Things to do in Maui

Here is my top ten to do list when you're in one of the most beautiful islands on earth.

1. Watch the sunset and take awesome pictures.

The sunset Luau in Kaanapali beach starts with a torch lighting ceremony. A performer runs from the resort ground to the top of the Black Rock, light the torch, say a little prayer then proceeds on diving to the sea.

2. Hit the beach.

Swim, snorkel, surf. Just do it. 

3. Bring the beach essentials.

Beach towel, SPF lotion and a fat book. 

4. Bring an underwater camera.

This is essential if you love snorkeling or diving or any other water related activities. 

5. Snorkel in Molokini and Turtle Town.

Molokini is a famous dive spot in Maui. It is a crescent shaped partially submerged volcano crater located 3 miles off of the south Maui shoreline. Aside from being a popular dive spot, it is also a state seabird sanctuary. Landing on the Molokini crater itself is prohibited as well as dropping an anchor within its bounds in order to ensure the protection of its coral reefs. Turtle town on the other hand is pretty obvious. It is teeming with green sea turtles. There are a lot of packages you can avail that offers snorkeling activities on both sites.

6. Go on a road trip to Hana.

The only requirement for you to enjoy a road trip to Hana is a spectacular driving skills. Or go with somebody who does. It's a 50 mile drive with about 600 hairpin turns. If you have a horrible driving skills like me, go on a tour instead of driving. It is safer that way.

If you choose to rent a car, choose a convertible. I know that's not a practical decision but I'm so glad we did. There are too many beautiful views along Hana road. Every angle is postcard perfect so a convertible is worth it. 

7. Stop in to visit the waterfalls. 

Maui has tons of beautiful waterfalls. Each one is majestic in its own way. You can take helicopter tour to see them or you can hike your way through it. It your choice. 

8. Eat to your heart's content.

Steak, chips and fruits for breakfast. Why not?

9. Explore local towns.

Small local towns are always interesting. You'll find local museums and buy art pieces that are not over priced.

10. Have fun. Enjoy every single moment of it!

Need I say more?

Have you been to Maui or any other beautiful islands for that matter? Are there any other experiences you want to share? Share some of your to-do list. Leave a comment below. =)

Hawaii Adventure part 1

This is a really..really.. REALLY late post. But as they say, it's better late than never. Hawaii has always been on top my bucket list ever since I can remember. It was December of 2010 when I decided to exhaust all the resources I have to cross this out of my list. I was fully aware of how much damage it would cost me since I wanted to fully enjoy myself without worrying about every penny. So I became obsess with finding the best deals online. I spent a number of sleepless nights scouring the web for the best value deal I could find. Luckily, I stumbled upon BeachDestinations.com. It's an online travel agency which provides tons of options for a variety of famous beach destinations at any price range. [Note: They are not paying me to do this. The website is just so awesome that I wanted to share it to anyone interested.] For a little over $1200 per person, We bought an airline ticket from Chicago to Oahu and Maui to Chicago via United Airlines. An inter-island flight from Oahu to Maui via Mesa Airlines and our accomodation in a three star hotel in  Oahu as well as the condo units we rented out in Maui were also included in the price. It helped that we traveled on May because the shoulder season in Hawaii was from mid-March until May. I also found awesome car deals from Hotwire for both islands. And so our adventure began.



                                                        A quick snapshot after touchdown in Kauai.



I immediately felt a sense of belongingness as soon as we landed. Aahh. I felt so close to home.



Enjoying our cocktails

 After a 15 hour flight from Chicago to Kuaui, we were starving so we immediately asked around for the nearest food place in the airport. We took the shuttle from the airport to Marriot Hotel and headed to Duke's.  A couple of drinks and some fresh seafood appetizers were all we need to reenergize after a grueling 15 hour flight, not to mention a three hour drive from Wisconsin Dells to Chicago and waiting time in between flights.

After a quick snack and picture taking in Kalapaki Beach, we're off to the airport once again for our flight to Oahu, where we stayed for four days. [ to be continued..]