Pacific Island Paradises

– 56 – www.paradises.com Where to stay Hawaii has accommodation to suit all budgets and travellers can expect to find hundreds of hotels and condos in every category from luxury to budget. Camping is available in National, State, City, and County Parks. Getting around If you are considering visiting all of the islands, it's recommended that you allow a minimum of three weeks. The domestic airlines, Hawaiian, Go Hawaii and Island Air help to maximise sightseeing time. Helicopter sightseeing tours are popular and give you a chance to see places that may otherwise be inaccessible. On the ground there are limousines, taxis and coaches available. Oahu is the only island with a bus service with an extensive route that covers the entire island. In addition, there is a ferry from Lanai to Maui, from Molokai to Maui and from Oahu to Maui. Renting a car or jeep is extremely popular in Hawaii, although it's not necessary in Honolulu as it has a good public transport network. Driving is on the right hand side and, as most islands have only one main road, it's difficult to get lost. Night driving is not quite as enjoyable, as roads between towns are not lit and can be narrow. Hiring a bike is a great option for visitors as it allows you to get off the beaten track and visit smaller towns. Food and entertainment Experience a traditional Hawaiian feast or luau, which usually includes dishes like poi, ground from the taro plant, kalua pork, an entire pig wrapped in ti leaves and baked in an underground oven or imu, poke, marinated raw fish, shellfish, or octopus, along with Polynesian-style entertainment and a hula performance. Aside from the Pacific Rim or Hawaii regional cuisine, which is a fusion of food and techniques from all of the countries and ethnic groups that have historically had an inf luence on Hawaii, Hawaii boasts many international restaurants serving various Asian and continental cuisines. There are also fast foods of every kind, and do-it-yourself is popular as most condominiums have cooking facilities. Activities There is a wide range of activities for all ages including snorkelling, fishing, tennis, golf, windsurfing, sailing, and many other water based activities including magnificent surfing. Hawaii offers sightseeing tours, bushwalks, downhill cycling adventures, trail rides, and a range of indoor activities. Shopping guide Artisans make copies of their ancient instruments made from gourds, stones, seeds, feathers, shells, lumber and bamboo. Also for sale are woven leaf hats, feather work in colourful hatbands, capes and bags, handwoven cloth, Lauhala leaves made into sandals, bags and wall ornaments. Beautiful Hawaiian applique quilts in island designs make the perfect gift. — H a w a i i —

• Cover