The Ultimate Trip to Hawaii
There is the pain of nostalgia running through my being as I am writing this, but I think it may be valuable to document the amazing experiences I have been blessed to have in my 20s.
When it was becoming clear to me that my time in USA was coming to a bittersweet end, I thought it was essential that I visit one of my bucket list travel destinations, albeit solo: Hawaii!
It was expensive and it was far. It helped that I was living on the west coast in Oregon at the time. Slightly unknown territory, but it is a part of USA so I expected certain standard facilities to be available. I honed in on two Islands: Oahu and Kawaii. I actually took the plunge and signed myself up to be living in hostel rooms rather than a traditional hotel or Airbnb (great decision!). It helped my decision that the hotel prices were exorbitant, a great way to push me out of my comfort zone.
Part 1: Oahu
The island that contains the capital Honolulu which seems like a very typical American city
Quite commercial
The beaches near the city were calm and peaceful in the morning, perfect for wading and relaxing minus the crowds
However, there were several hidden gems - particularly in the eastern part of the Island
I loved the Byodo-In temple, it made me feel as though I’m being transported to a misty wonderland. The vibes were quite peaceful and serene
I actually used the bus service and didn’t bother renting a car for more than a day
The hostel here was pretty nice, full of young people from various parts of the world. Many from EU, as they are probably used to the hostel culture. Lots of opportunities to socialize and hang out with new people. The hostel even organized several day trips though it had to be booked in advance
Snorkelling! Though what I ended up doing was very basic in a baby pool, not really all the way in the ocean
Tried the taro burger. A bit underwhelming I must say.
Part 2: Kawaii
This place was really out of this world. It’s where parts of Jurassic Park were shot and no wonder, it was quite captivating indeed.
I went on hikes and took a new person along with me - a German girl who was travelling around the tropical world for 9 months.
Waimea canyon state park: The highlight here was the Napali Coastline viewpoint. It was actually a cloudy day but I was fortunate enough that the skies cleared up for just a minute or two when I was at the top so that I could catch a glimpse of the most magnificent view. Another moment where it felt like things were working out just for me.
The big beautiful blue of the pacific will always stay with me, the magnificence and wonder that it represents. It unlocks something different for everyone, perhaps a reflection of the several untold mysteries that lie within the depths of the ocean. Catch a glimpse, and see what it evokes within you.
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