Hawaii Vacation Connection

Aloha and welcome to the first podcast of 2014. There's nothing better than starting off the year with good weather in Hawaii, and the Islands were blessed with sunny warm weather to kick off the New Year. Our main topic of the day is on the New Year and how we can help make a holiday in Hawaii a reality for you. Not only are we local in Hawaii, but we also have all the connections and knowledge to maximize your vacation. Start 2014 off right by booking your next vacation in the Islands with us! We're Hawaii's experts and we're eager to begin planning your dream vacation. Happy New Year, from Hawaii Aloha Travel. With tons of news to keep you entertained, this podcast will touch on the new development plans for King's Village, the historic village with charm in Honolulu. You'd never guess they're talking about turning this area into a luxury condo hotel… but alas, Honolulu will see much more development in this coming year. Another monumental change happening in Waikiki is the closing of the International Marketplace. This beloved outdoor shopping area is officially closed, with a three-story Saks Fifth Avenue slated to take its place. We're also seeing two new 7-Elevens pop up this year, upping the convenience store chain count in Hawaii to 61! If you're traveling to Maui this year, you'll be happy to hear that Expeditions, the company that runs the ferry between Maui and Lanai, is building a new 149-passenger ferry to accommodate residents and construction workers on the Pineapple Island. And for all those golf fans out there, 2014 marks the year of the PGA Season on Maui. Listen to the details on today's podcast! Lastly, we'll tell you about the newest addition to the country's ‘Scenic Bypass’ roads, and which stretch on Oahu was recently knighted with this honor.

For some, Hawaii instills a sense of adventure and desire for outdoor activity, such as hiking. A big hiking fan myself, I must say that Oahu has some of Hawaii’s finest hiking trails, but I also have to admit that throughout my time here in the islands, I’ve come across many people that aren’t here for the hikes. Which is perfectly fine! Some people aren’t as nimble on their feet as they used to be or just aren’t that into the strenuousness of a hike. Some, like myself, might just want to skip the hike and enjoy a leisurely walk instead for exercise. Whatever the case may be, a good walk is just as fun and entertaining as a good hike, and you’re in luck with our top Oahu walking paths list. Walking is a great form of exercise and is as easy as tying on your tennies. And in Hawaii the weather is always accommodating for a nice stroll, plus it’s a good way to get out and about and see the sights by foot instead of by car. Many people enjoy a nice walk after a big meal to help with digestion, while some prefer a stroll in the morning to get the day started. Whatever your walking style may be, we’re going to fill you in on some of Oahu’s best paths for an easy stroll. No matter which side of the island you’re staying on, we’ve got a nice route you can take by foot. And all of them can be done in your sandals or slippers too! So forget the vigorous hikes and slow the pace down with an unhurried, relaxing walk. Here's  my top picks but listen to the show for all the details about why I am choosing these. North Shore Bike Path Waikiki Beach Path Diamond Head State Park Honolulu’s historic areas Kaena Point Trail Walk Lanikai neighborhood Ko Olina beach coves

For some, Hawaii instills a sense of adventure and desire for outdoor activity, such as hiking. A big hiking fan myself, I must say that Oahu has some of Hawaii’s finest hiking trails, but I also have to admit that throughout my time here in the islands, I’ve come across many people that aren’t here for the hikes. Which is perfectly fine! Some people aren’t as nimble on their feet as they used to be or just aren’t that into the strenuousness of a hike. Some, like myself, might just want to skip the hike and enjoy a leisurely walk instead for exercise. Whatever the case may be, a good walk is just as fun and entertaining as a good hike, and you’re in luck with our top Oahu walking paths list. Walking is a great form of exercise and is as easy as tying on your tennies. And in Hawaii the weather is always accommodating for a nice stroll, plus it’s a good way to get out and about and see the sights by foot instead of by car. Many people enjoy a nice walk after a big meal to help with digestion, while some prefer a stroll in the morning to get the day started. Whatever your walking style may be, we’re going to fill you in on some of Oahu’s best paths for an easy stroll. No matter which side of the island you’re staying on, we’ve got a nice route you can take by foot. And all of them can be done in your sandals or slippers too! So forget the vigorous hikes and slow the pace down with an unhurried, relaxing walk. Here's  my top picks but listen to the show for all the details about why I am choosing these. North Shore Bike Path Waikiki Beach Path Diamond Head State Park Honolulu’s historic areas Kaena Point Trail Walk Lanikai neighborhood Ko Olina beach coves

Aloha and happy holidays from Hawaii Aloha Travel! We’re excited about today’s podcast because we’re giving listeners a Hawaii holiday gift guide and making their Christmas shopping a little easier this year. With ten top items on our list, see if you can get some gift shopping while you’re here in the islands. Or, use this guide for next year’s wish list! We also have some great news topics to discuss, first and foremost being whale season is upon us. January is when residents and visitors begin to see the flukes and spouts above water and hear the whale songs below water. If you’re traveling to Hawaii in January or after, be sure to book a whale watching tour- they are incredible! A new penthouse has hit all-time price records in the Kakaako neighborhood of Honolulu, $50 million! Which is the most expensive condominium unit in Hawaii. And more on the hotel topic, there is a new addition to Choice Hotels International’s Ascend Collection in Waikiki. Lastly we’ll let you know why Hawaii has been ranked as number 1 healthiest state in the nation again. So stay tuned into today’s podcast and get connected to Hawaii! These are our Top 10 picks; Chocolate Mac Nuts Hawaiian Jewelry - Niihau Shells, Pearls, Sea Glass Local Hawaiian Art - Heather Brown Welzie Koa Wood - Martin and MacArthur Hawaii Grown Coffee Pareos (Hawaiian Sarongs) Kauai Kookies North Shore Goodies - mix and match gift packages Holiday Hawaiian Music

Aloha and happy holidays from Hawaii Aloha Travel! We’re excited about today’s podcast because we’re giving listeners a Hawaii holiday gift guide and making their Christmas shopping a little easier this year. With ten top items on our list, see if you can get some gift shopping while you’re here in the islands. Or, use […]

Many people choose to spend their holidays in Hawaii because it’s an ideal time to take a vacation from the mainland, and it also offers a slice of relaxation during the stressful holiday season. Hawaii offers travelers tropical respite from the chilly weather, beach time, plus a sense of relief. But many vacationers get to Hawaii and suddenly find themselves in a quandary. What is there to do in Hawaii during the holidays? Which restaurant will be open for a Christmas Eve meal? Can you get some shopping done on New Year’s Day? These questions are popular among holiday travelers to Hawaii, and I’m here today to help answer them! I’m giving you a guide on what to expect when you’re here in Hawaii for the holidays so you can maximize your vacation in the Islands. If you’re hotel accommodations don’t accommodate for cooking, then chances are you’re dining out for Thanksgiving, Christmas and/or New Year’s. While it may be the case that many boutiques and shops are closed for these days, you’d be surprised to find out how many restaurants actually remain open!

Many people choose to spend their holidays in Hawaii because it’s an ideal time to take a vacation from the mainland, and it also offers a slice of relaxation during the stressful holiday season. Hawaii offers travelers tropical respite from the chilly weather, beach time, plus a sense of relief. But many vacationers get to […]

Our main topic on today’s podcast is about kid-friendly hotels in Hawaii. We’re listing the top two resorts that have the best kids’ programs on each major island in the state. Find out which hotel has the best waterslide, cultural activities and amenities, plus did you know many resorts have fun critters on-site for the kids to enjoy? Penguins, parrots, tropical fish- what more could a kid ask for? If you’re thinking about booking a family vacation to Hawaii, be sure to tune in to this podcast! It’ll definitely offer some good insight, plus your kids will thank you too! It’s just like Hawaii to have cooler weather one week and extremely humid days the next. For the past week we’ve had very still, very muggy and very voggy weather with threats of flash floods and storms heading our way. Still no sign of the storm, but it is early in the winter after all. The days are shortened and the sun sets now before 6pm, leaving the 9 to 5’ers with little light for any sort of outdoor activities after punching the time clock to end the work day. But we can’t complain too much cause hey! We’re in Hawaii! Last week we had some pretty sensational news topics, but this week is equally entertaining. Hawaiian Airlines decided to hop on the bandwagon and allow the use of portable electronic devices on flights. And the even better news about this is that it’s effective immediately. More on the electronic news scene, the Equus Hotel in Waikiki has just launched a new TextButler service, where guests can get 24-hour service via text messages. Kind of like a personal, electronic concierge that fits right in your pocket! More from Waikiki, an overhaul has been decided for Hyatt Regency Waikiki, which is likely to last for 18 months. But find out what these renovations include on today’s podcast. Also, after legalizing gay marriage, the state’s destination-wedding industry is expecting a boom in business. Lastly, find out what new shops are slated for Kauai’s Kukui Grove shopping plaza in Lihue. It’s sure to make sports gear and equipment an easier feat for locals and tourists alike!

Our main topic on today’s podcast is about kid-friendly hotels in Hawaii. We’re listing the top two resorts that have the best kids’ programs on each major island in the state. Find out which hotel has the best waterslide, cultural activities and amenities, plus did you know many resorts have fun critters on-site for the kids to enjoy? Penguins, parrots, tropical fish- what more could a kid ask for? If you’re thinking about booking a family vacation to Hawaii, be sure to tune in to this podcast! It’ll definitely offer some good insight, plus your kids will thank you too! It’s just like Hawaii to have cooler weather one week and extremely humid days the next. For the past week we’ve had very still, very muggy and very voggy weather with threats of flash floods and storms heading our way. Still no sign of the storm, but it is early in the winter after all. The days are shortened and the sun sets now before 6pm, leaving the 9 to 5’ers with little light for any sort of outdoor activities after punching the time clock to end the work day. But we can’t complain too much cause hey! We’re in Hawaii! Last week we had some pretty sensational news topics, but this week is equally entertaining. Hawaiian Airlines decided to hop on the bandwagon and allow the use of portable electronic devices on flights. And the even better news about this is that it’s effective immediately. More on the electronic news scene, the Equus Hotel in Waikiki has just launched a new TextButler service, where guests can get 24-hour service via text messages. Kind of like a personal, electronic concierge that fits right in your pocket! More from Waikiki, an overhaul has been decided for Hyatt Regency Waikiki, which is likely to last for 18 months. But find out what these renovations include on today’s podcast. Also, after legalizing gay marriage, the state’s destination-wedding industry is expecting a boom in business. Lastly, find out what new shops are slated for Kauai’s Kukui Grove shopping plaza in Lihue. It’s sure to make sports gear and equipment an easier feat for locals and tourists alike!

Direct from Honolulu Hawaii, this podcast focuses on Hawaii Vacations and Travel to Hawaii. Each 15 minute podcast segment is packed with valuable information on pricing, trends and Hawaii vacation itineraries submitted by podcast listeners. Topics range from booking Hawaii All inclusive packages to sailing Hawaii cruises covering just about anything having to do with Hawaii Travel

Our main topic for today’s podcast is how to successfully book Hawaii activities. Don’t just book based on popular belief. Many of those recommendations are actually outdated and irrelevant. We want to make sure you have the best vacation possible, which is why we’re letting you in on the secrets to Hawaii Aloha Travel’s activity booking success, and what makes us the best when it comes to unique adventures in Hawaii! I always like starting out these podcasts with a weather update. It seems like a good way to illustrate to our listeners what’s going on in Hawaii. And with the news topics as part of the podcast too, it’s like your own personal weekly publication on Hawaii happs! The weather in Hawaii has been (don’t judge me) cold. But keep in mind us locals have acclimated to tropical weather, so 60’s is a major temperature drop from our normal 80’s! In fact, record low temperatures were recorded in Honolulu, Lihue and Kahului airports on Tuesday 11/12 and Wednesday 11/13. The 64-degree temperature in Honolulu broke the old record of 65 degrees for the date set in 1950. Lihue Airport recorded 61 degrees, tying a record also set on November 13, 1950. Interesting little update. But we’ll stop complaining now.

Our main topic for today’s podcast is how to successfully book Hawaii activities. Don’t just book based on popular belief. Many of those recommendations are actually outdated and irrelevant. We want to make sure you have the best vacation possible, which is why we’re letting you in on the secrets to Hawaii Aloha Travel’s activity […]

Direct from Honolulu Hawaii, this podcast focuses on Hawaii Vacations and Travel to Hawaii. Each 15 minute podcast segment is packed with valuable information on pricing, trends and Hawaii vacation itineraries submitted by podcast listeners. Topics range from booking Hawaii All inclusive packages to sailing Hawaii cruises covering just about anything having to do with Hawaii Travel

Halloween has come and gone already, which always seems to mark the beginning of the holiday season. For those of you vacationing to Hawaii this winter, be sure to get those activities booked soon because they’re filling up quick! We’ve been having beautiful weather so far this fall and the outdoor activities will surely be the highlight of your vacation. On an earlier podcast we talked about last minute holiday traveling and why it’s important to book early. This week we’ve got a follow-up to the travel topic and will be talking about airline fees and how to fly most efficiently. Plus we’ll give you a breakdown of the major airline baggage fees and where to best save your money while booking flights. But before that topic, I’ve got some other news stories for you, the first one being the biggest news in the travel industry since checked baggage fees! But this one is good news! The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has decided that it is safe for airline passengers to keep their electronic devices on airplane mode throughout their entire journey. The only catch is that airlines have to prove to the FAA that this won’t affect their landing operations. Find out which airline was the first to meet regulations, and now offers their passengers the luxury of keeping their phone, iPad, iPod, DVD player, laptop, etc. on from gate to gate. Next is the new airline that’s offering flights between Beijing and Honolulu, and what this service entails. We’ll switch gears to a local news topic that will most likely affect tourists as well- the chicken population on Oahu. Find out why you’ll be seeing (and hearing) more of these feral birds around the island. In other news, the Hawaii Tourism Authority made an accurate judgment when they said visitors frequenting the islands will begin to slow down. Hear more about this on today’s podcast plus how north shore residents are in a wave of worry over the big swell season. Lastly we’ll tell you about Big Island Candies newest store location on Oahu, so don’t miss this show!

Halloween has come and gone already, which always seems to mark the beginning of the holiday season. For those of you vacationing to Hawaii this winter, be sure to get those activities booked soon because they’re filling up quick! We’ve been having beautiful weather so far this fall and the outdoor activities will surely be the highlight of your vacation. On an earlier podcast we talked about last minute holiday traveling and why it’s important to book early. This week we’ve got a follow-up to the travel topic and will be talking about airline fees and how to fly most efficiently. Plus we’ll give you a breakdown of the major airline baggage fees and where to best save your money while booking flights. But before that topic, I’ve got some other news stories for you, the first one being the biggest news in the travel industry since checked baggage fees! But this one is good news! The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has decided that it is safe for airline passengers to keep their electronic devices on airplane mode throughout their entire journey. The only catch is that airlines have to prove to the FAA that this won’t affect their landing operations. Find out which airline was the first to meet regulations, and now offers their passengers the luxury of keeping their phone, iPad, iPod, DVD player, laptop, etc. on from gate to gate. Next is the new airline that’s offering flights between Beijing and Honolulu, and what this service entails. We’ll switch gears to a local news topic that will most likely affect tourists as well- the chicken population on Oahu. Find out why you’ll be seeing (and hearing) more of these feral birds around the island. In other news, the Hawaii Tourism Authority made an accurate judgment when they said visitors frequenting the islands will begin to slow down. Hear more about this on today’s podcast plus how north shore residents are in a wave of worry over the big swell season. Lastly we’ll tell you about Big Island Candies newest store location on Oahu, so don’t miss this show!