Flying HNL to Kona
Kona to Kahului
Kahului to HNL

On Hawaiian, which side of plane will give the best views?

Mahalo for your advice!

> Flying HNL to Kona

Left.

> Kona to Kahului

You'll get a better view of the BI and Maui on the right side, although you'll have a better distant view of the other islands on the left.

> Kahului to HNL

Left, but not by much.

Wow, this is great to know for future trips, thanks!

Crazy: When is your next trip and what's your itinerary?

Thank you, fdecarlo - I knew I could depend on you!

Hey, Beachgirl! Next trip if all goes well:

May 25 - June 30 Big Island at Hapuna Beach Prince Resort 3 nights, Forest House at My Island B&B 2 nights, and Outrigger Keauhou Beach Resort 1 night.

June 1-3 Maui at the Grand Wailea

We don't mind hopping around on the Big Island because we'll be doing some heavy-duty sight-seeing as we make our way around the island, trying to avoid any back-tracking. Then we'll finish up with three days of relaxation in beautiful Maui, which we've toured pretty extensively in the past. Like you, I can't resist planning FAR in advance. I'm afraid it's one of my major hobbies...

Crazy: Sounds like a great plan I know you love Maui, but have you been to BI before? We love Hapuna, the beach and snorkeling are fabulous!

We are planning so far in advance that right now our plan is to do Maui and BI for 2006 (maybe a night or 2 on Lanai) and then Oahu and Kauai for 2007 We have also become Crazy For Hawaii!!

I went to the Big Island twice as a teenager on those whirlwind four islands in ten days trips - and then went back for a longer time about ten years ago. So, you see, much of it will be new to me. Your recommendation of the Hapuna Prince was helpful. (We stayed at the Mauna Lani before.) The main things I remember about the BI were the expanses of lava between the airport and the resorts on the Kohala coast, the steam vents and Thurston Lava Tube at VNP, and the Waipio Valley lookout. This time I have so much I WANT to see that it will be a challenge to build in some "chill out" time. Wish I could have more time but just can't...

I have to say that that is our biggest dilemma with the Big Island....balancing out relaxation and down time with sightseeing and adventures! It's a problem we haven't had on the other islands!

It is so big, and there are so many amazing, incredible things to see. The first time we went in 2004 we ran around the whole time, and left wishing we had enjoyed the beach, pool, and relaxing a bit more. (Although we didn't regret the gorgeous things we saw). This past summer, we did the "every other day" system....one day of sightseeing at VNP and Waipaio Valley, one beach day, one day on a snorkel cruise, one beach day, etc....This was much better for us! And now, we are looking forward to going back yet again. Your plan sounds great, staying on different parts of the island. We are usually just too lazy to pack up and move!

Out of curiousity, how much is your room at Grand Wailea? The cheapest rate I could find for them was more than $500/night for next summer!

I have booked the other resorts but am holding steady for the GW. I still believe I can get a terrace room for under $350. if I wait for their three nights for the price of two deal. Usually it becomes available about 3-6 mo. before date of travel so I'll start looking in earnest in January. Right now you can book that deal through December only.

That's a great deal for Grand Wailea. When I talked to a reservationist the other day, she quoted me $543/night for a terrace view in August. I know it's high season, but jeez! Four Seasons is only $395!

crazy4Hawaii- it would be the same on Aloha

Beachgirl86 -
I'm tellin' ya girl, it's too early. Hold steady...

Matnikstym -
Really?!!! LOL...

When people refer to which side of a plane, is it the view from when you enter the plane, or is it the view from when you're sitting down in the plane? I've always been confused about these questions/answers.

I've always thought it meant while SITTING on the plane facing forward. I had to laugh at myself specifying an airline as, of course, you would think they all follow a similar course between the islands.

Crazy: I'm taking your advice, and holding steady, hoping the GW comes down in price before next August...I would love to spend a couple days there after the 4S or another quieter resort...those pools look amazing!