Think of Hawaii and you are immediately taken to an island paradise of balmy breezes, world-class beaches, beautiful sunsets and spectacular surfs.  But Hawaii, all 8 islands and over 120 islets of it, has so much more to offer.  This is why Hawaii remains a top tourist destination and well-loved vacation spot.  Traveling to Hawaii soon?  Here are tips on what to do and where to go:

Swim and snorkel
It would be insane indeed to miss out on an opportunity to experience the waters of Hawaii.  Go for a swim.  Chances are, you’ll probably book yourself in a hotel that’s just a few feet away from the beach. 

While you’re in the water, try snorkeling off the island.  Molokini is a very popular site in Hawaii so if you want to check out the most impressive underwater views, this is the best spot.  The marine preserve on Molokini is one of the most fantastic in Hawaii, which explains the high esteem it continues to receive from tourists and locals alike. 

For Molokini and for most of the dive and snorkeling sites in Hawaii, you’ll need a boat to reach the location.  Boats are built with glass bottoms, so even non-swimmers can enjoy the view underwater without getting themselves wet.

Take a cruise
If you’re traveling to Hawaii in winter, you’re in luck.  This is the season when humpback whales come to visit.  The best way to get up close (or at least, as close as you can) to these wonderful creatures is to take a catamaran cruise.  Book one from any of the main islands of Hawaii such as Honolulu, Oahu, Maui or Kauai.  You and your family will be able to experience the marvel of these gigantic creatures.

Get up close and personal with a volcano
Hawaii can thank its numerous volcanoes for its rich, verdant soil.  So if you’re traveling to Hawaii, try to visit one of these spitfires and witness something you’ll never forget.  The most famous volcano in Hawaii is Kilauea Volcano located in the Big Island.  It’s active, so expect a few activities now and then.  Since the beginning of 2000, Kilauea has spewed off enough lava to cover nearly 40 sq. miles, effectively expanding the southern part of its shore.  The view, along with the possibility of watching the birth of a new island happen will keep you enchanted for a long time.

Play golf
Are you a land animal?  If you’re the type who prefers to stay on shore, why not try your swing in Hawaii?  It boasts of world-class golf courses and facilities.  Nowhere else can you find fairways framed by beautiful scenery and a view of the Pacific Ocean.  Six of the islands offer over 80 courses, so you’re bound to find a perfect place for a tee-off wherever you may be.

Sample the cuisine
If you’ve always dreamed of tasting only authentic Polynesian cooking, travel to Hawaii for a delicious luau.  A luau is a one-of-a-kind experience in gustatory delight, rich in flavor, history, color and of course, taste.  There’s always traditional dance and music involved, so it’s truly a feast for the senses.

After dreaming about your wedding you’ve finally chosen to have it in glorious Hawaii. There truly isn’t a more incredible location. Hawaii is everything that you would imagine it to be. The sunny weather, beautiful beaches and that wonderful aloha spirit are sure to make it extra special.

Just how do you go about planning a destination wedding from so far away? Choose a Hawaii wedding planner that will be able to provide you with all of the help and information that you’ll need.

1. Be sure to speak with several wedding planners. You’ll want to ask lots of questions. Think about what is important to you and make sure it’s important to them as well.

Check into the BBB to see their record. Do they have any client referrals or better yet, clients that would be willing to speak with you? Make this an interview for a job, it is after all. You will need to consider this as you would any business transaction, so be sure to have a written and signed contract.

2. Inform the planner of your budget, and stick with it. You’ll be surprised how economical it can be to get married in Hawaii. Of course, you can spend tens of thousands if you wish, but it really isn’t necessary.

3. Do they have wedding packages available? A package may save you a lot of money and time. These are usually tried and true. The kinks have been worked out. You may not have much flexibility with a package, though.

If you want something a little (or a lot) different see what other options they have. Even if you don’t use a package, they are a good starting point and can give you lots of ideas.

4. A good Hawaii wedding coordinator will have multiple contacts available. They will have worked with them and know their styles. Not everyone will want a hippie minister, however, he may be perfect for you. The more information you give, the more likely you will end up with vendors that suit you perfectly.

Since they work with them on a regular basis, they will be able to provide you with a top notch vendor and quite possibly an excellent bargain.

5. Will your wedding planner be available for the wedding? Not all are. Ask up front if they will be there and if there is an additional charge for this. If you have a package, it may be included. If you are paying ala carte, there may be an extra charge.

This is worth considering. There are tons of things that can come up and it’s nice to have your local wedding planner there to handle it.

The peace of mind that a wedding coordinator can provide may be worth the price alone. A good Hawaii wedding planner will save you lots of stress, and probably money as well. They will work with you to make sure you have the wedding you are dreaming of instead of what they would like to offer you.

#1 At this point in time you must have a beach permit from the state of Hawaii (DLNR). At current moment (2009) the judge is still making a decision as to the legality of the legislated permit requirement for all Kauai weddings (actually all Hawaii weddings on all islands) taking place on public property. Nonetheless, until this is settled in court it is still required and without this permit the state still has the power to shut down any beach wedding on Kauai that did not pay for and obtain a permit (with proof of insurance) before the wedding.
Aloha Ever After will obtain this permit for you. You do NOT have to do anything extra besides pay the $30 fee that we are required to pay. Aloha Ever After does not make money on this; in fact it costs extra time to do it for you. Aloha Ever After does not charge you for this service or the time it takes to do it, since we want your romantic Kauai wedding to go smoothly and easily and will make sure it is completely legal and safe.

#2 All Kauai/Hawaii beaches are public beaches and therefore anyone can use any beach at anytime. This is good news for you, but this also means that there is no way of guaranteeing a private Kauai/Hawaii beach wedding. Having lived here since 1999 Timory can however offer expert advice as to which beaches are usually deserted and what times are the best times to have your Kauai beach wedding. There is at least one beach that Timory use where there have never been other people near us on the beach nor many people even walking past. Timory is happy to share this beautiful Kauai beach site with you. There are other beaches where lots of people take walks (with and without dogs) and use the beach for swimming, surfing, cliff diving and sun bathing. This does not need to be an inconvenience – it can really offer an authentic Kauai beach wedding flavor, and after all, that’s what people do on an exotic tropical island!

#3 It’s always windy. Brides, if you don’t want your hair to blow everywhere during the photography shoot and ceremony, get it put up/back and out of the way! It will look better back than being windblown.

#4 High heel shoes are awkward in the sand – don’t bother with them if they aren’t totally necessary.

#5 The hair/makeup always takes longer than expected. Plan 30-45 minutes minimum extra into whatever the person says she/he needs!

#6 Your photographer does not know the names and relations of everyone in your family. Plan out what family shots you want ahead of time. Give a list of who you want in what group pictures to a trusted family member/friend and instruct that person to stand next to the photographer during the after ceremony pictures. Have this person call out the names of the next group at least one picture before the photographer needs them. This way you will get all the shots you want plus extra pictures. It takes a lot of time to get people together and organized. If the photographer is not required to play group leader she/he will have more time to take more quality photos.

#7 Having a Kauai beach wedding will be one of the most memorable events of your life. Having captured moments to treasure and share forever by utilizing our professional Kauai photography community is one of the most crucial steps in planning your big day, so don’t forget to set up your photographer early to assure getting the date you want!

For more information visit: www.alohaeverafter.com

If you are planning for a Hawaii Cruise, check the Internet for many companies that offer complete and competitive packages. Depending on your schedule and budget for your vacation, choose from any type and category of cruise that will best suit your needs.

Hawaii is an exotic place that mesmerizes the soul. It’s vast and almost impossible to see, enjoy and experience in one visit. Hawaii cruise packages will answer all your needs in planning your perfect vacation.

Cruises usually last about 7-10 days and you have to know that there are certain types of packages you can choose from. So it is best to check your calendar and match the type of cruise you wish to take.

The most common package are the ones that start and end in Hawaii and are limited to one overseas port. Second to this type of cruise starts and ends in the island itself, but have links to some major places like Vancouver. And the third type is a combination Hawaii cruise and trips to French Polynesia.

Cruises are also packaged into different categories. If you are single and would like to travel and explore Hawaii you can choose singles cruises. It’s best suited for individuals who are traveling alone. You will have the chance to meet and connect with other single people. What better way to meet other singles than under the stars and the gentle rolling waves of the sea.

For those who will be traveling with their children, choose kid-friendly cruises. From safety to foods that children love, games and appropriate shows are especially arrange for their enjoyment. This cruise packages have the children’s needs in mind as well as yours and have made the necessary arrangements for your convenience. It’s designed to make sure that your children will have fun and you will have the opportunity to explore, relax and enjoy your vacation in peace.

Romantic cruises are the most popular of Hawaii packages. With its enchanting setting, Hawaii cruises are popular for weddings, honeymoon and anniversary. These packages have included everything you need for the most romantic dinner and activities for couples and people in love.

After you’ve selected the type and right category of cruise for your vacation, do not forget to check all the offers that are inclusive in the package. Different companies offer different sets of perks and advantages.

Check the details of your package and accommodations. By checking the layout of the vessel you will get to see a picture of where you would like your room to be located. If your budget is tight, look for the cheapest room rate and you will enjoy savings in doing so.

Last and most importantly, check the itinerary of your package. Will they include the islands you are most interested in? Will they have a lineup of activities that are suited to your interest? Make sure you are getting the best out of your Hawaii cruise package and you will have the most memorable and fun vacation of your life.