ended up doing this 'tour' on our own and it never even came close to the exorbitant cost this company is charging. I have had to contact my credit card company to inform them of the service that we never have received and that we asked for a full refund. The other terrible non-service I received was at Jamba Juice at Waikiki Trade Center. I stood in front of several girls (I was the only customer), waiting to be served and their gossip amongst themselves was much more important than me wanting to order. A minute later when a local young man came in, they fawned over him and served him, even though he had cut in front of me. I walked out and took my business next door to Starbucks, where Vince gladly served me. While the food was good at Seaside Bar & Grill, the waiter serving was obnoxious, argumentative, and downright offensive when he messed up my order; he blamed me and degraded me in front of other patrons. Even though the restaurant was right around the corner from the hostel, I never went back. Another business that I would never send another person to is Hanauma Bay Snorkel Tours, which turned out to be an expensive taxi with one of the rudest drivers, we ever encountered. Save yourself the hassle and money by jumping on public transit for only $5 return trip to Hanauma Bay. While the hike to Makkapu’u Point was incredible, some people's lack of respect for the environment was shameful and ugly! As we walked past beautiful cactus along the trodden path, I was saddened to see how some visitors had taken it upon themselves to carve their names or initials into the leaves. I was upset to see this and only wished that the cacti sought their revenge by showing up at night to ring the doorbells of their tormentors and reaching for their arms, inflict their spines for some overdue payback. While staying at the hostel, a few guests (knowing that I was a writer and blogger) came to me with their own complaints. Sam from Australia had a nightmarish encounter with other accommodations at Beachside Hostel, where cleanliness did not exist; the place is rough and set in a bad area. Sam had to take a girl from there and get her to a safe place. I cannot stress enough the need to research thoroughly your accommodations. On TripAdvisor, you can sometimes connect with people who have recently travelled and stayed at these places. A firsthand account can save you money and spare you from a having a vacation from hell. Another guest complained about Hawaiian Airlines when booking for a friend, transportation to a skydiving trip. Camila was upset over the treatment both of them received regarding the international credit card they were using. They were spoken to rudely and at one point, were hung up on by the airline. I mention their personal experiences with these businesses as both Sam and Camila were justified in their complaints. When reflecting on our vacation in Hawaii, the amazing time we had was marred by only a few unpleasant experiences and we would return tomorrow, if we could. This list was compiled only to inform other travelers and share with others, our journey to Oahu. To those people, businesses and places that offered us the aloha spirit of the islands, we are deeply grateful. I end this last post on my pineapple escapades with a quote by Paul Theroux ~ Hawaii is not a state of mind, but a state of grace.

Farewell to Thai Walking Buddha, Moonrises Over Paradise and The Spirit of the Islands

The last eighteen days we have spent with aloha bathing us in blissful Hawaiian flashes of paradise. We have journeyed to places where perfection merges with nirvana; compelling ourselves to let go and allow the pounding surf to carry away our worries. For me, my guard was brought down, enabling others to share their own adventures. Our taste buds exploded with a vibrant array of flavours and our skin was drenched by one of four elements composing the universe. The delicious tropical showers infused with Plumeria evoked serenity. Likewise, the laughter shared with those we came to know at the Seaside Hawaiian Hostel, brought us closer together through a diversity of cultures. I stood before an active glowing volcano, saw two Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, was moved to tears at Pearl Harbor, joked with a retired military man, got caught wearing white in a rainstorm and so much more. We have been entertained, amused and indulged by a variety of activities and experiences. Spending quality time together under the Hawaiian sun was a brilliant way to recharge ourselves. Floating on the turquoise salty ocean, I would gaze up and see the Palm trees reaching out to touch the passing clouds. As my ears filled with water, blocking out the world, I would reconnect with mother nature and simply live in the moment. The eclectic shops I encountered were nothing that I have known before. I now have amassed enough postcards to decorate the seawall back in Vancouver. This trip has made me passionate about turtles, so no more collecting dragonfly items. If I could have a bed shaped out of wood and a round mattress placed in it to replicate a turtle I'd be sleeping in it right now. Their beauty and grace struck me deeply as I related to their struggle to survive in a world that can be harsh. As we walked amongst Mindano Gum, Indian Banyan, and Monkey pod trees, admiration for these towering displays of magnificent grew with each one stirring a sense of wonderment. During our trip, we held Kona Coffee berries in our hands and I gently shook the Shampoo Ginger to release its natural heavenly scent. We travelled by bus to places that seemed to be the tip of the world and were treated to savory food cooked by a a young Russian man named Alex. Being in a Hostel you meet people travelling from all over; each one has an interesting story of their own. Some you only know by first name, while others become instant friends. A beautiful young woman named Wing, was one of those people you had hoped to have more time to spend with. Her smile and fantastic sense of wit made it a pleasure to chat with her. We were happy to find out she too resides in Canada and I have promised to keep in touch. Richard who helps manage the hostel was always kind to us and offered  many terrific suggestions on places to go and see. As I got to know him, I found out he has daughters of his own. He even is referred to as 'Hawaiian Dad' to some people. I enjoyed sharing in a good laugh with him and I appreciated the time he took for us. Two people that seemed to have an amazing chemistry were Sam and Natalie. One evening, upon seeing him trying to teach Natalie how to play the guitar, we both commented on the brilliance of the moment shared between them. That is the big difference between staying at a resort or at a hostel; in a private room locked off from the outside world, people tend to do just that...shut themselves away and never meet anyone. At our hostel, I came to know Christie, Joshua ( who I have to admit was one of my favorite on staff) and of course Alex. To be drawn into their world, if only for a little while brought me joy. This whirlwind vacation has been far beyond my expectations...so much more that when I depart from this paradise, a part of me will be in all of the spectacular discoveries I made along the way. I have one last posting before I bid Ma halo to all of those who came with me on this magical experience and took the time to 'follow' me as I shared in our adventures. To those we met, I am a better person for knowing you and as I scrapbook our trip to Oahu, you will become imprinted memories on the pages suspended in Hawaiian time.

Pineapple Swirls, Blue Surf and Honu Delights

One of our top spots that is unparalleled in beauty is the North Shore. When deciding where to spend one of our last few days we had left in Hawaii, we both agreed the prestigious beaches deserved the four hour return bus ride. Our favorite part was climbing off the transit and making our way to the bluest surf I have ever seen. The minute my toes immersed themselves in the whitest grains of sands, I felt a part of me coming home. The sea has always been a connection to my free spirit; as much as my Canadian roots make up who I am, the open waters are my calling card. It is a landscape where catamarans sail along, while underneath the bustle of marine activity delivers a cycle of life. A berth of give and take...the sea can bring peace and turmoil, all at the same time. One of our beach stops was at Lanikai Beach, also known as Turtle Beach. Besides being voted one of the best beaches in the world, Lanikai boosts green sea turtles (honu); some of them will come up on the shoreline to soak up the sun. On the day we arrived, volunteers were keeping a watchful eye and roping off an area to protect them. We sat on our towel and counted six to seven turtles swimming near shore, who had come to feast on the seaweed. Meanwhile, as we watched a female turtle resting, it was an amazing sight to see an enormous mammal basking in the hot sunshine. I spoke with one of the volunteers named Bobbi, who is passionate about the conservation of these endangered species. She explained that all of the turtles have names and were identified by their 'fingerprints;' markings on the face and head of the turtle. Photographs are taken of them to assist in the process of classification and then used to match up the turtles correctly to their names. Protected under Hawaii state law, these majestic creatures are to be seen and not disturbed in any manner. After watching Claudette for over an hour, we packed up and hopped onto the next bus. A trip to Hawaii is not complete without seeing the Dole Plantation, which prides itself with acres of 14,000 Hawaiian plants making up a large maze and at the center is the shape of a pineapple. Admission is free to the Dole Gift store, but the maze and other attractions such as a mini train ride cost a nominal fee. Once inside the shop, we bought chocolate covered pineapple ( half the box was gone immediately) and tangy pineapple whipped ice cream cones. It was interesting to see all of the unique ways pineapple can be enjoyed. After finishing our treats, we visited Haleiwa, a town that had Bob Marley items in one shop and angelic gifts at another. I spoke to several ladies who were dedicated to their work and made me feel most welcome. Their interest in my novel, Under the Sitka Tree, had me sharing with them the story of inspiration for my book. It was easy in this place of peace to chat away a sunny afternoon, however the long wait times in between for buses, forced me to depart to another beach. Our last site to see was Waimea Bay, well known for the surf swells in winter that can reach up to 30 ft. There are some boulders to climb as my boyfriend soon discovered and a cliff side, off in the distance where brave souls jump into the swirling ocean waters. Not for the faint of heart ( or those with no insurance coverage), these cliffs draw the attention of those seeking adventure. Unfortunately, we were witness to an older man who seriously injured himself and an ambulance came and retrieved his battered body. Sometimes mother nature bites back and if your not prepared, it can prove to be costly. That is one of the main reasons I did not try surfing. Once I discovered the additional Travel Insurance we had bought was useless (I was told by the company, if anything happened they would pay out directly, which was not the case)...I decided not to risk any potential injuries. Besides, in Shark's Cove, I had already cut my leg up on the volcanic rock and it had become infected. Speaking with the travel insurance company, I soon found out I was on my own to pay any fees and prescriptions up front, then they would reimburse me later. One of the quotes I received for a simple consultation was $130.00! Therefore, I came back to our room, went on the Internet and found a remedy that several days later, worked to clear up my leg. One small mishap in the USA can cost you thousands. I also had to contend with the fear of coming in contact with any coral as many locals spoke of it growing in your skin. Thankfully, I do not resemble Seriatopora or have a longing to snack on some plankton. My small scar will always remind me of my journey to Oahu and the brilliant scenery I encountered. That said...I do not need to have a piece of coral attached to me to forever remind me of this special island that will always remain close to my heart.

Hanauma Bay Nature Park, Koko Crater and a Glorified Taxi Tour

Protecting marine life is fundamental at Hanauma Bay. In 1967, the arched bay was designated a protected area of marine life conservation, including having status as an underwater park. The cost for the entrance fee is $7.50 per person and you are required to watch a short six minute educational film before entering the waters. The cove is highly preserved and if you have never scuba dived or snorkeled, your in for a delightful surprise as teeming under the ocean waters is a variety of marine life and a massive coral reef. The picturesque beauty of this place made us be in awe of reality knowing how it was formed. The vast ocean floor of Hanauma Bay Nature Park is the crater of an ancient volcano, which flooded when the sea inundated the exterior wall that gave out and a rush of ocean flowed inward. As I positioned myself  in the sand and  geared up to go snorkeling, I contemplated the view of the surrounding area and marvelled in the stunning beauty. Within minutes of immersing myself in the sea, I was gazing at some of the brilliant fish that inhabit the waters. An array of spectacular colors was within my view as Moorish Idol swam by, a Parrot Cichlid lingered near and Sea Cucumbers blended with the sand. We spent several hours, until it was time to go. My boyfriend had decided to walk across the busy road and hike Koko Crater  which is a peak created from the last active volcano, which happened on the island of O'ahu approximately 10,000 years ago. The crater measures 1,207 feet in height. Being an avid hiker, my boyfriend thought he was prepared. However, he was no match for the Hawaiian scorching sun and although he managed the steep, upward trek, he came back a vibrant reddish pink on both his face and neck. While the day was filled with adventure, the so called Hanauma Bay Snorkeling Tour was an awful experience- start to finish. What everyone needs to do is completely check out your 'tour' before you book it. When our small van arrived and I had loads of gear, a backpack and towels, our not so friendly driver refused to put out any step stool that is needed to hoist yourself into the vehicle. This made it difficult to get into the van. We were more appalled when an older lady who had a stroke and her daughter, who had disabilities, were not granted the means of assistance into the transportation. There was NO tour, neither was there history given of Hanauma Bay. We were told by the driver as we passed a mansion on the hill that the home belonged to the Canadian actor Keanu Reeves. For me personally, I could not have slept that night, without knowing such enlightening information. We stopped to pick up a very disorganized group of people, who were running late. One of them climbed on board, only to find out they had misplaced their vouchers. The driver had to ask him to leave. As we finally embarked, a few minutes later, a call came in asking the driver if the man had left his fancy cell phone on board. My boyfriend looked in the back and found both the phone and a room key to The Hyatt. After speaking to the person on the phone, the driver hung-up and started to comment on how nice the phone was and that he would like to have it. We found this driver very unprofessional and were even more upset to realize that it was not a tour at all, but a glorified taxi driver. This taxi driver charged us $36.00 for nothing more than a ride to Hanauma Bay. In fact, you can take the transit bus for two people, return cost is $10.00. They were suppose to provide all the gear ( we had thankfully brought our own), but the young girl was only offered a mask and a snorkel; no fins for her. My boyfriend gave up his own flippers for her to be able to enjoy herself. We talked amongst ourselves and I mentioned they needed to ask the driver to get the step out for them, when they were picked up to go back. The mother and daughter were upset at the driver's lack of concern for either of them. Later, when my boyfriend decided to hike Koko Crater, he left and I got back into van shuttle, with others. The same driver spoke rudely of my partner's decision to hike; asking why all Canadians come to Hawaii and the only thing we want to do is climb mountains? I never spoke another word to the driver and would never recommend this rip off company! That said, we have been most fortunate to have had most our holiday complimented by decent guides and drivers. For us the highlight of the day was the amazing snorkeling experience at Hanauma Bay; one in which we took away the discovery of what lies beneath the churning ocean waters.

Sailing...Hawaiian Style

We have been fortunate that all of our tours have been fantastic; great guides and learning experiences. With week three approaching that was soon to change. However, last Sunday, we were treated to an exceptional time out to sea on the Mai-Tai Catamaran Tour. Sailing around Waikiki, as Diamond head beckoned to us in the background, our journey saw us coast along on the open waters.We sipped on Mai-Tai's ( no surprize) and hoped to spot sea life. After the previous night of participating in my first Pub Crawl and sadly realizing I'd miss that party boat by a good twenty years, I was hoping a spinner dolphin would present itself. But, much like my lost youth that even the worst vodka couldn't enhance, the no show of marine life dampered my spirits a wee bit. Then, as I gazed off towards the horizon, I was snapped back to the reality that I was with the man I love, on a beautiful boat sailing the deep blue sea. In the past few weeks, I have been snorkeling, Volcano watching, Island hopping and eaten foods that I cannot pronounce. I've seen a turtle under the water, walked hand in hand with my partner along some of the most prestine white sand beaches and sat humbled at the poignant Pearl Harbor Memorial. Indeed, I had to wait forty years to see and do these brilliant things, but lingering another twenty to see dolphins shouldn't be that hard... and I am sure it will be still be something for me to look forward to.

A Day of Bliss

Before leaving Canada, I decided to book a treatment for myself at the spa in Hawaii~ (Thanks to Paul and Shayla). After much research and reading reviews on Trip Advisor, the place I thought my tired old soul could use some pampering was Paul Brown's Spa Olakino Spa. I arrived to be greeted by wonderful service and shown prompting to my waiting area. Within minutes my masseuse, named Zach welcomed me in for the beginning of my Na Lani Mea ( Heavenly Things) Signature Spa Package. I was treated to a Lomi Lomi Massage and have to admit, at first things were not going so well. Over the years, I have indulged in many massages, but never had I been given a massage by a man. Let me clarify; by a total stranger who is a man that I am in the buff, uner the sheerest of blankets. I thought I was at least hiding my uneasiness around him. Then as he stopped for a brief moment, Zach remarked that it is only natural to feel uncomfortable around a strange man who is giving me a massage, but that I needed to relax in order to fully received the benefits of the treatment. Afterwards, I was much more at ease and appreciated his professionalism. Next, I was treated to an hour Aromatherapy facial by a lovely lady named Tiffany. I fell alseep several times, but was awoken by my stomach growls and vibrations from my deep snoring. After my treatments were complete, I was brought to a bay window sitting area where I was to relax and take in the peaceful ocean scenery. As I sipped my Chai tea, I reflected on my soothing day. Suddenly my tranquility was broken by a tall, older gentleman sporting a very unflattering banana thong. He seemed oblivious to the stares and giggles as he strutted along the beach taking snapshots of random things. His chest was puffed out, much like a bloated puffer fish, but instead of spines, they were replaced with a mass of chest hair that seemed to flow endlessly and stick out. While others may have snickered, I had to admire a man with that much confidence. Besides, after my royal treatment and exposing my own beauty flaws to two total strangers...who was I to comment on someone who clearly idolizes the Hoff.

Best Shaved Ice In Waikiki! AILANA Shave Ice

While vacationing, I have walked past a shaved ice business, many times. I finally chose to go into the store. Two smiling faces greeted me; the owner, Aaron and his daughter Erin. I introduced myself and asked for a 'tour' of his facility ( which is a tiny front counter). He happily obliged and explained to me, the different degrees of shaved ice and the proper consistency to ensure the best flavour and proper distribution of ingredients to settle thru the ice. Aaron's friendly approach, amazing customer service and pride in his products ( he uses only fresh, homemade ingredients), instills the satisfaction he takes in every shaved ice treat he serves up! He gave me sample after sample to try, in order to help narrow down my decision.. My usual instinct is to go with Peanut Butter and Chocolate, but something appealed to me. It was shaved ice covered in sweet beans, coconut, condensed milk and home made Mochi; a Japanese rice cake made of glutinous rice that is pounded into a paste, then molded into shape. When the final product was delivered, it was a feast for both my eyes and my belly! The unique flavours blend well together and AILANA Shave Ice has the top service, quality and price. Located in the Waikiki Shopping Plaza on 2250 Kalakaua Avenue it boosts the best yelp reviews in town! I plan on visiting one more time before I leave; somewhere in between going to eat the Malasada Puffs and the Hula Pie. Thank goodness I don't live here...my waistline would look like the distant horizon circle shape.

Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, Sandy Beach and Old John and The Sea

Before leaving Canada, I had spoken to my daughter, Shayla about things to do while vacationing in Hawaii. She told me about the Makapuu trail, which is a 2.0 miles return hike. To reach the Summit, you have to travel along paved path that also leads to a lookout over the lighthouse. Elevation gain is 500 ft and well worth the trip. My only problem with the hike is actually getting to it. The transit bus drops you off at Sea Life Park and then you have to carefully cross the highway and be mindful of the weaving traffic that is zooming by. Once at the actual entrance to the park, the need to pace yourself in hot, humid and dry conditions is evident. There are no washrooms and no water, so be prepared ( I would not recommend flip flops). This trail is wonderful to view migrating humpback whales in season from November to May. Once at the lookout, we met another couple who had come for a wedding in Hawaii. While exchanging conversation, the man spotted a bird in flight and tried to determine what kind it was. A sound came from above it and he remarked what a unique noise it made. Suddenly passing by us was a helicopter, the propeller noise which he had somehow mistaken coming from the bird, actually came from the aircraft. Honestly, it took all I had to not burst into laughter. Later, I googled the bird we had seen and was amused that it was called "Tropic," from which I think its new name should be "Tropic thunder." After looking at the mini lighthouse and taking several pictures, we departed for Sandy Beach. We arrived as the waves were rolling in full force. After some fun of trying to bury my boyfriend in the sand, I spotted a man using a net to try and catch fish. What struck me was his appearance. He was disheveled, with flowing gray strands of hair, which matched his silver beard. He stood out from all of the chiseled muscular bodies surfing and the families sharing in sand castle art. I looked at my boyfriend and smiling, I said, Now, I bet you he has a interesting story. For those who know me, I thrive on both telling a tale and listening to one. I approached him with ease and asked him how the fishing was. Nearly a half hour later, I was thrilled to know I was right about my assumption. John was his name and the stories he told us, I simply cannot repeat, out of respect to those he mentioned. He had led a colourful life; part-time gardener, part-time petty thief. He has amassed a fortune, yet lives the life of a pauper. The irony of our meeting came when after admitting a not so innocent lifestyle, he gave us tips on how to protect our own belongings. With a twinkle in his blue eyes, reminiscent of the sea, John shook our hands, grabbed his net and set off on another adventure. As his weathered feet sunk into the sand, I poignantly wondered whose footprints those really belonged to.

Even A Bad Day In Hawaii Is A Good Day!

On Thursday, October 20th we had pre-paid for a full day tour to the North Shore; including the Dole Plantation. Waking up at 5am, we prepared for another great day. To ensure Polynesian Adventure Tours had our correct pick-up, I called the night before to confirm both our location and time of departure. We skipped having a breakfast and opted to wait early at the spot for our tour bus to come get us. An hour later, my boyfriend called and was rudely told the driver had went to a different hotel because we had told them the wrong pick up place (which was a lie). I called them back and was passed off to Hawaiian Discounts. The whole day was spent trying to sort the mess. We had paid $140.00 total for the both of us to go on the Oahu Land Tours Gran Circle Island Tour. While waiting for Shirley, the manager to return my calls, I researched the tour more. They advertise that the tour included admission fees, yet Dole Plantation is free and another place only cost a three dollar donation. In the end, we came to realize this tour was a rip-off! Furthermore, me having to spend a day sitting by a phone waiting was frustrating. At 4pm Shirley called to tell me how sorry they were as they were in the wrong and offered us another tour at half price, which was an insult. I demanded our money back and she complied by telling me we would receive it back in 10-15 days! I have told others, including those staying at the hostel, about the terrible service and lack of respect for  customers received from both of the companies mentioned in this posting. I also will be following up with a Trip Advisor review. That said, this was the first time in our 18 day holiday that a tour let us down by not showing up. There have been many wonderful tours and Johnny the guide was fantastic! My advice is to check out the places you want to go, then compare the prices between tours and personally going yourselves. In the end, we were able to catch up on some much needed rest and take in a beautiful evening walk along stretches of beach, we had not seen. Needing relaxation was key as a planned hike would be in the hot sun of the next day. As I strolled along under a canopy of stars, my bare feet being skimmed by the tropical waters, I revelled in the notion that in Hawaii...even a bad day is a GOOD day(-:

Four Words In History That Changed Oahu

I have been having to catch up on my daily blog, as I had no Internet service for a few days. Back on-line, I am posting the days I have missed. After the long, but fantastic 16 hour tour to Big island, we decided to focus on a part of Oahu's history that is a painful part of the area. We booked a tour to Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial that is built over top the ship that saw 1,177 lives perish instantly. Once departing from our bus, we were motioned inside for a presentation of what happened that terrible day, December 7, 1941 Being a Canadian historical writer, I am fascinated and yet still fear of history repeating itself regarding war. Years ago, I had the opportunity to interview a woman named Thea Scott. She had been interned as a prisoner of war in the Philippines and survived some of the worst conditions I have ever heard. Thea had saved many precious items from a period in her life where she struggled to remain alive. I held in my hands, the delicate rations book, detailing the meager food the prisoners were allowed to eat. She shared with me stories that were hard to comprehend about eating bugs, solely for the purpose of seeing another day. Thea handed me photographs and drawings from inside Santo Tomas University which was formerly used by the Japanese as an internment camp. She told me how even though they were treated uncivilized; people tried to live as normal lives as they could. They created a news magazine, got ready as if going to everyday jobs and played games to entertain themselves, when they were not forced to work enduring hours. I marvelled at how she focused on the positive side of life inside the camp; how she fell in love and the lifelong friends she had made. Thea ended our interview by saying these words that have stuck with me, You don't appreciate what you've got, until its taken forcefully away from you and you don't value the colors of your country's flag, until the day you see the enemies flag go down, and yours goes up...symbolizing freedom. Standing on the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor brought back a flood of memories she had shared with me, long ago. I looked at the endless names chiseled in the marble and reflected on all of the lives forever changed by a ruthless attack on those who never suspected anything. I was surprised to hear that on the early morning of December 7, 1941, four words would make their mark on history. When contacted by radio and asked about the planes headed their way to Oahu, one of the officers, mistaking them as a practice fleet remarked, Don't worry about it! Minutes later, they were under attack and the toll of lives lost would remain solidified to the roots of Oahu's tragic part of war events. An eerie legacy left behind is the colorful oil drops that seep upon the surface of the ocean; from the vast oil drums of the USS Arizona, when it sunk. It struck me deeply as I saw tropical fish swimming around the wreckage; that from something so horrible is infused in such brilliant colors. For me, this sombre pilgrimage to Pearl Harbor made me realize that as much as we are connected; the widespread conflict in our world, threatens to separate us daily. Lest We Forget.

My Roots to Pele

There is alot to be said for waking up at 5am , while it is still dark, stumbling around in order to prepare for departure to the Big Island Volcano Eco Tour. Yet as I start to hand write my blog on a dim lit airplane, heading back to Oahu after the tour, I am energized! I have just finished experiencing the ultimate tour with Discover Hawaii and our guide named 'Johnny.' My boyfriend and I awoke before sunrise, not knowing what to expect. Upon departing on a 16 hour whirlwind day, we have come away from this adventure, fulfilled with acquired knowledge; entertained by one of the most splendid tour guides we have ever met! We conversed with people (such as the wonderful, friendly Pereira family from Melbourne, Austrailia) and those from all over the world. Our trip to Big island was the main reason for travelling to Hawaii. A birthday present for my boyfriend; I booked the flights because of his fascination with Volcanoes. After what we both shared on this tour, our appreciation for nature and each other has deepened. Seeing his face aglow in wonder at the blackened lava rock beds, spewing steam and hues of red bursting from the earth, made me happy for the choice of this gift. While writing this daily blog, I have been able to summarize our activities into a few short paragraphs. However, this exceptional journey to Big island deems more out of respect for the volcanoes vibrant history. After a quick flight from Oahu to Big Island, we arrived and were greeted by our guide, Johnny, who had a wonderful grin to welcome us. Once all accounted for, ( except for Arthur- a mysterious tourist, who never did appear), we made our first unexpected stop to Candies Big Island. This was a great sign indeed that our tour was going to be magical. Who else can boast sipping free 100% Kona Coffee samples, nibbling on chocolate enrobed espresso beans , then turn to see Johnny handing out samples of chocolate dipped shortbread. As I watched through glass, the employees hand-dip and form endless varieties of goodies, my eyes wandered to the shelves of sweets. I sauntered over to the stacks of macadamia nuts, rocky road treats and aisles of cookies. It was then I spotted my treasure...peanut butter, chocolate, crisp rice squares. For a moment I felt like Willy Wonka, mischievously rubbing my hands together in  delight at my factory, mass producing every child's sweet desire. I plucked my box of candy and as I passed Johnny, he offered us more delectable goodies. I looked at my watch and marvelled that I had indulged in my sublime breakfast of java and cocoa before seeing a bubbling volcano. As we boarded the bus, our group seemed more content. We carried onto the authentic Japanese gardens, Queen Liliuokalani, where the flow of water is weaved through a tapestry of colorful flora and lush forest. After, our Discover Hawaii Shuttle van took us to Hilo; a town of  over 43,263 people and home to a handful of celebrities, who once called Hilo their home or still have roots to the area. We drove past Dwayne the Dog Bounty Hunter's first Bail Bond office and Ken's House of Pancakes whose manager is the cousin of former pro wrestler turned actor Dwayne Johnson, aka The Rock. Travelling along the bumpy, narrow roads, Johnny shared with us the hazards of driving in Hilo include mangoes, guavas and avocados falling onto the road and causing a pile up. He also showed us the Kona coffee beans which resembled oblong red berries. Passing the town's trademarks, we saw majestic trees planted by people who changed history. Richard Nixon, Babe Ruth and Amelia Earhart, were amongst those that long after they were gone, these massive trees rooted in the earth still remains. A sombre moment came when our guide told us of the five tsunami's to strike Hilo over the years; occurring in 1946, 1952, 1957, 1960 and 1975. The reliance of the town's people was a true testament of faith in oneself as Hilo would rebuild, restructure buildings and hold steadfast to never abandoning their community. Our journey continued onwards to Rainbow Falls State Park, aptly named 80 ft waterfalls for the rainbows, which are created by the mist in the mornings. Arriving at sunrise on the heels of rain showers, usually guarantees a vivid kaleidoscope of arched color. Johnny shared more stories and his sense of humor, when describing his early college years and the uniforms team members wore. They were adored with the name Rainbow Warriors in which he remarked, It's hard to instill fear in your opponents when your name doesn't reflect toughness! Throughout our tour, we went to two different restaurants; one was called Uncle Billy's and served a affordable buffet. The battered fish was crispy and golden, prompting my English boyfriend to nod with his approval over our meal. The other establishment was the Volcano Golf and Country Club, where I was served a steaming, hearty bowl of Portuguese and Bean soup. While dining, Johnny offered us a fantastic set of music as he strummed his guitar, crooning some of my favorite melodies. Included was the song featured in Dirty Dancing, Solomon Burke's Cry To Me. Johnny's gritty, soulful version had me wanting to listen to him all night. He covered, Eric Clapton's, Change The World and placed a beautiful spin on his own version of this classic song. After he received applause, Johnny was humble about his outstanding voice and talents. During the afternoon, we drove along the roads with crumbled masses of volcanic rock bordering each side. There were several stops made, in which we were able to get out and walk either along or on the volcanic tundra; solidified layers of landscape that appear suspended in prehistoric time. The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park spotlights two of the world's most active volcanoes, providing understanding on the conception of the Hawaiian Islands and scenery of striking volcanic landscapes. The Thurston lava tube we walked thru, just beneath the surface of the earth was created several hundred years ago as a river of red lava pushed thru it. We marvelled at how in the abyss of charred earth, splashes of greenery and pink`ohi`a lehua  managed to thrive. Our boldness to veer out on the unstable volcanic surface, gave way to uncertainty as the landscape sounded like crunching snow, under our feet. All afternoon we explored many spots of interest along our tour and by the end of the night, did not think it could get any better. We then were brought to see the 500 ft wide active vent in Halemaʻumaʻu Crater that is emitting a steam and gas plume, which can be seen from Jaggar Museum and the Kīlauea Overlook. The eerie reddish hues coming from below the surface was an exceptional sight. I enjoyed reading the history of Pele; the goddess of wind, fire, lightening and volcanoes. She is taken seriously, as it is said that if anyone takes a piece of her home ( volcanic rock, black sand), she will unleash the worst of luck upon them. I could go on about what we discovered on Big island, but since this particular blog is turning into a mini novel, suffice to say we had a spectacular time. I have included more photos as I am paying tribute to one of the most brilliant tours I have ever been on. The legendary Johnny is in two of the pictures. I highly recommend this trip as you are guaranteed to make memories and besides...how many people can say they were both close to the clouds and near to inner earth all in one day.

Oahu Nature Tours Valley of the Rainbows

It still amazes me within half hour of anywhere on Oahu, the scenery changes dramatically. Today, we embarked on our first tour with Oahu Nature Tours. Our van showed up, with Cameron as our guide and we were delighted to find that we had only one person with us on the trip. This ensured we would receive a thorough tour, as well as, extra time for questions and reflection. Within 30 minutes, we arrived in spectacular lush foilage, surrounded by flourishing extravagant flowers. Cameron was knowledge, friendly and patient as he answered our questions and waited for us several times thru our walk in the rainforest. Under a canopy of Bayan and Monkey Pod trees, is Lyon Arboretum, a world renowed botanical gardens. Here we were introduced to a variety of floral and fauna, we never have seen before. Surrounded by primeval greenery and jagged peaks of olive mountainside, our travels took us thru the jungle, where sights and scents of every kind glorified the beauty. The melodies of tropical birds seemed to follow us as we continued along our tour. Cameron told us stories of how the land was utilized from planting taro, sweet potaoes and coffee; explaining the many uses of the area. His sense of humor was refreshing and he was passionate about his job. This allowed us to walk freely and return with any questions. As I roamed the majestic land, I was enthralled by a statue of a Buddha, which had endured time, climate and even a move from under a tree to its final resting place. Another stop on Valley of the Rainbows tour was at the brilliant 180 degree view from Pu`u `Uala-ka`a, which is located 1,048 feet above Waikiki. The ascending drop  point circles the area, offering an ariel view of Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean. The only thing missing from our tour that would have made it grand, was a gleaming kalidescope of colors that make up a rainbow. Yet, I felt fulfilled to have being treated to history and nature by our guide, Cameron, whose first intro to our touring resulted in an impressive experience. Tomorrow, we fly over to the Big Island for a Volcano tour. Our wake up time of  4:30am leaves alot to be desired, but then again...last time I checked a bubbling crater of Lava does not care what I look like.

Reflections of an Island Explorer

Flanked by heavenly scented lei shops, the rich aroma of freshly roasted Kona coffee and eclectic stores, this past week reflections are as unique as the charm of Oahu. We cheerfully explored areas that we found as undiscovered gems, while our toes were immersed in the glistening white sand that stretches endlessly, along the coastline. Our skin was kissed by the liquid salt of the bluest sea, while our tastebuds were satisfied by a variety of fresh Hawaiian food. To experience waikiki is to open yourself to the many cultures and become part of their world; rather than just a tourist. It's a chance to say yes to the sketchy restaurant down a dim-lit alley; only to discover its rated on the top list of favorite places to eat in Honolulu. It is giving up the luxury of a five star resort, which features all the luxuries of a private kitchenette and air conditioning and trade it in for the ultimate hostel experience. It may not be equipped with pools, cabana boys and towel service, but it certainly boasts some of the best hosptality. With $5.00 Barbeque nights once a week and an unexpected delightful breakfast of portuguese sausage served with mile high fluffy pancakes made by the owner Mark, one can be exposed to people from all over the world. If you are seeking laughter, speak to Alex from Russia, if your looking for a friendly Canadian smile, then see Natalie, and if you want to be entertained by stories, one should have a chat with Richard. Each of them have made us feel at home. Being in the heart of Waikiki has enabled us to visit a shop called Hawaiian Accessories, which offers made in Hawaii gifts to take home. The manager, Patty Sherman is a lovely, bubbly lady whose pride in her products and knowledge about each one, gave authenticity to the Aloha experience. A trip to the North Shore is a must, with a stop at Ted's Bakery will offer a wide selction of homemade pies and cakes. For lunch, I ate an enormous crab and bacon sandwich that filled me for travelling on a bus, then getting off to go to the beaches for snorkeling. We have tried Champion Malasadas, which left me both speechless and wanting more! The sweets are my weekness and I just know that everytime I eat them, a treadmill at my gym squeals in delight, waiting for my return. From acquring knowledge at the Waikiki Aquarium, to learning about Hawaiian history, royalty and culture at The Bishop Museum, everyday has brought a newfound experience like no other. The next week ahead is a hectic schedule of bustling tours, mornings that will start at 5 am and adventrures to be found. I have settled in nicely to Hawaiian time; knowing I am not simply on vacation, but experiencing a way of life I could easily be rooted to.

The Sentiments of a Wedding Crasher

It's funny how an odd tradition starts, out of the blue you find yourself in a situation, unexpectedly. Years ago, while my daughter was a teenager and we were backpacking throughout Washington, we found ourselves spectators to a beautiful beach wedding. It happened while we were visitors to one of our favorite spots to chill out; Fairhaven ,USA. A place of history infused with traditional brickwork, Ol' Dan the man and an eclectic bistro called The Legendary Colophon Cafe; Fairhaven embodies unmatched flair, decor and unique characters on a daily basis. After dropping off our backpacks, Shayla and I had decided to saunter towards the ocean and take in a brilliant sunset. As we plunked ourselves onto a log, we soon realized we were caught in a special moment of union between two people. Before us, a bride and groom walked hand in hand towards a preacher, and we were about to become wedding crashers. Now, you know when your in a situation where if you try to leave, you become the disruptive center of attention and if you stay, then you have to try and blend in with the crowd. This was one of those times. We decided to make the best of this ceremony and quietly between us, my daughter and I shared comments. We remarked on how lovely the bride's dress was, the detailing of her veil, the grooms matching navy stripped tie to his hanker chief. Both of us nodded and smiled at the other relatives, while they struggled to recognize which side of the family we were related to. Listening intently to the sacred vows, I believed we were giving a wonderful performance of blending in. I turned to look at Shayla and was suprized to see a smatter of tears across her pink cheeks. Caught up in the moment, like some of us are guilty of when we cry at the movies, my daughter was taking in the whole experience. I placed my arm around her and we giggled, as our little secret was kept under wraps. And so began, the chance encounters of crashing weddings , without even planning to. Once in Seattle, we became part of the photo opportunties, when the bride and groom, enamoured with each other... let us partake in wedding pictures of two strangers we would never even know their names. These special events are as random as the occurance to which we find ourselves captivated in. This leads me to share what happened yesterday. My boyfriend and I had hopped on a bus to a spectacular beach called Waimanalo, with pounding white surf and glistening sand, it was unparalleled in beauty. That is until while laying on the beach, my sun was blocked by something. I shut off my music, set my earphones aside and saw a breathtaking vision. A young couple, complete with colorful Lei's, had finished exchanging vows. They were perserving the occasion thru a series of photographs, walking hand in hand, along the seaside. My first thought was how I wished my daughter was with me to enjoy the significance of what I was seeing. Then I realized I had to revel in this one solo, seizing the unexpected moment, when I became yet again...a sentimental wedding crasher.

A Chance Encounter to Cross Off My Bucket List

Yesterday was a day of discovery, a lesson in patience and a spectacular moment in time, I will not forget. As we have a snorkeling tour planned next week, we brought our own gear on vacation with us. I was bent on mastering the movements of the sea, while my boyfriend being an avid water sport expert, swam with ease as he snorkled the bay. My sea legs were not co-operating as my flippers went every other direction in the air, instead of the ocean. Everytime I went to take a breath, another pounding wave crashed me into the surf. I almost met my fate with a surfboard, whose owner had lost control and sent her board directly into my path. She swam towards me deeply aplogetic and I shrugged it off knowing that she probably thought I was some spastic sea creature coming up for air. I was about to give in and stood up to speak to my boyfriend, when a dark mass caught my attention. It must have been my curiosity and adrenalin combined that prompted me to dive right into the water and see what was before me. Imagine my utter surprise when I was face to face with an enormous sea turtle! There was such a peace about the sacred reptile as we moved freely under the depths of the ocean, I know I was experiencing a once in a lifetime opportunity. What also surprised me, was how graceful and flowing my own movements had become, as I shared the open waters with this beautiful sea creature. At one point, the turtle turned his head and looked at me, offering reassurance that I would be just fine. I kept my distance, slowly easing off, until the image of the sea turtle was merely imprinted in my mind. Afterwards, all I could think of was the majestic vision being granted to me on a day when I did not think anything could go right...the right most beautiful thing simply happened.

LOST Without My BG!

Exploring the islands of Hawaii, has shaped me into a seeker of life’s broader highway, one in which a sense of wholeness engulfs the traveler in me. I have welcomed the tropical rain that disperses on my golden, salt-kissed skin.

However, throughout this life changing journey someone has been missing. This person is a part of me, as unique as every piece of volcanic rock; she is my black pearl, my seashell and a link to the oceanic currents. She is my daughter, Shayla Rae Dawn. 

Over the years, we have partook in many adventures of the heart. Whether backpacking throughout Washington or placing our quarters into the fortune telling machine at Pike Place Market in Seattle, our footprints tell a story of the adventures that are inscribed upon our care-free spirits.  

Amidst our sleeping outdoors under the glint of a crescent moon at Ocean Shores; Shayla and I have met a host of characters befitting for campfire storytelling.

The unmeasurable bond we share has been multiplied over time, as I grow older, she becomes wiser. During this trip to Hawaii, there have been occasions where I have seen an elaborate display of nature and I wanted to share it with her.

 The suspended cannonballs in the towering trees, is one example. Then there are moments of hilarity, which I want to burst into giggles and have Shayla laughing right alongside me. 

I experienced this yesterday at The Bishop Museum in Honolulu. The visit and touring was a phenomenal experience and I would highly recommend it. Once inside, my hands followed the smooth defined lines of architecture; precision at its finest. There are many rooms and floor levels of rediscovered, historical artifacts. While I was browsing several statues, I saw an elaborately carved wooden figure, which had elongated teeth, several wisps of human hair, wild googly eyes and a tongue protruding out of his crooked mouth. It reminded me of Homer Simpson withdrawing from Duff beer. I smiled; knowing if my daughter was standing there with me, we would pretend to be in deep reflection, when suddenly a fit of laughter, would have us followed by security. 

As I viewed the endless objects from the past, I found something uniting me with the present. Shayla is a Pisces and with her, is the element of the sea. Therefore, the object before me was reflective of this. Encased in glass, was a shell defined by elegance and form. Coreulum Cardissa lives in coral sand of the tropical pacific and is a heart-shaped cockle. Sunlight filters thru the thin, translucent shell, providing a safe haven and energy for the tiny zooxanthellae, which reside inside. The algae recycles unwanted substances from the cockle. The relationship is symbiosis; benefiting both partners from this arrangement. 

This enduring process reminded me of my own kinship with my daughter. The closer, long term interaction of our relationship has allowed us to grow as individuals; expelling the undesirable impurities, still maintaining our special bond. While this Hawaiian journey has been without her by my side, amid every golden sunrise at the break of day, I have carried my daughter within the energy of the seashore waves.

By TL Alton