I’ve always dreamed of going to Hawaii. Growing up every romantic trip on tv was to Hawaii. They always describe Hawaii as this beautiful, romantic, postcard destination. As a seeker of all beautiful destinations, I knew that I would eventually make my way there. Originally, I had planned on taking a Europe trip this summer, but that quickly changed once I thought about traveling with Leanne who was 8 months at the time. 6 flights in two weeks sounds so tiring for a baby. The thought of it was overwhelming for me, and I knew that I would be so doggone tired from that trip that it wouldn’t even be considered a vacation. So, as I went down my travel bucket list, I settled on Hawaii and decided to tag along with some friends who were heading to Honolulu! Easy peasy! Most of the planning was already done so I kind of hopped on board and added a few things of my own to the itinerary.
We first flew to LA from Fort Lauderdale, and stayed overnight. I kinda wish that we spent a few days there since I barely got to see the city. We had dinner at The Ivy Restaurant in Beverly Hills, a very chic place where you’re guaranteed to bump into a celebrity, and trust me the tab reflects it!
The next morning we caught an early flight to Honolulu, which was another five hour flight similar to our flight to LA. Between those two flights I was thankful for my friends who took turns holding Leanne and kept her entertained because your girl will sleep an hour at most during a flight!
Soon after we checked in, we headed to Mokomo, a restaurant at the resort where I had a frozen beer to officially start my vacation!
Expectation Vs. Reality
I was kind of expecting a vibe similar as Phucket Thailand, and it was nothing like it. Honolulu is a mixture of city and beach. What surprised me is how old all the buildings and high rises looked. It kinda felt like a 90s NY with an ocean view if that makes sense. We stayed at a resort on Waikiki beach. The weather was perfect. Hot but windy, which is why surfers love Waikiki beach so much! Hawaii is very kid friendly, and a great spot for family vacations, although you’re guaranteed to see at least two wedding parties a day.
I definitely had a great experience with the food! My favorite was the Loco momo, a traditional Hawaiian dish made up of white rice, topped with a burger patty, and fried eggs. I’ve also had it with short ribs and boiled eggs, and both variations were good!
Where to stay
Hawaii was more expensive than I anticipated. I travel a lot and I am very familiar with luxury hotels and resorts. I’ve definitely had better experiences at other 4 star resorts, for the rate that they charge in Hawaii. It may have to do with the location and the fact that it is summertime. Everything is more expensive during the summer! I’ve also been spoiled by resorts like Ayana in Bali, and Sri Panwa in Thailand, so I’m a tough critic! If you wanna stay downtown within walking distance to Waikiki beach then I recommend checking out Alohilani Resort or Sheraton Waikiki. Alohilani is known for its rooftop infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and the Sheraton has the most beautiful infinity pool on the island. You truly can’t beat that view. Both are family friendly with kids pool and babysitting services, a big plus when you’re traveling with kids! Alohilani is located within walking distance of the beach and the Sheraton is right on the beach. It is redundant to say that hotels in Hawaii are also great for couples because Hawaii is a honeymoon destination.
Things To Do
When you’re traveling with kids, you are limited with your choice of activities, which is why I recommend adding childcare services to your budget, or if you’re traveling with older kids, finding a resort with a kids club.
One way to explore the island is by renting a Jeep! Hawaii is mountainous so you’ll want to make sure that you rent an SUV. You can also book tours that offer pick up and drop off to your hotel if you find it more convenient.
There are many things to do in Honolulu. Because I traveled with a baby I was restricted in the activities that I could partake in. I did manage to visit the Kuala Ranch which is where Jurassic Park and so many other movies are filmed. Pretty cool right?
Another must is the Hoomaluhia Botanical garden. I am at lost for words at the beauty of this place. We actually went twice, and still felt in awe. It’s just one of those places that you gotta visit at least once. You just have to see it for yourself.
No trip to Hawaii is complete without a luau, a traditional Hawaiian feast accompanied and entertainment such as music and hula dancing. Several companies offer luau packages, I attended the Chief Luau and it was so much fun! I learned a lot about the Polynesian culture. One thing that caught my attention was the tribal tattoo that the locals has all over their bodies. Some covered their entire leg or stomach areas. We learned at the Luau that those tattoos have deeply significant meanings. From community rankings to area belongings and descriptions. From the shapes of the Tattoo, to the positioning placed on the body, to the combination of certain shapes, all of these factors combine to complete a story. Imagine laying there for many days having your skin tapped into with elders chanting and singing around you in support. Some even die from infections and not healing properly. How amazing is it that some of the younger generations kept that tradition alive! Talking about for the culture!
The Luau was tons of fun, we ate good food, shared some good laugh and danced the night away. It was such a great way to end our trip!
All in all Hawaii was fun! I’m so glad I got to cross it off my list. I do wish to visit other islands like Maui the next time that I plan a trip there. But until then, A HUI HOU which means, until we meet again!
Did you know that ALOHA means Hello, Goodbye, and I love you? It all depends on how you say it 🙂
Aloha!
Laura
Latest posts by Laura (see all)
- 4 Ways You Can Celebrate Juneteenth - June 18, 2020
- Respiratory Therapist Hans Regis shares His Experience During The Coronavirus Outbreak - April 10, 2020
- I Am Laura Charles X SuperPretzel - February 13, 2020