Hawaii or Caribbean?
 

I was just on another forum and read a post from a recent Hawaiian visitor. His (I think) comments were interesting to me. He indicated that he thought Hawaii was overrated and he would likely not return. His preference would be Carribean or the like.

I realize each individual is different. Just want to get your thoughts. I've been to the Caribbean on different occassions and different islands. Just seems completely different from Hawaii. Atmosphere, locals, tourists, and everything about it. What could it be? I prefer Hawaii.

This question may have been asked before.

Just thought it an interesting topic.

I have also been to both Hawaii (BI and Honolulu) and the Caribbean, and I prefer the Caribbean.

Why?
1. Prettier beaches with powder white sand and gentle seas. We were on the Big Island, and there were only a very few good beaches for swimming and snorkeling. All of the beaches had rough water.
2. More exotic food that I like. Laulau pork was good a couple of times, but I much prefer the jerk chicken and fried plantains.
3. Easier to get to. I can be in the Caribbean in 4 hours from Texas, but it takes 8 hours for me to get to Hawaii.
4. Honestly, the Caribbean was more affordable. Yes, it was expensive, but not as expensive as Hawaii.
5. Call me old-fashioned, but I like the thrill of going to a foreign country. My husband also enjoys a good Cuban cigar, and you can't get those in Hawaii.
6. Hawaii is too Americanized. Everywhere you go, there is a Burger King. I like to try exotic, local foods, and you really had to hunt to find them in Hawaii.
7. No herds of Japanese tourists, gabbing on their cell phones, in the Caribbean.
8. Steel drum music. :-)
9. Rum punch!
10. You can get between islands in the Caribbean via ferries instead of pricey interisland flights.

AAAAhhhhhhhh,

I adore the caribbean, BUT,

no place on earth will EVER satisfy my like the beauty of the lush green isles of my heart, Havvvaaaiiiii.

;;) ((R))

Please type "hawaii caribbean" in the search box.
You'll find this has been discussed many times before, and the main points really don't change as the years pass.

They each have their own charm and beauty. We like them both and though we will be Hawaii bound soon a return trip to experience the Carib. atmosphere, so unique, will no doubt arise again. Which is better? It is up to you really. Personally "yah mon" and "aloha" are both music to my ears:-) JM2C. Larry

Not yet been to the Caribbean, but I have to say that I prefer the islands of the South Pacific to Hawaii. Don't get me wrong, Hawaii is wonderful, but the calm, clear waters of a reef protected lagoon (which are not all that common in Hawaii, but widespread in places like French Polynesia and the Cook Islands) is my favorite marine environment There's no experience quite like standing out in water waist-deep a quarter-mile from shore that's calm and clear like heated swimming pool. Add to that the fact that these quiet little islands make even Kauai seem relatively built-up and that the atmosphere is much more exotic and tropical feeling.

Just perfect as far as I'm concerned.

Ken

Thanks for the replies.

I've seen the previous posts and was just curious. Was in Oahu in October and headed to Maui in April. Will see what my opinion is once I've visited a second Hawaiian island. Been to Jamaica, Virgin Islands, Bahamas, and Puerto Rico as I live on the east coast. All nice areas.

So far, prefer Hawaii and its climate.

Even tho' it takes us longer to get there (usually involves a red eye into FLL)we'll take the Caribbean-in fact there's a house on Bordeaux Mt. on St. John that has be daydreaming right now.
8-)
and oh to be snorkeling in those warm
turqoise waters
Ya man...
R5

The Caribbean, without a doubt. Love the white sand beaches, the crystal clear, calm water....also find it to be a better value. Less crowded,less touristy - although must clarify by saying I am referring to places like the BVI, out islands of Bahamas (technically not Caribbean), the Grenadines. Coming from AZ, it's a major effort for us to get to the Caribbean, but well worth it once we get there.

Lord Balfor, What is your favorite island in the South Pacific? I've never been there, it's such a long flight but wondering what you would recommend if I ever made the trek.