Hawaii Vacation Connection

Direct from Honolulu Hawaii, this podcast focuses on Hawaii Vacations and Travel to Hawaii. Each 15 minute podcast segment is packed with valuable information on pricing, trends and Hawaii vacation itineraries submitted by podcast listeners. Topics range from booking Hawaii All inclusive packages to sailing Hawaii cruises covering just about anything having to do with Hawaii Travel

When people come to Hawaii, they always want to bring a little aloha back with them. We've done a monologue on how you can bring Hawaii home with you, but we've never talked about how you can make your own home Hawaiian (meaning tropical). Doing small things to your hale (Hawaiian word for “house”) to create reminders of the relaxation, enjoyment, and good times you've had in Hawaii is a great way to stay sane during the months when you're not here. Haha, just kidding. But it really is a great way to bring peace and tranquility into a home, not to mention some great décor ideas you can try out and share! Here are ten easy things you can do to make your house more tropical. Hopefully they help to bring a bit of aloha to you and your family when you're not in the islands. Plant a tropical tree outside. The most tropical looking tree that can survive in mainland weather conditions is a banana palm. You can find the typical green ones or the beautiful ones with red stems, but both grow well in outdoor climates. Hang a bamboo wind chime. The sound of bamboo stalks clinking together in the wind is undeniably calming. It is also very characteristic of Hawaii because so many shops, restaurants, and hotels use them as décor. Use pareos (sarongs) as throws or bedspreads. In the morning after you've made your bed, try spreading out your favorite pareo over your comforter at the foot of your bed. Keep a bar of plumeria soap at your sink. Plumerias are the scent of the islands. It's the fragrant you smell when you first step off the plane, the trees you see lining streets, homes, and yards, and the flowers that make up most Hawaiian leis. Grow tropical indoor houseplants. Just as an outdoor plant helps to bring Hawaii to your home, so too do indoor plants. Plus, they tend to grow better because they're in a more controlled environment. Lather up with tropical shampoo. If you purchase tropical shampoo with awapuhi, coconut, ginger, or mango, the scent you'll get when washing your hair will inevitably take you back to the islands. Use a Hawaiian doormat. Your front door is known to be a place of strong feng shui, so why not make the most out of it and be sure it gives off something tropical and soothing for all who enter? Use a Hawaiian doormat at your front entry way for people to see every time they enter or leave your home. Embrace the local way to enter a home (and put up a sign to say it!) When you're in Hawaii, it's customary to remove your shoes before entering a home. Try adopting this practice for your own house and put a sign up at your entrance to inform others. Play some island music. Music totally creates an ambiance, and if you're looking for ways to create a tropical sense of Hawaii in your home, try some Hawaiian music. Listening to this type of music as background noise is a great way to keep the island vibe alive. Paint a room sunshine yellow or island green. Studies show that there is actual brain chemistry going on when you enter a room painted certain colors. Yellows and greens are known to create calmness and relaxation and is why so many doctors’ offices and dentists’ offices are painted these soft shades.

When people come to Hawaii, they always want to bring a little aloha back with them. We've done a monologue on how you can bring Hawaii home with you, but we've never talked about how you can make your own home Hawaiian (meaning tropical). Doing small things to your hale (Hawaiian word for “house”) to create reminders of the relaxation, enjoyment, and good times you've had in Hawaii is a great way to stay sane during the months when you're not here. Haha, just kidding. But it really is a great way to bring peace and tranquility into a home, not to mention some great décor ideas you can try out and share! Here are ten easy things you can do to make your house more tropical. Hopefully they help to bring a bit of aloha to you and your family when you're not in the islands. Plant a tropical tree outside. The most tropical looking tree that can survive in mainland weather conditions is a banana palm. You can find the typical green ones or the beautiful ones with red stems, but both grow well in outdoor climates. Hang a bamboo wind chime. The sound of bamboo stalks clinking together in the wind is undeniably calming. It is also very characteristic of Hawaii because so many shops, restaurants, and hotels use them as décor. Use pareos (sarongs) as throws or bedspreads. In the morning after you've made your bed, try spreading out your favorite pareo over your comforter at the foot of your bed. Keep a bar of plumeria soap at your sink. Plumerias are the scent of the islands. It's the fragrant you smell when you first step off the plane, the trees you see lining streets, homes, and yards, and the flowers that make up most Hawaiian leis. Grow tropical indoor houseplants. Just as an outdoor plant helps to bring Hawaii to your home, so too do indoor plants. Plus, they tend to grow better because they're in a more controlled environment. Lather up with tropical shampoo. If you purchase tropical shampoo with awapuhi, coconut, ginger, or mango, the scent you'll get when washing your hair will inevitably take you back to the islands. Use a Hawaiian doormat. Your front door is known to be a place of strong feng shui, so why not make the most out of it and be sure it gives off something tropical and soothing for all who enter? Use a Hawaiian doormat at your front entry way for people to see every time they enter or leave your home. Embrace the local way to enter a home (and put up a sign to say it!) When you're in Hawaii, it's customary to remove your shoes before entering a home. Try adopting this practice for your own house and put a sign up at your entrance to inform others. Play some island music. Music totally creates an ambiance, and if you're looking for ways to create a tropical sense of Hawaii in your home, try some Hawaiian music. Listening to this type of music as background noise is a great way to keep the island vibe alive. Paint a room sunshine yellow or island green. Studies show that there is actual brain chemistry going on when you enter a room painted certain colors. Yellows and greens are known to create calmness and relaxation and is why so many doctors’ offices and dentists’ offices are painted these soft shades.

Direct from Honolulu Hawaii, this podcast focuses on Hawaii Vacations and Travel to Hawaii. Each 15 minute podcast segment is packed with valuable information on pricing, trends and Hawaii vacation itineraries submitted by podcast listeners. Topics range from booking Hawaii All inclusive packages to sailing Hawaii cruises covering just about anything having to do with Hawaii Travel

Nothing screams “summer vacation” like a trip to Hawaii, and if you're dying for some ideal summertime weather and beach fun, then the islands are just the place for you. The summer months in Hawaii are sunny with warmer ocean temperatures and trade wi...

Nothing screams “summer vacation” like a trip to Hawaii, and if you’re dying for some ideal summertime weather and beach fun, then the islands are just the place for you. The summer months in Hawaii are sunny with warmer ocean temperatures and trade winds blowing for just the right amount of coolness. With such consistent […]

Direct from Honolulu Hawaii, this podcast focuses on Hawaii Vacations and Travel to Hawaii. Each 15 minute podcast segment is packed with valuable information on pricing, trends and Hawaii vacation itineraries submitted by podcast listeners. Topics range from booking Hawaii All inclusive packages to sailing Hawaii cruises covering just about anything having to do with Hawaii Travel

There is a saying that many Hawaii locals will recognize, and even more might even admit to using (quite frequently). It's a saying that many vacationers and travelers to Hawaii wish they could announce with truth, yet it's a saying that instills a certain sense of blessing in both island locals and tourists. It's a saying that's become increasingly popular. Perhaps you've seen it on a shirt, a beach bag, or even tagged on a street sign. It's four words that help describe the feeling many locals get when laying on the beach under the warm tropical sun, beer in hand and a weekend in Hawaii to look forward to. It's “lucky we live Hawaii.” Nobody is quite sure where it started or how it came to be so popular, but this saying seems to never get old. Perhaps this is because it is not a prideful or boastful statement. It is merely a humble way of expressing gratitude about the beautiful place in which we live. The best part about this saying is that it can be used in almost any context. Here are a few scenarios where this saying is perfect to use: Jumping in the ocean on a summer day with your eyes open. The water is so clear you can see the fish swimming around you. Capture this moment with an underwater camera, post it to Instagram, and the title “lucky we live Hawaii” will be the perfect way to describe that feeling you just experienced. Sitting with a group of friends or family in a covered carport, listening to the rain hit the corrugated tin roof. Waiting for the clouds to clear, you look beyond the carport and see a deeply colored rainbow arched above your neighbor's house. “Lucky we live Hawaii” may be heard murmured amongst your group of ohana. Walking down the local bike path after an energizing swim in the ocean, you notice fruit trees growing wild in the dirt. The bananas are not quite ripe, but you see a green-turning-yellow papaya that is ready for the picking. You also notice a nearby mango tree with sweet fruit hanging down perfectly within reach. The ideal snacks for an in between meal, you think to yourself “lucky I live Hawaii”. While this is often a saying that locals usually use, its meaning also resonates with tourists and those thinking about moving to Hawaii as well. It's these little moments of awe that convince so many to move to the islands, and we don't deny that they are actually quite convincing! It's the simple things that are catching people's attention, but recently I heard a friend say she wanted to move to Hawaii because she didn't want to be ordinary. And I guess that is exactly what Hawaii is, extraordinary. It's no wonder why people from all over the world come to these islands for a relaxing vacation. Vacationers coming to Hawaii can also use this phrase by tweaking it slightly. Instead of “lucky we live Hawaii”, change it to “lucky we in Hawaii”. This makes it less permanent, and more of a statement that means “we're acknowledging the amazing fact that we're in Hawaii!” rather than, “we're trying to pretend like we live in Hawaii.” Using this phrase is a great way to stay in the moment during your vacation too. There are times when driving can be overwhelming, the tour didn't turn out like expected, or the weather didn't hold up like you wanted, but in between all those frustrating moments are the ones that make it all worthwhile. Stay present in the moment for things like the sounds of a choir of tropical birds, the warm breeze of the tradewinds, or the feel of sand under your bare feet. By connecting with this phrase, you'll most likely connect better with the island and ultimately make your vacation more memorable. We love using this saying because it helps brings us back to reality. For locals living in Hawaii, we tend to forget that we're in one of the most desired places on earth. When you're working a 9 to 5 job Monday through Friday, it's easy to lose track of the beautiful weather, warm ocean, or abundance of outdoor activities. Until we hit that weekend mark,

There is a saying that many Hawaii locals will recognize, and even more might even admit to using (quite frequently). It’s a saying that many vacationers and travelers to Hawaii wish they could announce with truth, yet it’s a saying that instills a certain sense of blessing in both island locals and tourists. It’s a […]

Direct from Honolulu Hawaii, this podcast focuses on Hawaii Vacations and Travel to Hawaii. Each 15 minute podcast segment is packed with valuable information on pricing, trends and Hawaii vacation itineraries submitted by podcast listeners. Topics range from booking Hawaii All inclusive packages to sailing Hawaii cruises covering just about anything having to do with Hawaii Travel

Some say there are ways to enhance a flight, either with a first class seat, purchased amenities, or simply an aisle versus a window spot. Some may disagree however, believing that a seat is a seat and a six-hour flight in the exit row is more or less the same as a six-hour flight in the back of the plane. But according to Skyscanner, an online flight comparison site, there seems to be one lucky seat that tends to make flying easiest. And it's not first class. It is seat number 6A, a window seat up front. The survey asked over 1,000 people their preference on airplane seating and it was also revealed that more people prefer a window seat to an aisle one. (The ratio for this was 60:40). While you might have your own opinions on where the most coveted seat is on a plane, we're going to let you in on a few secrets to help make your decision easier. So before you wake up early and stand in line for hours on end at the airport to ensure you nab that lucky 6A seat, read our tips and learn a little more about what your first choice for seats might really be. Window or aisle? That is always the biggest question. In my family, we used to all fight over who got the window seats, since our flights were usually long and we liked to prop our heads against the window to catch some zzz's. Windows are also good for their view of course. There is nothing like flying into Honolulu and seeing that bird's eye view of the island's gorgeous southern coastline. Or witnessing the sparkling city lights of San Francisco on a late night flight into California. Window seats also offer a sense of more privacy, since you can turn toward the window and close yourself off better from the rest of the world. Aisle seats are good for those who make frequent bathroom breaks or don't like to clamber over their seat neighbors. They're also good for taller people because they can stretch their legs into the aisle every once in a while. Not surprisingly, only 1% of the survey responders said they would choose a middle seat over an isle or window one. Middle seats tend to get the least amount of space, and typically both armrests will be taken up by your neighbors. Left side of the plane or right side? While this may not seem like something you would necessarily think of, there is a science behind choosing the right or the left side of a plane. According to Scientific American, only 15% of flyers are left-handed. Chances are your seat neighbor will eat, drink, and write with their right hand, and even lean toward their right side for comfort. So if you're right-handed, this means whatever space your neighbor leaves open on their left side will be yours for the taking on your right. This also usually means you'll have the armrest available to your right too. The left side of the plane is known to be better for those who prefer window seats however, because the windows are typically off-center. This allows more wall space for passengers to lean on. Definitely something to think about if you plan to sleep during your flight. Front or back of the plane? Typically people will choose to sit toward the front of the plane. People tend to think that sitting as close to the front as possible will make the “getting on” and “getting off” part quicker and easier, which is true. But during the “de-planing” process, the time difference between a front row seat versus a seat 10 rows back is only about 7-9 minutes. The front rows also have a little more to offer passengers, such as less engine noise and first choice on the food and beverage carts. Oftentimes passengers are left with little or no choice on food options when the cart finally reaches them in the back. And here's an interesting fact about the middle seats on a plane: passengers are less likely to feel turbulence in the middle sections than they are the front or back. If turbulence is something that bothers you or instill anxiety, we recommend snagging a spot as close to the mid-section as possible.

Some say there are ways to enhance a flight, either with a first class seat, purchased amenities, or simply an aisle versus a window spot. Some may disagree however, believing that a seat is a seat and a six-hour flight in the exit row is more or less the same as a six-hour flight in the back of the plane. But according to Skyscanner, an online flight comparison site, there seems to be one lucky seat that tends to make flying easiest. And it's not first class. It is seat number 6A, a window seat up front. The survey asked over 1,000 people their preference on airplane seating and it was also revealed that more people prefer a window seat to an aisle one. (The ratio for this was 60:40). While you might have your own opinions on where the most coveted seat is on a plane, we're going to let you in on a few secrets to help make your decision easier. So before you wake up early and stand in line for hours on end at the airport to ensure you nab that lucky 6A seat, read our tips and learn a little more about what your first choice for seats might really be. Window or aisle? That is always the biggest question. In my family, we used to all fight over who got the window seats, since our flights were usually long and we liked to prop our heads against the window to catch some zzz's. Windows are also good for their view of course. There is nothing like flying into Honolulu and seeing that bird's eye view of the island's gorgeous southern coastline. Or witnessing the sparkling city lights of San Francisco on a late night flight into California. Window seats also offer a sense of more privacy, since you can turn toward the window and close yourself off better from the rest of the world. Aisle seats are good for those who make frequent bathroom breaks or don't like to clamber over their seat neighbors. They're also good for taller people because they can stretch their legs into the aisle every once in a while. Not surprisingly, only 1% of the survey responders said they would choose a middle seat over an isle or window one. Middle seats tend to get the least amount of space, and typically both armrests will be taken up by your neighbors. Left side of the plane or right side? While this may not seem like something you would necessarily think of, there is a science behind choosing the right or the left side of a plane. According to Scientific American, only 15% of flyers are left-handed. Chances are your seat neighbor will eat, drink, and write with their right hand, and even lean toward their right side for comfort. So if you're right-handed, this means whatever space your neighbor leaves open on their left side will be yours for the taking on your right. This also usually means you'll have the armrest available to your right too. The left side of the plane is known to be better for those who prefer window seats however, because the windows are typically off-center. This allows more wall space for passengers to lean on. Definitely something to think about if you plan to sleep during your flight. Front or back of the plane? Typically people will choose to sit toward the front of the plane. People tend to think that sitting as close to the front as possible will make the “getting on” and “getting off” part quicker and easier, which is true. But during the “de-planing” process, the time difference between a front row seat versus a seat 10 rows back is only about 7-9 minutes. The front rows also have a little more to offer passengers, such as less engine noise and first choice on the food and beverage carts. Oftentimes passengers are left with little or no choice on food options when the cart finally reaches them in the back. And here's an interesting fact about the middle seats on a plane: passengers are less likely to feel turbulence in the middle sections than they are the front or back. If turbulence is something that bothers you or instill anxiety,

Direct from Honolulu Hawaii, this podcast focuses on Hawaii Vacations and Travel to Hawaii. Each 15 minute podcast segment is packed with valuable information on pricing, trends and Hawaii vacation itineraries submitted by podcast listeners. Topics range from booking Hawaii All inclusive packages to sailing Hawaii cruises covering just about anything having to do with Hawaii Travel

Podcast listener questions We got several questions this week which we addressed on today's show. Claire is worried about sharks when she comes here to the islands because of recent shark attacks in the news. Studies show that we're not on the menu fo...

Podcast listener questions We got several questions this week which we addressed on today's show. Claire is worried about sharks when she comes here to the islands because of recent shark attacks in the news. Studies show that we're not on the menu for lunch when it comes to what sharks prefer in their diet. Research shows that they mostly have a diet based of squid or fish or even seals. They go on to conclude that human meet simply just doesn't taste good to sharks. That being said, we definitely have had our share of shark bites; since November of last year there have been had six incidents already. Pretty Scary! Shout outs to Dave sturdy, Gary Ekborg, Claire Kaufman, Robin Parks and Bridgette Parker for the great questions which we also discussed on today's show. Lanai & Molokai We often hear of the “outer islands” in relation to the major islands, which may give travelers the impression that they are unchartered territory or no-mans land. Lanai and Molokai may be small and much less populated than any of the other islands, but that doesn't mean they are not vacation destinations! In fact, Lanai is known to be the best island destination for honeymooners, weddings, or romantic getaways and Molokai has an equally rich history that can be navigated via mule! I don't know if any of the other major islands boast this type of allure. These two outer islands offers travelers remoteness like nowhere else in Hawaii plus unspoiled views of the coastlines, valleys, and rainforests that are simply unmatched. Here's a little more about each of these islands for those interested in a unique retreat that is definitely off-the-beaten-path of traditional Hawaii vacations. Lanai was once referred to as The Pineapple Island but has recently been more commonly called The Private Island. This is because of its seclusion, luxury, and absolute isolation from the rest of the world. Lanai houses only three high-end resorts, the Resort Lanai at Manele Bay, The Lodge at Koele, and Hotel Lanai. While Lanai is not the first place we would recommend for vacationers on a budget, it has a lot of outdoor adventuring to offer newlyweds or business groups looking for bonding experiences. Activities such as horseback rides, kayaking, hiking, and world-class golf are available to vacationers on Lanai, and most of the hotels offer these activities to their guests. It's important to know what is included in your stay at the resort because all-inclusive packages do exist and they actually save you the most money on a trip like this. They can get pricey, but it is well worth the money and Lanai is a well-worth-it island destination. Lanai also has a ferry that operates between Maui 7 days a week. Booking a vacation to Lanai doesn't have to be confined to the one island; it can extend out to a weekend getaway to Maui too! Or experience the different sides of Lanai, which feels like two very different places. Central Lanai is rustic with cooler temperatures, pineapple fields, and Dole Park. You'll also find the Munro Trail in central Lanai, which is renowned for its highest scenic point in the whole island and offers miles of hiking trails and backcountry. South Lanai is the other location on the island, which is sunny, warm, and mixes luxury with serenity. Here you'll find incredible beaches and landmarks, such as Puu Pehe (Sweetheart Rock), Hulopoe Bay, and the Kaumalapau Harbor, where sunsets are known to be unbelievably stunning. Molokai is known as being rural, historic, and untouched, giving vacationers a glimpse into old Hawaii. With no traffic lights, this island has the seclusion you seek for your ultimate getaway and is best viewed via horse or mule. Molokai boasts ancient fishponds, coconut groves, historic settlements, and one of Hawaii's largest white sand beaches. It is truly a unique Hawaii experience, with plenty to keep you busy. Like Lanai,