Hawaii: key tips for your stay

Hawaii is a well-known paradise with a delightful climate, countless beaches and a unique culture. However, there is so much to see and experience that, as a traveler, you could feel lost into the deep sea of tourist information. Due to that, this article intends to give you some tips to make the most of your trip. 

History and culture

The history of the islands goes back to the first polinesyan settlement, the European discovery during the Modern Era, the immigration of Euroamericans and Asians, and the following inclusion of the land to American territory. 

Hawaiian culture originates from the natives. As it became a new home for different ethnic groups, they added its distinctive features in order to create a cultural fusion. 

Islands 

The Hawaiian archipelago consists of more than one-hundred islands. So as to avoid any confusion by naming each one of them, we are going to focus on Kauai, Maui, Hawaii and Oahu. 

• The Big Island: it is the main island in the archipelago, and it offers an amazing variety of landscapes. You will find deserts, rainforests and volcanoes, apart from breathtaking beaches. It is the perfect destination to get deep into its residents and traditions. 
• Maui Islands: they are recognized for two special features. Its coasts are perfect for surfing and for sighting of white whales and other cetaceans. In addition, there is one of the biggest active volcanoes in the world: the Haleakala. 
• Oahu Islands: this is the most important place regarding the administration of the islands for it is the capital of the state. Besides, Honolulu and the commercial center are located there. It is the most touristic area in the archipelago, and there you will find attractions such as Pearl Harbor, the famous Waikiki beach and the Diamond Head volcano. 
• Kauai Islands: they stand out for their peace and quietness, since it is the least visited region in the archipelago. It is the perfect destination for those who are willing to escape from their day-to-day lives at least for a few days. In the land, you will find different attractions such as inactive volcanoes, caverns and caves, and a wide variety of local fauna and flora.

Gastronomy

The dishes you will find in the islands are quite varied. The influence of other cultures ─American, Japanese and Portuguese─ as well as a number of varied climates have resulted in a rich, diverse cuisine. Among the main dishes we have chosen a starter, a main course and a dessert as an example of a complete dinner: 

• Starter: Poke, which consists of marinated raw tuna accompanied by seaweed and sesame. It is similar to the Peruvian ceviche. 
• Main Courser: Kalua Pig, composed of pieces of pork wrapped in banana peel and coconut, and cooked in a natural oven covered by volcanic rocks under the earth.
• Dessert: Pineapple. A classic and simple option, and the natives’ favorite. 

Weather 

Hawaii is renowned for its “endless spring,” and this is why it is always the perfect place to visit at any time of the year. The only thing to take into account is the winter. Nights can be cold, so taking a coat is recommended. 

On the other hand, a varied microclimate is the result of volcanic eruptions that have modified the altitude of the land. It is considered to have the most varied microclimate taking into account its relatively small area, which makes it charming and mystic.

To visit Hawaii and its islands you will need at least fourteen days to see the main sights. It can be a good option for families, couples without kids, and friends. During the day the place is relaxing and quiet, with the perfect weather to be sitting right in front of the sea and the nightlife full of cuisine experiences and entertainment.