Oahu in a Nutshell

 The name Hawaii is sure to send shivers of excitement down anyone's spine as it has been known for decades (centuries, even) as one of the most coveted travel destinations and with the silhouettes of swaying leaves from the tall coconut trees and the picture of feet buried in the sand or deckchairs with a drink in bikini clad women's hands, the place is just synonymous and one step away from the paradise on earth.

An earlier civilization and later coined as part of the huge continent of the United States of America, Hawaii has maintained much of her nativity and secrets in the many islands of the Hawaiian family.
Polynesian culture, taboos, food, and lifestyle are all that defines the Hawaiian neighborhood, and they are guarded with such sacred sanctity that it is respectable and honorable, to see such a close community amidst the strong waves of development and modernization.
I count my blessing to be able to enjoy the first phase of my new marriage as we celebrate our honeymoon on the well-known and all time romantic destination; gracing the beautiful moments of being called husband and wife as we take our strolls down the beach during sunset and enjoying the cultural dances and performances in the villages.

While Hawaii is made up of many islands, my first stop was at O'ahu, which is home to the capital city of Hawaii; Honolulu. If you hail from the city like myself, you will enjoy O'ahu to bits, as there is almost everything under the skies of this popular and well-developed island.
City life is not uncommon here, and while it is not hustling bustling like New York or any other megapolitan cities around the world, Honolulu is nothing short of the daily brisk and modern living you witness every day in your own city back home.
Most of the actions are in downtown Honolulu; where most of the city skyscrapers are lined by the mega corporations establishing their offices in this booming yet charming city made popular by the countless calls of tourism every year. While you may think you have left the sights of traffic jams back at home, you may be surprised by the peak hour traffic in Honolulu throughout your day.



Shopping malls, premier outlets, arcades, towns, museums, harbors are all part of the city's offerings and there is no short of attractions to keep the city lovers within the district itself. It is the island's way of saying that "We have more to offer than just sun, sand and surf" and I can definitely attest to that as I enjoyed the whole island as a package; the beach lovers' paradise while keeping in touch with my city genes at the same time.
There is no worry if you have left anything at home, especially if you are staying right smack in the middle of the city as convenience stores are everywhere and some of the stores are even open until 10pm, or some are even 24 hours. The city doesn't seem to really sleep, or perhaps, not that early, as there are always people enjoying the walks on the streets in the cities and I am one of them, especially with the lovely cool wind from their early winter season blowing their kisses on my cheeks).



If you are tired of the city, take a drive or road trip to the northern part of the island to enjoy the breathtaking views of sky-high waves, or even try your luck at whale watching (usually recommended during the winter season as the whales are migrating in schools). Enjoy the many activities for the beach lover in you; from surfing the high waves to swimming in the freezing cold water under the warmth of the sun, or snorkelling to enjoy the protected corals at the famous Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Park.
Be warned, however, for the waves can be dangerous at times and it is best to maintain a certain distance from the shores especially along the coasts of those notoriously known for their rough waves.
Northern O'ahu shores are where you can watch these scary waves, which makes one shudder at the sight of the overpowering white rage rolling in large movements, one after another.

There is almost something for everyone; and the list of things to do is just endless -
~ Enjoy ogling and getting acquainted with the friendly sea creatures at the huge Sea Life Park
~ Get adventurous and revel in the famous movie locations at the homey Kualoa Ranch: here, here, and here
~ Enjoy walks at the Diamond Head, or the less touristy parks or crater parks such as this
~  Take in the various angles of O'ahu island at all these lookout points; or you may have chanced upon more while driving along the coast. Check out this, this and this
~ Take a tour around the city to understand the brief history of Hawaii or O'ahu herself through the various musuems such as this and the memorials in the famous Iolani Palace and the King Kamehameha I statue
~ For a 360 degrees view of the city, Aloha Tower Marketplace is your best bet
~ Cultural insights can be experienced at the local Chinatown (found in almost every country in the world), and the famous replica from Japan built here amidst the backdrop of the towering mountains of O'ahu

Polynesian culture lends its exotic touch to making up the unique part of Hawaii, and understanding the culture is essential to enjoying what the Hawaiian islands have to offer. It is interesting to take in the cultural sharing through the shows, live performances, meals and the tours offered on site to see for ourselves the way of living, beliefs and the beauty of the nativity of these unique population, still inhabiting most of the precious parts on the map.
O'ahu has the answer to it all, through their large Polynesian Cultural Center, set to mark that part in your memory and knowledge bank about the exotic and enviable lifestyle which has attracted many to their islands for years.

From culture to history to sands and sea, and breathtaking views, and also the hustle and bustle of the city, there is no end to O'ahu's offerings and time and a passion for enjoyment is all you need while keeping an open mind on this mystical island.
Be mindful and respect the local taboos and lifestyle practised by the locals here, and you will find that you will be enlightened along the way.
Food is never a problem here, as being part of the United States continent means food is just in abundance and is a haven for travellers who have no idea on what to eat, as one might just be spoilt for choices with the varieties available here. From burgers and fries to meatballs and sauce, there are even noodles and stir fries from the East to please every palate in the world.
Be even prepared or be surprised by the large food trucks by the sides of the road; particularly popular along the coastal lines and they serve good and filling meals at affordable prices.

You will be also mindblown and surprised with the exotic tastes of the wild fruits and local tastes here; as I did when we were introduced to this unique fruit which was a cross breed of a cherry and a berry, or a citrus fruit. The taste took me by surprise, yet it left that lingering taste on my mind till this very day.
(Normally I won't take something which is unusual to me, but hey, an open mind during travel really did wonders for me!)



I enjoyed my trip thoroughly and I look forward to returning again, definitely, as there is so much to look forward to and the Hawaiian hospitality was nothing short of warm as I have met and shared banters with many who were just so generous with their versions of the tales and taboos of Hawaiians and also the local attractions; particularly those off-the-beaten-paths.
While O'ahu may be associated with all the fun under the sun, this is also the site which holds one of America's most tragic and darkest history in the world war, in Pearl Harbor. Pay your respects to the courageous soldiers and you will find that you walk away, not feeling the same after learning of the sentiments and setting foot on one of the most historical and memorable places in the world.

From the mystical and sacred secrets guarded by the volcanic mountains to the beckoning sea and waterfronts, I could not stop singing my praises for this island and it is no wonder its allure still continues to woo visitors from all part around the world to the wonders of the island which has it all; surrounded by the beautiful waters and under the lovely sun, and the beachfront city.


O'ahu is not a mirage, but it is also just like any other neighborhood we know, peaceful and serene. Of course, while this may be a tourists' and lovers' paradise, that does not mean safety should take a backseat as is always better to take precaution wherever we are - be it home or on the road.

Walk by the beach at sunrise/sunset, shop at the marketplaces or the local farmers market, or the streets, and if you are a major shopaholic, there are even luxury retail shops for you to indulge in.
Enjoy the cultural relics and sights at the various historical sites and take in the Hawaiian touch to the local Chinatown; and enjoy the stories told of the native forefathers who earlier founded and resided on the island.
Surf the waves, watch the whales, and enjoy the gorgeous views from almost everywhere on the island, and if you have done everything else, just sit back and enjoy the tropical weather which feels just like home




It is O'ahu in a nutshell...



ALOHA....and I will see you SOON~

Remembering Pearl Harbor

 I had meant to write this post earlier; in conjunction with the actual date in history; which was just a few days ago.

"Yesterday, December 7th 1941, was a day that will live in infamy..." were the words once uttered by the then US President, Franklin D Roosevelt following the shocking awakening from the sudden attack on the United States' naval base in Hawaii by swooping fighter jet planes from the heights of the skies where lights were just starting to seep in, to call it a brand new day. That day was one which altered the course of the history of the United States as the laughter and peace resonating from naval quarters the night before were loudly and unexpectedly interrupted and in its place, cries of agony and desperation as chaos broke out with the deafening and fiery explosions everywhere; stripping the once glorious base into shards of destruction.
There was no place to hide; as the fighter jets swooshed in and low, dropping bombs and missiles furiously; crashing into the unsuspecting camps and claiming young promising lives of the soldiers, ripping them of their vows to defend their beloved country. There was no mercy, as was in war; and there was no hope to even utter let alone plea for their own lives. The drastic move by the Japanese left the naval base of Pearl Harbor in shatters and unrecognizable as they come aggressively in squadrons of fighter jet planes; one by one; one after another and stopping at nothing until all is gone. The aircraft smartly lined, and the battleships proudly bobbing in the sea - signs of the might of the United States defense were destructed beyond recognition.

The devastating incident was the infamous Pearl Harbor bombing by the Japanese in 1941; which was also the igniting event which sparked off the fury of the United States in stepping up her declaration of war to strike back at the bold Asian country which challenged the authority and pride of a large country known to be the leader of the world.
Pearl Harbor remains a remnant of that painful memory and serves as a reminder to the Americans and the world, of vigilance and patriotism, at a hefty cost.

It matter not if one is an American of birth, as this event is not one which pertains the nationality or patriotism but rather, the cruelty to humanity and compassion as a whole. It was so heart-breaking to be standing on the grounds where once many have lost their lives. Though the place had since been cleared and undergone the process of beautification to restore the glory of its name and purpose in the history of the United States of America, it is still one which brings one to solemnity as one stand on its grounds. It is as if one could still feel the tremors from the bombings of yesteryear, and also the anxiety seems to be creeping in at the thought of the possibility of droppings from the clear skies.
Those were my exact sentiments as I was on the grounds of this historic place - waves of sadness and pain rushed to fill my veins and mind as I walked through the place; imagining the chaotic scenes which once took place on the grounds.



 I am no psychic, but I am pretty sure most of the visitors find themselves being overwhelmed by that rush of emotion as they look at the memorials erected to remember the fallen soldiers who have fought bravely to defend the country's honor despite their fears and anxieties of not being able to return to their loved ones. They have lost their lives, and they have lost hopes of being reunited with their families, in the most tragic and excruciatingly painful way imaginable.
It would be heartless not to be able to have this sense of emotion as one is reminded of the tragedy on location.

 

Although I was on my honeymoon at the point when I was visiting, I was honored to be able to take a walk down the historic grounds and pay my respects to the courageous soldiers who lost their lives in the Pearl Harbor tragedy.

The once important naval base of defense for the United States of America is now a memorial museum, inviting visitors to take in that bit of America's past and take during the World War II period. Sequence of events are displayed on marble stones; engraved with the etchings of yesteryear as images of the tragedy flash before visitors' eyes.
Models of the former battleships were also residents; with some being converted into museums

A walk down memory lane as one takes each step on the grounds of Pearl Harbor; taking in the memorial stones, the models of the missiles, aircraft, battleships and the engraving of the events on the stones.
While taking in the nostalgic journey, the memorial museums should not be missed  as they have three huge halls for the details on the Pearl Harbor bombings and also the aftermath and the effects on the residents of Oahu. Take in the stories and the painful revelations of the Japanese residents of Oahu at that time and how they were victimized for their fellow countrymen's atrocious attacks on the peaceful neighborhood and provoking the fury of the nation.




Two main highlights of Pearl Harbor has to be in the screening of a short film detailing the attack on Pearl Harbor in the Pearl Harbor Memorial Theatre, and also the onboard tour of the ill-fated USS Arizona.




While emotions were already heavily forming inside my heart during my tour on foot around the premises, the short film (approximately 25 minutes, if I remembered correctly) invoked those emotions once again and tugged strongly at my heartstrings and my eyes. I could not hold back my tears as I watched in horror and despair at the blazing tragedy unfolding before my very eyes.
I felt like I was momentarily transported back to the day in 1941, and anguish and overwhelming sadness just came over me that it was almost inexplicable; to describe the effects the short film had on me. As the lights came on, I realized I was not the only one as women around me were also seen leaving the theater teary-eyed.
It was a heart wrecking period to endure the shattering of lives taking form in digital pictures before our eyes, and I must say that it left an everlasting and profound impression in my mind.
It is human compassion to feel for the victims, and I could totally empathize the rage and fury of the citizens following after as they hear of the news that Pearl Harbor had fallen.

The other interesting tour would be the onboard tour of the USS Arizona, the battleship which was destroyed beyond hopes of salvation during the attacks. Parts of the ships were maintained and the remains of the ships are left in its sunken state on the ocean floor; serving as a memorial for the 1,177 crew who sank and perished along with the battleship.

Located across the sea, visitors are to take a short boat trip to be able to visit the memorial and tours are dependent on the weather condition. During winter, boat trips are halted due to the winds and unpredictable conditions which prevail for the safety of the visitors.

I have been to many memorials, and each of them has touched me in their tales of their very own past but Pearl Harbor sticks as one which left the most profound impression on me. Perhaps it was due to its widely acclaimed reputation and also the lasting effects of her historical and tragic past. It was after all, one of the prime events which lit that spark to ignite the fury of the United States of America as they declared war and vowed to bring their attackers to justice. It sparked off many more heart wrenching battles over years in many different regions of the world.
Lives were lost, cries of help and agony filled the air as battle after battle was fought around the world in the events of the World War II. Many have lost their loved ones; many have suffered the pain and drastic effects of war then which lasted until this very day.
The pain of the memories of war is not comprehensible to many; though many can say (including myself) that we know the effects of war on people and the nation.
As I take the tour around a place which holds so many painstaking and bloodshed memories, I could feel the longing of these forlorn soldiers yearning in anticipation for the day they were to return to be reunited with their loved ones and to the comforts of their homes. Yet, without warning, they were robbed of their lives abruptly in the course of a night.

I could not simply bring myself to think that such a destructive event could take place on a normal morning; or as it was said, slightly after the hours of dusk.
What could one be doing or even thinking at the final hours of their unexpected and untimely deaths?
Perhaps many things could have run through their minds, but definitely not their deaths, or their desperate fights to salvage their lives and their fellow mates nor watching people and things around them go up in flames.
Not a sight to cross anyone's mind upon opening our eyes first thing in the morning, yet, this is the very reality which hit the many people stationed at Pearl Harbor on that fateful morning in 1941.




It is true that this will be a day, forever etched in many's memories; not just in the families who lost their loved ones but also those who have heard and learnt of this historical event.
Truly, a day in infamy as it goes into part of the world's history, and stands to be a priceless lesson to be learnt and to be reminded of what once was such a world-breaking tragedy.

Letters to the Pearl Harbor survivors, who have lived to share their tragic tales and eyewitness accounts of such atrocity during the attacks.


To all the brave soldiers who have perished, you will be always be remembered by the world.
Pearl Harbor and the date December 7th will no longer be the same....

Taking it all in at Waikiki

While the northern region of Oahu offers waves, sand and culture, the southern side is where most of the urban development is in action.
Waikiki is a showcase of the modern Hawaii; with the co-existence of the relaxation under the sun and sand right in the middle of the city; making this an iconic prominent beachfront neighbourhood.


This is where all the action are; from the beach to the food and shopping! Yes, be ready to squeal with delight at the luxury brands such as Tiffany, Prada, Salvatore Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, Burberry, etc - all making their marks here with their flagship boutiques along the Waikiki streets.
While you can opt to shop till you drop at these luxury boutiques, there are also souvenir shops and surf wear shops; along with ABC stores (your all convenience stores) and there is even an International Market Place



There are also buses to hop on and off around town; and some hotels offer shuttles to the beach or along the streets of Waikiki - like what my hotel did. It would be exciting to walk when you are heading out, but at the end of the day you would be exhausted hence this is a welcoming mode of transportation and a great service by the hotels.

Trolleys like these are also found on the streets and there is a minimum fee to board one





A Memorial for Duke Kahanamoku; a famous surfer



Enjoy the people watching and the scenes unfolding along the streets, with your shopping bags or a drink in your hand


Now, that's what I call a beach vacation - relaxing by the beach without sacrificing the comforts of civilization~

Not Forgetting Turtle Bay

Turtle Bay was one of the hotels located on the North Shore of Oahu and is an idyllic setting for a romantic getaway with your loved one for a weekend. Due to the serenity of this place, it is no wonder it is the perfect spot for weddings, honeymoons and even filming a romantic comedy! Oh ya, if you are wondering which one, it was last year's production starring Kristen Bell; Forgetting Sarah Marshall

Taking a stroll along the beach in the evening with the waves washing up to your feet sounds heavenly; but beware as the waves could tend to be a little on the rough side over here on northward Oahu. In fact, the waves, beside the tranquility of Turtle Bay is also one of the reason which attracts some of the surf lovers for a little board action. Though not as dramatic as the other favorite spots on Oahu, Turtle Bay is mild enough for that little excitement and provides the setting for a enjoyable family or romantic vacation.
I love the backdrop of this place....makes me think of escaping on a vacation almost immediately now...

Perhaps a setting for the character in the movie to escape from his heartbreak after his girlfriend left him and to heal his heart by forgetting all about her, but Turtle Bay is definitely not a place to be forgotten....

Morning Swim at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Park

A trip to Hawaii is never complete without paying homage to the beaches as the name Hawaii is just synonymous with fun under the sun with the sea and sand, and a vacation spent on the island is just exactly that.
The tropical weather here is a plus point as it allows us to enjoy the sun and also sightseeing despite it being the winter season as the temperature during the day was just soothing enough for us to go out, albeit it was a little cooler than our usual tropical season back at home.

We had visited a few beaches, but Hanauma Bay is one of the highly recommended ones by the travel books we had that it topped our list of the must-visits when we were in O'ahu.

Touted as one of the top tourist attractions in Hawaii and on the island of O'ahu, Hanauma Bay is best known for its unique curve in the shape of a half-crescent which led to the sandy beach and the bay being hidden from direct exposure to the open sea.


A result of a series of volcanic activities in Honolulu, the Hanauma crater was created more than 32,000 years ago which led to the formation of this unique bay which attracted more than a million visitors a year, due to its natural coral reefs and marine species making their home here.
(Well, Hawaiian islands are made of volcanic chains anyway)

The popularity of the place and the surge in the number of visitors to the place brought life and activity to this part of the island which was initially inhabited due to the lack of fresh water here, amidst the limited evidence found to indicate human presence here. The place, however attracted the royal family to hold their recreational activities here in the past as well.
While it seemed like the place was finally seeing light with crowds of people flocking to enjoy the beauty of the bay and also the exotic marine life, there was also a rising threat to the marine ecosystem due to the lack of awareness among the public.

The problems posed to the marine park with the rise in the visitors and even commercial filming (a few movies and popular tv series were shot on location here too) led to drastic measures imposed by the state to protect the marine life and the natural surroundings of the bay which were affected with the incessant residue left behind by the avid beach lovers; from trampling on the delicate reefs to the trash left on the beach and even the overfeeding of the fish and marine life.
The natural state of the bay was endangered which called for immediate actions and one of the best way is through the form of education to raise awareness on the importance of the marine and park conservation among the public.



By the 1990s, effective measures were implemented to preserve the place which included the limiting of visitors to the park per day through the car park and also entrance fees imposed.


At the main entrance of Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Park


(The admission fees, correct at the time of posting)


The car park system limits the visitors by turning away the incoming folks once the car park is fully occupied to ensure that the bay will not be overcrowded with tourists each day.


Queueing up behind the line of cars heading into the park

Visitors are also required to go through a short video sharing session on the rules and regulations to help conserve the bay upon entrance.


(Queueing up to enter the theater to watch the video. It was crowded despite it being a weekday and also off-peak season)

There is also a gallery/information centre promoting the marine life which can be found at the bay area to educate the visitors on the types/species which can be encountered by the visitors.




Visitors are to take a short hike down the slope to arrive at the beach located at the bottom, but we can catch a glimpse of the bay from the top (near the information gallery and the entrance) and also while walking down.


There is also the option of taking a ride on the buggy up and down from and towards the bay, but most would take that walk down and then enjoy the ride back up.
(After all, it is easier to walk down towards the bay and then after a swim, when energy levels/stamina are low, the buggy ride would be extremely inviting :-).
There is a fee to take the buggy ride; which is at USD$1.oo per trip.



The beautiful views of the preserved bay from the top, while I was walking down towards the sandy beach.




The natural coral reefs at the Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Park, Honolulu


Approaching the inviting beach




On the beach after a short 5-7 minutes walk (inclusive of pausing to take in the breathtaking view in between)



ALOHA to the sand and sea of Hanauma Bay!:-)


Crowds at the beach, all eager to take a dip into the water and to enjoy the reefs




Yes, definitely a very Hawaiian scene and the very image that comes to our minds for years when the word Hawaii comes up!


While hubby was enjoying his morning swim, I was relaxing and enjoying the stunning view of the beach and the sea and of course, people-watching:-P




According to hubby and a few other people who took the dip into the sea, the water was a little too cold to their liking and it is probably due to the cooler weather during the winter season.

Proper facilities are available on the beach as well; with the bathrooms/restrooms, diving equipment rental and shower areas.





The buggy parked near the slope to ferry the tourists back up after spending time at the beach


Hanauma Bay is truly a scenic place to enjoy the natural wonders of Hawaii, and I do hope that the place will continue in its conservation efforts to maintain the natural marine ecosystem for years into the future and may it still be as beautiful the next time I return, if not more beautiful!:-)

More pictures of Hanauma Bay...