Among the most isolated land in the world, the archipelago of Hawaii is made up of many islands, all different from each other and rich in contrasts and history.

Introduction

Among the most isolated land in the world, the archipelago of Hawaii is made up of many islands, all different from each other and rich in contrasts and history. White sand and crystal clear water, skyscrapers, snow-capped, volcanic landscapes, tropical forests, lakes and cliffs overlooking the ocean ... this the 50th U.S. state offers wonderful scenery in the world.

Getting there, getting around

To

Culture

The islands are characterized by the influences of local customs and traditions combined with those typically American. The renaissance of Hawaiian culture led to the flourishing schools of hula and the rediscovery of ancient Hawaiian traditions such as creation of colorful garlands of flowers and weaving taps.

Climate

Hawaii is particularly known for their mild climate which makes them ideal tourist destination all year round. There are two main seasons: summer, warmer and more humid, and winter, less warm and drier.

Gastronomy

A must try is the food. On these islands there is a surprising mix of cuisines (Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Thai, Vietnamese ...), so good fresh fish and fruit, including macadamia nuts, avocado, coconut and red bananas. The local cuisine makes ample use of meat, fish and vegetables mixed together and often accompanied by spicy sauces. Among non-alcoholic drinks plenty of opportunity to enjoy a good Mai Tai.

Events, festivals

The religious festivals follow the Christian calendar. Among public holidays include: Independence Day (July 4), and Thanksgiving (Nov. 24). Between local festivals worth remembering the Aloha Week, a week of festivities rolling starring all the islands in the period between September and October.

Attractions

For those visiting the islands for the first time Oahu and Maui are the islands most famous and best placed to visit. Oahu, in addition to hosting the capital, Honolulu is known for the Bay of Pearl Harbor. On this island you can visit the famous Waikiki Beach and Sunset, the botanical garden of Koko Head, the sanctuary of surfers, with waves exceeding 30 feet, diving in the Lagoons, walking inside an extinct volcano, play endless golf courses, riding at Turtle Bay and enjoy unforgettable sunsets.

The island has become famous in recent years for the television series Magnum PI, Flipper and, more recently, Lost. Maui, romantic island offers its visitors no less than 42 miles of beaches: from the pink "Red Sand Beach," the black "Waianapanapa State Park. Molokai, the least populated of all the islands, is a pristine paradise inhabited by the more Aboriginal people who have maintained their traditions. To relive the scenes of films like King Kong and Indiana Jones, we recommend a visit to the island of Kauai, where in addition to relaxing on beautiful beaches you can see many species of birds.

Mount Waialeale , which dominates the island is the wettest ever known on Earth. Niihau is difficult to visit because, as a private island, you need the invitation of one of its inhabitants to see it. The Big Island, big island of Hawaii, is instead a place of contrasts with its snow-capped mountains and the beaches are black, white and green. Island also offers churches and old memories hieroglyphics and two active volcanoes. Its Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is without doubt the most original of all the national parks of the United States.

Cost of living

The islands are a favorite of Japanese tourists, with the obvious result of an average cost of living very high.

Health

Given the high cost of benefits, you should conclude prior to departure, in addition to insurance to cover medical expenses including those of a possible return. No vaccination is not compulsory.

Security

Although it was a fairly quiet for the tourist is advised to avoid isolated areas and circulation during the night, shooting with little money and not flaunt jewelry.

Environment

Archipelago located 3000 km off the coast of San Francisco in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, consists of six main islands (Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Lanai and Molokai) and numerous smaller islands. Almost all the islands are of volcanic origin: the island of Hawaii is the newest and includes five major volcanoes, including Kilauea is the most active, followed by Mauna Loa and Hualalai.

The Mauna Kea and the Kohala are not historically active volcanoes. On the island of Maui is the Haleakala volcano. Hawaii offers an exceptional variety of flora and fauna, in part because different climate zones are present in the archipelago, from tropical forests to snowy mountains. In addition to various species of birds, some of the animals include endangered monk seals and various species of whales.

Shopping

Destination for shopping may be the large Ala Moana Center in Honolulu, where in addition to American department stores you can find specialty shops like the Crack Seed Center. Nearby are the shopping mall "Hilo Shopping Center and Bailey's Antique Shop. Among the local products to buy no shortage of Hawaiian shirts, jars full of pickled mango, candied ginger and dried cuttlefish.

Entertainment

There are many activities that await the visitor on arrival in Hawaii. Water sports and outdoor activities for all tastes: note the home of surfing, also offers the opportunity to dive among the caves and lava conducted to explore, fishing, walking through the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park The Haleakala National Park and the wonderful path along the Na Pali Coast of Kauai and also golf, thanks to the excellent golf facilities for the sport. On several islands there are also many local events and to spend pleasant evenings.