City ❀ Country ❀ Beach
Centenarians, individuals who live to or beyond the age of 100, represent a fascinating and growing segment of the global population. The study of these long-lived individuals offers valuable insights into the secrets of longevity, the impact of genetics and lifestyle on aging, and the …
Visiting Hawaii is something I have always wanted to do and in 2011 it became a reality. I am now in LOVE with Hawaii and all things that have to do with Hawaii. Oahu Revisited is an article consisting of four things that we missed …
Kauai, often called the “Garden Isle,” is a destination brimming with natural beauty and cultural heritage. Among its many attractions, some stand out for their historical significance, stunning landscapes, and unique experiences. Let’s delve into some of the island’s highlights and create a Kauai itinerary. From the James Cook Monument to the lush gardens and scenic vistas, these are some reasons that make Kauai a must-visit destination.
The James Cook Monument on Kauai commemorates the famous British explorer Captain James Cook, who is credited with the European discovery of the Hawaiian Islands in 1778. Located near the town of Waimea, this monument marks the spot where Cook first landed on the island. While the original monument erected in the late 19th century, the site remains a significant historical landmark. Visitors can reflect on the island’s rich history and the pivotal moment of cross-cultural contact that Cook’s arrival represents.
A luau in Kauai is a magical experience. It is a must for your Kauai itinerary! As the sun sets over the lush landscape, the evening begins with the rhythmic beats of traditional Hawaiian music, inviting guests to unwind and embrace the island’s aloha spirit. Dancers adorned in vibrant, flowing costumes take the stage. Their graceful hula movements tell ancient stories of love, nature, and legend. Next, the night progresses with an array of performances while you eat a delicious traditional Hawaiian buffet. From the mesmerizing fire knife dance to soulful chants, each act weaving a narrative that celebrates the island’s history and traditions.
Our Kauai itinerary continues into Princeville. It is situated on the North Shore of Kauai, a picturesque resort community known for its luxurious accommodations and stunning vistas. Overlooking Hanalei Bay, Princeville offers a blend of upscale living and natural beauty. The area is home to world-class golf courses, pristine beaches, and a variety of outdoor activities. The Princeville Botanical Gardens is located here and that’s where you can explore tropical flora, taste fresh fruit, and learn about traditional Hawaiian medicinal plants.
Just a short drive from Princeville is the charming town of Hanalei. Nestled in a lush valley, Hanalei is known for its crescent-shaped bay, historic buildings, and vibrant community. Hanalei Bay is perfect for swimming, surfing, and paddleboarding, with the stunning backdrop of mountains. The town itself boasts an array of shops, galleries, and restaurants, offering everything from local crafts to gourmet dining. The Hanalei Pier, a favorite spot for fishing and picnicking, provides a panoramic view of the bay and surrounding mountains.
Kīlauea Point Wildlife Refuge, located on the northern shore of Kauai and only a 20 minute drive from Hanalei Pier, is a breathtaking sanctuary that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region. Established in 1985, this refuge is a critical habitat for a variety of seabirds, including the endangered Hawaiian goose (nēnē) and the Laysan albatross. The dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation of Kīlauea Point provide an ideal nesting ground for these birds, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.
In addition to its avian residents, the refuge is also home to native plants and serves as a vantage point for spotting marine life such as humpback whales (which we saw), spinner dolphins, and Hawaiian monk seals. The centerpiece of the refuge is the historic Kīlauea Lighthouse, which not only adds to the scenic charm of the area but also offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding coastline. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply someone looking to experience the serene beauty of Kauai, Kīlauea Point Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination to your Kauai itinerary.
On the sunny South Shore of Kauai lies The Point at Poipu, a luxurious oceanfront resort owned by Hilton. This is where we made our home away from home. This tranquil retreat offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and easy access to some of the island’s best beaches. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodations, an awesome pool, and a variety of recreational activities.
Nearby, Poipu Beach Park is ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and spotting Hawaiian monk seals & large tortoises. Also, the resort’s location makes it a convenient base for exploring other attractions on the South Shore. Exploring the South Shore further would be an additional plus if you can fit it into your Kauai itinerary.
Kalapaki Joe’s is a perfect nearby spot for great food. It is a lively spot in Kauai known for its relaxed atmosphere and island-style sports bar vibe. It’s a favorite for both locals and visitors who are looking to enjoy a casual meal with a beautiful view. The restaurant offers a mix of American and Hawaiian-inspired dishes, with fresh seafood, burgers, and a variety of appetizers that are perfect for sharing. Whether you’re there to catch a game on one of the many screens or just soak in the friendly & laid-back ambiance, Kalapaki Joe’s offers a quintessentially Hawaiian dining experience.
The Wailua River, the only navigable river in Hawaii, offers a unique way to explore Kauai’s lush interior. A popular activity is the Wailua River Cruise, which takes visitors on a leisurely journey up the river to the Fern Grotto. This natural amphitheater, covered in tropical ferns, has been a favorite spot for weddings and special events. The river cruise includes a guided tour with insights into Hawaiian legends and the natural history of the area. Upon arrival at the Fern Grotto, visitors are treated to a traditional Hawaiian musical performance and a chance to explore the scenic surroundings with your guides. But please don’t ever climb & explore it on your own as it is disrespectful to the Hawaiian locals.
For those seeking adventure, the Holo Holo Snorkeling Tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring the marine wonders around Kauai. Departing from Port Allen, these tours typically include stops at the Na Pali Coast and the neighboring island of Niihau. The crystal-clear waters around these areas are swarming with marine life, making it an excellent spot for snorkeling. Guests can expect to see colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and possibly even dolphins and sea turtles. In our case, we saw dolphins & whales! The tour also provides stunning views of the rugged coastline and sea cliffs of the Na Pali Coast, accessible only by sea. This tour that we took was called the Niihau + Napali 7 hour Super Tour. It started before sunrise until late afternoon. If you’re prone to motion sickness, take something!
Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” Waimea Canyon is a breathtaking natural wonder. The Waimea Canyon Lookout offers panoramic views of the canyon’s deep valleys, sharp ridges, and vibrant red and green hues. This vast canyon stretches 14 miles long, one mile wide, and more than 3,600 feet deep. Visitors can drive to several lookout points or explore the many hiking trails that provide different perspectives of this geological marvel. The Canyon Trail to Waipoo Falls is a popular hike that rewards trekkers with a beautiful waterfall and expansive views.
Wailua Falls, located near Lihue, is one of Kauai’s most accessible and picturesque waterfalls. Plunging 80 feet into a pool below, the falls are easily viewed from a nearby lookout point. Early morning visits often reveal a rainbow in the mist, adding to the falls enchanting beauty. For the more adventurous, a steep and slippery trail leads down to the base of the falls, offering a closer look and a chance to swim in the refreshing waters. And, interestingly enough, Wailua Falls is featured in the opening credits of the original TV series “Fantasy Island.”
Kauai’s agricultural richness is showcased at Lydgate Farms, where visitors can tour the chocolate factory and learn about the island’s cacao cultivation. This family-owned farm offers an immersive experience, guiding guests through the process of growing cacao, harvesting the pods, and crafting chocolate. The tour includes tastings of various chocolates and tropical fruits grown on the farm, providing a delightful culinary experience. And, of course, this was our favorite part! Lydgate Farms is committed to sustainable farming practices, making it a great example of eco-friendly agriculture on Kauai. Chocolates are for sale, if you want to take some back home! And, oh did we bring plenty of chocolate home for us!
Your Kauai itinerary continues with The National Tropical Botanical Garden (NTBG) which encompasses several gardens on Kauai. It includes the Allerton Garden and McBryde Garden on the South Shore. These gardens are dedicated to the conservation of tropical plants and the preservation of natural habitats. The Allerton Garden, once a private estate, features stunning landscapes, water features, and sculptures. The McBryde Garden, located in the Lawai Valley, is home to the largest collection of native Hawaiian flora in the world. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the diverse plant species, Hawaiian culture, and the ongoing conservation efforts. If you’re familiar with the movie franchise “Jurassic Park,” one of the scenes was filmed here with the giant trees in the background!
Kauai is a destination that offers something for every traveler. Whether it’s historical landmarks or charming towns, many are breathtaking natural wonders. Every piece of our Kauai itinerary provides unique experiences that highlight the island’s beauty and cultural richness. Kauai promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you enchanted by its charm and splendor.
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Traveling is a fulfilling experience that allows individuals to explore new cultures, broaden their horizons, and create lasting memories. As we enter our 50’s, a new chapter in life begins, and with it comes a unique perspective on travel. This post delves into what traveling …
Huli Sue’s BBQ & Grill will make you believe you are on a tropical Hawaiian island getaway. They serve some of the most delicious Hawaiian BBQ Grill on the mainland that will leave your mouth watering when you first see it. While we were in …
The Fairway Forest Resort at Sapphire Valley is one of the most beautiful locations for a resort we have ever stayed at. It is nestled in a great location for your Blue Ridge Mountains getaway and is still a drivable distance away from Asheville & Greenville, NC. It is a Hilton Grand Vacations Club resort (formerly known as Diamond Resorts) so if you have Hilton points, you’re in for a treat. This is nature at its finest!
We are a family of 4 adults and staying in 2 rooms is always best for us because of the bedding situation. However, one of these rooms is almost as big as a house. I am not joking! Our rooms backyard view was the Sapphire National Golf Course. At first I thought it was a lake because it was covered in ice.
In my post about North Carolina Attractions for Families, I speak bout the Christmas season we went. Therefore, you will see that our stay at the Fairway Forest is winter driven. We didn’t have snow, but we did have ice and it was cold! That didn’t matter much though because the living rooms have real firewood fire places! You can either order firewood at the lobby, buy a bundle at the local grocery store after you’ve had a fantastic lunch/dinner at Huli Sue’s BBQ & Grill!
This resort also has an activity lodge. However, just like the front lobby/check-in area, it is not located near your room(s). It is not a long distance at all to drive there, but you will need to drive nonetheless. This is nice because your room(s) will be quieter. Our rooms were in a cul-de-sac and it was like staying in the woods. Adjacent to the activity lodge is the Sapphire Valley Ski Area if you want to ski/tube. It rained the day we wanted to tube, so we skipped it.
This is a map that we received from the lobby so you can get an idea of the proximity between the rooms we were staying at located at the golf course, the lobby/check-in, and the activity lodge (labeled Community & Recreation Centers).
You will certainly not be disappointed with a stay at Fairway Forest at Sapphire Valley. If you especially want to be in nature, get away from crowds & city life, this is the place for you.
If you’re a newbie to North Carolina, like we were, or are just wanting to discover new places, here is my list of North Carolina attractions for families. Depending on the season you’re traveling to North Carolina is up to you, but we wanted to …
Embarking on a journey with a purpose transforms the way we experience travel. It transcends the conventional notion of visiting destinations merely for leisure, diving deep into the heart of meaningful exploration. As a travel blogger, I’ve had the privilege of discovering the profound impact …
Preparing for a trip can often feel like embarking on a hilarious adventure in itself. As a travel blogger with a penchant for humor, I’m here to take you on a side-splitting journey through the comical and quirky aspects of how to prepare for a trip. Buckle up, folks, because we’re about to dive into the wild world of getting ready for a trip!
Selecting a travel destination is a bit like trying to choose between pizza and tacos when you’re hungry – it’s practically impossible. You find yourself in a never-ending debate, weighing the pros and cons of each place. “Should I go for the cultural immersion in Kyoto, or the sun-soaked beaches of Bali? Decisions, decisions!” It’s like a mental wrestling match with your passport as the referee.
In the end, you either throw a dart at a map (please don’t actually do this) or consult your travel-savvy friend, who’s as indecisive as you are. “Oh, you should definitely go to the Galapagos Islands! But then again, Iceland is also breathtaking. Or how about… Antarctica?” Thanks, friend, that really narrowed it down!
Budgeting for a trip can feel like trying to hold water in your hands – it slips away faster than you can say “all-inclusive resort.” You start with the best intentions, creating a spreadsheet with categories like ‘Flights,’ ‘Accommodation,’ ‘Food,’ and ‘Souvenirs.’ But then, temptation strikes.
You stumble upon a mouthwatering food blog about street food in Bangkok, and suddenly, your ‘Food’ budget doubles. “Who needs savings when you can have Tom Yum soup every day, right?” And don’t even get me started on the irresistible allure of those quirky souvenir shops. You thought you’d bring back one or two trinkets, but now your luggage is a mini bazaar of tiny Eiffel Towers, sombreros, and kangaroo plushies.
Booking flights and accommodation can quickly turn into a comedy of errors. You diligently research flights, only to find that the prices change every time you refresh the page. It’s like playing a high-stakes game of musical chairs with your credit card.
And let’s not forget the thrill of reading hotel reviews. “The room was cozy – if you’re a contortionist. The view? Well, if you enjoy staring at a brick wall, you’re in for a treat!” You eventually make a reservation, cross your fingers, and hope for the best. If you’re lucky, you’ll end up in a charming boutique hotel. If not, well, at least it’ll make for a hilarious travel story. An example was when all four of us stayed in a very “cozy” London hotel room. I think it was the size of my closet. Also, I think there was more room on the balcony.
Ah, travel insurance – the necessary paranoia that comes with the territory. You spend hours reading the fine print, trying to decipher terms like “trip interruption coverage” and “emergency medical evacuation.” It’s like trying to decode ancient hieroglyphics, but with more dire consequences.
Then comes the internal debate: “Do I really need insurance?” You weigh the odds of getting sick, losing your luggage, or missing your connecting flight. Suddenly, your imagination runs wild, envisioning yourself stranded on a remote island, surviving on coconuts and debating the merits of a homemade palm frond shelter. It’s enough to make you click “purchase” faster than you can say, “I’m covered, right?”
Navigating visa requirements and documentation can feel like starring in your very own bureaucratic sitcom. You fill out forms, gather passport-sized photos, and meticulously check expiration dates. You’re armed with a stack of documents thicker than a Shakespearean tragedy.
Then comes the waiting game. You visit the embassy or consulate, and you’re met with a line that rivals Disney World’s Space Mountain on a summer day. You watch as the person in front of you fumbles through their paperwork, and you wonder if you’ll ever make it to the front. Finally, when your visa is approved, it’s like winning the golden ticket to Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory – but with more paperwork.
Your passport – the holy grail of travel documents. You’ve had it for years, and it’s safely stashed in your drawer until the night before your trip. That’s when you suddenly can’t find it anywhere. Cue frantic searching, tearing your room apart, and even considering the possibility of teleportation. Just when you’re about to give up and call the embassy, you spot it right where you left it. Lesson learned: Your passport has a sense of humor, and it’s not always on your side. A great example was when I placed my passport in one of those hidden money belts. Since this is something I don’t do on a daily basis, I was panicking at the cruise terminal desk because I thought I left it at home when the entire time I had it in my hidden money belt that I was wearing.
Packing is where things get truly comical. You lay out your clothes trying to anticipate every weather condition, from scorching heat to unexpected blizzards. Then, you start with a well-thought-out packing list, but it quickly spirals into chaos.
You pack three different swimsuits for a trip to Alaska, just in case you stumble upon a heated igloo with a pool. Your suitcase becomes a game of Tetris, with items Tetra-packing themselves into every available space. And who can forget the desperate, last-minute packing frenzy, where you throw random items into your bag, praying you haven’t forgotten your underwear or toothbrush?
Every traveler dreams of having the latest and greatest travel gear, from noise-canceling headphones to GPS-equipped luggage. But let’s be honest, we’ve all fallen victim to the allure of those “travel essentials” lists that promise to revolutionize our journeys.
You end up with more gadgets than James Bond, complete with a portable espresso maker and a solar-powered phone charger that looks like it came from a sci-fi movie. Of course, you’ll only use a fraction of these items, but they make for fantastic conversation starters with fellow travelers. “Oh, this? It’s my mini water purifier. You know, for those impromptu hikes up Mount Everest.”
Researching your destination is a vital part of trip preparation, but it can also lead to some humorous revelations. You become a mini-expert on local customs, traditions, and quirky facts about the place you’re visiting. You might even learn a few basic phrases in the local language, like “Where’s the bathroom?” You might think you’ve mastered basic phrases in the local language, but then you accidentally order something completely unexpected at a restaurant. Your attempts at pronunciation might also make locals giggle (or cringe). But hey, at least you’re trying, right? An example about miscommunication and differentiation is when we ordered a pizza in Paris with fromage (cheese) and pepperoni. Who knew that pepperoni in Paris means ham in the U.S.! Either that’s what it means OR the waiter messed up.
But despite your best efforts, you’ll inevitably stumble into cultural mishaps. Like the time you accidentally offended a friendly local by shaking hands with your left hand instead of your right. Or when you confidently ordered a local delicacy, only to discover that it’s a dish meant for the bravest of taste buds.
Creating an itinerary is all fun and games until you realize that you’ve packed more activities into a day than the entire cast of a reality TV show. You meticulously plan each minute, from sunrise yoga to sunset hot air balloon rides. It’s a schedule that would make even the most ambitious CEO sweat.
But then reality hits. You wake up one morning feeling more like a sloth than a go-getter, and suddenly, your perfectly planned day crumbles like a house of cards in a windstorm. That’s when you learn the beauty of staying flexible and embracing the unexpected. Sometimes, the best travel moments happen when you ditch the itinerary and follow your wanderlust.
Packing snacks for your journey is a wise move, but it can also lead to some hangry (hungry + angry) moments. You pack an assortment of granola bars, trail mix, and protein bars to keep your energy levels up. But in the midst of a hunger-induced meltdown, you realize that you’ve already eaten your entire snack supply on the first day of the trip.
As for staying hydrated, you vow to drink water like a camel at an oasis. But you quickly discover that public restrooms can be elusive, and your quest for the perfect restroom becomes a side quest of epic proportions. You start rationing your water intake, hoping you can make it to the next bathroom oasis without an emergency detour. A great example is NYC. Oh my goodness, if you are walking down the streets of NYC and you have a bathroom emergency, it is almost impossible to find a public restroom in which you don’t have to go inside a store and purchase something!
Ah, the elusive quest for a good night’s sleep before a trip, it’s like trying to catch a unicorn in your backyard! You’ve got your packing list sprawled out, your passport by your side, and your mind racing with excitement. But when you finally hit the sheets, it’s as if your brain decides it’s the perfect time to host a late-night comedy show. You contemplate the mysteries of the universe, like why do alarm clocks sound like nuclear explosions and why can’t you remember if you locked the front door?
And just when you think you’ve got your sleep-deprived brain under control, your subconscious decides to stage an epic dream performance. You find yourself running through airports in your pajamas, trying to catch a flight that’s actually a giant talking taco. The alarm goes off, and you wake up in a cold sweat, wondering if you need to pack extra salsa.
But fear not, fellow traveler! Despite the pre-trip sleep shenanigans, there’s something magical about that final nap before you embark on your adventure. It’s a mix of excitement, anticipation, and the realization that no matter how absurd your dreams, you’re about to create some real-life travel tales that are even funnier than your sleep-deprived imaginings. So, rest easy because the journey begins tomorrow, and you’re ready for whatever hilarious twists and turns it may bring. Make sure you get a great night’s sleep, especially with Live & Sleep Mattress!
In the end, preparing for a trip is a rollercoaster of emotions, from frustration to hilarity and everything in between. The mishaps, the mix-ups, and the unexpected moments are all part of the adventure. So, embrace the chaos, keep your sense of humor handy, and remember that the best travel stories are often the ones you never planned to tell. Bon voyage, fellow travelers, and may your trips be filled with laughter and unforgettable experiences!
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A Collection of Favorite Hometown Spots by Locals There are many things to say about getting advice from locals. From the best coffee shops to the best grocery stores, travelers should give more credit to the residents recommendations because they know the reputation of a …
