Stay at the Hilton Hawaiian Village

Posted on July 25, 2009 by admin
Hilton Hawaiian Village - Waikiki, Hawaii
Image by John in LA via Flickr

Of all the luxurious beachfront hotels in Waikiki, the Hilton Hawaiian Village may be one of the largest and grandest hotels. The Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa is situated on 22 acres of breathtaking oceanfront property. Marked by excellent Hawaiian hospitality, the hotel features lush tropical gardens, gushing waterfalls, exotic wildlife, priceless artwork, as well as 2,860 beautiful guest rooms and suites. Tourists must only take a 20 minute ride from Honolulu International Airport to get to this fine resort in the heart of Waikiki. Guests have access to fine dining, shopping, and other attractions both in the resort area and the surrounding Waikiki area.

Hilton Hawaiian Village is comprised of several guest buildings including Ali’i Tower, Rainbow Tower, Tapa Tower, Kalia Tower, and Diamond Head Tower, all of which have access to the numerous great amenities of this hotel. All guests have easy access to the beach as well as the newly renovated landscaped Paradise Pool, which was completed in 2007 and is home to a 77-foot lava tube slide. Other water attractions include Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, the Super Pool, the Keiki Pool (Children’s Pool), and several other pools designated for each of the individual towers. Other amenities the hotel has to offer includes service at the Mandara Spa, luaus, beachfront fireworks, fitness centers, and much more.

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Hawaii Islands – History And Fact

Posted on November 9, 2008 by admin

Hawaii is an isolated tropical archipelago in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.  Located on a geologic “hot spot” of the Pacific tectonic plate, the island chain is composed of peaks of an underwater range of both active and dormant volcanoes.  Due to the warm trade winds it enjoys mild temperatures year-round and only two seasons, winter and summer.  The terrain varies from volcanic rock formations to tropical forest and the region’s isolation has created a significant number of endemic species.  It contains the world’s most active volcano, Kilauea, the world’s largest observatory, at Mauna Kea, and the world’s rainiest place, Mount Waialeale.

Since as early as 300AD, the eight main islands of Hawaii have been home to a native Polynesian people.  They lived under a sophisticated feudal system, spoke a common Hawaiian language, and practiced a polytheistic religion.  Hula dancing, surfing, music, and oral histories were all used in spiritual as well as secular life. 

When Captain James Cook first visited the islands in 1778 he named them the Sandwich Islands, after his voyage sponsor the Earl of Sandwich.  This began a period of European and Asian immigration and religious conversion, during which missionaries often decried native practices as pagan, and appealed to the newly installed Hawaiian king to have them banned.  While the island nation entered world trade and  converted to Christianity, it lost several unique elements of its culture, which are now being re-discovered and elevated in the 21st century.

Hawaii remained an independent monarchy until 1893, when it was overthrown by U.S. Marines in a military coup.  (A century later, in 1993, the United States formally apologized for its role in the coup and its subsequent misinformation campaign.)  The following year, 1894, saw the establishment of a brief republic, which lasted only until the islands were annexed to the United States in 1898. 

The tourist trade began at the turn of the twentieth century with the building of two resorts.  At the same time, the native sugar cane agriculture became industrialized, and pineapple was popularized by the Dole company.  The islands also became important strategic locations for US military bases.

In 1941 the attack on Pearl Harbor provoked the United States’ involvement in World War II. Hawaii moved from relative obscurity to prominence in American minds, eventually bolstering the case for statehood, which it achieved in 1959.

The silver screen further immortalized Hawaii to mainland and foreign viewers, and waves of tourism began to bolster the economy.  Today there are thousands of resorts on the eight islands, and dozens of movies and popular TV shows have been filmed there.  Tourism represents over 24% of the Hawaiian economy, grossing more than $10 billion per year.

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The Ilikai. Where Waikiki Begins

Posted on November 5, 2008 by admin
WRS asked:

Hawaii Vacation planning starts right here, at The Ilikai! Located at the Waikiki beach gateway and overlooking the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor, The Ilikai offers the finest in Oahu vacation options. Our oceanfront hotel offers the best in Hawaii lodging options, with Waikiki accommodations to suit every need. From our ocean view rooms and two bedroom suites to our spectacular meeting space, Hawaii travel has never been more accommodating. Whether you are planning a Hawaii family getaway or conducting business away from home, The Ilikai hotel staff is here to serve you.

The open-air lobby and relaxing courtyard of The Ilikai lead you on a pathway to the beach. Canoes Restaurant, a contemporary eatery with regional Hawaiian cuisine, and the lounge area offer breathtaking views of the ocean and sunsets. Enjoy Hawaiian entertainment Friday evenings and the 40-year old torch lighting ceremony every evening.

Ilikai rooms are spacious and most have balconies with ocean views of Waikiki and many rooms come equipped with kitchens. The Ilikai is one of the best hotels in Hawaii. The hotel is easily accessed and is located minutes from downtown Honolulu and one block from the Hawaii Convention Center and the Ala Moana Shopping Center. Oahu travel adventures leave daily from Waikiki shore. Our friendly staff and great views are only part of what makes this Waikiki beach hotel one of the best hotels in Hawaii.

Our oceanfront hotel offers the best in Hawaii lodging options, with Waikiki accommodations to suit every need. The Ilikai guest rooms and suites located in our Waikiki, Ala Moana and Harbor wing’s are spacious and most have balconies with city and ocean views of Waikiki, making it one of the best hotels in Hawaii.

Amenities include 27″ color TV with on demand movies & high speed internet in all hotel rooms. For Hawaii travelers who bring business with them, we have a full service business center. For the health conscious, we offer a fitness center, a swimming pool and a plexipave tennis court.

Some rooms at this ocean hotel in Waikiki have full kitchens. Most are Hawaii luxury vacation rooms and suites with ocean views and are decorated in warm tropical tones. All rooms offer two telephones (one cordless), each with two lines and data port.

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Traveling Around the Hawaiian Islands

Posted on November 4, 2008 by admin
Mitchelle Pascual asked:

Got your mind on that much deserved break? Would you like to get away from all the hustle and bustle of city life? Why not go traveling around the Hawaiian Islands? Let me give you a brief tour around the famous Hawaiian Islands.

The Hawaiian Islands have everything that you could imagine a paradise would have. From its multicultural people with the aloha spirit to beautiful surroundings with warm, tranquil, sandy beaches merging with rain forests, heavenly waterfalls, and marvelous historical sites. There’s no place like Hawaii.

Hop around the Hawaiian Island chain and you will discover the beauty and uniqueness of each island. There are six major islands that you can easily visit in Hawaii…Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii, or the “Big Island.” Each island offers a distinct and extraordinary experience. We invite you to explore Hawaii and find the most unique island experience for you, your family, or your business group.

First, I’ll show you the majestic island of Kauai. Kauai is about 20 minutes by air from Honolulu. Kauai is often called the Garden Isle due to its everlasting beauty, comparable enough to the Garden of Eden.

Things to do in Kauai:

Hike, boat, kayak, or take a helicopter ride to discover the magnificent beauty of the famous Na Pali Coast

Hike up to Waimea Canyon, dubbed as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” – a must see attraction when visiting Kauai

Go kayaking on the Wailua River

Second, is an island described to have an ageless and natural beauty, which is better known as the “Gathering Place,” the island of Oahu. It is a very geographically diverse island with mountains, dormant volcanoes, rainforests, and famous surf spots, all close to a bustling metropolitan city. There is no shortage of things to do here in this island.

Things to do in Oahu:

· Surf at the world renowned site in Oahu, the Waikiki Beach

· Sunbathe, watch world class surfers, or simply enjoy the beach on the North Shore

· Stop by Hawaii’s three most famous landmarks: Diamond Head, Punchbowl, and Koko Head craters

· Visit the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor

· Go see art galleries

· Be amazed at the architecture in Iolani Palace

· Dine and feast at five star restaurants

· Lastly, dress up, enjoy, have fun, and experience the nightlife in town

Third, get back to nature and find serenity in Molokai Island. The “Friendly Island” is free from traffic, high-rises, malls, and nightclubs. Molokai Island offers tranquility, seclusion, and most of all, adventure. It is ideal for those seeking peacefulness or simply just getting away from the bustling city life.

Things to do in Molokai:

· Take a hike through the spectacular Halawa Valley

· Learn about the famous leper colony in Molokai at the Kalaupapa National Historical Park. Accessible only by foot, mule, or plane so take your pick

· Go boating along the North Shore and see the world’s tallest sea cliffs

Fourth is Lanai, Hawaii’s most enticing island – perfect for that idyllic and romantic setting. If you are looking for a luxurious resort, world class golf course, outdoor adventure, or purely a vacation with comfort, style, and grace, the “Pineapple Island” is the place to visit.

Things to do in Lanai:

· Go hiking at Munro Trail and see the breathtaking views of the neighboring islands.

· Rent a four wheel drive vehicle and drive to see the lunar landscape of Keahiakawelo

· Go dolphin watching at the Hulopoe Bay

· Play golf at The Challenge of Manele and The Experience of Koele – two championship golf courses in Lanai

Fifth, voted the “Best Hawaiian Island” and sometimes called the “Valley Isle,” is the island of Maui. There is always something for everyone in the sun drenched island: you can go whale watching, play golf, drive around, or go hiking.

Things to do in Maui:

· Go whale watching and catch a glimpse of a humpback whale

· Drive along the picturesque Hana Highway

· Go picture-taking with the volcanic rock known as “Iao needle” in Iao Valley State Park

· Watch the sunrise atop a dormant volcano, the Haleakala Crater

· Visit museums or spend a day in shops or restaurants in Lahaina

Sixth, it’s all here on the largest and most diverse of the Hawaiian Islands, sometimes called the “Orchid Isle” or the “Volcano Isle.” Referred to by locals as “The Big Island,” it is the most varied, yet least discovered Hawaiian island. For secluded hideaways and adventures that nurture your body and spirit…. come and see what the Big Island of Hawaii has to offer.

Things to do in the Big Island:

View the spectacular active lava flow at Kilauea, in Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park

Kayak to a secluded cove, scuba dive, or snorkel in the azure waters of Kona and Kohala

Explore the ancient Hawaiian Religious Temples in Pu’ukohola Heiau

Savor the lush and tropical landscape of Hilo Bay and Queen Liliuokalani Gardens

Enjoy the view atop the snow-capped summit of Mauna Kea

Shop ‘til you drop at the Farmers Market, a great place to hunt for bargains on Hawaiian souvenirs, handicrafts, and presents for friends and family back home

Now that you have gotten to know a little more about Hawaii and its six major islands, pack those bags, book that flight, get away for a while, and go traveling around the Hawaiian Islands… Bon voyage and see you in Hawaii….

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Makapu’u

Posted on November 3, 2008 by admin

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