My last official “field trip” of my vacation. I enjoyed the tour; I did the self-guided audio tour. I liked the option to select additional information—such as political background. The palace itself is very European, with touches of Hawaii culture and decor. The main staircase was made with native Hawaiian woods. The palace was built in 1882 and is the only official royal residence in … Continue reading Iolani Palace

Today’s adventure was riding the Molokai catamaran and snorkeling in Turtle Bay. My best laid plans were this: I was going to photograph underwater! I bought a set of waterproof camera pouches and tested them per the instructions. They worked great in the test and underwater—no leaks. I set my phone to “always on” and left the camera screen on. However, for some reason, my … Continue reading Best Laid (Photo) Plans

In my drives around the island, I saw a highway sign that the exit to Makapuu Point Lighthouse would be closed on the day I was planning to visit. (https://www.hawaiiactivities.com/travelguide/makapuu-point-lighthouse-trail) I got there on the rescheduled day around 8:30 and it was packed! Cars parked everywhere; I’m pretty sure I got the last spot, which was right at the entry gate. The hike is listed … Continue reading Lighthouse, Temple, and Rain Forest

I chose the Moana Surfrider (https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hnlwi-moana-surfrider-a-westin-resort-and-spa-waikiki-beach/overview/) as the place to have high tea. The hotel was the first on the Waikiki beach, opening in 1901. it’s also on the National Register of Historic Places. I’d read about their tea on the Veranda and wanted to experience it. First, I have to present the opposite of High Tea in a luxurious hotel: my nephew’s car. Don’t … Continue reading High Tea in Waikiki

Today I drove up to Giovanni’s Food Truck in Haleiwa. There’s lots of discussion about which shrimp truck is best, but I heard the most about Giovanni’s, so off I went. It’s not much to look at but it’s got character I guess! Lots of signatures and graffiti. To add to the character, there were chickens and roosters running around—no pigeons or crows here! I … Continue reading Tourist Day

I had been to Pearl Harbor before, visiting the USS Missouri, the Bowfin, and so on. But the USS Arizona was closed for repairs. I’m pleased that I have another chance to visit again and see the Arizona (https://www.nps.gov/perl/index.htm). I’m not sure why but it seems a little disturbing to be on the memorial looking down on the submerged ship. I don’t suppose it’s actually … Continue reading Site of Remembrance

I wasn’t sure about climbing Diamond Head Crater Trail. The description says moderately difficult and, let’s face it, I’m no longer a youngster (66) and not in the greatest shape. But I went slow and took several breather breaks. This is opposed to the studs running up and down the trail! My reservation was for 8 am (https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/oahu/diamond-head-state-monument/) and I made it there on time, … Continue reading I Did It!