Hawaii ? located in the Pacific Ocean is described as paradise on earth. Here you can expect to find Mother Nature at its very best with volcanic mountains, white sandy beaches, sparkling turquoise waters, tropical rainforests, lush greenery and snow capped mountains to be explored amongst some 137 Islands, Islets and Shoals that merge together the Hawaiian chain.
Amidst this diverse landscape houses tropical birds, exotic flowers and wild animals only to be found in Hawaii.
Once a popular honeymoon destination, Hawaii is now a popular year round destination. Families and couples alike flock to Waikiki Beach that is undoubtedly one of the best beaches on earth for two weeks of absolute tranquillity.
While the peace and remote-ness of the Islands are an attraction onto themselves there is plenty to do and see on the Islands of Maui, Molokai and Kauai and not forgetting The Big Island itself.
Due to the landscape the biggest attractions on the Islands are of course water-related like swimming, snorkelling, diving, surfing is excellent here as is water-skiing.
If however you prefer to keep your feet on dry land, there are plenty attractions to fill up your day including trekking through the tropical rainforest of Lanai or exploring one of the many volcanic mountain national parks and nature preserves.
Hawaii is steeped in its on distinct Polynesian culture, history and art. Honolulu boasts a fine selection of the art museums and galleries such as the Honolulu Academy of Arts and Contemporary Museum which displays a wide selection of ancient art and artefacts and some locally produced pieces of contemporary work by Hawaiian artists themselves.
The weather in Hawaii is pretty much the same all year round with temperatures ranging from 75 degrees ? 92 degrees during the summer months of May ? October. The remainder of the year offers a slightly cooler climate with some pleasing side winds giving the island a nice breeze.
Hawaii caters for all ethnic origins when it comes to cuisine. Your taste buds are in for a mouth-watering treat, with everything from typical American steak houses to fresh sea food restaurants where only locally produced fresh ingredients are used
There isn?t your typical fast food joint on the Islands, but there is a wide and varied International menu that will please even the fussiest child.
One restaurant not to miss is the Queens Court Dining Room which over-looks Mauna Keg Mountain and Coconut Island.
Accommodation is varied in Hawaii. Your typical beach resort accommodation of high rise hotels located near the beach front can be found on The Big Island and Maui. Self catering apartments are available all year round. The cost of accommodation varies due to location and season, during the summer season hotel prices are a little more expensive than in the winter season.
When booking your trip to Hawaii the chances are you have booked through a tour operator such as Virgin Holiday or Expedia where accommodation, flights and meals may be included in the cost of your holiday.
Flying to Hawaii is a long one, it can take anywhere from 19 hours to 39 hours in total as you may have one or more stop over in Las Vegas, Los Angeles or San Francisco where you will have to board your final flight to Hawaii. There appears to be no direct flights available from the UK to Hawaii.
The cheapest option is to book through a tour operator as a package deal where flights, accommodation and insurance will be included and possibly airport transfers to and from your accommodation.
Entry into Hawaii requires you to posses a current and valid passport, you will be required to complete a visa waiver form on the plane or before entering the country.
