This picture was taken off the Kona Coast of the Big Island of Hawai'i.  March is prime whale season here in the islands.

Swimming side by side a green sea turtle, smelling the constant perfume of a plumeria tree, and witnessing fiery red lava as it flows into the sea - a trip to Hawaii is truly a therapy for your body, mind, and soul.  Today, more than ever, it's important to minimize our ecological footprints as much as possible when we travel to make sure the magical destinations we love today can be preserved and enjoyed in the future as well.

Below are some tips to help travel smarter and lighter on your next Hawaii vacation.

• Fly non-stop whenever possible, or take a flight with the fewest connections.  In addition to saving time, a high percentage of a plane's carbon emissions come from take-off and landing.  Unless you're coming by boat, the only other way to get to Hawaii is by plane, but you can reduce your carbon footprint by choosing the most direct flight.
• Respect Hawaii's natural environment.  Hawaii's breathtaking landscape, varied ecosystems, and fairly preserved tropical beauty are some of the major reasons people visit.  However, extensive tourism is threatening delicate flora and fauna, such as coral reefs.  Be respectful of the "aina" (land) when hiking, snorkeling, or scuba diving.  Never walk on the reef, and be mindful not to disrupt the plants and animals that call Hawaii their home.
• Choose green hotels, or stay in Bed & Breakfasts, Inns, or on working farms.  Many hotels and resorts in Hawaii are truly committed to conserving our natural resources by implementing various practices that conserve and save water, energy, and lower the amount of waste produced. Some hotels, such as the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa, are taking extra measures by providing towel and sheet changing cards which ask that guests consider using their linens more than once.  Other green hotels include the Sheraton, Hilton, and Marriott, just to name a few
  
• Experience the island culture and promote our communities by eating locally.  Farmer's markets are abundant in Hawaii and a great way to taste amazing new foods, and because of the favorable farming climate, many gourmet restaurants use local and organic ingredients in their cuisine as well.
  
• Bring a piece of Hawaii home with you by shopping for souvenirs in local shops.  Not only will you find unique island treasures that you can't find anywhere else, but you'll also be supporting the island's small businesses.
• Participate in walking tours and hikes.  Many tour operators offer a great selection of activities that allow you to experience the islands to the fullest with minimal impact on the environment.
  

This past weekend I packed my swimsuit and camera and took a mini-vacation of my own from Kailua to the beautiful North Shore and Leeward Coast of the island.

The drive from the windward side of the island up along the coast to the North Shore is an adventure of its own - an hour of passing by white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and small country towns speckled with fresh fruit stands and shrimp shacks.

My first stop was Sunset Beach.     During the winter months, world class surfers from all over come to this mecca of Big Wave surfing to ride the 15 to 25 foot swells.  During the summer, however, when the ocean is calm and the water is crystal clear, this beach is perfect for snorkeling, swimming, collecting shells in the tide pools, or maybe even witnessing a monk seal take a nap on the sand (as I did yesterday - see the picture below).



Continuing on the highway, the next stop is Waimea.  Similar to Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay is known for the largest, most dangerous, and most spectacular surf during the winter, and favorable swimming conditions during the summer.   Waimea Falls Park is located here, a 1,800-acre nature park in the lush green Waimea Valley. The 45-foot Waimea Falls are the highlight of the park, but there are also hula performances, music demonstrations, nature tours, and archeological sites to explore.

One of the highlights of my day was my time spent in Old Haleiwa Town.  I parked my car and took a leisurely stroll down the town's charming and rustic main street, lined with restaurants, cafes, shops, boutiques and art galleries.  Haleiwa is an art-lover's dream, offering everything from hand-blown glass, jewelry, and pottery to paintings in every medium, mostly made by local artists with an island-style theme.

From the North Shore, I drove through pineapple fields and rows of fruit trees to the leeward side of the island.



My tour ended in Makaha, just in time to see a fleet of outrigger canoes coming in after a 20-mile race around the northern coast of the island.  This is the last town before you reach the end of the road on the leeward side of the island.  Many tour companies offer dolphin encounter cruises in these waters because of the large population of spinner dolphins that play in the water here.





If you're coming to Oahu, I highly recommend spending at least one or two days exploring the North Shore and Leeward Coast.  You'll fall in love with the island!

The only resort on the North Shore is Turtle Bay Resort, a wonderful 4-star hotel with world class golfing and more activities than you could imagine.  All of the other accommodations are vacation rentals and Bed & Breakfasts rented by private owners.

In today's world of advanced technology, the Internet offers access to knowledge and services never before dreamed possible and human interaction is becoming less of a necessity.

And with mega travel sites such as Expedia and Priceline offering discounted options for vacation packages and the convenience of booking online, people always ask me why they would consider working with a travel professional. 

The benefits of working with a personal travel consultant

• Save time and money
  

As we all know, planning an excellent and successful vacation and getting the best value at the same time can be confusing and time consuming.  Using a good travel agent is like one-stop shopping.

Travel consultants are knowledgeable about the travel that they sell, and strong working relationships with travel suppliers and the latest in computer technology means that they usually receive the earliest notifications of special fares, hotel deals, promotions, and travel advisories, and can access the most up-to-date info on how to get you the best value out there.  Although major online sites such as Travelocity do tend to get great package prices, a travel agent can usually beat or at least match it if they search hard enough. 

Saving money isn't necessarily about finding the best price, but rather about finding the best value.  A travel consultant will work with you personally to customize the best package for you based on your specific travel needs and budget.  Although Expedia might offer a 4-night package to Hawaii for $599/person, you may not necessarily want to stay in a smoking room in a budget hotel, 45 minutes from the closest beach.

• Receive honest information and personalized service

Travel consultants are real, breathing people, who want to talk with you and genuinely care about making your trip memorable.  There's something to say, even today, about working one-on-one with a real person.

The internet also has the ability to make every hotel look like a 5-star.  The beautiful pictures on the website may not accurately represent the property at all. 

A travel consultant will give honest feedback and recommendations.  They will work with you to explore and compare what options exist so you can make an informed decision based on your needs.  This pertains to not only finding the best hotel or cruise, but also to choosing the best value flights, transportation, and activities.

Your travel agent will also make sure that you're aware of any "hidden costs" that are not specifically mentioned.  For example, the resort may charge a daily resort fee or parking.  Rental car taxes may be additional, collected directly from the car rental agency.   The list goes on an on.

• If there's a problem, you have someone to call

Travel agents don't stop working for you once you've booked your trip - they're there for you from the time you start planning until after you arrive back home.  If you experience any problems before, during, or even after your vacation, your agent will act on your behalf and make sure that everything is taken care of.

• You'll have a better chance of free upgrades and special amenities

Planning the most memorable vacation is what keeps travel agents in business, and they will work for you and do everything they can to meet your travel needs and make sure your trip is unforgettable.  And since travel agents have the capability of bringing in a large volume of business to hotels, the hotels and agents have close relationships as well.   A good travel agent will go the extra mile for you - this includes calling the hotel directly to request a free room upgrade if it's available, making sure that the hotel knows of any special occasions like an anniversary or honeymoon, stressing special requests, leaving welcome amenities for you when you arrive, and so on.  Your best interests are the priority and they sincerely want you to have the best trip of your life.

• These services are FREE!

Travel agents are paid by the suppliers that they book with - the hotels, car rental agencies, tour companies, cruise lines, wholesalers, and so on.  If you book with them, they get paid directly and there's no charge to you at all.  Although some travel agents do charge minimal service fees for their work, today you can find many that simply make all of their income directly from the suppliers.

So, with all of the benefits mentioned above, the question should really be "why NOT contact your personal travel consultant?"

If you're coming to Oahu on vacation, you already undoubtedly know of some of the "must-do" activities - Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Center, Diamond Head, a luau, maybe a sunset dinner cruise...

And all of these activities are great, and really shouldn't be missed.

However, as a resident living here, I thought I'd throw in my personal favorite things to do here on the island - things that aren't so well-known to every visitor.  And the best part is, most of these activities will set you back less than $10.

• Paddle an outrigger canoe in Kailua Bay

• Walk the trail to the Mokapu'u Lighthouse to watch the whales or canoe races

• Take the scenic drive along the east coast to the North Shore and eat tons of fresh fruit and shrimp along the way

• Hike to the top of Koko Crater and check out an amazing view of the island

• Spend a Saturday hanging out with friends at the Sandbar in Kaneohe

• Snorkel with turtles at Hanauma Bay

• Check out the art and sip martinis at "First Friday" every month on Nu'uanu Ave

• Wake up early for a breathtaking sunrise

• People watch in Waikiki

And of course, the list goes on and on...

After a crazy couple of months, Quinn and I decided we needed a mini vacation to refresh, so this past Saturday we drove 30 minutes over the Pali Highway to spend the evening in the big city - Waikiki.

After dodging tourists on Kalakaua Ave and paying $25 to park, we checked in to our Mountain View room at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa.



Personally, I love all the Hyatt properties in Hawaii, and the Hyatt Regency Waikiki is no exception.  As soon as you walk in the lobby, you immediately feel that the resort is huge.  Two main towers, the Ewa Tower and Diamond Head Tower, hold the 1,230 guestrooms, and the hotel has 60 shops, four award-winning restaurants, a fitness center,  Na Ho'ola Spa, a swimming pool, and two hot tubs, as well as a doctor's office and bank right on there on the property.

Our room was large, clean, and furnished nicely, and the bed was really comfortable.  We were on the 31st floor (there are 40 floors), and the view was of the Ko'olau Mountains and the back side of Waikiki - and I could see a glimpse of the ocean if I leaned far enough off the balcony.  If you stay at the Hyatt, however, I recommend upgrading to an oceanview room - it's worth every penny.

The resort is definitely in the heart of Waikiki, within walking distance of great restaurants, shops, nightlife, and steps from the beach.  After dinner, it was really nice to come back to live music on the main stage right at our hotel.  A couple Mai Tais and we called it an evening.

The final review - for a great hotel with all the amenities you could need on your vacation and in the middle of everything, I'd definitely recommend the Hyatt.
 

I've been in love with wildlife my whole life (hence, the Biology degree) and here in Hawaii I'm constantly in awe at the crazy creatures that surround me!

Many years back, I went scuba diving for the first time off the eastern coast of Oahu and was scolded by the group leader when I swam off by myself to follow a green sea turtle that was swimming by.  Sea turtles have always seemed so magical and wise to me, and to see one so close was like a dream come true.

Nowadays, I probably come across one of these ancient creatures a couple times a week.  And although it's always a wonderful and refreshing encounter, sometimes I forget how lucky I am to be in such close contact with such a wide variety of amazing plants and animals every day here on the islands.

A couple weeks ago, my boyfriend, Quinn, and I were walking along the beach in Kailua only to come across a monk seal taking a nap on the beach.  No one was bothering her and she was perfectly content being lazy right there.  As we walked by, she opened one eye, looked directly at Quinn, and licked her chops.

From December to April, the waters surrounding the Hawaiian Islands are a playground for humpback whales.  Especially right now, during March, they're EVERYWHERE.  When we go out paddling our outrigger canoes, it's pretty spectacular to see them breaching no more than 50 feet away.  Sometimes they're so close, it's even a little scary!  There's even a classic tale that circulates in our canoe club of one famous paddler who apparently stood up on one of these enormous animals as he paddled his canoe over it.  And to tell you the truth, I actually believe it.

Hawaii is made up of six main islands that are open to visitors: Oahu, Maui, Kaua'i, Hawai'i, Molokai, and Lana'i. 

Hawaii is therefore not only one single travel destination, but really six different destinations, and each island has its own distinct personality, attractions and appeal.



Oahu


Maui

For first time visitors to Hawaii, I'd definitely recommend Maui, also known as the "Magic Isle" or "Valley Isle".  Consistantly voted by travelers as one of the best islands on the planet Maui has it all - from dormant volcanoes to waterfalls, valleys to lush rainforests, miles of beautiful beaches and lively coral reefs, luxury resorts to moderately-priced condos.  Maui is truly the ideal tropical paradise. 

The lively, little town of Lahaina is sprinkled with cute shops, gourmet restaurants, galleries, fun night spots and bars.  The northern shore of the island has excellent surfing and kite boarding and the world-famous "Jaws" breakline.  The well-known Road to Hana is a scenic 3-hour drive to the sleepy town of Hana.  The west side of the island is home to the vast West Maui Mountains and Haleakala Crater.  A trip to the crater during sunrise or sunset is a must - you really feel like you're on the moon!

Maui has more miles of swimmable beach than any other island in Hawaii, and you're sure to find a perfect spot to sunbathe, snorkel, or just relax.  And although there are endless options for activities and fun, a secluded beach or cove is never hard to come across.

Kaua'i

The "Garden Isle", also known as the "Island of Discovery", Kaua’i is the oldest of the major Hawaiian Islands.  If you’re  looking for unsurpassed tropical beauty and a really laid-back, "island-style" atmosphere, this is the island for you.  The Na Pali Coast on the northwestern shore is absolutely breathtaking and magical, comprised of steep 3,000-foot cliffs, beautiful bays, beaches and caves that are only accessible by boat or hiking several miles.  Helicopter tours also allow you to view the Na Pali from the air. 

Other areas of the island have lush valleys, taro fields, waterfalls, picturesque resort communities, heiaus (ancient Hawaiian temples), palm-tree lined beaches, and old sugar plantation towns.  On the west side of the island you can find Waimea Canyon, the 10-mile long "Grand Canyon of the Pacific.)  Kaua’i also has plenty to offer in regards to activities, including golf, shopping, dining, movies and more, but it also carries a very "untouched" feel as well.

Hawai'i (the Big Island)

The Big Island is actually named "Hawai’i," but everyone calls it the "Big Island" to avoid confusion with the name of the entire chain of islands.  The Big Island is home to the only active volcano, and has an amazing range of climates and geological landscapes.  You can theoretically ski and surf in the same day if the conditions are right!  The contrasts on the island are amazing!

The Kohala Coast, on the northwestern side, is where you want to stay if you’re looking for white-sand beaches and perfect weather.  The many luxury resorts located here offer world-class golf courses as well.  Kailua-Kona and Keauhou are the more economical resort areas located more south on the west coast, and these areas are oceanfront on lava rock, with some of the world’s best snorkeling and deep-sea fishing.  Kailua-Kona is a cute little town with restaurants, shops, and nightlife. 

The sleepy and rainy town of Hilo is on the windward (east) side of the island, and only 40 minutes from Volcanoes National Park, where you can hike to see lava flowing into the sea.

The Big Island is famous for its excellent Kona Coffee, macadamia nuts, and orchids.  Organic farms are abundant throughout the island.  And you probably didn't know that Hawaii has real cowboys, called "Paniolo," and you can find them here as well at Parker Ranch.

The Big Island is like one big playground, and if you're adventurous, the possibilities for exploration are endless.

Molokai

A trip to Moloka’i is like a step back in time.  If you really want privacy, seclusion, and quiet, you’ll find it here  The island doesn’t have any stop lights, tall buildings, or night clubs, but it’s rich in cultural history and there’s plenty of natural beauty to explore - the world’s tallest sea cliffs, Hawaii’s tallest waterfall, coral reefs, fishponds, gorgeous valleys, white-sand beaches and sand dunes.  The closest you’ll get to a city is the main town of Kaunakakai, a one-street town with a fishing wharf, gift shops and boutiques.

Lana'i

Lana’i is the other option if you’re really looking for privacy, seclusion, and quiet.  However, the seclusion on Lana'i is luxurious rather than rustic like on Molokai, and this is evident as well in the difference in price.   Lana’i only has two resorts, both gorgeous 5-star properties owned by Four Seasons.  If you want to spend your days playing golf on superb courses, relaxing on beautiful beaches, and pampering yourself in luxury, Lana’i is a great choice.  The island also appeals to adventure seekers, with plenty of snorkeling and diving opportunities, hunting, hiking, archery, sporting clays, horseback riding and four-wheeling.

I hope that helps you decide where you want to begin your Hawaiian adventures!

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Aloha!  My name is Abby and I'm a kama'aina (Hawaii resident) here on the beautiful island of Oahu. 

Born in the wonderful state of Vermont, I received my Bachelor's of Science degree in Biology at the University of Sydney in Australia.  After completing my studies, I realized that I wasn't ready to settle down, and my feet were still itching to experience new people and exotic places.  So I took a year off and traveled throughout Thailand and India, studying alternative medicine and massage therapy.

After returning back to the States in 2004, I packed my bags and moved out to Hawaii where I practiced massage therapy for two years before deciding to establish my own business, Lapointe to Point Travel, which allowed me to focus my energy on my passion and love for travel.

Today, as a Personal Vacation Planner and Travel Consultant, I work personally with individuals and groups to help customize their dream vacations.

On these pages, I hope to share with you the beauty and magic of my favorite destinations, particularly the Hawaiian Islands since I have first-hand knowledge of their many treasures from living here and experiencing it all every day.

So here it begins... a day in paradise.

Abby