Hawaii Trip. Paradise Lost (Or At Least Misplaced)
May 21st, 2012, 05:36 PM
#21
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Based on your opinions and expectations for this trip that you posted a couple of months ago, I'm not surprised at your trip report.
Everyone has different interests and places they enjoy and there's nothing wrong with that. However, it seemed like you were already set to dislike your trip to Hawaii before you even got there. Maybe you should have just listened to your gut telling you that a trip to Hawaii was something you wouldn't particularly enjoy.
Everyone has different interests and places they enjoy and there's nothing wrong with that. However, it seemed like you were already set to dislike your trip to Hawaii before you even got there. Maybe you should have just listened to your gut telling you that a trip to Hawaii was something you wouldn't particularly enjoy.
Jun 12th, 2012, 07:07 AM
#22
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I'm a little late to the party, here, with my comments, but here goes.
Your report was somewhat "refreshing", shall we say.... you clearly stated why you had your various opinions, and you did at least come up with some positives! The "aloha spirit" seemed to be the main one, and I've always found that the locals (and even tourists) exhibit it here. Example - I rarely heard much horn honking in traffic. And most of the locals truly seem appreciative of tourists being there, spending their dollars.
I came to the conclusion a long time ago, that there is no real "paradise", but I'll take Hawaii's version of it ANYTIME. Yes, things have changed since I was first there in 1980, but so has almost every other place.
We generally avoid Waikiki and Honolulu, and find "our" paradise in the quieter places.
We'll be back.... and I suspect that you will too!
Your report was somewhat "refreshing", shall we say.... you clearly stated why you had your various opinions, and you did at least come up with some positives! The "aloha spirit" seemed to be the main one, and I've always found that the locals (and even tourists) exhibit it here. Example - I rarely heard much horn honking in traffic. And most of the locals truly seem appreciative of tourists being there, spending their dollars.
I came to the conclusion a long time ago, that there is no real "paradise", but I'll take Hawaii's version of it ANYTIME. Yes, things have changed since I was first there in 1980, but so has almost every other place.
We generally avoid Waikiki and Honolulu, and find "our" paradise in the quieter places.
We'll be back.... and I suspect that you will too!
Jun 12th, 2012, 08:29 PM
#23
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Honestly, 1Hughes, I almost felt sorry for you reading your review. You seemed pretty miserable. I don't understand how anyone can be bored in Hawaii, but you're entitled to your opinion. The tone of your comments about the Japanese was bordering on offensive, though.
Jun 12th, 2012, 09:02 PM
#24
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Will try to read all these posts later - and no idea why you didn't have a good time in Paradise - but it happens sometimes.
But what I really chuckled at - suffice to say - are some latter day/repentant haoles trying to make like Kamaʻāinas.
Oh poor locals - we are here to help you survive. Yuk!!!!
Hey - long ago most natives saw through this facade when the Missionaries arrived - but a few bought in and the rest is history.
But what I really chuckled at - suffice to say - are some latter day/repentant haoles trying to make like Kamaʻāinas.
Oh poor locals - we are here to help you survive. Yuk!!!!
Hey - long ago most natives saw through this facade when the Missionaries arrived - but a few bought in and the rest is history.
Jun 13th, 2012, 05:22 AM
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Ok - read your report. Seriously - you agreed to go to buffets to please your friends? Geesh!!
But it was good for the one hilarious line in your otherwise dreary report: "I discreetly told him "fine" for fear he'd have to commit seppuku on the spot."
It's early here in SD - and I hope I didn't wake my wife up while laughing at great line.
And Chinatown in Hono has some great places to dine - along with a couple marvelous dim sum places.
Hey - Hawaii is not about just sitting on your Lanai hoping for a life sized screen where you can change the channels. It's about getting out and really doing stuff yourself, and also - not "room servicing" a tour around with other tourist as your "mates".
Doubt you will be back - but just fyi - we always try to get a room/condo with a kitchenette as many times - we will buy fresh fish and make sushi/sashimi - or saute Mahi Mahi for fish burgers, plus we buy the fresh fruit and keep some in the fridge - etc.
BTW - warmish "liquid sunshine" is one of the treats of Paradise - that and the sweet trade winds wafting through the isles.
And yes, Big Island has the most to offer of any island - and the Volcano is about the easiest one to get to in the world - and the rim drive, visitor's center, Ranger talks and walks - and the easy hiking around, down and across and out of the small/adjacent crater was a highlight of our trip. We have certainly done more vigorous hikes but that was just a classic - and while the little volcano has not "blown" since 1959 - when the steam vents hiss - you do pick up your pace a wee bit.
Yet - our favorite remains the north shore of Kauai - the "Garden Isle" - but since you think having seen one set of waves means having seen them all - doubt you would appreciate it's beauty.
Hope you have a better experience the next time you travel. My advice - find the equivalent of an ABC store at that destination and liquor up quick.
But it was good for the one hilarious line in your otherwise dreary report: "I discreetly told him "fine" for fear he'd have to commit seppuku on the spot."
It's early here in SD - and I hope I didn't wake my wife up while laughing at great line.
And Chinatown in Hono has some great places to dine - along with a couple marvelous dim sum places.
Hey - Hawaii is not about just sitting on your Lanai hoping for a life sized screen where you can change the channels. It's about getting out and really doing stuff yourself, and also - not "room servicing" a tour around with other tourist as your "mates".
Doubt you will be back - but just fyi - we always try to get a room/condo with a kitchenette as many times - we will buy fresh fish and make sushi/sashimi - or saute Mahi Mahi for fish burgers, plus we buy the fresh fruit and keep some in the fridge - etc.
BTW - warmish "liquid sunshine" is one of the treats of Paradise - that and the sweet trade winds wafting through the isles.
And yes, Big Island has the most to offer of any island - and the Volcano is about the easiest one to get to in the world - and the rim drive, visitor's center, Ranger talks and walks - and the easy hiking around, down and across and out of the small/adjacent crater was a highlight of our trip. We have certainly done more vigorous hikes but that was just a classic - and while the little volcano has not "blown" since 1959 - when the steam vents hiss - you do pick up your pace a wee bit.
Yet - our favorite remains the north shore of Kauai - the "Garden Isle" - but since you think having seen one set of waves means having seen them all - doubt you would appreciate it's beauty.
Hope you have a better experience the next time you travel. My advice - find the equivalent of an ABC store at that destination and liquor up quick.
Dec 2nd, 2012, 07:35 AM
#28
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OH NOOOOOO!!!! How will you survive? I loved your report, very funny and honest.
I look forward to the next report, may it be buffet free and chain food free! Maybe this time you will do better then getting half way to places before abandoning hope and turning around. Will you be forced to do the same areas or new places?
I look forward to the next report, may it be buffet free and chain food free! Maybe this time you will do better then getting half way to places before abandoning hope and turning around. Will you be forced to do the same areas or new places?
Dec 2nd, 2012, 08:00 AM
#29
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No one should go to Hawaii, it's horrible. Everyone should go to Puerto Vallarta. Seriously, there's nothing to see or do in Hawaii. Unfortunately, there are no good all-inclusives, so you're forced to leave premises once in a while. Mexico and the Caribbean, go there!
Dec 2nd, 2012, 05:30 PM
#31
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Interesting trip report. We actually love Maui. Just returned from an 8 day stay in October and never find ourselves bored. My husband snorkeled once and I never even got into the water but somehow we managed to find plenty to do and have a fabulous time. I guess we must be weird.
Dec 3rd, 2012, 04:32 AM
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Some people have no idea who lucky they are to be able to travel to Hawaii. It's my favourite holiday destination ever!
I can't get over the comment by this poster that by the 4th day they were wondering what was on tv. How boring. I agree I would never want to travel with people like this.
We have been to Hawaii several times and have spent many, many days on each island. I never get bored and I'm always sad when it's time to come home.
This person might be better off at Disneyland because Hawaii is heaven on earth.
I can't get over the comment by this poster that by the 4th day they were wondering what was on tv. How boring. I agree I would never want to travel with people like this.
We have been to Hawaii several times and have spent many, many days on each island. I never get bored and I'm always sad when it's time to come home.
This person might be better off at Disneyland because Hawaii is heaven on earth.
Dec 3rd, 2012, 05:12 AM
#33
>
lol. I was thinking the same thing. A word of caution for 1hughes, if the time share salespeople bothered you that much in Hawaii, I strongly suggest you stay away from Puerto Vallarta. Still, an interesting perspective. I guess Hawaii is not for everyone.
lol. I was thinking the same thing. A word of caution for 1hughes, if the time share salespeople bothered you that much in Hawaii, I strongly suggest you stay away from Puerto Vallarta. Still, an interesting perspective. I guess Hawaii is not for everyone.
Dec 3rd, 2012, 07:24 AM
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I too found your report very entertaining and am looking forward to the next one. If you go back to Oahu, try going outside of Waikiki to eat. There's some really good food in the surrounding areas of Honolulu. We hardly ever eat in Waikiki.
Dec 3rd, 2012, 08:33 AM
#37
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My husband and I just returned from an 11 night trip to Oahu and the Big Island. There is not enough hours in the day to see and do everything. I know some people don't "get" Hawaii. Personally, I love Hawaii and can't get enough!
To each their own. Glad you found some good points.
To each their own. Glad you found some good points.
Dec 3rd, 2012, 08:41 AM
#38
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Your trip report reminds me of people who don't do enough research on a trip and end up disliking it. I have a friend who has only been to Oahu twice and only for a few days each. She said "I'm soooo OVER Oahu". I really wanted to smack her (and she is a good friend). She said only did the touristy places, and didn't do anything beyond waikiki and diamond head. There is a LOT of stuff to do there and there is something for everyone. I do hope you change your mind on your next trip and enjoy Hawaii with a different perspective.
I agree with Patty. I am a huge foodie, and although we stay in Waikiki when on Oahu, and in Kihei or Kaanapali on Maui, we do our best to search out places where locals eat. I actually enjoy that part of the trip and the research behind it. I don't think i've eaten at any chain restaurant in Hawaii, only Roy's (which we do like, but yes it's pricey). On Oahu, you can search out places in Kalihi and downtown Honolulu which will not have that many tourists and cheap, tasty food. I love picking up takeout and going to the beach to eat. I am rarely on Waikiki beach, and prefer to hang out at Ala Moana beach park or Kailua/Lanikai beaches. On the north shore is nice too, and although it will be touristy, it's definitely not the flashy south beach sun-seeking types on Waikiki.
On Maui, you may want to try Kihei Caffe, Sam Sato's, and Star Noodle, for some delicious, reasonably priced grub.
I agree with Patty. I am a huge foodie, and although we stay in Waikiki when on Oahu, and in Kihei or Kaanapali on Maui, we do our best to search out places where locals eat. I actually enjoy that part of the trip and the research behind it. I don't think i've eaten at any chain restaurant in Hawaii, only Roy's (which we do like, but yes it's pricey). On Oahu, you can search out places in Kalihi and downtown Honolulu which will not have that many tourists and cheap, tasty food. I love picking up takeout and going to the beach to eat. I am rarely on Waikiki beach, and prefer to hang out at Ala Moana beach park or Kailua/Lanikai beaches. On the north shore is nice too, and although it will be touristy, it's definitely not the flashy south beach sun-seeking types on Waikiki.
On Maui, you may want to try Kihei Caffe, Sam Sato's, and Star Noodle, for some delicious, reasonably priced grub.
Dec 4th, 2012, 02:35 PM
#39
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Oh, 1hughes, you poor thing having to go back to Hawaii. I look forward to hearing about your second trip.
I can see my husband in much of your trip report 6 months ago. He hates to be a tourist and among other tourists. He only goes on most leisure trips to accompany me. Patience is not his virtue.
I have a meeting in Hawaii next year and plan to take an extra week for vacation because I have only been to Maui for one week 30 years ago. My husband thinks Hawaii may be the only state he has never visited, so he has decided to join me for the vacation week. Otherwise, he has no interest in visiting Hawaii.
Left to his own devices, my husband would simply fly there and experience many of the disappointments and frustrations you list. He would hate the timeshare booths just as he hated the hawkers on the sidewalks in Las Vegas. He has been known to drive (and fly) miles only to turn back just shy of a destination because of some obstacle or frustration. He doesn't like to be on the beach or in the water. So, you are not alone.
We will visit the island of Hawaii for the volcano (and if weather is cooperative, star gazing) and my meeting. We may also visit Kauai for the canyon, the coastline and viewing beaches. We may stop for a day in Oahu just to visit Pearl Harbor, Punchbowl and maybe one museum (I will check hours and tours, book tickets in advance). That's how I plan to avoid places like Waikiki.
As for food, we aren't foodies, so I expect we will visit ABC stores, food trucks and the like. A chain won't spoil our trip, but I do like to get local food when possible.
We have had to smile and go along when family or friends have insisted we eat, visit, or stay somewhere we would never go on our own. I always try to remember that they think the same way about us if I suggest a visit to the ABC for food or waking up early on vacation to be on a hiking trail just after dawn. We are all crazy in someone's eyes.
Please share your experiences with us again!
I can see my husband in much of your trip report 6 months ago. He hates to be a tourist and among other tourists. He only goes on most leisure trips to accompany me. Patience is not his virtue.
I have a meeting in Hawaii next year and plan to take an extra week for vacation because I have only been to Maui for one week 30 years ago. My husband thinks Hawaii may be the only state he has never visited, so he has decided to join me for the vacation week. Otherwise, he has no interest in visiting Hawaii.
Left to his own devices, my husband would simply fly there and experience many of the disappointments and frustrations you list. He would hate the timeshare booths just as he hated the hawkers on the sidewalks in Las Vegas. He has been known to drive (and fly) miles only to turn back just shy of a destination because of some obstacle or frustration. He doesn't like to be on the beach or in the water. So, you are not alone.
We will visit the island of Hawaii for the volcano (and if weather is cooperative, star gazing) and my meeting. We may also visit Kauai for the canyon, the coastline and viewing beaches. We may stop for a day in Oahu just to visit Pearl Harbor, Punchbowl and maybe one museum (I will check hours and tours, book tickets in advance). That's how I plan to avoid places like Waikiki.
As for food, we aren't foodies, so I expect we will visit ABC stores, food trucks and the like. A chain won't spoil our trip, but I do like to get local food when possible.
We have had to smile and go along when family or friends have insisted we eat, visit, or stay somewhere we would never go on our own. I always try to remember that they think the same way about us if I suggest a visit to the ABC for food or waking up early on vacation to be on a hiking trail just after dawn. We are all crazy in someone's eyes.
Please share your experiences with us again!
Dec 7th, 2012, 07:40 AM
#40
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an interesting perspective i just returned from two weeks in Hawaii (8th trip) and still can't find time to do all the wonderful things it has to offer.Not one boring moment unless i wanted it to be. At night i would sit on the beach with my wife a glass of wine and a good cigar and talk. Wouldn't trade it for the world. And will forget about this negativity as soon as i push submit.
