From: markn@ssd.comm.mot.com (Mark Nowak)
Subject: Hawaii FAQ Material
Organization: Motorola
Date: Tue, 6 Oct 1992 22:39:34 GMT

I've managed to glean all this information from the net in the past
year.  If someone has the time, I think this could be whipped into a
decent FAQ on Hawaii.  I just can't do it.  If not, this information
should still be useful in its raw form.

*** COMPILED HAWAII INFORMATION *** 
M. Nowak (markn@ssd.comm.mot.com) 

My pre-Christmas vacation consisted of seven nights on 3 islands:  3 on Oahu
(The Gathering Place), 2 on Hawaii (The Big Island) and 2 on Kauai (The Garden
Island).  My friend and I flew into Honolulu on Oahu Saturday afternoon.  Oahu
contains 80% of Hawaii's population and has most of the nightlife.  Honolulu's
Waikiki District is packed with hotels.  Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head are 
easily accessible by bus (which only costs $.60).  A few other cool facts 
about Hawaii is that there are no snakes on the islands (except in zoos) and
billboards are illegal.  Having just returned, I have to say that Hawaii is 
easily the most beautiful place I have ever visited.  It blows Florida and the
Bahamas away by oh, say, a lot.  They're not kidding when they say, "Welcome to
Paradise."

The first thing that struck me was the wonderfully scented air.  This was no 
surprise since we had just flown in from Chicago.  We were 
welcomed with a traditional lei greeting.  Afterwards, a shuttle took 
us to our hotel, the Outrigger Hobron.  After checking in, we had dinner at 
the Hard Rock Cafe which was within walking distance.  I had a Hurricane for 
the glass (I have one from London's Hard Rock Cafe).  We then took a stroll 
along Waikiki beach.  It started to rain lightly, but it wasn't uncomfortable
and it didn't last long.  We found out at our welcome breakfast the next day
some people call rain in Hawaii liquid sunshine! 

Also, at our welcome breakfast we made reservations for a Pear Harbor and City
Tour, a Polynesian Dinner/Show and a helicopter tour on Kauai.  We learned 
that the water temperature varies from 70 to 72 degrees during the year and
were encouraged not to just stick around the Waikiki District which is only 
about a 1 mile by two miles in size.  We took a complimentary tour of a 
jewelry design center (Maui Divers) and an all-you-need-in-one store (Hilo 
Hattie).  Even though my friend bought some jewelry and I bought a T-shirt, I
don't recommend these tours.  They seemed to be designed to get you to start 
spending right away.  For example, in the design center you were encouraged
to get your own pearl for $5.  You pick an oyster, you tap it 3 times for 
luck, everyone around you says "Aloha!" and your pearl is removed.  Now, 
you've been drawn in.  They quickly put a hole in it and try to get you to
buy the necessary material to make it an item of jewelry -- you may even 
need another pearl!  They tell you you need to do something with it and that
you're going to spend money in Hawaii anyway.  They are good (pushy) 
salespeople.  My friend and I both got pearls for the hell of it before we 
noticed the web around us.  We fended off the salespeople, but not before
they put holes in our pearls.  Jeez!

Anyway, we then took the bus to Diamond Head (#58 -- which also takes you 
back).  We made the climb and the view was beautiful.  We ended up walking 
back instead of taking the bus, taking in the sights along Waikiki beach.
That evening we went to the Honolulu Comedy Club ($12 with a one drink
minimum).  It was hilarious.  We felt that most things cost about as much as
they do in Chicago (gas was more expensive -- about $1.50 per gallon for 
regular unleaded).  It seemed that you really didn't need a rental car to
get around on Oahu.

The next morning we walked to the hotel where we were picked up for our tour.
The bus took us to Pearl Harbor where we saw a film and took the naval ferry
to the Arizona Memorial.  The tour then took us to Punchbowl National 
Cemetery where one of the Challenger astronauts is buried.  We saw a number
of other sites including a huge Santa Claus figure that was introduced as the
only barefoot Santa Claus in the 50 states.  We also learned that Waikiki is
sinking at the rate of 1 inch per 25 years due to the weight of the hotels.

The afternoon was spent on beautiful Waikiki beach.  We had cocktails at a 
rotating restaurant that overlooked Waikiki beach before going to the 
Polynesian dinner/show at the Princess Kaiulani Hotel.  

The dinner was okay, but the show was pretty commercialized -- they had a
magician perform and a fashion show for lava lava wear that you could buy
in the lobby before they got to the traditional Hawaiian hulas and chants 
which were very entertaining.  The fire dance was especially impressive.

The next day we flew Aloha airlines to Hawaii where our rental car awaited.
It was a red Geo Metro, an extraordinarily loud car for one with such poor
acceleration.  They won't let you drive rental cars on all roads on Hawaii,
so if you want to go to the summit of Mauna Kea, you have to take a tour.  The
tour only cost $75, but they need at least 4 people to be on it for it to go.
They didn't have 4 people when we called, so it didn't happen.  BTW, the tour
leaves at 9:00 AM.  We couldn't check into our hotel (Kona Seaside) until 
after 3:00, so we drove to Volcanoes National Park ($5).  

Hawaii is the biggest and youngest of the 8 major Hawaiian islands.  It has 5 
volcanoes -- a couple of which are still active, the highest peak of all the 
islands (Mauna Kea), the southernmost piece of land in the 50 states (which
also requires that you take a forbidden road for rental cars) and a population
of about 118,000.

We drove around Kilauea, stopping at the visitor center, the observatory, the
caldera rim and the rim of Halemaumau Crater.  The sights were amazing.
There was no real activity at the time apart from the toxic sulfuric gases
and steam rising around around us, but to see what a volcano could do very
much impressed this Chicagoan.  We walked through a lava tube and drove
past a chain of craters before finally making out way to a huge lava field
that extended for miles.  We drove by the famous black sand beach.  
Unfortunately, there was no molten lava flowing that day, but just to walk 
over that field at night with only the moonlight for illumination and the 
sound of the ocean's waves hitting the end of the waves was incredible.  I 
suggest you bring a flashlight if you go at night.  My friend tripped and 
turned back while I continued on.

We decided to continue going around the island.  We ate at a diner in Hilo and
then continued around the island until we got back to Kona.

The next day we tour the ruins of Pu'uhonua o Honaunau (known to many as the
Place of Refuge).  We took in the Painted Church, a coffee company and a 
macadamia nut factory before hitting the beach.  That evening we just walked
around Kona's beachfront.

The next day we took in Hapuna Beach, easily our favorite beach of the ones we
went to on all three islands.  The waves were huge.  You could be standing in
knee-deep water when all of a sudden a wall of water will send you flying.  It
was a blast.  

We checked out and flew to Kauai that afternoon.  Kauai is the oldest island.
It is only 33 by 25 miles in size.  In fact, it is sinking at the rate of 1 
inch per 25,000 years.  It was pretty cool when we got there.  The island was 
just recovering from rain storms that had caused some flooding.  This time we 
had a blue Chevy Cavalier.  After checking in at the Kauai Beachboy, we made
reservations for a luau at Smith's Tropical Paradise.  There are only two 
luaus on the island (so we were told).  Someone on the net recommended the 
one at the Sheraton, but we went with the  advice of the the woman who made 
the reservations for us.  That night we went to the Kauai Comedy Club.  It 
was pretty dead there that night, but we had been told that it sells out 
every night.

The next day, we were picked up for our helicopter tour.  It was fantastic!  I
highly recommend such a tour ($129).  The windows were open and my camera got 
sucked out when I tried to take my first picture.  It's a good thing it was 
still attached to my wrist, so I just had to reel it back inside.  We then 
drove up the shoreline taking in the many sights (e.g., dry and wet caves,
beaches, waterfalls, etc.).  The luau was okay.  Food doesn't usually do a lot
for me -- it's mostly just a means to stay alive for me.  The show was good.
They repeated many of the dances we had seen on Oahu, but it'll be a long time
before I tire of seeing young women with swaying hips in grass skirts.  ;-) 

We visited Spouting Horn and Poipu beach the next day before flying home.  As
a final treat, we got to see Charo seeing someone off at Kauai's airport before
we boarded our flight. 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: dan@modcomp.uucp (Dan Grostick)
Subject: Re: Molokai info requested
Date: Tue, 14 May 1991 01:50:09 GMT

You need not worry about touristy areas, there are none in Molokai.
At least not in late '89 - our most recent visit. We stayed at
Molokai Shores (condo) (800/367-7042) about a mile from the Kaunakakai.
At that time there were no traffic lights anywhere on the island.
You can hike to Moaula Falls - two hour trek from Halawa Valley.
Suggest getting a Frommer's Hawaii - a fairly reliable source of info
for about $14.
              

From: ldw@hp-ptp.HP.COM
Subject: Re: Info on Waikiki Hotels
Date: 13 May 91 16:12:52 GMT
Organization: HP Pacific Technology Park - Sunnyvale, Ca.

You might try making a reservation at one of the Outrigger Hotels in
Waikiki.  They are not "out of the way", though they are also perhaps a
little less luxurious than the Hilton Hawaiian Village.  They run radio
ads quoting a price of $60 per night per room, including (if available on
your travel dates) a rental car.  I imagine you could get their number by
calling 800 directory assistance (1-800-555-1212).  There are many Outrigger
Hotels throughout Waikiki, so you would want to ask how far away from the
beach the one they want to book you into is (none are far).  Also ask if it
is under renovation (which would mean lots of construction noise).


From: flick@sdd.hp.com (Bill Flick)
Subject: Re: Hawaii Recommendations?
Date: 16 May 91 14:13:29 GMT
Organization: Hewlett-Packard, San Diego Division

  Sheraton Coconut Beach Hotel (a little expensive)
  Lae Nani 

Poipu Area
  Sheraton-Kauai 
  The Waiohai
  Poipu Beach Hotel

If you are real flush, there is always the Westin-Kauai - FANTASTIC!!!!

|>      - places to eat

Fun and least expensive

 Jimmy's Grill
 1354 Kuhio Hwy 
 Good hamburgers, great place
 (spent many hours there)

 Paradise Hot Dogs
 Kiahuna Shopping Village
 Great hot dogs cooked in beer

Interesting - moderate costs

 Brennecke's Beach Broiler
 At Poipu Beach Park
 Good food and great view of beach

 Plantation Gardens Restaurant
 2253 Poipu Rd
 Poipu
 Casual - delicious seafood

 JJ's Broiler
 Nawiliwili Bay
 Good steaks, lunch menu and view

Expensive (but I've heard very nice)

 Tamarind
 Stoufer Waiohai Beach Resort
 Poipu
 Far eastern cuisine
 (requires long sleeve shirts or jackets for men, women(?).

 Inn on The Cliffs
 Westin-Kauai

 Charo's (cuchi-cuchi)
 Nice drive - between Wainiha and Haena
 Great sunsets - food good   

There is always the good old standbys
 
 McDonalds
 Buger King
 Sizzler
 Pizza Hut
 Jolly Roger

Must!!!

 Lappert's Aloha Ice Cream (yummmmmmmm!)

|>      - things to do

So much to do - So little time

 An absolute MUST- rental car!!

 South Sea Helicopter Tour (expensive but worth it!!)
 Na Pali Coast sea tour (great)
 Luau at Sheraton Coconut Beach Hotel (I'll go back)
 Wailua River tour to the fern grotto (must see once)
 Waimea Canyon (grand canyon of the pacific) (a photographers dream)
 Wailua Falls (filmed for the opening shot of Fantasy Island)
 Lumahai Beach (movie South Pacific filmed here - beautiful beach)

|>      - things to not do....

Lay out in the sun for long periods of time especially between 11:00 a.m and
2:00 p.m. - other times for short periods until a good tan base is built. If
you must, use a minimum number 15 sun lotion - 25 0r 30 even better.

|>      - etc.

Check out -

 Niihau shell leis
 at Kauai Gold
 Market Place Coconut Plantation
 They are beautiful - Some are reasoable
                      Most are expensive
                      All are beautiful
 Ask the salesperson about the history of the leis and the island of Niihau.

Well Lisa, I've just touched the tip of the iceburg as far as Kauai goes. We
we get is approx 100 yds from the beach. There are beautiful sights all over
the island. Just when you thought you saw them all, a new one pops up.

ENJOY - ENJOY - ENJOY

ALOHA,
B.
        

From: jlong@uhunix1.uhcc.Hawaii.Edu (John Long)
Subject: Re: Honeymoon in Hawaii
Date: 17 May 91 02:04:04 GMT
Organization: University of Hawaii

Check out Haleakala on Maui. If there is one thing in my 22 years here that
I would recommend, that's the one. It is far the most "awesome" place I've 
ever been to. You MUST, absolutely MUST see it at sunrise!!!!!! 
You will have to get up verrrrry early, and it is about a 2-3 hour drive from
Lahaina, but you will NEVER forget it!!! And it is cold in the morning. 
Yes, COLD. The air is thin. TAKE FOOD with you in case there isn't any being
sold there. 

There's good hiking there, too. There are some official trails through the
crater, but unfortunately you won't have time (this trip). One thing I used
to do that not many people do is just hike around the rim. Not *all* the 
way around, though. It's big. The trouble with hiking is that you park the
car somewhere, hike off, and then have to hike back to the car again. Rewind.

If youre real tough, you can take off down into the crater at sunrise, and
a.) have somebody drive your car to the ~8500 ft level where there is a trail
head, and meet you there. The trail (I forget the name) at 8500 ft is a very
nice switchback up/down the crater wall. Go down sliding sands trail from the
summit and head for Holua cabin and up and out. Half-day minimum.
b.) Down sliding sands trail and out the kaupo gap to the kaupo store, and
from there to seven sacred pools (seven sacred falls, as some call it, seven
sacred fools) That's a 2-3 day hike. After spending one or two days inside
the crater (an island within an island), when you come down the gap, you 
start to see signs of life. Like coming back from the moon.

All the islands have beautiful vegetation, waterfalls, etc. But there is 
nothing like Haleakala. Except perhaps Mauna Loa, but thats on the Big Island.
And Mauna Loa can kill you. Haleakala will just blow your mind.

Haleakala is pronounced "Ha-lay-ah-kah-LAW"

Aloha,
-LongJohn
  

From: flick@sdd.hp.com (Bill Flick)
Subject: Re: Honeymoon in Hawaii
Organization: Hewlett-Packard, San Diego Division
Date: Fri, 17 May 1991 21:46:19 GMT

Fear not, LongJohn knows about that which he speaks. In other words "AMEN".

We also stayed at the Royal Lahaini. We only had three days in Maui, which was
not even long enough. Our trip up to Haleakala was in a tour bus. It picked us
up in front of the RL at 2:00 a.m., stopped half way up at a convience store
so we could buy coffee and whatever and dropped us at the top. It was the most
breath taking view we have ever seen. We have some of the most fantastic still 
and video shots that you can imagine. One nice thing about the tour bus was the
history of the island that we received from the driver. He was born there and
has lived no where else. Real interesting.

Also to reiterate what LongJohn said, *****DRESS WARM*****. If possible, sneak
a blanket from the hotel. We did - its neat to snuggle under a blanket watching
that beauty unfold.

When we got back, we exchanged our subcompact for a convertible and rented a 
tape and headed up the Hana Hwy. Both in one day is not for the faint of heart
but it is very doable.

Have FUN and a LONG LIFE together.

ALOHA NUI LOA,

B. 8>)


From: humphrey@hpcvca.CV.HP.COM (Tom Humphrey)
Subject: Re: Hawaii Recommendations?
Date: 17 May 91 23:20:42 GMT
Organization: Hewlett-Packard Co., Corvallis, Oregon

I highly recommend the Sunday brunch at the Waiohai. 

Helicoptor tour is a must. Take it early in the trip to get ideas on things
to do. The different helicopter tour places use different vehicles with
different seating arrangements. You may want to check it out.


From: maverick@vaxkab.lne.kth.se
Subject: Re: Hawaii Recommendations?
Date: 19 May 91 04:01:09 GMT
Organization: School of EE, Royal Institute of Technolgy

Lucky ones that have bought a place on Kauai. The island is soooooo
beautiful. But I think it hurts so badly when you see what are going to
happen with the island. The japanese will build an international airport
so that their hughe jumbo jets can land and all japanese can play golf
on all the uncountable numbers of golf courts they are building and
projecting. Also they will live in these big awful hotels that they are
constructing. I'm afraid that the paradise that Kauai, together with the
rest of Hawaii, is might disappear shortly if nothing drastically will
be done now. But that are just my own reflections from my visit there.

From: flick@sdd.hp.com (Bill Flick)
Subject: Re: things to do in Maui???
Organization: Hewlett-Packard, San Diego Division
Date: Mon, 20 May 1991 14:53:01 GMT

Two musts:

    Sunrise on Haleakala.
    Drive up the Hana Highway (don't forget to rent a cassette tour tape).

Enjoy.

ALOHA,
B. 8>)

From: flick@sdd.hp.com (Bill Flick)
Subject: Re: Hawaii or Caribbean?
Date: 22 May 91 14:56:22 GMT
Organization: Hewlett-Packard, San Diego Division

I have been to both. For what it is worth, I believe Hawaii would be my first
choice. Especially Kauai. First rate hotels (condos if you prefer), fantastic
beaches, as much relaxation as you desire, beauty second to none and weather
comparable to the Caribbean.
Do not get me wrong, I would go back to the Caribbean (especially St Johns, V.I)
any time, but Hawaii is still no. 1.

My $.02 worth.

B. 8>)

Sounds like Hanama Bay is right up your alley.  There are numerous
tours from Waikiki who offer bus, snorkels, fish food, underwater
cameras, etc.  You will be inundated with this info after you arrive.
Look in any of the tourist magazines.  Hanama Bay is only 20 minutes
from Waikiki, in case you want to drive yourself.  Its very shallow
so if you don't go out very far, you can always stand up if you get
into trouble.  The fish are so tame they will come roaring up to you!
Buy a bag of frozen peas to feed them, they last better than soda
crackers.  Be prepared for crowds.  The abundance of marine life
makes it well worth your while, though.  Regarding eyeglasses, I think
it would be hard to get them under your mask.  Some tours may have
corrective lenses, though.  Things are magnified underwater, though,
so if your correction is not too bad, maybe you can do without glasses.

Aloha!

Tom
 
I am planning to go to Kauai in October and have bought the
Frommer's travel guide.  I've found it to be very helpful and
informative.  It also contains many details about various
restaurants in the areas.

My family and I did a "snorkel-lunch" cruise off the Big Island out
of Kona into Kealakeakua (sp?) Bay - it's where Cook's monument is
located.  It had to be one of the best things we did during our 2-week stay!
We were there at Christmas-time and I felt that the water was a little cool,
but I'm from Florida originally.

I am in the process of planning a vacation in Hawaii, for about 10 full
days in February.  First question that I am faced with is:  How much
will it cost...

Looking at some travel guides, it looks like hotels will run $100+ per 
night.  Food and tours will probably double that price per day. 
Transporation, however, is an unknown.  I couldn't really find much
information on local transportation.

Since we are planning to hit about 4 islands, I will need some means
of going from island to island, and then renting cars on each island.
Does anyone know if any of the local airlines offer inter-island
packages?  Having to make reservation for individual flights and 
rental cars does seem like quite a hassle, and I have no idea just
how much it will cost.

The other choice of inter-island travel is by boat...but I have even
less information on that.  There are a few cruises, but they seem
pretty expensive.

If anyone who's done some island-hopping in Hawaii and knows the
best way to see all the islands, please send me a note.  If you
have any info on things to see and/or do, I'd appreciate them too.
-------------------------
George W. Fleming
gwf@sapphire.bellcore.com
-------------------------

You don't have to spend that much on hotels, not even in Waikiki, unless you
just like to have luxurious hotels.  Get a package and save a fortune, if
possible with your itinerary.  Otherwise, look for smaller hotels.  For
example, the Hilo Hotel is about $40 per night, far less than the fanciest
tourist hotels.

Why not call the 800 number for Hawaiian Airlines and ask?
My understanding is that all tickets on the local airlines cost the
same amount: no discounts.

To the best of my knowledge, there is no boat transportation between islands.

My homework for my upcoming Hawaii sojourn showed that packages are far less
expensive.  It isn't difficult to create a custom designed package.  My wife
and I created one: 4 nights each on Kauai, Maui, Oahu, and three nights on the
Big Island, including hotel accommodations, a rental car (every day on every
island, including insurance waivers) and interisland flights.  For the two of
us, the total was less than $1800.  And we'll be directly in the path of the
moon's shadow for the eclipse!

All of the agents I spoke with would put together a package with any number of
nights on any island, in (almost) any class hotel.

   Richard Alpert
   Internet: alpert@cs.bu.edu		Boston University
              

From: ldw@hp-ptp.HP.COM
Subject: Re: Need info. on Hawaiian Airlines
Date: 26 Jun 91 23:37:01 GMT
Organization: HP Pacific Technology Park - Sunnyvale, Ca.

Personally, I think flying is safer than driving (not that you could drive
to other islands, but just in general).  But given that you are apprehensive
about it, I think there is an alternative.  When you are in Waikiki there
are stands all along the main drag, Kalakaua Ave., with little tourist
brochures.  In those brochures are advertisements for one day or longer
trips to the other islands, some including, for example, a local excursion
in a helicopter.  I have never gone on one of these private charters, but
I think they must not use Hawaiian Airlines planes.  (Probably they use
small planes.)


From: costin@cogsci.ucsd.EDU (Dan Costin)
Subject: Re: Literary travel writing about Hawaii - any suggestions?
Date: 27 Jun 91 18:09:31 GMT
Organization: Department of Cognitive Science, UCSD

As the guilty party for starting this thread, I offer you an abbrevieated list
of books written about travels in Hawaii, which I got from the close to 200
citations in the library system here at UCSD in the category TRAVEL HAWAII.
I guess I should have done this before asking the all-knowing NET.

Barrot, Theodore Adolphe, 1803-1870.
     Unless haste is made : a French skeptic's account of the Sandwich Islands
  in 1836 / Theodore-Adolphe Barrot ; translated by Daniel Dole ; illustrated
   by Bartheleme Lauvergne & Theodore Auguste Fisquet ; introd. by...  Kailua,
  HI : Press Pacifica, c1978.

Bates, George Washington.
     Sandwich island notes. By a Haole.  New York, Harper & brothers, 1854.
 
Bird, Isabella L. (Isabella Lucy), 1831-1904.
      The Hawaiian archipelago : Six months among the palm groves, coral reefs,
    & volcanoes of the Sandwich Islands / by Isabella L. Bird.  2. ed.  London,
    J. Murray, 1876. (recent reprints available)
  
Cheever, Henry Theodore, 1814-1897.
      The island world of the Pacific : being the personal narrative and
    results of travel through the Sandwich or Hawaiian Islands, and other parts
    of Polynesia / by Rev. Henry T. Cheever ...  Glasgow ; London : W.  Collins,
    [1850?].

Chegaray, Jacques.
      Hawaii: isles of dreams. Translated [from the French] by Viola G.  Garvin.
    London, A. Barker [1957].

Ellis, William, 1794-1872.
      Journal of William Ellis : narrative of a tour of Hawaii, or Owhyhee :
    with remarks on the history, traditions, manners, customs and language of
    the inhabitants of the Sandwich Islands / by William Ellis with...
    Honolulu : Advertiser Publishing Co., 1963.

Gleason, James Henry, 1823-1861.
      Beloved Sister : the letters of James Henry Gleason, 1841-1859, from Alta
    California and the Sandwich Islands, with a brief account of his voyage in
   1841 via Cape Horn to Oahu and California / compiled with notes by...
    Glendale, Calif. : A. H. Clark Co., 1978.

Stevenson, Robert Louis, 1850-1894.
       Travels in Hawaii. Edited and with an introd. by A. Grove Day.
     Honolulu, University Press of Hawaii [1973].
 
Stewart, Charles Samuel, 1795-1870.
       Private journal of Stewart in Sandwich Islands.  Abridged from American
    ed. of New York 1828.  Dublin, printed by Thomas I. White, 1830.
 
Street, Mary Evarts Anderson, 1838-1905.
       Scenes in the Hawaiian islands and California.  New York, American Tract
     Society [1865].
 
Thompson, Hunter S.
       The curse of Lono / by Hunter S. Thompson and Ralph Steadman.  Toronto ;
     New York : Bantam Books, 1983.
 
Townsend, John Kirk, 1809-1851.
       Narrative of a journey across the Rocky Mountains, to the Columbia
     River, and a visit to the Sandwich Islands, Chili, &c. With a scientific
     appendix. By John K. Townsend ...  Philadelphia, Henry Perkins; Boston,
     Perkins & Marvin, 1839.

Twain, Mark, 1835-1910.
       Letters from the Sandwich Islands : written for the Sacramento union /
     by Mark Twain ; introduction & conclusion by G. Ezra Dane ; illustrations
    by Dorothy Grover.  Stanford University, Calif. : Stanford University
     Press ; London : H. Milford, Oxford University Press ; c1938.

Twain, Mark, 1835-1910.
       Roughing it. With an introd. and explanatory notes by Franklin R.
     Rogers. Text established and textual notes by Paul Baender.  Berkeley,
     Published for the Iowa Center for Textual Studies by the University of
     California Press, 1972.

Anderson, Mary E. (Mary Evarts) 1838-1905.
       Scenes in the Hawaiian islands and California.  New York : American
     Tract Society, c1865.

Stoddard, Charles Warren, 1843-1909.
       Hawaiian life : being lazy letters from low latitudes / By Charles
     Warren Stoddard.  Chicago ; New York : F.T. Neely, 1894.

Meriwether, Lee, 1862-
       The tramp at home / by Lee Meriwether.  New York : Harper & Brothers,
     c1889.
         

From: carlson@ab24.larc.nasa.gov (Ann Carlson)
Subject: Re: Request Maui advice
Organization: NASA Langley Research Center, Hampton, VA  USA
Date: Mon, 8 Jul 1991 12:24:54 GMT

I recommend the Royal Kahana hotel for relatively cheap, condominium like 
accomodations on Maui.  I got a studio room there last month for $78 per night,
which is much less than you'll pay for most other places right on the beach.
There's nothing fancy about the place, but it is on a nice beach and has it's 
own pool.  all the rooms have kitchenette plus washers and dryers, and lanais 
which are ocean view.  It's about 7 or 8 miles from Lahaina, just beyond the 
distance of most of the sights on Maui.  Nothing within walking distance but 
the beach and a grocery store, so you do need a rental car if you're going to
stay here.


From: maverick@vaxkab.lne.kth.se
Subject: Re: Need info. on Hawaiian Airlines
Date: 8 Jul 91 14:43:26 GMT
Organization: School of EE, Royal Institute of Technolgy

Personally, I would prefere Aloha Airlines which is the other inter
island airline. But I have been flying with both and nothing fearful
happened (at that time !).
I don't think you should be worried but if you want, you can always take
a boat between Molokai and Maui (At least, I think they still have that
route).
Anyhow, good luck and say hello and ALOHA to Hawaii...
Fred
                    

From: steve@grant.writer.yorku.ca (Steve Azmier)
Subject: Hawaii at Xmas (cheap flight??)
Date: 19 Jul 91 15:32:50 GMT
Organization: /ycs/steve/.organization

We know Xmas is the peak
season but any discount (including flying out of Buffalo or Detroit)
is worth considering.  It costs about $1000 CDN. (per person) to fly
out of Toronto. 

Thanks,
Steve Azmier                
NETNORTH/BITNET: steve@sol.yorku.ca     


From: waters@nddsun1.sps.mot.com (Mike Waters)
Subject: Re: Two weeks in Hawaii
Date: 12 Aug 91 18:40:55 GMT

Highly prejudiced opinions based on a three week trip last fall:

Oahu - OUTSIDE Honolullu about 3 days, Hono. about 20 min. (its a big,
busy city). I count Waikiki as Honolulu. BTW.

Unless you are LDS (Mormon) don't bother with the "Polynesian Cultural
Center". IMHO its a rip off, the only "polynesian" part is the student
workers.

Big Island - 4-5 days. Depends how you like volcanos, lava flows and
picturesque beaches.

Can't comment first hand on the other islands.

DO check out the "special deals" by such people as car rental agencies.
I found a four day deal on Budget where you got a 5L Mustang convertable
for $100 with unlimited mileage and a big WAD of "admit one free" coupons.
I rented THREE cars this way, one on the BIg Island and TWO on Oahu. THe
last four days we used TWO coupons to get myself and my son into all
kinds of things free! (THat included the polynesian cultural center,
which I think was worth what I paid for it :-). Normal admission comes
to around $50 per person when you include all the hidden fees they
tack on.

I definitly reccomend Nanapua from ANY grungy looking street
vendor or "greasy spoon". THey sell the genuine article which GREAT, the
"fancy" version cost around 10X more and was awful!
                        

From: dedek@meaddata.com (Mike Dedek)
Subject: Re: Two weeks in Hawaii
Date: 14 Aug 91 17:17:48 GMT
Organization: Mead Data Central, Dayton OH

It depends on what you're most interested in.  I've never been to
Hawaii, but am going 1st 2 weeks of October.  Here's my opinion:

Big Island:  Lots of people, highrise hotels, few beaches, good sightseeing.
Oahu: Lots of people, highrise hotels, good beaches, nightlife, sightseeing.
Maui: Bunch (< lots) of people, many honeymooners, nightlife,
     sightseeing, beaches.
Kauai: Some (< bunch) of people, less nightlife, some beaches, good
      sightseeing. 
Lanai: Few people, few hotels, beaches, no nightlife, limited
      sightseeing. 
Molokai: Few people, few hotels, few beaches, little nightlife, good
        sightseeing.

All islands have some spectacular sightseeing, I guess.

I personally like to avoid crowds somewhat; We'll be staying on Lanai and Maui.

-Mike
 

From: alpert@cs.bu.edu (Richard Alpert)
Subject: Re: Two weeks in Hawai'i
Date: 14 Aug 91 21:35:14 GMT
Organization: Computer Science Department, Boston University, Boston, MA, USA

My wife and I just returned from two weeks in Hawai'i (courtesy of TWA Frequent
Flyer's bonus miles).  Here are a few QUICK observations:

	The Big Island (Hawai'i): Except for the volcano (definitely worth
seeing --- there are active lava flows now!), climbing Mauna Loa or Mauna Kea,
visiting coffee, macadamia, or guava plantations, there isn't a lot that isn't
better enjoyed on other islands.  The Hilo area is depressing; it doesn't seem
to fit with the rest of the state.

	Maui:  We stayed in the Lahaina area.  It's a bit touristy, but
relaxing nonetheless.  Haleakala is worth a visit (it is a dormant volcano
(last activity in the late 1920's) with unusual landscape and flora).  The
northwest shore provides some good snorkeling and diving.  If you enjoy
snorkeling and/or diving, a trip to Molokini is worth the time and money.
Molokini is the remains of a 5 million year old cinder cone.  About half of it
is above water, so it forms a crescent shaped island, about 6 km offshore.
Snorkeling there, I saw a shark!  (albeit only a white tipped reef shark, a
scavenger, not a predator....  but it looks just like the "big guys"!)

	Oahu: Developed.  We enjoyed the cultural diversity of Oahu, though.
One evening, quite by accident, we stumbled on a Bon Festival at a Japanese
Buddhist temple in Moana, a suburb of Honolulu, not far from the University of
Hawai'i.  By far, the very best snorkeling/diving I have ever seen (and I've
been diving in the Red Sea) is to be had at Hanauma Bay, about 20 minutes drive
west of Honolulu on Interstate H-1.  (I still don't understand how Hawai'i can
have interstate highways ;-) You don't even need a snorkel, and could enjoy the
fish without even wearing a mask.  Imagine standing in a 3 foot deep aquarium.
When you walk, you have to push the fish out of the way.  There is a State
Underwater Park/Preserve there, and the fish know it, so they are
extraordinarily friendly.

	Kaua'i:  Spectacular scenery.  Follow the Waimea Canyon Road to the
very end.  Within a few kilometers, you see what looks like the Grand Canyon
and Kaua'i's Na Pali Coast, incredible valleys and ridges falling a kilometer
to the sea.  There is nothing like it anywhere else.  The northeast coast was
the setting for "South Pacific".  It isn't at all difficult to imagine Bali Hai
sitting on the horizon.

  I hope that helps.  We did find that each island carries its own ambience;
each is different.  If you have specific questions, drop me a line; I'll be
happy to share what I learned.

  Have a wonder trip!  Cheers,
  Richard Alpert


From: ireland@ac.dal.ca
Subject: Re: Camping in Hawaii
Date: 15 Aug 91 05:34:25 GMT

I'd recommend a book called "Hidden Hawaii" (sorry, I don't remember the
authors's name).  It has lots of information on hiking, camping, and
other outdoor activities.  The book has been my guide to lots of
adventures in the Islands.

Keith Conover
ireland@ac.dal.ca
          

From: corpron@sparc33.hri.com (Dan Corpron)
Subject: Re: kauai recommendations ?
Date: 15 Aug 91 14:23:56 GMT

I have visited Kauai on two occasions (the most recent being last
summer).  Both times I stayed in an area called Annini Beach on the 
north end of the Island, not quite to Hanalei.  We rented a private 
home/cottage at the end of a neighborhood road.  It is a beautiful, 
private, "non-touristy" location that overlooks the ocean.  It doesn't 
have the resort ammenities (shopping centers, swimming pools, bars, 
etc), but these things are not too far away in Princeville (I could never
figure out why anyone would want to swim in a pool while they were in Hawaii
anyway). It had a fully applianced kitchen and a washer and dryer as well.  
You can rent them through an organization called Kauai Vacation Rentals (KVR).  
There are in fact four different houses owned by the same family.  KVR refers
to these as the R. Nakea cottages.  KVR has an 800 number you can use to get 
more information (I don't have the number with me at the moment, let me know 
if you want it).

Annini beach has some good swimming, but not for body surfing.  Fortunately,
there's a good beach for that real close.  I don't have my map with me so 
I can't give you any names.

As for hiking, you must try the hike along the Napali coast.  The trail
head is at the end of the road on the North end of the island.  You will 
be rewarded with beautiful coast line views, wild orchids, and a nice 
sandy beach after a 3-4 mile hike.  If you are feeling more ambitious, 
you can take another 2 mile hike inland to a pretty waterfall.  Be sure 
to bring plenty of water (1 liter per person) and some munchies.

For snorkeling recommendations, you can stop by any dive shop and ask. 
They'll give you some good pointers.

Daniel R. Corpron


From: maverick@vaxkab.lne.kth.se
Subject: Re: Two weeks in Hawaii
Date: 17 Aug 91 08:36:15 GMT
Organization: School of EE, Royal Institute of Technolgy

Hello !
I read your suggestions regarding the Hawaiian Iislands...
Well, I would rather say that on the Big Island (Hawaii) there are many
opportunities to walk around without meeting so many tourists.
Especially if you keep away from the Kona sida where all the big tourist
hotels are located. In Hilo there are a genuine and a very friendly
atmosphere!  Otherwise, I agree about Maui and Oahu but even on Kauai 
there are possibilities to find places of the tourist road. Molokai and 
Lanai are beatiful islands with lazy things to do on.
Anyhow,
                have fun in the Hawaiian Sun !

Fred 


From: lawder@ohsu3b2.ohsu.EDU (Kathryn Lawder)
Subject: Re: Two weeks in Hawaii
Date: 19 Aug 91 07:05:50 GMT
Organization: Oregon Health Sciences University

maverick@vaxkab.lne.kth.se () writes:
 . . .>Well, I would rather say that on the Big Island (Hawaii) there are many
>opportunities to walk around without meeting so many tourists.
>Especially if you keep away from the Kona sida where all the big tourist
>hotels are located. In Hilo there are a genuine and a very friendly
>atmosphere !

I second the motion for The Big Island of Hawai'i.  Unless you are looking
for the sanitized little bit o'home away from home. The opportunities to
get away and be completely alone, on a beach, on a volcano, near a waterfall,
in the classic tropical flora of Hawai'i are multitude on this most
beautiful island. 

Hilo may not have its tourist facade up to elegant standards, but it is the
only city I've found on the islands that feels authentic.  Try the Farmer's Market 
between 6 and 7 am on Saturday morning.  Bring single dollars, because 
everything is packaged to cost a dollah.
 
Aloha! 
-- 
  Kathi Lawder                       Be more than food for the moon;
  lawder@ohsu.edu                    Be what you came here for!


From: jdurand@mitre.org
Subject: Re: Camping in Hawaii
Date: Tue, 20 Aug 1991 12:27:19 GMT

>> I'm interested in information about outdoor activities in Hawaii.  Things
>> like camping, hiking, biking, windsurfing, scuba diving,...etc.
>> 
>I'd recommend a book called "Hidden Hawaii."  It has lots of information 
>on hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.  The book has been my 
>guide to lots of adventures in the Islands.

Hidden Hawaii was written by Ray Reigert.  It obviously has been a big seller-
he has gone on to becoming the executive director for a series of travel
guides, the latest is Hidden New England.


From: ireland@ac.dal.ca
Subject: Re: Hiking/backpacking on Kauai
Date: 22 Aug 91 03:01:26 GMT
Organization: Dalhousie University, Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada

I have hiked the Na Pali trail twice and recommend it highly.  It's
incredibly beautiful.  I don't know anything about where to get
backpacking equipt. on Kauai, sorry.  Camping without prior camping
experience is something everyone who camps does at least once, so thats
not a problem.  It sometimes helps to go with someone else who has
experience, but camping close to the car in Hawaii during September is
very safe.  There are other people around to help if you get in trouble
and you'll be able to walk back to the car easy enough.  I would urge
you go farther down the trail because the rest of the trail and the
valley at the end are spectacular and you'd get a better feeling for
what backpacking is like on a longer trip (2 or more nights).

Have a nice time.

Keith Conover
ireland@ac.dal.ca


From: kocsis@gandalf.nosc.mil (Steve Kocsis)
Subject: Kalalau trail, Kauai, Hawaii
Date: 22 Aug 91 16:00:50 GMT
Organization: Naval Ocean Systems Center, San Diego

                         Kalalau Trail
4/29/91

   We're on Kauai. The north coast. The Na Pali coast. The end of
the  road and the trailhead for the Kalalau trail.  Lush  vegeta-
tion, one hundred shades of green, a green as if illuminated from
within.  There  is  constant pressure from the  trade  winds  and
a noise, a noise of all frequencies, combining: the palm branches
swaying,  waves splashing, birds singing, the sand shifting.  The
sun  is  strobing, turning on-and-off, the clouds  eclipsing  the
tropical  light.  These clouds  are  extraordinary:  well-defined
edges,  blinding  white towards the center,  low  and  constantly
moving, propelled by the trade winds. Disconnected at first,  the
clouds  rise to the heights where they marry, obscuring the  mass
of  Mt.  Kawakini, Kauai's highest summit,  the  world's  wettest
spot,  surrounded  by the Alakai swamp, a great sponge,  and  the
source of Kauai's fresh water.
   It  has  taken, my wife Cristina and myself, us  three  hours,
three rides, and 41 miles to  get  from Lihue, the main town  and
airport,  to  road's end, by  hitchhiking. There   is  no  public
transportation  and the trail guides warn  not to leave a car  at
the  trail  head  overnight, because  of  theft   and  vandalism.
Cristina  does not like to hitchhike. It is  legal  in Hawaii  if
the  hitchhiker  stays  off the road and on  the   shoulder.  Our
first  two rides are in the backs of pickups, the wind  blows  in
our  faces, the sunlight is brilliant.
   We   baptize   in   the Pacific waters at  road's  end  before
starting  the hike. Ke'e beach is protected from the breakers  by
coral,  there is lovely swimming in  clear   aquamarine   waters;
fish  spin  among  the   people, excellent snorkeling. I float on
my  back inspecting the  guardian cliff,  500 feet of  black  ba-
salt,  covered  with a green carpet  of plants.  The   basalt  is
only  visible through the  sheer  vertical sections where  plants
have  no purchase. Clouds race by changing shape as I  watch.  We
start   the  hike, our permits are for five nights,  the  maximum
allowed  in  any 30 day  period.  It is twelve miles  to  Kalalau
beach. It  will  take  us three days to get there.
   Initially the trail begins to climb, there are basalt  cobbles
fitted  together to form a rough staircase. I briefly  leave  the
trail  to stash a plastic bag of clean clothes for the trip  out.
The  trail rises above the ocean, we are enveloped in tunnels  of
vegetation:  trees, creepers, vines, mangroves. The  wind  blows,
rain  starts,  out  comes our umbrellas that  double  as  walking
sticks. We take a brief stop for the shower. The sun returns, the
wind dies, we continue.
   There  are  numerous cloud shadows projected  on  the  ocean's
surface  moving  faster  than us. Whitecaps stretch  out  to  the
vanishing point of the horizon. We now begin to hear a sound that
will  accompany  us for the rest of the trip,  the  low-frequency
booming of helicopter blades. Tour helicopters. The Na Pali coast
is  the  great attractor for their flights. No  consideration  is
given  to the sound pollution hikers are exposed to. Hiking  per-
mits for the Na Pali are free. Helicopter rides start at $95  for
a 50 minute flight.
   We  hike down into and out of two minor valleys before  reach-
ing  Hanakapi'ai   beach,  two  miles  from  the  trailhead,   90
minutes   of  walking.  Rather than cross the  stream,  which  is
running  high, we walk  down  to the beach and cross  Hanakapi'ai
stream   where   it meets  the Pacific, a much easier  ford.  The
ocean is rough  here, no coral protection; hence, unsafe for weak
swimmers.  On  the west side  of the stream  are  many  campsites
surrounded  by  vegetation. This is a wet place,  clouds  envelop
the surrounding cliffs.
   After  setting up camp, Cristina retires early to  escape  the
mosquitoes.  In  the fading light I follow the  trail  along  the
stream  that  enters the valley. It is a  fairyland:  tunnels  of
trees, giant ferns, clusters of bamboo 50 feet high and 10 inches
thick. The rain is continuous; a rain forest. I am surrounded  by
the  life force of a multiplicity of plants, birds, insects,  and
tree canopies. I return to camp in darkness. I listen to the bass
rumble of the waves on the beach, the white noise of the  stream,
and  the drone of cicadas. I meet Dallas, a local, living on  the
island  for 18 years. "The major pakalolo grower here, BoBo,  has
retired.  She now works at Jungle Bobs renting camping gear.  She
tours the public schools giving anti-drug talks," Dallas  informs
me.

4/30/91

   Dawn, everything is wet. I walk back to the bamboo groves  and
it starts to rain intensely. In the shelter of the bamboo I  wait
until  the  rain declines.  We pack up in rain, start  hiking  in
rain,  Dallas  joins  us in the rain. A  series  of  rain-squalls
descends  on us with short dry intervals between. We use  umbrel-
las,  rain  gear  causes the wearer to sweat from  the  heat  and
humidity.  The  trail  takes us 500 feet above  the  ocean  on  a
slippery  twelve inch wide trail. When walking I  concentrate  on
each  footstep,   a  slip down the precipitous  cliff  would   be
serious. Occasional tourist boats pass beneath. The rain brings a
decline in the tourist helicopters.
   We  reach a shangri-la valley; towering  plant-covered  cliffs
all  around us, the sun sparkles in patches as the clouds  adjust
their positions, wisps of white clouds hugging the cliffs move up
and  down like elevators. At this stop I discover  that  Cristina
has  only brought two days of food for a six day trip. "I'm  very
upset  about  this, I trusted you!," I say. A short way down  the
trail,  in   a  high voice, she looks into my  eyes,  "I'm  sorry
about   the  food."  I reply, "I accept your  apology,"  but  I'm
still mad. It will turn out that fellow backpackers give us food.
   We  reach  Hanakoa valley, Dallas sets up camp  in  a   decay-
ing  shack, Cristina and I cross the stream finding a  series  of
terraces  that receive the trade winds; thus, reducing the   mos-
quito  problem.  The  area is heavily vegetated. I head  out   to  
Hanakoa  falls,   1/3   of  a mile by a  steep,  slippery  trail.  
After a 20 minute  walk  the trail makes a right angle turn  into  
a   hidden canyon.  The water descends as a white ribbon  against  
the green cliffs,  falls into a pool forming splashing waves. The 
peace is disturbed  by a constant stream of helicopters that  fly 
into  the  narrow  valley,  hover  for five seconds  then  depart
for  the  next visitor. I am the lone hiker. 
    The  sky holds just a few clouds, welcome after a  wet   day, 
our  clothes will dry on a line. The darkness comes quickly.  The 
wind   picks up causing chaotic movement of the tree canopy,  one 
tree creaks menacingly. I hear the trees, cicadas and the stream. 

5/1/91

   May  Day.  Clear skies greet us. Rains during the  night  have
left the ground wet. We walk on steep, narrow trails hundreds  of
feet  above  the ocean. It is humid, hot, with  less  vegetation,
less rainfall, and less water on this section of trail. Expansive
views  of the coast in both directions. Because of trail  erosion
constant  attention must be paid to where the feet are placed.  A
Zen  phrase gives wise advice: "When walking, walk, when  looking
look."   We  cross short stretches where there is no  trail,  the 
erosion has erased it. 
   At a rest-stop we view twenty-one goats on a denuded hillside. 
Bow  hunting is allowed with a permit. The goats  are  introduced 
animals  and  destructive  to the environment  because  of  their 
eating  habits. The hiking is strenuous on this stretch, but  the 
views are gorgeous, the translucent aquamarine edge of the  ocean 
allows  views of the irregular coral bottom, the ocean's  texture 
changes  constantly with the light and dynamics of the wind.  The 
sight  allows  the  mind  to  detach  itself  from  the  physical 
hardships.  Hanakoa  is both the most  difficult  physically  and 
rewarding visually section of the Kalalau trail.
   Reaching a ridge above the Kalalau valley, we clearly see  the 
terraces placed by the former Hawaiian residents for the  growing 
of taro, papayas, and mangoes. The valley is verdant with  trees,
bushes,   and  wild plants. Cliffs of basalt enclose  Kalalau  on 
three  sides,  three thousand feet above the valley  floor,   the  
fourth  side is the ocean. We  reach  Kalalau  stream,  which  is 
high  and a difficult crossing. Fortunately two ropes  have  been  
tied  into  position  giving support. On the west  side  of   the 
stream  we meet Chris, "I've just been ticketed by the  cops  for
not having a permit, they took all my gear from me and told me to 
leave,"  says Chris. "Don't tell them you saw me heading  up  the
stream,"  is Chris's last remark as he hikes out  of  sight.  The 
equipment  will be returned if he makes his court  appearance.  A 
possible $500 fine and up to 30 days in jail.
   We  walk  in  an idyllic setting, large  bright  green  jungle 
vegetation,  towering  plant-covered black basalt cliffs,  and  a 
pounding  surf with whitecaps visible to the vanishing point.  We 
walk  to  the beach, we camp under a large mango  tree  with  the 
cliffs  and ocean in view. Cristina is tired. I mingle  with  the 
other  campers.  "Three goat hunters have killed an  animal  but, 
without  a  permit. One was caught but the other  two  are  fugi-
tives,"  says  Kevin. The law enforcement people  arrive  at  our 
campsite,  we display our permits. They inform us that  they  en-
force  the quota of visitors to Kalalau to protect the area.  All 
the people currently at the campground have hiked in but,  start-
ing  May 15 Zodiac boats will bring people, increasing the  visi-
tor  count  significantly. This creates an  opportunity  for  the
squatters,  like  Chris, the boat people have  surplus  food  and
friendly  boat captains also supply rations.
   I  bathe  in the beach-side waterfall,  knife-edge  cliffs  of
green  rising above me. The ranger donates food when  I  approach
with  my beggars bowl. We meet Glen who has hiked in every  April
for  6  years.  "I just  sold my 75-employee  business,  the  new
owners want me to stay for a few years but, I could retire, maybe
I  will,"  he  says while gazing at  the  tropical  illumination.
Dallas cooks the rice I received  from the  ranger paying careful
attention  to the removal of the  black rat turds   by   floating
them  away while draining off  the  excess starch  in  the  white
rice.  Glen  donates pasta. Cristina and I  go to bed  with  full
stomachs due to the kindness of strangers.

5/2/91

   We  spend the morning chatting with neighbors then start on  a  
day  hike up Kalalau valley to swim in the Big Pool. It is  sunny  
with clouds over the interior. The surf is continuing it's  boom-
ing   of last night. Ten foot swells are frequent. A  short  dis-
tance  up  the trail, a Hawaiian law-enforcement man,  comes  out 
from  the bushes, "I'm waiting for squatters rousted out  by  the 
special-ops people. "  I see a camouflaged helicopter flying  low 
with  a 50 foot  rope hanging  from it with two men at  the  end. 
"They don't  receive  any special pay, just straight time. Volun-
teers," he informs us. They must get an adrenalin rush. They  are 
cleaning  the valley of  goat poachers, squatters,  and  pakalolo 
growers for the arrival of  the zodiac-boat people, most of  whom
will never leave the beach. 
   After walking through canopied rain forest we reach a  cleared
area  with black boulders and a magnificent panorama of the  sur-
rounding cliffs, Smoke rock. Beautiful examples of water  erosion 
that  have formed fantasy-like geometries of the basalt  surround 
us. Clouds  cling  to the  cliffs.  We descend back into the rain 
forest, out of the direct sunlight and into shadows. By a  stream  
a  second  law-enforcement man challenges us and we pass  inspec-
tion.  At  a  large stream, as we begin to  ford,  a  camouflaged 
helicopter hovers over the  tree canopy and the two  rope-hanging
men touch  ground,  the helicopter leaves and we wait their visit 
but, this time we are left alone.
    We  reach  the pools which are connected by  short  cascades, 
swimming is great in cool water surrounded by jungle, with  views 
of the valley cliffs. There is a small natural slide coated  with 
smooth  algae.  The  water is turbulent, a  natural  jacuzzi.  We 
frolic.  With  binoculars I see the Kalalau viewpoint  3500  feet 
above  us. We head back under the tree-canopy listening  to  song 
birds.  Tonight all the campers pooled their food for  a  potluck 
around the campfire. The rangers arrive with ice and kool-aid. We 
return to camp by flashlight.

5/3/91

    Up  at  dawn, we  shower at the waterfall,  say goodbyes   to
our   trail  friends,   pack  up  our gear  and  walk  out   with
clouds, wind, sea, cliffs, birds, plants: all stimulating us.  We
make the climb up  eroded Red Hill in the cool of the morning. We
take a long pause on  the shoulder with a splendid view of  Kala-
lau  valley and it's cliffs. We  are now on the best  portion  of
the  trail the section  between Kalalau  and  Hanakoa.   However,
it  is also  the  most  strenuous portion, the many eroded  slip-
pery  parts  demand constant attention to footing. We  adapt  the
sure-footedness of the many feral  goats we spot. 
   The  ocean  is  always visible:  dynamic,  changing,  frothing
attacking  the  land.  The vegetation cover is  lighter  on  this 
section  than  the rest of the trail since there  is  less  rain. 
Clouds  pass  low overhead, ahi-ahi birds cry:  white  with  long 
streaming  tails.  We are at a section where the trail  is  gone, 
uncertain footing on a slant with pea-sized gravel. A spectacular 
position  500  feet above the ocean. Cristina  blurts  out,  "I'm 
nervous,  I  don't like this!" I reply, "Cristina,  just  concen-
trate  on placing  your feet!", She makes it. 
    Looking  out over the Pacific it appears as if the  curvature 
of  the  earth is noticable. Breakers over an infinite  plane  of 
azure  blue. Greens that shine from the tropical light, an  inner
light, an emerald-translucent green. Bird songs of long and short 
melodic  phrases. Magenta flower petals carpeting the trail,  the
trade  winds cooling off our sweat. We reach a small rise,  views 
of  the coast east and west, a series of rain squalls moving  in, 
unleashing their energy and moisture, Sisal plants, like  mutated 
starfish  adding an alien geometry to the landscape,  the  leaves 
solid,  5  feet  long with tips pointed like  daggers.  The  pali 
cliffs  dominate the view, the black basalt contrasting with  the 
abundant vegatation. 
   On  the way to Hanakoa we take a rest stop at a  terrace  com-
manding an expansive view of the coast and the Kalalau cliffs, we 
discuss  camping there. Out of the bushes appears a red   haired, 
red-bearded  man,  "Hi  I'm Jerry." Jerry tells us  that  he  has 
survived  by working part-time jobs for 7 years spending most  of 
his time as a squatter in Kalalau. Jerry seems friendly, but  his 
body-language is jerky, asymmetric and his voice timbre  communi-
cates unease to me. I made a silent decision not to stay here.  
    We   enter  the tree canopy again at  Hanakoa,  our  previous 
campsite   in  the terraces is vacant. I set the tent up  to  the 
sound  of tourist helicopters.  I hike to the  ridge  overlooking 
the ocean. I  watch the squalls releasing their rain on the ocean 
surface before they reach  me  with  a jolt of wind and  wetness.  
The   precursor,   an  increase in wind, the  sun  obscured  then
eclipsed,  a few  hesitant drops,  then  the  onslaught,  dynamic
-animated rain.  The  source, together with the sun, of the  rich
plant  life. I visit our neighbors who offer to help me cook  the
donated  food. I mention the red-haired man we met. Al says  that
the   authorities  have been  looking  for Jerry for years.  "I'm
surprised  he   talked   to you, Jerry is a  hermit."  It  rained
throughout the night.

5/4/91

   Up at dawn with overcast skies, all is wet, our packs protect-
ed by the umbrellas. Cristina accuses me with, "You're always too 
slow packing, I've never seen anyone who dawdles so!" She  leaves 
me behind. Cristina tends toward irritability when she's  hungry.
I catch up quickly on the banks of Hanakoa stream which is  high. 
I  cross twice: once with my rucksack and next  with  Cristina's. 
Slippery rocks covered with wet leaves and moss. We reach Hanakoa 
shack,  Cristina  heads on in a hurry, I go down to  the  camping 
area and ask the couple at the first tent for food. "My wife  and 
I  are  out of food, do you have any to spare?" "Sure,  he  says, 
"Let  me  go through the packs." He hands me a jumble   of  candy 
bars  and cookies. "Thank you," I say, "This must be  heaven!"  I  
head quickly down the trail looking for Cristina, "Cristina, wait
for  me let's take a break at the next viewpoint.",  Distantly  I 
hear, "OK." We reach a critical point with extensive ocean  views
running into infinity. We enjoy the junk food. Cristina loves me.
   I feel in touch with the terrain, enjoying the dynamics of the 
clouds. We arrive at Hanakapi'ai. It is Saturday and quite a  few 
day-hikers   are  present. We pass a tsunami safety  marker  one-
hundred feet above the beach. At  the beach  is life-saving  gear 
donated  by  a family who lost a loved one to  drowning  here  (A 
strong  swimmer). We rest, then begin the  hike out, a couple  on
their  honeymoon, John and Mary, offer to give us a ride  at  the 
trailhead. 
   The two miles from the trail head to Hanakapi'ai is the  easi-
est  section to hike, a wide trail 400 feet above the  ocean.  At 
the trailhead we again swim at  Ke'e beach. John and Mary give us 
a lift to the airport. We decide to return to Kauai.    

NUTS AND BOLTS

1)  The main airport on Kauai is at Lihue, all airlines have con-
nections. There is no public transportation to the Kalalau trail-
head  which is at the northwest end of the Kuhio  highway  (route
56),  40 miles from the airport, a two hour drive by  car.  There
are many  car-rental agencies but, because of theft and vandalism
it is not recommended to leave a car overnight at the  trailhead.
The  options then are to take a taxi ($40-$75 from the  airport),
have someone  drop you off, or hitch. We hitched, it is legal  on
the  shoulders. From the trailhead it is twelve miles to  Kalalau
beach.

2)  Permits are necessary for the three campgrounds on the  Kala-
lau  trail  and only five nights out of each 30  day  period  are
allowed. No more  than  one night  at Hanakoa and Hanakapi'ia  at
a time. Permits are free and are available in advance from:

        Dept. of Land & Natural Resources
        Division of State Parks
        P.O. Box 1671
        Lihue, HI 96766
        (808) 241 - 3444

The  permit comes with an excellent map and information.  If  you 
arrive  in  Lihue without a permit, then you can get one  at  the 
police station if the quota is not exceeded.

3)   Hanakapai'ai beach is a 90 minute hike from  the  trailhead,
two  miles.  From there it is four miles, four - five  hours,  to
Hanakoa.   From  Hanakoa  it is six miles, four - six  hours,  to
Kalalau  beach.  The   times are  approximate  but,  due  to  the
strenuous nature  of  the  hike should be planned on.

4)  Bring the following: Broken in hiking boots with  ankle  sup-
port, tent with rain fly, ensolite pad, hiking staff, umbrella or
rain gear, flashlight, bug juice, rucksack, first-aid kit,  water
bottles,  and food. A sleeping bag is not necessary, a good  sub-
stitute  would be a cotton sleeping sack such as for  Youth  Hos-
tels. Expect frequent rain, max. temp. of 80 dg. F, min. temp. of
65 dg. F. and high humidity.

5)   Drinking   water should be treated by  boiling,  iodine,  or
filter.  Expect  to drink up to a gallon per day because  of  the
heat   and  humidity. Clean cuts promptly  since  infections  are
common  in  the tropics.  Be  wary at stream fordings, the  water
level  may  rise rapidly,  it  also lowers rapidly so..., if  the
crossing   looks  threatening  just wait. When crossing  use  the 
hiking stick as a third leg. 

6)   Take  your time on the trail, be careful  of  your  footing, 
there  is mud, slippery rocks, and eroded sections so  go  slowly 
and enjoy the views. 


From: wcs@cbnewsh.cb.att.com (Bill Stewart 908-949-0705)
Subject: Re: Hawaii
Date: 10 Sep 91 03:38:05 GMT

nuyu@candle.uucp (Christine Momjian) writes:
] [2 weeks australia, 1 week honolulu]
] The other question is what is there to do in Honolulu?  We don't really
] enjoy laying on the beach.  We thought one week maybe too much.  

One week in Honolulu is easy - take scuba diving lessons.
(Scuba diving is mandatory for all visitors to Hawaii!
It's highly addictive, and you'll love it.  You don't need any
experience - you can take a couple-hour resort intro and go out with
instructors.  The only better place to dive is Australia.)

Otherwise, fly to one of the other islands - Hawaii to watch the volcanoes,
or Kauai for peace and quiet and gorgeous scenery.  Commuter flights
are cheap.

Depending on time of year, check out whale watching.
Any of the islands will have boat trips out to watch the sunset and
drink too much, and will have tourist schtick (Polynesian Cultural
Center on Oahu does this best, admittedly.  Oahu's other redeeming
social value is surfing on the North Shore, if it's the right time
of year to watch/do that.)  And you can go scuba diving anywhere.
-- 
# Bill Stewart 908-949-0705 


From: lewis@tramp.Colorado.EDU (LEWIS WILLIAM M JR)
Subject: Re: Hawaii
Date: 10 Sep 91 20:53:32 GMT
Organization: University of Colorado, Boulder

The Bishop Museum in Honolulu is worth a full day and a trip around Oahu
by car or bus can take two days.


From: olga@howdy.ucs.dec.com
Subject: Re: Last-minute Hawaii accommodation?
Keywords: hawaii inexpensive accommodations
Organization: Digital Equipment Corporation
Date: Mon, 21 Oct 91 21:02:24 GMT

phys166@csc.canterbury.ac.nz writes:

WRT the Big Island...
|>Are we likely to encounter problems finding lower-price accommodations 
|>at this time of year?  


The Manago Hotel in Kona is an inexpensive (~$40/nt private, ~$20/nt shared)
hotel on a hill facing the ocean.  All the private rooms have oceanfront lanais
(mind you, you're not within walking distance to the beach, but it's a luscious
view with the pacific as background). It's family owned, clean, has a "popular 
with the locals" restaurant which serves fresh fish at resonable prices, has 
on-site parking, and a very nice staff.  It's not a Hyatt, but it's a good
deal for the price if you just want a comfortable place to sleep each night.

Here's an extra tidbit for you:
Volcanic ash from Kiluea causes a haze/fog which locals call "vog" on the
Kona side of the Big Island (the Hilo side isn't affected due to wind direction).
My sister, who has lived in Kona for six years now, had never mentioned "vog" 
before my visit to the islands last year. Needless to say, I wasn't pleasantly 
surprised when I arrived at the airport. The locals don't think twice about it
anymore, but you may want to go mentally prepared to see a Los Angeles-like 
sky (if Kiluea's been super active lately).  

Have a good trip.

olga


From: dowell@pierre.mit.edu (Marla Dowell)
Subject: Re: Last-minute Hawaii accommodation?
Date: 22 Oct 91 20:13:00 GMT
Organization: MIT Lab for Nuclear Science

phys166@csc.canterbury.ac.nz writes:
>A friend and I will be travelling to Hawaii in mid-November (8th-16th). 
>Although we will be initially staying with friends on Oahu, we plan to visit
>the Big Island for a few days.  We have not made arrangements for accommodation
>for these few days.  We plan to make telephone reservations soon after we
>arrive in Honolulu.  Are we likely to encounter problems finding lower-price
>accommodation at this time of year?  

I am currently planning a trip to the Big Island for the beginning of 
January.  I also wanted to avoid the high price hotels.  On the recommendation
of my step-sister, who has been to the Big Island several times, I bought
the book "Hidden Hawaii".  This book lists many less expensive, but still
nice lodgings on the island, as well as places to explore.  In the end,
we decided to stay at two different bed and breakfasts during our 10 day
stay---one in the Waimea region, and the other near Volcano National
Park.  We booked our reservations through Hawaii's Best Bed & Breakfast,
which specializes in B&B's on the Big Island.  Typical prices range 
between $50-$115/night for two people (but I believe they charge a fee
for people who make reservations on very short notice).  They also
have a 1-800 number.  Another place that sounded interesting was the
Shirakawa Motel, which is billed as the Southernmost Hotel in the US.
It's a reasonable driving distance to Volcano National Park and is
about $40/night.  (No frills, but nice according to my guide book)

	Marla Dowell			e-mail: dowell@mitlns.mit.edu


From: andrewk@sco.COM (Andrew Knutsen)
Subject: Re: Kauai, HI Weather in February?
Keywords: kauai hawaii weather info wanted
Date: Fri, 25 Oct 91 23:47:28 GMT

bier@acuson.com (Jeff Bier) writes:
>I'd also like to get recommendations on good snorkeling spots,
>beaches, and hiking trails.

	For snorkeling, dont miss Tunnels Beach.  Its about a mile north
of Charo's, but not marked (look for blue trashcans).  Ke'e (End of the
Road) stands a good chance of being clear if you're there after a storm.
These are both North Shore.  Prime sun beach is usually South Shore, like
Poipu.  Coast/jungle hiking past Ke'e; canyon in Waimea (west of Poipu).
If it's cloudy everywhere, try driving all the way to Polihale (all the
way west), but beware the dirt (mud) roads.

	If you do hit a storm, just explore for places to go when it
clears up.  When you're done doing that, check out the bars -- the
locals are interesting.  Jimmy's in Kapa'a is fun, or Brennecke's in
Poipu.  We also tend to spend time in the room watching the info channel
on TV (KVIC), but don't get stuck in your room.  Explore the Westin.
You can snorkel in the rain if the surf's OK and the water is clear; just
dive when you see the lightning coming :-).

	And remember, unless its a big storm, rain in one place doesn't
mean its raining everywhere, or will be raining in an hour in any given
spot.  If it is a big one, feel honored to experience the wettest spot on
Earth in the making, and don't be afraid to get a little wet.

Andrew

PS we're going back for #6 for new year's...


From: jeanpaul@duteca.et.tudelft.nl (J.P.M. van der Jagt)
Subject: Re: Molokai
Date: 31 Oct 91 21:29:39 GMT
Organization: Delft University of Technology, Dept. of Electrical Engineering

Hi Travellers,

I've been on Molokai a few weeks ago and stayed there for two days, which is
enough to see tho whole island if you have a rental car. I liked the island
very much because of it's friendly people (pop. 7000) and it's quietness.
The island is remote. In the centre is the airport. You will probabely fly in
and out with a small, two propeller driven plane which can carry 15 persons
with luggage. Nearby the small airport (with car rental company agents) is the
capital Kaunakakai, which is not more than a small village, built in the style
of old US Wild West. At the east side of the island there is the beautiful
valley of Halawa which can be reached by a scenic US "Highway" alongside the
south coast. While driving there notice the islands of Lanai and Maui. Also
you will pass one of the churches built by Father Damian. You'll have to drive
the same way back. At the west side of the island there are a few resorts and
a wildlife park. Also there is a small village Maunaloa. At the north side
of the island lies the Kalaupapa Peninsula, former leper colony, where Father
Damian cared for the people who had that disease and who because of that where
exiled to that part of Molokai, that even today only can be reached by mule
ride or airplane. However, it can be viewed from Kalaupapa Lookout, high
above the cliffs. The rest of the island is trees.
There isn't a single traffic light or elevator on the island.

And if you're looking for more quietness, you should plan a few days (two is
enough) on Kauai. Although more populated and more visited by tourists than
Molokai, it is still a very beautifull island on which you can find (among
many things) the Waimea Canyon: Grand Canyon of the Pacific.

On the Big Island, fly (if you have the money) with a helicopter over the
active volcano. It's awesome. Hike one of the many trails in Hawaii
Volcanoes National Park.

And last but not least: See Haleakala Crater on Maui.

Well, if all of this looks like an Hawaiian vacation commercial, I'm sorry.
I'm just a tiny bit enthusiastic about paradise  :-)

Have a nice trip.
John-Paul.
-- 
[] J.P.M. van der Jagt [] Systems manager [] Delft University of Technology []
[] Email: jeanpaul@duteca.et.tudelft.nl [] Phone: 31-15-781366 [] e m p t y []


From: mac@cats.ucsc.edu (Michael C. Clark)
Subject: Re: Moloka'i, Hawaii
Date: 4 Nov 91 17:11:21 GMT
Organization: University of California, Santa Cruz

>John-Paul responds to another poster requesting info on Moloka'i:
>I've been on Molokai a few weeks ago and stayed there for two days, which is
>enough to see tho whole island if you have a rental car. I liked the island
 ^^^^^^
 
That is IYHO (in your humble opinion).  I just returned 2 weeks ago from
spending 3 weeks on Moloka'i, and it wasn't nearly enough time (either to
see the entire island, or even just to kick back and relax).  Of course,
it all depends on what your idea of "seeing" is.  It also depends on what
type of rental car you get.  With a 4 wheel drive, one is not limited to
the few miles of paved road that exists on Moloka'i, and is therefore not
limited to the few tourist spots that one can reach by paved road.
Granted, the island is not as open to off roading as it was just a couple
of years ago, but there is still plenty to see and do to last a good long
time, particularly if one takes the time and effort to learn a little of
Moloka'i's (how does one do that anyway) history.
 
>very much because of it's friendly people (pop. 7000) and it's quietness.
                           ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
This I DO agree with :-).
 
>south coast. While driving there notice the islands of Lanai and Maui. Also
>you will pass one of the churches built by Father Damian. You'll have to drive
               ^^^
TWO of the churches built by Father Damian (that are on this section of
the highway.  If I remember, he built something like 12 churches, altho
not all of them on Moloka'i).  The two churches along this road are
(first, and on the right hand side):  Saint Joseph Church, which is usually
open, and (second, and on the left) Our Lady Of Sorrows Church, which was
closed and locked the times I was by it.  These are of course not the only
two churches (there are literally dozens of churches on the island), but
the two specifically built by Fr. Damian.
I took an entire day for the hike through Halawa Valley (to Moaula Falls).
One word of caution:  if you are susceptible to bug bites, be sure to take
along plenty of repellent (I don't get bugged meself :-).  And, do plan on
swimming in the pool at the bottom of the falls (while it is a trifle cold
compared to the ocean water, it sure feels great after a couple of hours
of hiking).
 
>of the island lies the Kalaupapa Peninsula, former leper colony, where Father
>Damian cared for the people who had that disease and who because of that where
>exiled to that part of Molokai, that even today only can be reached by mule
>ride or airplane. However, it can be viewed from Kalaupapa Lookout, high
 
Ahem...it can also be reached by hiking (either both ways, or combined
with flying, one way).  Use caution if hiking as the trail can be very
slippery, whether wet or dry.  It is about a 1600' descent, and you should
plan on an hour and a half to two hours to do it.  Be sure to leave at least 
a half hour before the mules.  You must take a "Father Damian Tour"  once
you enter the settlement (be sure to make your reservations ahead of time).
 Word of correction:  this is not a "former leper colony".  It is very
much a functioning colony even today, although thankfully those still in  
residence are free to come and go as they please and are no longer subject
to the separation/isolation/quaranteen that existed up until the mid/late
sixties.
 
>above the cliffs. The rest of the island is trees.
 
Ahem (again)...a BIG BIG part of the island is NOT trees.  In their
infinite wisdom, the early hawaiians severely denuded much of the
island, and in more recent years much more of it was stripped by
the ranching interest (Moloka'i Ranch still owns the biggest part
of the island).
 Much of the current plant life and trees are not native, but were
brought in during a large reforestation project earlier this century.
 
>There isn't a single traffic light or elevator on the island.
 
True (as well as no movie theater, no developement over two stories
in heighth, etc, etc).  In other words, an ideal place to go :-)
 
>And if you're looking for more quietness, you should plan a few days (two is
>enough) on Kauai. Although more populated and more visited by tourists than
 
You seem to be stuck on two days here.  There is enough to do on any one
of the islands to take much more than two days.  Most of it will not jump
out and grab you, you may have to go looking for it, but believe me, it
is there if you're interested in finding it.  It could take years, if not
a lifetime to not only see what there is to see in the islands, but in
learning the culture, and language, and history of the islands.  And that
doesn't include the time to enjoy the beaches and water sports (no pun
intended...well, maybe just a small one :-)
 
>On the Big Island, fly (if you have the money) with a helicopter over the
 
At one time I would have suggested this myself, but I have rapidly come
to the conclusion that one of the biggest polutants to be found in the
islands are the never ceasing helicopter intrusions into the most
peaceful, quiet, and isolated places there.
 
>active volcano. It's awesome. Hike one of the many trails in Hawaii
                               ^^^^
AH|  A point we CAN agree on :-)
 
To answer (I think) the original posters question:  yes, there is a
rain forest area on Moloka'i, but you will have to work some to find
it and get to it.  It is however well worth the time and effort.  A
visit to the Nature Conservacy (about a mile and a half west of
Kaunakaka'i) is probably your best bet in terms of getting current
information as to this and other more out of the way areas of interest.
This is also where you will have to go to obtain a pass and keys to
allow you to get out to Moomomi (and the preserve there)...assuming
again that you have a 4 wheel drive.
 
My opinion:  take some time to get to know both the island and the
people.  I have now spent some time on the five (larger) islands, and
while I like each of them, and each is unique in its own way, I think
I prefer Moloka'i over the others simply because it is the least
developed, and the least crowded, and the people seem to (overall)
be the friendliest.  Also, there is a great deal to see and do if
you take the time to find it.

I would start out with a good guide book.  One I like is called	Hawaii 
Handbook, by J.D. Bisignani (Moon publications).  It covers all of the
islands, and is an excellent place to start.  

The above is of course strictly my opinion, but based on some relatively
good and recent first hand experience.  Your milage may vary (but you
shouldn't disagree with me anyway :-)


From: lewis@tramp.Colorado.EDU (LEWIS WILLIAM M JR)
Subject: Re: Moloka'i, Hawaii
Organization: University of Colorado, Boulder
Date: Tue, 5 Nov 1991 03:35:39 GMT

Two days to see Kauai is absurd.  We have been there eight times, one
for one week, six for two weeks and one for a month and still don't
feel we really know everything we want to know.  I should point out
that we are not hikers or back-packers, but have learned to keep our eyes
and minds open.


From: stevev@se-sd.SanDiego.NCR.COM (Steve Van Daele)
Subject: Re: Need info about Hana, Maui, Hawaii
Date: 8 Nov 91 20:07:40 GMT
Organization: NCR Corp., Systems Engineering - San Diego

I stayed overnight at the Heavenly Hana Inn. It is a converted residence on
the road just before the town. It was "interesting", very eclectic decor. Kind
of an oriental cabin. NO air conditioning. On the expensive side for what it
offered.

Ate dinner at Hotel Hana Mauii. Great experience and worth the money. The
hotel is expensive also.

If I had to choose a place and money was no object, I would stay at one of the
stay the last night there. Get up EARLY the next day and head for the airport.
-- 
    Steve.VanDaele@SanDiegoCA.NCR.COM   
    NCR CORP                       Network Products Group - San Diego   
    9900 Old Grove Road            San Diego, CA 92131-1685


From: pamh@sco.COM (Pam Hassell)
Subject: Re: Honeymoon in Hawai'i (LONG)
Date: Mon, 11 Nov 91 21:14:04 GMT
Organization: The Downsized Santa Cruz Operation, Inc.

I have been to 3 islands - Oahu, Kauai, and the big island of
Hawaii.

Both Kauai and Hawaii were both fairly "quiet" compared to
Oahu, with Kauai being the most "sedate".  Hawaii however,
is much bigger than all of the other islands put together,
so there are plenty of places to go to get away from it all.

In Kauai, I would highly recommend hiking the Na Pali coast trail
if you like to hike.  It is gorgeous!  It's about 11 miles long
if I remember correctly, and traverses the north coast of Kauai.
This coast is unreachable except by foot, boat or helicopter, and
thus, is unspoiled.  You may also enjoy taking a Zodiac raft tour 
of the Na Pali coast which is great, too.  These are huge, sturdy,
inflatable raft-boats which are driven by guides to the Na Pali coast.
They will stop for group snorkeling and lunch on a secluded
beach.  I've heard that these raft tours are a lot of fun!  I took
a helicopter tour of Na Pali and really enjoyed it.  If you go 
in a helicopter be sure to ask for the front seat, next to the
pilot for the best view.  However, in hindsight, I would have 
preferred to take the Zodiac raft trip on Kauai, and taken the
helicopter ride on Hawaii to see the volcano flow....

Snorkeling is great at Salt Pond Beach Park on Kauai, and many
other areas.  Pick up a copy of "Hidden Hawaii" for a good
guide.  Also, Barking Sands Beach on the west coast is great
for body surfing, as is Brennecke's Beach on the south coast
in Poipu.  Barking Sands is a super place to get a tan, too -
it gets *extremely* hot, so take some sunscreen, just in case.

For a wonderful luau, make reservations at Tahiti Nui on the
northeast coast of Kauai.  This restaurant holds luaus 3 nights
per week, and has the best food on the island, I think.  It's
a much more intimate luau than the ones held at the big hotels.
Hawaiian entertainment (music & hula) is offered after dinner,
and an old Hawaiian woman sits on the front porch making fresh
flower leis all night long.  Be sure to buy one -they're cheap
and fill the air with a wonderful scent.

HAWAII
------

I got back from the big island in September after spending 2 weeks
there.  This island contains many historical sites offering a wealth
of information about Hawaii's heritage.  My favorite historical visit
was to the City of Refuge, located south of Kona.  This is where non-
combatants and vanquished warriors went to received absolution during
and after civil wars.  Anyone violating the sacred laws of "kapu"
(forbidden behavior), also had to find their way to the City of Refuge,
and after spending a certain amount of time there, were allowed to
rejoin society.  Otherwise, they were outcasts.

Also, along the southwest side of Hawaii, we found a number of super
areas for snorkelling and body surfing.  The best snorkeling spot was
at Kahaluu' Beach Park, a marine conservation district.  The water is
fairly clear, and entry is easy.  Best body surfing was at an unamed
beach located across from a mini-mart store, on Ali'i Drive, about
1 mile south of the Kona Tiki Motel.  Oh yeah, don't forget to bring
food for the fish when you snorkel - frozen peas are best since they
don't disintegrate like bread, or the fish food pellets you can get
when you rent snorkel equipment.  

Snorkel Bob's, located at the Kona Hilton on Ali'i Drive, has reasonable
rates for equipment rental.  Bottom of the line gear is $15/week, and 
bifurcated masks, fins, and snorkel = $27.50 a week.  To save money though,
you may want to visit Long's Drugs in Kona and look over the gear for
sale.  Prices are very good, and defintely are cheaper than renting.

The best beaches on Hawaii are located on the Kohala (northwest) coast.
The best beach is Hapuna, a large public beach which is about a half hour
car ride from Kona.  Hapuna has some nice shaded picnic tables, and restrooms.
Body surfing is usually good, although there is no lifeguard, so beware of
the currents.  Next up the road is the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel.  Access to 
the beach which fronts the hotel is limited to hotel guests, and 10 non-guests.
They hand out 10 parking permits a day, which I've heard are heard to come 
by.  When we got there at about 10:30am on a weekday, we got the last permit
available.  Mauna Kea Beach is smaller and calmer than Hapuna, with an open-
air bar on the beach.  Chaise lounges are provided for hotel guests, but you
can snag a couple for yourself, probably no one will hassle you.

Volcanos National Park is nice to visit, but wasn't really our cup of tea.
Steam and sulfur are continuously vented into the air all over the park,
which may be irritating for people with breathing problems.  When we were
there, Kileaua was erupting, and it was possible to see the hot lava flow
if you chose to hike over a couple miles of razor sharp lava to get to the
point where it as flowing into the ocean.  We settled for post cards of
this, as we'd had our fill of "vog" (volcanic fog).  The visitors center
is a neat place ot visit and has some unusual gifts.  To tour the whole
park including Chain of Crater Road would take more than a day.  If you're
interested in seeing the whole thing, you may want to drive from Kona to
the park, spend the day there, and then drive to nearby Hilo, and stay the
night.  It takes about 2 hours to drive from Kona to Volcanos.

In Hilo, expect the weather to be misty and cool.  Be sure to check out the
Japanese Gardens in the downtown area, Akaka Falls, and some of the tropical
gardens in the area.  You can have flowers (orchids, heliconia, birds of
paradise, etc.) shipped back to the mainland for fairly reasonable prices
from Hilo Tropical Gardens and other nurseries.  I'd recommend taking a 
tour of Hawaii Tropical Gardens.  The admission is $10, but is tax deductible
and goes to a good cause.  There are many Japanese people living in Hilo,
and if you like it, Japanese food is a good bet.  I'd recommend KK Tei very
highly - very fresh food, good portions at reasonable prices.  Fuji's is
also supposed to be good.

The Saddle Road which bisects the island from east to west was fine when we
were there despite warnings we'd received about its horrible condition.
A rental car can handle it with no problem.

I could go on and on, but I must get back to work now.

Have a great trip!

Aloha oe,
Pam Hassell
###
        From:  lawder@ohsu.EDU (Kathryn Lawder)
        Date:  Monday, December 9, 1991   4:41:00 pm (CST)
     Subject:  Re: Snow
          To:  markn@ecs.comm.mot.com

Aloha!
 
You lucky thing, you.  I spent 5 nights on The Big Island of Hawaii last June 
(second visit there).  Here's some ideas:

1.  Even if you don't stay there, you MUST check out the Hyatt at Waikoloa 
(that's north of Kona in the resort area of Waikoloa).  Drive in, park like 
you owned the joint, walk through the lobby and get into the passenger boats 
which will tour you around the place and bring you back to the lobby.  This is
open to the public (room rates start at around $300).  You won't believe what 
they've done to a place that was bare lava beds just 6 years ago.  And, 
depending on your sensitivity to massive outlays of money, you'll love it/hate
it.  But don't miss it!

2.  The active lava flow on the south edge of the island is particularly 
spectacular at dusk.  It's a hefty walk from the parking lot, and there are
impressively daunting signs saying don't undertake this walk unless you have 
water, flashlight, good lungs, etc.
 
But to see 3000 degree molten lava trickle down the mountainside and splash
into the ocean in a huge gush of steam is to be at the point of creation, to 
witness the birth of earth.  Here's a point where fire, air, earth and water 
meet in one place.  For me, it was awe-inspiring.  And they weren't kidding 
about the water.  Even after dark, when it's not hot, you're walking over lava
tubes and heat rises through the crust from the molten lava below.  Good place
to have a camera.  This particular flow has added 13 acres to the island in 
the last several years.

3.  There's a drive on the outer edge of the island (southeast corner) called 
the "red road".  Beautiful drive, nice beaches (not much sand).  Stop off at 
the town of Pahoa and have brunch in the coffee shop (insane macadamia nut 
pancakes and a great place to people watch).
 
Have a wonderful time!

kath


From: lawder@ohsu3b2.ohsu.EDU (Kathryn Lawder)
Subject: Re: Looking for suggestions on a Hawaii trip
Date: 30 Dec 91 23:49:31 GMT
Organization: Oregon Health Sciences University

My favorite island is The Big Island of Hawaii.  North of the Kona Coast
and north of the resort enclave at Waikoloa, right on the shores is a
small town of Puako.  Puako is a charming little town with modern housing
along one long strip, with an ocean/beach side and a tree-lined/shady side.
 
The houses run the gamut from beach house funky to very swank and my
local friend over there says they run $800/week and up.  The local
realtor in Puako is called C&H Properties 808/882-7211.  There is public
access on the beaches developed for the resorts at Waikoloa that are
very beautiful and not too crowded.  The Big Island is wonderful in its
diversity from snow at the top of Mauna Kea to active lava flow at
Kiluea.  There's a campground at the top of Kiluea (about 3 miles west
of the Volcano House lodging) with wooden cabins A-frame, one dbl bed,
and bunks, barbecue, picnic table, for $24/night.  Great place to be
with other travelers with children and folks from all over the world.
Great location for day tripping to Hilo, to the lava flows, or to
Pahoa and the southeastern tip of the island.
 
Lots of waterfalls and gardens and parks.
 
Aloha!

Kathi Lawder              
lawder@ohsu.edu 


From: lnelson@cygnus.next.com (Lori Nelson)
Subject: Re: Honeymoon on Hawaii
Date: 18 Mar 92 19:09:02 GMT

Hotel on Maui:  I recommend that you check out the Napili Kai Beach Club  
on Maui.  It's north of Kannapali beach.  If you want to stay at something  
other than a 10-story Metropolis hotel, this is for you. Napili Kai  
features a group of 2-story condo/bungalow buildings, with its own beach.  
Our room had Japanese Shoji doors which opened out onto a deck overlooking  
the ocean, just steps away from the beach.  It's only a 10-minute drive to  
Lahaina, so you feel secluded yet close enough to the main town.

What to do in Maui:  Don't miss the spectacular sunrise over Haleakala!   
You have to get up very early in order make the drive up there, but it's  
definitely worth it (my now-fiance proposed to me there, as we watched the  
sun peek over the crater).  I also would suggest you stop by Blackie's, a  
great dive bar in Lahaina that features juicy burgers and live jazz bands.

Lori Nelson
Iowa State Univ. grad '86


From: cvl0@gte.com (Carol Lafond)
Subject: Re: camping in Hawaii?
Date: 16 Apr 92 11:34:33 GMT

All the information you need about camping sites and state parks
is available in a pamphlet available from:

	Dept of Land and Natural Resources
	Division of State Parks
	P. O. Box 936
	Hilo, Hawaii 96721-0936

You won't need sleeping bags unless you're camping at higher
elevations.

Carol 


From: mikes@hpnmdla.sr.hp.com (Mike Seibel)
Date: Tue, 21 Apr 1992 15:51:22 GMT
Subject: Re: Hawaii
Organization: HP Network Measurements Div, Santa Rosa, CA

On the big island, there is a tour that takes you to the top of Mauna Kea,
the highest spot in the state, for a sunset. The only way to the top is
via 4-wheel drive, so they take a fairly small group (about 10 people) in
a Travel-all. The view is amazing and the sunset is beautiful. One warning:
there isn't much oxygen up there, so you should be in good health.

If either of your parents is interested in astronomy, then
this trip would be very good. Mauna Kea is home to several radio telescopes
and the tour includes an hour of star gazing through an optical telescope
on the way back down the slope of Mauna Kea. I can't remember the tour name,
but there were brochures in all the hotels about this tour.

Also, everyone tells us that we blew it for not taking a helicopter tour
on Kauai. There are many parts of the island that are difficult to see
otherwise.

On Kauai, rent a couple of bikes from Snorkel Bob's for $5 and ride them north
up the sugar cane road from Waimea. The road is right along some beautiful
secluded beaches and is a very easy ride.


From: deal@EE.Stanford.EDU (Michael D. Deal)
Subject: lava adventure (narrative)
Organization: Stanford University
Date: Wed, 22 Apr 92 16:42:19 GMT

The following is an account of my trip to Volcanoes National Park on
the Big Island of Hawaii last October.  It's a little long, but I hope
some of you might enjoy it. 
----------------------------------------------------------------------

I left the house in Waimea (home of Parker Ranch, and of my wife's
family) at 6:30 in the morning.  I had planned to leave between 7 and
8, but our sick baby had us up at 5:30, so I decided to get an early
start.  On the way out through the kitchen, my wife's youngest sister
asked, "you're going NOW?"  I smiled and replied, "Why not?"  She just
shook her head. "Who is this crazy Haole?," she was probably wondering.

I was headed towards Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island
of Hawaii. My wife Faye said she wasn't interested in accompanying me
this time; she had been along on all my previous trips to the park,
and on my previous attempts to "see lava."  It had become an obsession
with me.  Kilauea had been spewing out lava pretty regularly for the
past 8 years, even destroying two towns and one park visitor center
(which we had visited several times prior to its demise), but I had
yet to see some actual molten lava.  Lots of people had, including
Faye's sister and husband in Hawaii, and my boss from back in
California.  And of course, every travel writer telling how easy, and
exciting it is to see the real stuff.  But I always just missed it.
Either it wasn't flowing the particular week I was at the park, or it
was, but the park rangers wouldn't let you get close enough to it.
But this time I hoped it would be different.  Just a week before we
left for our biannual trip to Hawaii to visit Faye's family, there was
an article in the Travel section of the San Jose Mercury about the Big
Island and the Volcanoes.  The author said that people were parking
their cars at the end of the road (the road that use to continue on to
the southeast corner of the Island, but now ended in a giant lava
field), and the rangers were allowing them to walk to where the lava
was entering the sea, causing a great cloud of steam and visible to
those on land.  The article said that markers were even set up to
assist you in taking the right route. Also included in the article
were two important pieces of information. The author said that she had
gone well beyond the old visitors center to see the lava.  And she
also said to be sure to take water with you.  These both proved to be
critical.

I got in the rented Ford Mustang and took off towards Hilo.  This is
probably my favorite stretch of road in the world.  There are
stretches of long, straight sections where you can really build up
some speed (and pass the slow cane trucks and farm vehicles), as well
as winding slow parts.  And the whole stretch is tropical - green, wet
and hot.  From the grass lands outside of Waimea to the cane fields of
Honakaa, to the rain forests of the Hammakua coast.  This is what I go
to Hawaii for.  With me I had an ice cooler with two plastic bottles
of ice cold water and some Spam sushi, a current favorite of the local
people and specially made for me the night before by one of Faye's
other sisters.  I also had suntan lotion, sunglasses, a windbreaker,
my camera, Big Island map, and beach towel.  I was ready for anything.

I arrived in Hilo at about 7:45.  I decided to get gas, even though I
only was down to half a tank.  The reason being that the price is
usually the lowest in Hilo.  Back in Waimea it was $1.71 a gallon for
regular unleaded.  Here it was $1.59.  Well, that's a little better.
And then a treat awaited me.  I drove the looping Banyon Drive, where
the Hilo hotels are, to the parking lot of Coconut Island.  And there
before me I saw both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.  Every other time I was
in Hilo, I couldn't see either mountain because of clouds hiding them.
It is only in the early morning that the mountains can be seen from
this direction, and I took advantage of it.  I snapped a few pictures,
and then got back in the car.  I considered this to be a good omen.

As usual, it was raining as I started the climb up the highway toward
the Park.  But now I could see Mauna Kea off to my right, another
first.  I was really glad that I had left so early.  To the left I
looked for the plume of steam that marked where lava would be entering
the ocean, but there were too many clouds in that direction, and I
couldn't make anything out.  I arrived at the Park Headquarters (it
wasn't raining here) at about 8:20.  After I paid my my 5 dollar
admission fee (good for 7 days), the ranger handed me a write piece of
paper.  On it were guidelines to visit "active lava areas."  Wow, this
was getting serious.  Not only were they not discouraging people from
getting close to lava, they were actually telling you how to get to it
and view active regions.  Some of the guidelines were: wear sunscreen,
long pants, and take one quart of water per person; don't get too
close to where lava enters the sea due to exploding vapors and
particles; and my favorite - plan an escape route in case moving lava
cuts you off!  I could hardly believe what I was reading.  It also
said to park in the designated area at the end of the Chain of Craters
road, and that the last water and restrooms were at the Kamoamoa
campground a half mile before that.

I drove (as fast as I could) around the Kilauea crater and down the
Chain of Craters road.  Even though this 8 year eruption was from the
Kilauea volcano, the lava was not coming up through the famous crater.
Instead, it was mostly coming from a vent on the side of the mountain
about 10 miles towards the ocean, then flowing down towards the sea.
In fact, for the past few years, the lava was travelling under the
original, cooled lava, only exposing itself at the cliffs near the
sea, or in little outcroppings close to the sea.  As I sped down the
Chain of Craters road, I noticed that there was no one else around.  I
passed only one car the whole 24 miles.  I also noticed something
else: there was no plume of steam down near the ocean. Was the lava
spigot turned off?  I shook my head - no this couldn't be happening.

At 9 a.m. I pulled into the Kamoamoa campground/picnic area parking
lot.  I went into the bathroom - what a pit!  I then put sunscreen on
my face, arms and legs.  I would have changed to long pants as the
notice suggested at this point, had I brought some along.  But I
hadn't.  I was hoping no one would prevent me from going onto the lava
fields in shorts, but I have this thing about wearing long pants in
Hawaii - it just isn't done. I drove on to the where the road ended.
It was 9:15. There were only two cars parked there along the side of
the road.  I locked my car, put on my sunglasses, put a bottle of
water in my large shorts pocket, and took my camera.  I walked the 100
yards or so down the road to the end.  Warning signs gave the same
recommendations as the notice sheet.  There was an occupied trailer
parked along side the road.  On the side was a sign that read: cup of
water: 65 cents.  It must get really hot out there.  Luckily, it was
overcast, and rather pleasant.

I could see on the lava field signs that had been erected at about 50
yard intervals, showing which way to go.  I started out.  The route
was a mixture of the two types of lava: a'a, which is rough, broken
boulder type, and pahoehoe, which is smoother, often wrinkled looking
- sometimes appearing like coiled-up rope. Both types are hard to walk
across.  When walking on a'a, it's easy to twist an ankle, and it
often breaks apart under neath you.  The pahoehoe, while not as rocky
or jagged, can be very slippery, especially when wet. Luckily it
wasn't - at first - so I maneuvered myself mostly over patches of
pahoehoe.  But then it started raining. I welcomed the coolness, but
it made the traversing almost impossible. Several times I slipped, and
I wished now that I did have long pants on, or at least knee pads.  I
went from one marker to the next, trying to get as close as possible
to each one.  What would happen if I strayed too far from them?  Every
so often I came across cracks from which steam was escaping.
Occasionally there was yellow stains around the cracks, evidence of
sulfur. I looked down many of these cracks, hoping to see something
red, but no luck.

After about a quarter mile, I met up with a young couple coming
towards me. "Hello," I said. "See anything."  It was implied that I
meant, "See any red lava?"  The guy muttered,"no, it's really a waste
of time."  The woman added,"on the other side of the old visitor
center, the ground does crackle beneath your feet."  Not very
encouraging. But I had a feeling that they had only gone a little ways
beyond the old visitors center.  The Mercury article said that you had
to go quite a ways beyond the visitors center.  Maybe they just hadn't
gone far enough. I continued the trek.  I kept having two conflicting
thoughts.  One was of excitement and of finally being able to see some
lava.  The other was: what if there isn't anything to see?  I've been
looking forward to this for so long, I've flown 2500 miles to Hawaii,
drove two and a half hours, and now I've hiked over moon-like terrain.
Only to be disappointed again?

After about a mile, I came to the old visitors center. All that was
left was the mangled steel girders of the main building, the stone
walls of the ancient heiau or temple (miraculously saved?), part of a
asphalt footpath connecting them, and a grove of palm trees, sounded
by black lava, yet still living.  What a difference from when I saw
this area before, with all the foliage, buildings, and activity. At
this point the markers ended.  The ocean was only about 20 yards away,
and the place where the lava use to enter the sea about a half mile
east of there (I knew that from the previous vacation).  But I scanned
the area in all directions. And to the north east, I saw a series of
three orange ribbons, each about 50 yards apart.  "That's where I'll
go!"

The travelling actually became easier.  As the woman had said, the
ground did crackle under your feet.  And it had a better grip to it.
As I got to the third ribbon, I could see two more off the distance. I
kept going.  And I got more and more excited.  It even stopped
raining. And it was getting warmer.  Finally I came to an outcropping
of what appeared to be newer lava, still black but a littler grayer
and apparently more porous, on top of the flatter, blacker stuff. It
was about 10 feet high and about 10 yards across. It almost looked
like a giant wart.  On the top was an orange cone.  I decided to climb
to the top so that I could see the next marker.  I felt a lot warmer,
which I attributed to the sun breaking through.  At the top of the
mound, I looked in all directions, but could see no other marker.
"The end of the line?" I thought.  Foiled again?  I was really
depressed.

I decided to climb down the other side.  As I did, I got hotter and
hotter. I was sweating.  And I could smell sulfur.  Real strong.  In
fact it was hurting my eyes, even with my sunglasses on.  Then a drop
of sweat dropped from my face.  It hit the rocks, and sizzled!  I spit
a couple times.  The spit boiled away.  I checked the bottom of my
shoes, but they weren't melting. I touched the rock beneath and it
wasn't too hot.  Luckily, I thought, the rocks are porous, with the
inner part hot, but the outer surface cooler. I then looked into some
of the cracks and crevices of the outcropping.  And then I saw it:
red, molten lava! Just a little, but the real stuff. I took a picture.
I looked in another crack.  Even more. Another picture.  And another.
I continued doing this for about 20 minutes.  As I went around the
mound, I saw larger and larger regions of red lava.  Incredible.  In
one place, I could hear some crackling sounds.  The rocks were moving,
pushed by the lava underneath.

Then it started raining.  I heard a thousand little pops, as the rain
drops were boiled away as they reached the hotter rock deeper in. What
a sound.  But this also caused the sulfur smell to get even worse.  So
bad that I had to climb off the mound.  I found a spot about 10 yards
form its edge, and I sat down.  I was hot, I was tired, I was choking.
But I was ecstatic.  I then remembered my water, and I drank about 3/4
of it in one slurp. Was I glad I had brought it. I decided to keep the
rest for any wound or burn I might get.  I then realized what I had
just done. This was where lava had welled up from under ground and
formed this new part of the earth. The surface had cooled, but the
inside was still molten lava.  And I had climbed to the top of it. I
could have tripped and slid into one of the cracks.  My foot could
have broken through the crack right into a pool of molten lava.  How
stupid I was. But how happy I was.  I just sat there for a while,
every so often letting out a laugh of joy, and shouting, "YES,
YES!"

I then made an entire circuit of the mound, on the outside this time,
looking for anymore signs of lava.  But nothing more. Which was
actually good, since I had run out of film.  I then rested again, and
decided to drink the remaining water. Towards the ocean, I saw a
similar mound, and made for it.  But I didn't see and lava in it.  I
then headed back to the visitor's center.  Along the way four or five
helicopters flew over me. These were taking tourists to see the
volcano.  Evidently there wasn't much for them to see today, except
for the remains of the visitor center, and a guy in shorts and white
t-shirt against the black background of the lava field. On of the
helicopters actually hovered right over me, and I could see one of the
passengers videotaping me.  I waved.

From the visitor center to the car, I passed four different groups
coming towards me.  Each one asked if I saw anything, and each time I
told them what I saw and how to get to it.  Lucky people for meeting
me.  One woman I was talking to actually slipped and fell as she was
standing there.  It wasn't hard to do - I slipped about 3 times on the
way back, but I didn't hurt myself.  Maybe I did, but I didn't feel
anything.

I made it back to the car.  I was soaked from the rain.  Before a
left, I toweled myself off, then ate the spam sushi and drank a coke
from the cooler in celebration.  As I drove away, it started to
downpour, and about 6 or 7 more cars were pulling up.  I wouldn't want
to walk across that now.  And then I wondered, "there were two cars
parked when I first got there, but I only came across one other group.
Where were the others?"  I didn't want to think about it.

It was noon, and I started my drive back to Waimea.  But it took a
while. I stopped at the Jagger museum at the edge of the Kilauea
crater.  People were asking the ranger if they could see lava.  She
said that it stopped flowing into the sea about two weeks ago, but it
could start again at any time.  For the fun of it, I asked her if you
could see any lava further inland.  She said "maybe, but it changes so
often.  By the time you get down there, it could start or stop again."
I felt smug. I had been there, and I had seen it.

I stopped at the Volcano House on the other side of the crater to see
the place Faye and I had spent our honeymoon, and then continued the
entire way around the crater once again.  These people were ooing and
awing about the black, cooled lava, while I had seen the red molten
stuff just this morning.  I left the park, and had a teriaki burger
lunch at the drive-in at Volcano Village.  I then drove down to Hilo,
and right outside I took the famous 4-mile scenic drive the the
umpteenth time.  I them took the exit to Akaka Falls, and took the
half-mile hike there.  Next the parks at Kepoke and Lapahoehoe, a stop
at Tex's drive-in in Honakaa to buy a dozen of their famous malasada
donuts.  Then on to Waimea, where I arrived back at the Kimura house
at about 4 p.m.  It was day I would remember for a long, long, time.

As I look back on this trip, one thought that I have is that I was
actually witnessing a little bit of creation.  This was material
originating in the center of the earth, made molten by some still
unknown process (still hot from the beginning of time?, or due to the
nuclear decay or fusion of radioactive materials?).  Then it was
squeezed up to the surface, forming new pieces of land, never before
seen or trampled on.  Just seeing a few square yards of it was
incredible.  And then to imagine the creation of the entire planet,
and the entire universe!  By seeing the lava that day, I've been given
a small glimpse of these truly miraculous events.


From: smpod@venus.lerc.nasa.gov (Stefan)
Subject: Re: Hawaii (again? :^(

dcovell@pcocd2.intel.com (David Covell) writes:

>We know almost nothing about travel in Hawaii (yes, we'll do lots of reading
>before going) but would like some good advice. 

I went to Hawaii to attend a conference but spent an extra week as a tourist.

>Our interests are mostly scenic; we have no desire to see any of the typical
>tourist stuff (big hotels, crowds, roasted pigs. etc). I've heardd of
>several things to do there that sound appealing:
>1. A long bike ride down the slope of a volcano

Such a ride is on the volcano of Haleakala (I'm sure that I've mispelled
the name and this won't be the first time) on the island of Maui.  This
volcano is beautiful and awesome.  It's about 10,000 ft high and you drive
through clouds as you climb up.  I haven't taken the bike ride (it's all
downhill) but I've heard that it takes about 1/2 to 1 hour and costs around
$80!

>2. Snorkeling (neither of us has ever done this anywhere)

Everywhere :-).  Hanauma Bay on Oahu.   Molakai crater off Kaui

>3. Volcano-watching (or whatever you'd call it)

Island of Hawaii.

>4. Hiking to see waterfall

Hana road on Maui.

I loved Kauai for it's natural beauty: Waimea Canyon, Waiua Falls, Na Pali 
coast.  Maui is also nice: Hana road, Haleakala crater, Iao Valley state park.
I didn't have a chance to get to the island of Hawaii since all car and
room rentals were taken by the eclipse crowd :-(

You could spent all week just hiking on a couple of trails. Probably the
most scenic and rugged would be Na Pali coast trail on Kauai

>I'd like to keep our daily expenses
>under $200/day if possible...is this ludicrous?

Car rental is around $150/week.  Decent hotel should be around $70/day.

>Can some kind, patient, and knowledgeable soul please advise me on some
>basics, such as when to come (September/October is a good window for us),

I'm not sure when the peak season is but I would guess the winter months.

A very good first iteration is to get the AAA tour book guide and map.


From: leynette@systech.bjorn.COM (Leynette Wissinger)
Subject: Re: Hawaii, large island info wanted
Date: 24 Apr 92 21:59:18 GMT
Organization: Systech Corporation, San Diego

If you're staying on the Kona side of 'da big island' try the Keauhou Beach Hotel.  It's
about 10 minutes out of the main part of town (Kailua-Kona) and is built partially
over a reef.  At high tide you can look out from your balcony and see fish swimming
around.  It also has a very nice snorkeling beach right next to it.  I also like the
Royal Waikaloan Beach Hotel on the South Kohala Coast. We paid $99 per night.  Very 
nice beach there.  It's a fairly low key hotel compared to the Hyatt which is just 
down the street (rooms there start at approx. $225 (garden view)).

Another nice inexpensive place to stay is the Manago Hotel in Kealakekua
(or is it Honaunau???)  It's about 30 minutes mauka (up towards the mountains) of 
town (Kailua-Kona) and the most expensive room is $45.00.  It's a family operated no
frills hotel.  There's a resturant on the premises.  In the newer wing most 
of the rooms have nice views of the ocean (and Kealkekua Bay).  

In the town of Waimea there's a hotel called the Kamuela Inn.  It was removated
not too long ago.  About $70.00 per night.  I've stayed there once.  They offer
Kona coffee and pastry in the morning.

If you're staying on the island for a while you might look into renting a condo.

Have fun!

leynette

Leynette Wissinger  
[ucsd,uunet]!systech!leynette  -or-   leynette%systech.uucp@ucsd.edu
Systech Corporation, 6465 Nancy Ridge Drive, San Diego, Ca. 92121


From: teshima@uhunix.uhcc.Hawaii.Edu (A. Lani Teshima)
Subject: Re: Hawaii (again? : ^(
Organization: University of Hawaii
Date: Sat, 25 Apr 1992 07:54:19 GMT

smpod@venus.lerc.nasa.gov (Stefan) writes:
>dcovell@pcocd2.intel.com (David Covell) writes...
>>1. A long bike ride down the slope of a volcano
>
>Such a ride is on the volcano of Haleakala (I'm sure that I've mispelled
>the name and this won't be the first time) on the island of Maui.  This
>volcano is beautiful and awesome.  It's about 10,000 ft high and you drive
>through clouds as you climb up.  I haven't taken the bike ride (it's all
>downhill) but I've heard that it takes about 1/2 to 1 hour and costs around
>$80!

Do they still operate this? A woman ran into the back of a truck while
going on one of these bike tours--and there was talk of shutting it
down because of the danger and potential liability costs.
>
>>2. Snorkeling (neither of us has ever done this anywhere)
>
>Everywhere :-).  Hanauma Bay on Oahu.   Molakai crater off Kaui
                                         ^^^^^^^            ^^^^
				Do you mean Molokini Crater off Maui?
There is no island named Kaui, and Molokai is another island, not a
crater.

Hanauma Bay is closed Wednesdays until noon for clean-up. Do not go
there when they open at noon as it is a madhouse with people waiting
to get in. If you go to H-Bay go very early in the morning, like 8
a.m. Be sure to visit the educational booth operated by the Friends of
Hanauma Bay at the bottom of the hill--they also offer free
educational guided tours of the bay!

On the Big Island visit the Place of Refuge and Kealakekua Bay, both
on the west side of the island. Incredible, awesome diving/snorkeling.
Whenever I visit the island and go to that side, I try to make it
there. Better than any snorkeling on Oahu, even!

>>3. Volcano-watching (or whatever you'd call it)
>
>Island of Hawaii.

Depending on when you come the volcano may be active or not.
Helicopter rides are very thrilling, but very intrusive and obnoxious
to the isolated residents of the area who live in the area to be left
alone.
Best to drive to Volcanoes National Park--they have a museum and all.
It's very neat and safe. They also have daily (even hourly when
active) updates on volcano.
>
>>4. Hiking to see waterfall
>
>Hana road on Maui.

Tip: Make reservations to stay overnight at a lodge or hotel in Hana.
The Hana Highway is 4 hours of twisting, turning tropical jungle road,
and it makes you tired and some people car sick, although the views
are to die for. A round trip to Hana in one day is too exhausting. If
you stay overnight in Hana you'll have plenty of time to drive up to
the Seven Sacred Pools, which is where the waterfalls are.
>
>You could spent all week just hiking on a couple of trails. Probably the
>most scenic and rugged would be Na Pali coast trail on Kauai

Some parts of inner trail is very isolated. Recommended for
experienced hikers only, and leave a specific itinerary with somebody
(hotel clerk, whoever.) You can do Na Pali in a day -- just in and out
in a few hours, just don't go in as far.
>
>
>>I'd like to keep our daily expenses
>>under $200/day if possible...is this ludicrous?
>
>Car rental is around $150/week.  Decent hotel should be around $70/day.

Find a good travel agent who knows Hawaii, to book everything for you
so it's all paid and taken care of. Then you'll only have to worry
about food and such. 
>
>>Can some kind, patient, and knowledgeable soul please advise me on some
>>basics, such as when to come (September/October is a good window for us),

October is a nice slow period, not so crowded.
>
>I'm not sure when the peak season is but I would guess the winter months.

Not necessarily. We have made visitors from Down Under, Canada and
mainland snowbirds who visit us in the winter. Christmas season is THE
MOST EXPENSIVE TIME TO VISIT HAWAII, air fare, hotels will be booked
and expensive.
>
Check with your travel agent NOW--Hawaii tourism industry is SLASHING
prices because hotels are not booking up as much as they should, and
we are feeling effects of the mainland recession. The state government
found out its expected income will be only 3% growth, instead of the
over 10% they were counting on. So you will find some wonderful, great
prices.

Enjoy your vacation!
--
A. Lani Teshima, (future) Famous Librarian--an oxymoron  o | /_/_/ "Sea Hare"
Univ of Hawaii Grad. School of Library & Info Studies     o|<0_0>--------*
teshima@uhunix.uhcc.Hawaii.edu (preferred)                  \=^-| |____\ \
TESHIMA@UHUNIX.BITNET                                           <_>     \_}}E


From: v069qppf@ubvmsd.cc.buffalo.edu (Jen)
Subject: compiled hawaii
Date: 28 Apr 92 19:12:00 GMT
Organization: University at Buffalo

Kauai is the island for scenery: they call it the Garden Isle.
It  is  not  the  island  for  night  life  and  lots of great
restaurants.  There are three areas that have great scenery:

1.  Waimea Canoyon/Kokee State Park
2.  the North shore from Hanalei to Kee Park
3.  The Na Pali (Hawaiian for "The Cliffs")

(1) and (2) are accessible by car.  Na Pali is  not.   If  you
are  hikers,  you  probably  already  know about the 11.5 mile
trail from Kee beach to the Kalalau  Valley.   If  you're  not
hikers, forget it.  (It's a cliffside trail that rises several
times from sea level to 2000 feet.  You have to carry  all  of
your  food  and water, and most people take at least two days.
One to go to the valley and  one  to  return  to  Kee  beach.)
Otherwise,  You can "tour" Na Pali by helicopter and/or a boat
trip.

I really like the down-home style luau at the  Tahiti  Nui  in
Hanalei.

Snorkelling is ggod at  Poipu  (sputh  shore)  and  Kee  beach
(north  shore).   A  little place in Kapaa (Sea Scape?) has an
outing that includes snorkelling gear and  instruction  and  a
picknic lunch. They go to Poipu.

On Kauai, you need a car.  I have always rented from Alamo  at
a weekly rate.  It actually costs more to rent for six days at
the daily rate than for seven at the weekly rate.   Maybe  you
can get a better deal from someone else.

I am a semi-pro photographer, so my  list  is  slanted  toward
photogenic  places.   My  primary interest is scenic/landscape
photography.

Hawaii (the Big Island) is my favorite island, and when I move
to Hawaii, I will live there.  These are my favorite things on
the  Big  Island.   The  major  items  are  in  my  order   of
preference,  with  minor  (nearby) items listed with the major
ones.

1.  Pu'uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park (City  of
  Refuge)

  This is  probably  my  favorite  place  in  all  of  the
  islands.   It  is  a  restoration  of a pre-Christianity
  temple site (Heiau) and the surrounding grounds.   As  I
  tour the grounds, I always have the feeling that someone
  is watching what I do.  This "watcher" is  benevolent  -
  far  from  malevolent.   I find it very peaceful there -
  very much like a Church.  Lots of great pictures  to  be
  had here.

  Nearby spots are:

  a) The Painted Church
  b) The Kona Coffee Mill.   Even  if  you  don't  like
      coffee,  they  have a lot of interesting things in
     their informal museum.  They also have a huge  urn
     of their coffee for you to sample free!!  It's the
     REAL KONA COFFEE!!!  And they sell it at the  best
     prices you'll ever see for KONA.
  c) The Macademia Nut "Factory".  It's really a  small
     nut  processing  facility  with a small display of
     relevant processing antiques and GREAT nut prices.

2. Hawaii Volcanos National Park.  This can be a full  day
   (multi-day?)  place  to  visit.  Don't miss the Thurston
   Tube or Devastation Trail.   I  have  always  been  very
   impressed  by the lava flow fields that are all over the
   island.  Hawaii is the  youngest  island,  so  the  flow
   fields  there  are very easy to see.  Those on the older
   islands have been worn down to soil  be  the  action  of
   plants and water over the millions of years.

3. The Hilo Area

 a)  Akaka Falls  State  Park.   Two  giant  (400  ft.)
     waterfalls  in  a  park  full  of  giant  tropical
     plants.
 b)  Take the scenic drive that runs parallel to  State
     Route  19  North  of  Hilo and on the way to Akaka
     Falls park.  You leave 19 at Papa'ikou.
 c)  Rainbow Falls: right in Hilo.
 d)  Hilo City Park.  Laid out like a Japanese garden.
 e)  Ting  Hao  restaurant:  my  favorite  in  all  the
     islands.    It's   a   down   home  style  Chinese
     restaurant where you pay low prices for the  great
     food   instead  of  high  prices  for  the  pretty
     wallpaper.   Don't  miss  the  Flan!!!  ("vanilla"
     pudding with carmelized sugar sauce).

4. Waipio Valley overlook.

5. North Kohala mountains.  Take  the  high  road  out  of
   Waimea  and go all the way to the end: the Pololu Valley
   lookout.  Notice how fast the  vegetation  changes  from
   large  trees  that  need  lots of water to Arizona-style
   desert as you go through  Waimea.   Climatologists  have
   defined  24  different  climatic regions types on earth.
   The Big Island has 23 of them on it. (I guess "Artic  is
   the  missing  one.)  Notice  the  cactus  growing in the
   fields full of the greenest grass you're likely  to  see
   anywhere!

 a)  Kamehameha I statue in Kapa'au.
 b)  Keokea Beach County Park.
 c)  There are lots of nice beaches near/at  the  large
     hotel  sites  in  South  Kohala (along State Route
     19).

6.  The Kailua (Kona) area.

 a)  The Kailua Kandy Kompany: a mom-and-pop  CHOCOLATE
     candy company in the little industrial park at the
     North edge of town.  Don't miss  their  free  tour
     with   the  free  samples.   They  make  the  best
     Chocolate  candy  I've  ever  had.   They  use  NO
     ARTICIFIAL ingredients or preservatives.  It's not
     cheap, but it's great!
 b)  The luau at the  King  Kamehameha  Hotel.   Pretty
     good for a "hotel" luau, but not nearly as nice as
     the down home style one  at  the  Tahiti  Nui  (in
     Hanalei on Kauai).
 c)  Take a look at "souvenir row" along Alii Drive  in
     Kailua.

  I've been to Maui and in the past few weeks to Kauai. 
  Maui has some *wonderful* restaurants.
  The place they must go to is Avalon, on the main drag in Lahaina.  It is in
a mall off the main street, right below a bar.  It looks like an indoor
patio, but the food is *outstanding*.  The Asian pasta is tremendous, the
maui onion strings are great, and the desserts are worth the trip.
  Also in Maui is Hakone in the Maui Prince Hotel (near Makena beach past
Wailea).  Wonderful traditional Kaiseki dinner.  Costly, though ($50 pp for
Kaiseki, but served artfully in a beautiful setting).  Other dinners include
tableside sukiyaki.  MMMMM!
  Island Fish House and Mama's are also good for fish.
  I highly recommend the book Maui: A Paradise Guide (I think from Ten Speed
Press).  The only bad suggestion it had was Chuck's Steak House--ack!
  Kauai doesn't have that great food, and it's expensive!  At the Kauai 
Lagoons (Westin Hotel), the Japanese restaurant is supposed to be good.   One
of the best kaiseki dinners in the US, according to informed sources. But too
expensive for my blood ($70 pp).
  One hole in the wall, wonderful  place is the Hanamura Saimin Stand in
Lihue. Japanes noodle soup, filled with wonderful meats and vegetables to
order. Great for a good, filling lunch at about $4 per person.  Decor is very
 poor, but food is great.  Also have them try the shave ice at Hanamura's
(weekdays only).  Authentic Japanese shave ice (like snow cones, only better)
unlike other places on the island that used crushed ice.  The Halo Halo 
shave ice comes with fruit and jello on the bottom, topped with shave ice
sweetened with condensed milk and can be topped with strawberry syrup.
  A place that was recommended to me was A Pacific Cafe (or something to that
effect).  Never did get the chance to eat there.
  Eggbert's for breakfast is supposed to be good, but I thought the food 
stunk.  Also, a flaming homosexual host greets you (not that I have anything
against homosexuals, but he was annoying any way around) and gives you a 
speech in monotone falsity that makes your skin crawl.   A popular place, but
not worth it.
  Sharky's at the Westing Kauai Lagoons (can you telll where I stayed?) is
okay, but I was a bit disappointed (my fish was overcooked).  It was very
nice though, overlooking the 14th tee on their championship ($118 per round)
golf course.  They also have three live sharks in a tank--3 ft sharks, but
neat anyway.
  That's about it.  Hope your folks have fun.

  On Maui you have to drive (or stay) in Hana.  It is very green and
beautiful.  If they hate rain, then don't go. Stop at the fruit stand on the
drive out, it's great... I've only spent time on the Big Island (a total of
three weeks in the past year).  Volcanos national park without question is
worth as much time as they can spend there.  I'd recommend taking a
helicopter ride to get a good look at the current eruption activity, as well
as to get an idea of what has happened in the park.  You can take a
helicopter tour out of Hilo or from the park itself.  The former gives you
less time in the park (time lost traveling between Hilo and the park), but
has better helicopters with headsets so you can talk to the pilot. The latter
gives you a more park oriented experience.
  Another great time is taking Paradise Safaris' stargazing trip to the top
of Mauna Kea.  They drive you to the top as sunset approaches; you watch the
sunset, and wander around looking at all the observatories up there, then
head down to the 10000ft level to look through a reflector telescope.

  I've been to Hawaii three times.  Twice for business to Pearl Harbor,
Oahu, and once on my honeymoon to Oahu & Maui.  I won't go into great detail
because I'm not exactly sure what your parents enjoy(for me it was water
sports mostly).  I'll just point out a few items that some might not
mention.

On Oahu:

Everyone on the net puts Oahu down because it's built up.
It's a city on the beach, at least at Waikiki, but a lot of fun!
Here's a couple of things I enjoyed:

  o Hiking up to the Diamond Head look out (bring a flashlight
    ther's a long concrete tunnel with a rail but no lights)

  o Seeing the rural part of the island - the North side is full
    a fairly desolate beaches and beautiful scenery.  There's 
    Haunama Bay for snorkelling(crowded), Sunset Beach to watch
    the famous Banzai pipeline(during summer it's a bay though),
    etc...

  o I didn't go because it wasn't there yet, but they have small
    submarine(Atlantis) sails off of Waikiki and allows you to 
    see the fish without getting wet - if your not into snorkelling.

  o Pearl Harbor if they are interested in WWII memorial

  o Bishops Museum for a little history on Hawaiian culture and
    the Ioana Palace where Hawaiian royalty lived. Both in 
    Honolulu.

 I didn't enjoy:

  o Polynesian Cultural Center - a real touristy type place
    the museum was better for a glance at Hawaiian culture.

On Maui:

Liked:

  o I loved the beaches everywhere - stayed on Kaanapali Beach.

  o Lahaina - old whaling town close to Kaanapali that has some
    shops, bars, dining, and also is a port for fishing and 
    boating excursions

  o Snorkelling was great everywhere.

  o Seeing the island was fun, didn't go to the crater but heard


From: v069qppf@ubvmsd.cc.buffalo.edu (Jen)
Subject: hawaii-compiled
Date: 30 Apr 92 04:47:00 GMT
Organization: University at Buffalo

Take a helicopter tour.  I choose Hawaii Helicopters -- there are about
a dozen different tour groups. I've heard their tours are all similar.

We rented snorkel equipment at a very reasonable weekly rate from
Snorkel Bob's in Kihei.  They give you maps of good diving areas, some
of the best are nearby Kamaole, Ulua, and Mokapu beaches.

Visit Hana.  Driving is a great way to see the beautiful road to Hana,
a winding twisting road that passes waterfalls, dense forest, and high 
cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Take windsurfing lessons.  Hookipa Beach offers high wind and surf - where
you can watch world class wind surfers practice, and other beaches such as
Kalama Beach near Kihei offer steady wind but calm water - ideal for
beginners.  Windsurfing conditions are so perfect in Maui, many
schools suggest that in 5 days of lessons, you can accomplish as much as
in 5 weeks elsewhere!

Anyway, back to MAUI:

Beaches:  Kan'anapali has beatiful beaches... but since all the resorts
                      are there, be prepared for lots of people.  But
                      don't let it stop you!!!  They're nice!

          Kama'ole I,II,III are nice beaches just arcoss the street
                            from restaurants and stores.  But nice
                            beaches anyways.  Good if you need to be
                            around all the amenities of "life".  This
                            is in the town of Kihei.

          Makena has 3 beaches in a row.  It's pass the resort town of
                 Wailea (south).  There's no amenities there.  Bring
                 your own everything!!  Oh but it's gorgeous and only
                 a handful of people.  It's a bit hard to fine.  Go
                 past Wailea into Makena... the road runs out, look
                 the beaches are there.

Exploring: Haleakala National Park is a MUST!!!  The crater is just
beautiful!!!  But the tip here is call:
  weather service- 871-5054
  park service -   572-9177
before heading up to th summit.  It's a long drive from anywhere on the
island and you don't want to be disappointed with 0 visability of the
crater.  There is no food/gas services in the park.  Cost is $3.00 for a 3-day
pass for your car.  There are lots of hiking.  There is a ~8hour (12 mi) hike
down Sliding Sands and up ??.  This is what I will do the next time I'm there!
There's also some cabins that you can rent... for a backpacking trip.  Oh, I
heard that with the right conditions that that a sunrise over the crater is a 
MUST. (But, I just can't get up that early! 8^)) The Bike trip down may be 
something you are interested in, I wasn't, but a lot of other people are!!

Road to Hana is pretty, but if you get car sick... don't do it!
There's lots of curves and it's a narrow road.  If
you do do this Hwy 31 turns into Hwy 310 and the
mile markers reset to 0.  Keep an eye out for mile
marker 10.  Just after this point, there is a gate
on the right  for a hiking trail.  It's nice and
quite there... your suppose to be able to see a
waterfall.... but I couldn't find it.  Hike was
neat anyways.  The next thing... is after 10 at the
first bridge is a watering hole.  A great place to
stop and take a quick swim and sit under the water-
fall!!  Okay, stop at the Half-Way-to-Hana  point
to get your shave ice!!  Yum!  Before your reach
Hana, there`s a state park on your left.  I can't
remember the name, but it has nice picnic areas and
a black sands beach.  Hana was okay.  Maybe you'll
discover sonething there... I really didn't.

Oheo Gluch or more famously known as the Seven Scared Pools.  It`s
not scared.. the name was created for the benefits of
us tourist!  It's a great place to take a swim and
dive off the sides... BUT very crowed!!  You park at
the State Park parking lot.  Instead, I crossed the
street to the wooden turn-style to take a ~4 mi (round
trip) hike to the Waimoku Falls.  There's suppose to
be a swimming hole where the two streams meet off this
trail, but I couldn't find it because it was pretty
dry out there in October.  Maybe one of you will be
lucky!!  Oh, this is on the same road past the town of
Hana.  At that point, you should turn around and go
back.  HOWEVER, if you like to break the rules of your
rental car agreement or have 4-wheel drive, you can
continue on 310 and it turns into the Piilani Hwy.
This is a mixture of dirt and paved roads that will
go around to the other side of the island through
cow country.  Nice drive... but long and sometimes
bumpy.

Molikini for snorkeling anyone??  Well, when you get there, you'll
notice LOTs of companies that you can hire to take you
to Molikini.  I used the Pacific Whaling Foundation.  It
is comparable (form what I hear) to all the other companies
in terms of services and likeness.  In this case, PWF is
a non-profic organization chartered to observe the whales
and record info about them.  There is a researcher on
board that will give a short lecture etc.. That person will
also do a "show and tell" by gathering stuff from the
water and doing a short lecture.  Then all stuff is
returned
to the ocean.  Continental breakfast and deli lunch served
during the trip.  Cost ~$39/person.  They do do whale
watching durning the whaling season.

Lahaina is a neat little town.  Okay, it's on the touristy side,
but if you walk around and really look at stuff you'll
be able to find things that have been around for a long
time.

There's lots of things to do there.... this was just a quick highlight
of my trip.  I don't usually recommend restaurants... oh people can be
so picky!! 8^)  Anyway, if anyone has any questions, I'll be glad to
help out.  Oh, I did peruse the book "The Essential Guide to Maui" by
Island Heiritage Publishing (1-800-468-2800).  They also have the guides
to the other islands as well.

OK, on going to Maui, my favorite spot.  Here are some
suggestions: 

   o Cruiser Bob - a thrilling downhill coast of 38 miles on a
     bicycle that starts with a beautiful sunrise and has a
     great breakfast in the middle.  It's a bit pricey ($90) but
     worth every penny. Lots of photo opportunities. This is a good
     very first morning (they pick you up at 3:00am) activity.

   o The road to Hana - do allow ALL day and do rent the cassette
     player and taped guide.  Be sure and go all the way to the
     7 Pools (the road to the pools is a real challenge).  Best
     photo opportunities - take lots of film.

   o Windsurfing - Hookipa Beach - also quite scenic with cliff
     overlook.

   o Snorkeling - Try the "Idlewild" out of Mailea (not sure of
     spelling) village.  It's a small catamaran and they treat you
     like friends. You sail to Molokini and snorkel for about an hour.
     They are very good with first timers or poor swimmers.

   o Do splurge on a convertible or Jeep - it's the only way to go.
     BTW, you do NOT need a Jeep to go to Hana.

   THINGS I WOULD AVOID:

   o The "resort" cruise to Lanai - it's a rip-off once there, you are
     a captive to their over-priced facility. ONly thing that saved the
     day was whale observation at close range on trip back.

   o Beware of the booths hawking good prices on activities.  Many of
     them do have great prices but require you to waste your precious
     time listening to condo deals. There is a good activities broker
     in Lahaina, Tom Barefoot, he put us onto the Idlewild.

   o The big resort/hotel/condo area in Kanipali, if you've been to
     Florida, you've been there.  Wall-to-wall people and buildings.

For some good photography, go see the sunset on top of the
crater in the center of Maui (the name escapes me now!!).
You'll have to get up bright and early (3:30 or 4AM) in
order to drive up to the top.  It's quite cold, so bring
a sweater or sweatershirt and pants.

Also, take the road to Hana!!  The road is VERY curvy, and
you'll be adviced to have someone drive you.  If you're
comfortable in a car, you'll probably be okay, but I don't
know how much of the sights you'll see.  You can stop along
the way to see water falls and other sights -- it's worth
the trip!  There are tons of brochures about Hana in any
hotel or on the streets or in the airport.  There are a
lot of free publications to pick up, and they're quite helpful
(restaurant listings, water activities, etc.) especially if
you've never been there.  Plus you'll get an idea of special
events during your visit.  Some of these publications even
have coupons, too!

I spent some time in Waikiki Beach, and I was so happy
to leave Oahu and visit Maui.  It's beautiful!!  And there
are fewer cars and fewer tourists and much more pleasant.
Of course, there's not much to do if you like a wild
nightlife.  There are some bars in Lahaina (including a
Hard Rock Cafe) and Kaanapauli, but it's not like Waikiki
(thankfully!!).

There's LOTS
to do on Oahu (FYI: Waikiki is the beach, in Honolulu, on Oahu), and we
saved money not having an ocean view.  We liked the hotel.  It's huge,
but it's right on the best beach area in Waikiki.

I was amazed at the cultural diversity.  I've never seen such a mix in
any other area.  According to a pie chart I saw, 35% are Japanese, 30%
are Caucasian, 20% Hawaiian, and then tons of others.

We toured the Dole Pineapple factory.  A must see.  Great samples.  Go
to Hilo Haties if you want a muu-muu (ugly Hawaiian flowery dress), but
otherwise stay away.  Take the 50 cent Pineapple Express bus trip to
Ala Moana shopping center.  It's huge, and has everything from
Woolworth (a K-Mart type) to Gucci and Chanel.  I was amazed at the
number of incredibly-overpriced stores, and the only people in them
were Japanese.

Right across from the shopping center is Ala Moana park.  It's very big
and is the place to go to get away from the hussle and crowds on
Waikiki.  It'd be good for a barbecue, but I forgot to pack my
charcoal.

There's a whole lot of skin cancer goin' on in Hawaii.  Some of the
"beautiful people" would be at the same spot on the beach every day,
>From 8 am to 8 pm.

We took the #20 bus to Pearl Harbor.  Don't bother taking a packaged
bus tour.  It'll cost you $15, whereas the public bus gets you there in
the same amount of time and only costs $0.50.  It's a 55 minute ride
>From Waikiki to PH.  Take the free tour and boat ride out to the
Arizona Memorial.  I felt kinda strange there.  About half the people
there were Japanese, and in case you forgot, that's who bombed us in
1941.

We took a package tour to the Polynesian Cultural Center, way on the
other side of Oahu.  It costs $66 per person.  Our bus driver was
great, very funny yet educational, and proud of his Hawaiian heritage.
The only part I liked about the Center was the Samoan area.  One of the
guys there was incredibly funny.  I overheard a tourist say "If I could
get that guy in my NY nightclub, he could make $1M/yr easily."  The
rest of the Center was okay, and the dinner was more of a Kings Table
food orgy than the traditional roast pig, etc.  The night show (with
fire, etc.) was pretty neat, but my wife liked it a lot more than I
did.

Make sure you are in Honolulu over a weekend.  It's got a happenin'
nightlife.  Partying goes on into the wee hours.  That is, if you like
that kind of stuff.  We retired early.

There's tons of money in Honolulu.  The Japanese own 60% of Waikiki,
and they drop $300 a day when on vacation there, as opposed to $100 for
'mericans.  For you car buffs, I saw lots of Mercedes S-class, Bimmers,
Lexi, a Ferrari or three (including a white Testarossa for rent!), and
Porches (sic).  The typical 2 bedroom apartment goes for $1K/mo, and my
$85K Oregon house would be worth about $450K there!

We took the #22 bus (50 minute ride) to Hanauma Bay for snorkling.
Rent the gear there, and plan a whole day there.  It's neat, with a
huge coral reef, but kinda crowded.

We had dinner at the Tratoria Italian place near the Reef.  Not too
exciting.  The next night, we ate at Buzz's, also near the Reef.
Again, nothing to write home about.  We had a breakfast buffet at the
Reef for $7/pp.  Pretty good.  We had a dinner at the Outrigger
Waikiki.  It's right on the beach, with a great view.  Good food but
inattentive service.  Worth it just for the location.

Almost all the restaurants have a buffet option for all meals.  You've
gotta watch it or you won't be fitting into your pants when you get
back home.  Trust me on this one.

Try some "apple bananas."  They're small, sweet tasting bananas.  And
by all means bring home as many pineapples as possible.  Ours was
great.

After four days in Honolulu, we took an inter-island to Kauai.  Even
though it's only a 30 minute flight, it took us 6 hours from check-out
to check-in, because of all the transfers, waiting, etc.  A car is
necessary in Kauai.  (But if they'd just put in a single light-rail
system all the way around the island, they wouldn't need a single car.
All the businesses, hotels, etc. are right off the circle drive around
the island.)  We got a Geo Metro tin can (I mean car) with a whopping
1.5 liter 3 cylinder engine.  But it was certainly adequate, and given
the $1.50/gallon gas price, economical.  We got about 32 MPG, and I had
the thing floored (literally) about half the time.  Dollar really tried
to push a bigger car on us (I'm 6'4"), or a convertible.  I'm glad we
stuck with the Metro.  It was plenty big, and I wanted to be OUT of the
sun while driving, so a convertible would have been useless.  The only
thing I missed was a trunk.  The Metro doesn't have a cargo cover, so
you have to take everything with you, if you don't want it stolen.  It
had a good AC.

We borrowed a copy of "Kauai: A Paradise Guide" by Don and Bea Donohugh
>From our travel agent.  It is quite complete, but our copy was four
years old, so it was a bit out of date, given how fast Kauai is
changing.  There are some neat shops in the Poipu and Koala areas.

We stayed at the Sheraton Kauai, which is in the Poipu (southern)
area.  I'd recommend staying in Poipu, since it's much more sunny than
the other hotel areas on the east and north sides.  The Sheraton
sprawls, since buildings are limited to four stories on Kauai.  We were
a 10 minute walk from the beach.  The Sheraton had probably the nicest
beach area.  The garden view room was nice.  The hotel was
reconstructing the cabana and registration areas, so it was kinda
messy.

Our Pleasant orientation (with free continental breakfast!) on Kauai
was at the Kilohana ranch.  We drove around the area and saw the
waterfall from Fantasy Island, the Westin Kauai, and then drove up the
east and north coasts to Princeville.  Make sure you take bug
repellent.  I didn't and was scratching for days at the 25 mosquito
bites I got in 10 minutes at the Princeville beach.

While we were sunbathing on Poipu beach, a Hawaiian Monk Seal "beached"
itself.  There were two uniformed guys who quickly ran out and put up
police lines around it and posted a sign.  I guess the seals do this
all the time after eating a full meal.  They sun themselves for the day
while digesting their food.  They've become endangered, so the guys
made sure people stayed away.  The seal was oblivious to the crowds
that gathered behind the lines.  It was huge.

I couldn't believe the number of "planned residential communities" that
were springing up.  50 lots here, 80 lots there.  I guess I can't blame
people.  Kauai is very beautiful, and if I had the money, I'd probably
want to retire or have a summer home there too.  But once again
overpopulation is ruining a pristine natural area.

Kauai weather was sun one moment, clouds the next.  Mostly the temps
were 80-85 'F.  It ended up raining some days for about an hour.  But
it was still plenty nice enough for sunbathing.

We ate at the Plantation Gardens restaurant twice.  It was tasty.  Neat
botanical gardens on the grounds.  Great Hula Pie dessert.  Near
Princeville, we had a good Mexican dinner at Norberto's El Cafe.
Charo's looked nice too.  Back in Poipu, we had a great steak and crab
dinner at Kieoki's Paradise.

I much preferred the Hyatt over the Westin on Kauai, even though I
stayed at neither and didn't get to see in either of the hotel's
rooms.  The Hyatt's grounds were beautiful, and breakfast there was
great.  I overheard someone say they transferred from the Westin to the
Hyatt because the people were so snobby at the Westin.  I didn't like
the Westin's grounds, except for the great swimming pool.  It was very
ostentatious.

The Hyatt has another thing going for it:  It's near Poipu beach, a
nicer area than the more cloudy Westin area on the East side.  However,
the Westin actually has a hotel-front beach, whereas the Hyatt requires
a 5 minute trip.

Anyway, both the Westin and the Hyatt cost mucho buckos.

My wife took a helicopter tour (with Papillon) of Kauai.  It lasted 55
minutes, cost $130, and circled the island.  She really enjoyed it but
probably wouldn't take another.

We took a 3 hour tour of the Pacific Botanical Gardens ($15/pp).
Although I'm not into plants, I enjoyed it.  We saw the setting where
they filmed South Pacific; very spectacular.  From there, we traveled
up the west coast to the Waimea Canyon.  Wow.  This puts the Grand
Canyon to shame.  Even though it's not quite as big, it has lush
tropical greenery everywhere.  You've gotta see it.  We also went to
the end of the road near Mt Waialeale, the wettest spot on earth with
450" of rain a year.  Our orientation person warned us that if the mist
obscured the view of the Na Pali coast we should just wait a while, and
sure enough, after 30 minutes of staring into solid mist, the mist
broke and we could see much of the coastline.  Definitely worth the
wait.  We could also see some small four-legged animals climbing around
the cliffs, and there was a bird sanctuary nearby with thousands of
birds soaring around the cliffs.

On our last day, we were supposed to take a 6 pm flight to Honolulu and
a 9 pm flight to SFO.  But since our car was due back at noon, we got
on an earlier flight back to Honolulu (it's open seating, so Aloha Air
is flexible about this), and had an extra 8 hours to spend in Waikiki.
That was a good decision, rather than sitting around the Lihue (Kauai)
airport all afternoon.

The redeye flight to SFO was a killer.  I only slept one hour.
I was wiped out two days after getting back because of the jet lag.

As you can see, I ran out of different adjectives to describe Kauai.
If you're going to the islands, make sure you go there.  In retrospect,
we decided we chose the perfect itinerary:  4 days on bustling Oahu,
then 4 days on tranquil Kauai.

I'd recommend you try to learn the Hawaiian language.  It's very easy.

Although I've mentioned the Japanese an inordinate amount, I have
nothing against them.  But I am very concerned that the overdevelopment
of Hawaii (mostly be the Japanese, according to the real estate reports
I read) will ruin it.  Since they have all the money, I guess that
means they make the rules.  It's sad.

Kaui

A helicopter ride is fun.  I did it on Maui. It is pricey though.
Five years ago it costed me roughly $3/minute.  I had gotten out
of college a couple of years earlier and felt the need to splurge. :-)

On Maui there was a seafood restaurant that I enjoyed a lot.
I think it was called Erik's -- yes, with a K.

A friend recently honeymooned in Kaui. She mentioned that rafting
was enjoyable.  The trip include food and drinks.

The Insight Guide to Hawaii is worth getting...it has beautiful
pictures, and gives a lot of history. Very inspirational!
  I went to Honolulu in '83 when my parents were living there. The
deal is that all of the Giant Tourist Hotels are on one strip, which
icludes Waikiki beach and the Times-Square-like Kalakuua Ave.
If you go around to the other side of the island there are small
motels catering to relatives of service people or to surfers. Stay on
that side of the island and take the bus to the tourist parts! My
folks lived in Moili-ili, near the University of Hawaii and with a
great view of Diamond Head. If there are places to stay around there,
it was a nice neighborhood...


From: teshima@uhunix.uhcc.Hawaii.Edu (A. Lani Teshima)
Subject: Re: compiled hawaii
Organization: University of Hawaii
Date: Thu, 30 Apr 1992 06:40:26 GMT

(Jen) writes:
> Sizzler

	The Sizzler's in Waikiki is the most busiest Sizzler in the
whole country, and also nets the most income of them all. It is open
24 hours a day and there are lines practically all day lone. Food is
consistent and reasonable for Waikiki.

>  Lay out in the sun for long periods of time especially between 11:00 a.m
>and 2:00 p.m. - other times for short periods until a good tan base is built.

NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO NO!!! You are promoting the development of
skin cancer! Never lay out from 11am to 2pm, when the sun is strongest
here! The sun is physically closer to us because we are only 21
degrees from the equator. You will suffer sunburn and increase your
chances of skin cancer! Please limit your sun worshipping to morning
hours or later in the afternoon. Remember--there is no such thing as a
"healthy" tan. 

>If you must, use a minimum number 15 sun lotion - 25 0r 30 even better.

>  Check out Haleakala on Maui. If there is one thing in my 22 years here that
>I would recommend, that's the one. It is far the most "awesome" place I've 
>ever been to. You MUST, absolutely MUST see it at sunrise!!!!!!  You will
>have to get up verrrrry early, and it is about a 2-3 hour drive from Lahaina,
>but you will NEVER forget it!!! And it is cold in the morning.  Yes, COLD.
>The air is thin. TAKE FOOD with you in case there isn't any being sold there.

Plan to leave Lahaina at least 3am or earlier. Wear layers of
clothing, so you can peel off when it gets warmer. It feels
particularly cold because air is so thin. Plan on wearing at least a
thick sweater.
>
>  I definitly reccomend Nanapua from ANY grungy looking street vendor or
                         ^^^^^^^ "manapua", pronounced mah-nah-pooh-ah

>"greasy spoon". THey sell the genuine article which GREAT, the "fancy"
>version cost around 10X more and was awful!

Manapua is found only in Hawaii, although many people think it's
Chinese. (It's a local adaptation, like many other foods here). It's a
white roll (steamed) with char siu red meat inside. If you want to try
a good one, go to Patty's Chinese Kitchen in Ala Moana Shopping Center
in Honolulu. They're only like 60 cents, and Patty's doesn't have
those clumps of fat in them like some others do.

>The Hilo area is depressing; it doesn't seem to fit with the rest of the state.
Excuse me--the rest of the state doesn't fit Hilo. It's the oldest,
bustling gathering place for the Big Island. If you think all the
glitzy Hyatt-type hotels on the Big Island are what the island is all
about, go visit with the local people in Hilo. Now THAT's what the Big
Island is all about. All the rest is just touristy stuff.

>        Oahu: Developed.  We enjoyed the cultural diversity of Oahu, though.
>One evening, quite by accident, we stumbled on a Bon Festival at a Japanese
>Buddhist temple in Moana, a suburb of Honolulu, not far from the University
		    ^^^^^ That's "Manoa," as in "the University of
Hawaii at Manoa." Manoa is a very nice, verdant valley above UHM
campus. Faculty and students hang out up there, so it's tres chic,
coffee shops, etc. Off the beaten track, more educated crowd.

>By far, the very best snorkeling/diving I have ever seen (and
>I've been diving in the Red Sea) is to be had at Hanauma Bay, about 20
>minutes drive west of Honolulu on Interstate H-1.  (I still don't understand
>how Hawai'i can have interstate highways ;-) You don't even need a snorkel,
>and could enjoy the fish without even wearing a mask.  Imagine standing in a
>3 foot deep aquarium. When you walk, you have to push the fish out of the
>way.  There is a State Underwater Park/Preserve there, and the fish know it,
>so they are extraordinarily friendly. 

Do not visit H-Bay on Wednesday mornings, as it is closed for cleaning
and maintenance. Avoid H-Bay on Wednesdays, period. By noon when it
opens there is a huge throng of people waiting to mob the bay. Go as
early as you can, the park opens around 7 or 7:30am. Parking lot fills
up by 9 or 10am.

>  Here's an extra tidbit for you: Volcanic ash from Kiluea causes a haze/fog
>which locals call "vog" on the Kona side of the Big Island (the Hilo side
>isn't affected due to wind direction)  . My sister, who has lived in Kona for
>six years now, had never mentioned "vog"  before my visit to the islands last
>year. Needless to say, I wasn't pleasantly  surprised when I arrived at the
>airport. The locals don't think twice about it anymore, but you may want to
>go mentally prepared to see a Los Angeles-like  sky (if Kiluea's been super
>active lately).  

This is important for asthmatics: when vog is up, bring your atomizer
with you.

Another tip regarding atmospheric haze: Although it's not from vog,
the haze left by Mount Pinatubo (Philippines) volcano has left Hawaii
with the most awesome, spectacular, colorful sunsets I've ever seen in
the 16 years I've lived here. Ever see those fake-looking purple or
orange sunset postcards from Hawaii? It looks like that sometimes now.

> Oh yeah, don't forget to bring food for the fish when you snorkel - frozen
>peas are best since they don't disintegrate like bread, or the fish food
>pellets you can get when you rent snorkel equipment.  

The frozen peas may be convenient for YOU, but it's not natural food
for the fish. Fish Chow is better from a nutritional standpoint, and
environmental educators are working hard to change this here. Please
do not feed the local fish frozen peas (or bread, or M&Ms or any
number of things I've seen being fed). And IF you DO feed frozen peas,
PLEASE keep your plastic bags until you get to the trash bin. We try
hard to keep our islands clean, but we still collect hundreds of tons
of marine debris in our annual October shoreline clean-up. If the tide
is right, I see hundreds of frozen pea bags wash up in Hanauma Bay. :(

>  The Saddle Road which bisects the island from east to west was fine when we
>were there despite warnings we'd received about its horrible condition. A
>rental car can handle it with no problem.

Consider your car rental contract before attempting Saddle Road. Some
agencies will void insurance coverage on your car if you drive on
Saddle road. BEWARE!

Just my $0.02 worth to help make your Hawaii trips more enjoyable.

Aloha--
--
A. Lani Teshima, UH School of Library & Info Studies   o | /_/_/ "Sea Hare"
Visit your local information data center and            o|<0_0>--------*
access those cellulose ROMs today!                        \=^-| |____| | 
teshima@uhunix.uhcc.Hawaii.edu                                 \_}B   \_}B


From: leej@sgi.com (Lee Jones)
Subject: Re: Hyatt Wailea in Hawaii
Date: 7 May 92 20:52:54 GMT
Organization: Silicon Graphics, Inc.

In article <l0dv76INNgc9@jethro.Corp.Sun.COM> ecp@searanch.Corp.Sun.COM writes:
>Am seeking any information on the new Hyatt Wailea on Maiu. 
>
I stayed there for 5 days last month (courtesy of my fiancee's perforamce at 
work :-).  It was *unbelievable*.  The grounds are exquisite, the pools 
are great fun to play in (the water elevator was broken when we were there
:-( ), the statues in the atrium area are mezmerizing.  Above all, the staff
was incredibly nice.  People went out of their way for us at every possible
juncture.  I really can't say enough good about the folks that work there.

Specific recommendations:

1. Sadly, they don't know where snorkeling is around there.  I tried at both
   ends of the beach.  The best snorkeling *by far* right there - if you're
   standing on the beach facing the ocean, go to your *left* out to the 
   rocky point at the end of the beach.  It's fairly surgy but there's a 
   ton of stuff to see.  I saw some large schools of jacks, and my fiancee
   pointed out a zebra moray in a coral head.

2. The high-end restaurant at the back of the atrium area is *really* good. 
   It's not cheap by a lot (entrees are $20 and up) but the service was as
   good as any I've ever had *anywhere*.  Case in point: we both ordered
   different kinds of fish.  Kathy's was a bit salty to her taste (not 
   surprising, we hardly use salt at all when we cook).  She told our waiter
   that when he asked (I think she said something like "It's very good, but
   a little on the salty side").  He immediately asked if he could bring her
   a different entree, which she declined.  Come to the end of the meal, her
   entree *and* our desserts and coffees were not on the check.  We left
   a very generous tip (even by the pre-discount price).  
  
   Furthermore, if you sit on the lanai outside, you have an exquisite view
   of the ocean.  

3. At night after dinner, go stand on the beach and see what's going on.
   The first night we were there, there was all kinds of commotion in the
   water immediately off the beach.  The hotels shine big floodlights down
   into the water at night.  That seems to attract tiny plankton or 
   shrimp or something.  That attracts small fish, which attract bigger fish,
   which....

   As we stood there, we would occasionally see entire schools of fish 
   screaming across the surface trying to escape from ?.  Multiple times
   within an hour, we heard *huge* splashes (like a 4-5' fish) crashing
   down onto the surface.  At one point, a 2-3' shark almost beached 
   itself in pursuit of a school of fish - I know because he ended up
   in about 1' of water right in front of us, spent a couple of seconds
   getting turned around, and headed back out.  What a show!

Have a great time, I'm very jealous.

Regards, Lee
   

From: cday@terapin.com (Chris Day)
Subject: Re: Hawaii with an 8 month old
Date: 10 May 92 22:56:03 PST
Organization: BBS

Ok my own personal opinion , i would staay in Youth hostels ,they are also for
small families not just youths ,they also have family room ,but som have
dormitories style room ,like 2-4 beds to a room ,but id you travel together
you can get rooms for like $36.00 in Hilo its called Arnotts lodge ,its hostel
theres also a you th hostel in Mauui  34.95 double in a private hotel room
call 1-800-8-hostel .Thou these are a few of many you do need a hostel card
,which cost like 25.00 yr but are good for hostels worldwide ...


From: klee@wsl.dec.com (Ken Lee)
Subject: Re: need Hawaii info
Organization: DEC Western Software Laboratory
Date: Tue, 26 May 92 21:29:38 GMT

If you're looking for a tough road ride, try the road up Haleakala.  It goes
from 0 to 10000 feet in about 40 miles.  There's an annual USCF race along
this route.  If you're not into climbing, there are lots of companies that
will charge you lots of money to haul a bike to the top for you and let you
coast down.

-- 
Ken Lee
DEC Western Software Laboratory, Palo Alto, Calif.
Internet: klee@wsl.dec.com
uucp: uunet!decwrl!klee


From: hunter@work.nlm.nih.gov (Larry Hunter)
Subject: Re: Honeymoon in Hawaii
Date: 2 Jun 92 18:06:41 GMT
Organization: National Library of Medicine

   We were wanting to spend time on the islands of Kuai, Maui, and the
   big island (Hawaii).  Any info on horsback riding, para-sailing,
   hiking, or locations of some really breath-taking waterfalls would
   be greatly appreciated!  If at all possible, include names, phone
   numbers, addresses, and if you can recall, the cost of these
   activites.

Most of the best waterfalls are on Kauai.  

There are also two rental stables on Kauai, one in Poipu (south end)
and one a bit north of Kapa'a.  The one in the north has a half day
ride to a waterfall where you are served a picnic lunch.  I don't
recall the price offhand, but it wasn't outrageous.  I liked the trip
a lot.

You might also want to do the first leg of the Na Pali Coast Trail, in
the Northwest of Kauai.  You walk about two miles in to the first
beach, and then about 2 miles inland to a really spectacular
waterfall.  (free, of course)

On the Big Island, you won't find the same kind of spectacular
waterfalls, but you can talk a short hike to one of the best beaches
on the planet.  Start by driving to Pu'a Ali'i Point (also called
South Point, the southernmost point in the US), past a huge windmill
farm and lots of red-soil grassland with grazing cattle.  Park your
car with all of the Hawaiian fishermen who use the little harbor there
(they leave before sunrise, and are back in port hanging out and
talking story by 9am).  Look for a dirt road (with a gate, to prevent
people from driving down it) to your left as you face the ocean.  Walk
down that road about 2 miles, and you will come to green sand beach.
The sand is olivine, which is an almost khaki green mineral.  You
scamper down the slope to a beautiful, small beach, which in September
you may well have all to yourself.  The beach is a bit sheltered, so
the waves are a perfect height for body surfing and swimming, and the
water is that amazing Hawaiian blue.  Facing the water there, there's
really nothing but Pacific Ocean between you and antarctica.  It's a
special place.

	Larry

--
Lawrence Hunter, PhD.
National Library of Medicine
Bldg. 38A, MS-54
Bethesda. MD 20894
(301) 496-9300
(301) 496-0673 (fax)
hunter@nlm.nih.gov (internet)


From: eolson@cs.uiuc.edu (Eric Olson)
Subject: Re: Maui vs. Kauai
Organization: University of Illinois, Dept. of Comp. Sci., Urbana, IL
Date: Sat, 30 May 1992 05:42:16 GMT

Just a few comments on Maui:
>** MAUI **
>Lahaina - Quaint old whaling village on West Maui.  Many colorful 
>buildings and shops.  Tours out of the harbor include a glass- 
>bottomed boat tour and (in season) a whale-watching tour.  A few
>miles north, the Kahana Keys restaurant has an outstanding salad bar.

There are some nice beaches on the road to Lahaina to stop
at and go snorkeling. (just past the whale lookout points -- winter
is whale breeding season in the area)  Lots of shopping and 
good food in Lahaina.

Another wonderful snorkeling place is some C shaped island
 (Molikini???) you take a boat out to.

>Haleakala - This dormant volcano is impressive.  It's a long narrow
>road to the top, but worth it.  Plan on making the drive in the
>morning, because the clouds tend to obscure the view in the
>afternoon.  There is an observatory at the top, but I don't believe
>it's open to the public.

I've spent several days hiking in the crater.  It is well worth your
time to do this (if you have time)  Wonderful colored sands and 
silver sword plants.  Huge lava tubes you can walk through (if you
know where they are -- ask a ranger??)  Sunrise at the top of the
crater is something to experience (it does take a few hours to 
drive up).

>Drive to Hana - Another long, nerrow road, but what fantastic
>scenery.  Numerous beautiful ocean views and many pretty waterfalls. 
>Go on past Hana to the Seven Pools state park.  Also, stop at the
>Waianapanapa State Park and see the black sand beach - there's a
>small cave at the right that opens out to the sea.

Wear your swim suit and try jumping in some of the streams & pools 
on the way (or have a guava fight).  7 pools is nice.  There is a
place half way that has all sorts of interesting trees (arboratum?).
Not much food in Hana (that I found).  Leave early--it takes a while
and you can't spend too much time at 7 pools.

>Iao Needle - Interesting geological formation in a park with a stream
>and many interesting flowers and plants.

Yep.

You can always drive somewhere else on the island if you don't like
the weather.  The Lahaina side is usually hot and dry, the Hana
side (windward) is wet.  Haleakala is cooler (except IN the crater).

>Whichever you choose, have a great time!


From: gadfly@cbnewsi.cb.att.com (Gadfly)
Subject: Re: Maui vs. Kauai
Date: 1 Jun 92 15:53:18 GMT
Organization: AT&T

In article <1992May30.014158.29440@mnemosyne.cs.du.edu>,
jkummer@isis.cs.du.edu (James Kummer) writes:
> ** KAUAI ** 

Just spent 9 days there in April.

> Waimea Canyon - Called the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific" - definitely
> a worthwhile drive.  Take a picnic lunch and drive all the way to the
> top, where you can look over to the North side of the island, to the
> Na Pali cliffs.

Do one better than that--camp at Koke`e State Park and hike around
the Alukai Swamp or along some of the western Na Pali ridges.  They
also have cabins you can rent for up to 5 days in a row.
 
> Spouting Horn - Stop and see this sight on your way to Waimea Canyon.
> Legend has it that a dragon lives in the hole - he roars and spews
> out water each time the waves crash.

Not worth it unless the surf is up.  Muy turista.

> Lumahai Beach - The prettiest beach on all the islands.  It's right
> off the highway, but only marked by a small sign, so be careful not
> to miss it.  An easy trail drops down to the beautiful, uncrowded
> beach.  Play in the waves, but even the strongest swimmers are
> counselled against swimming out past the breakers.

Yes, it's nice, but I didn't find Kauai beaches in the same league
with the other islands, especially the big island's black sand.
Do Kauai for the jungle.

> Haena State Park - Great beach and snorkeling at the end of State 50.
> This beach (called Ke'e) was the setting for _The_Thorn_Birds_). 
> Hike a ways beyond the beach toward the Na Pali cliffs.

It's weirdly arid and desolate--also hot, at least in April.

Don't miss the Na Pali trail, and take the first turn off inland
to Hanakapiai Falls.  It's a 4 mile hike up to them, and the
footing gets a bit treacherous when it rains, which is to say
always, but it's right out of a movie set, only much much bigger.

And for you poi fans, the Aloha Diner in Kapa`a serves only
Hawaiian food.

Ken Perlow   ***** *****
01 Jun 92   ****** ******   13 Prairial An CC
            *****   *****   gadfly@ihlpa.ATT.COM


From: tencati@nssdca.gsfc.nasa.gov 
Subject: Re: Maui vs. Kauai  
Organization: NASA - Goddard Space Flight Center
Date: Mon, 1 Jun 1992 21:53:00 GMT

eolson@cs.uiuc.edu (Eric Olson) writes...
>Just a few comments on Maui:
>>** MAUI **
>>Drive to Hana - Another long, nerrow road, but what fantastic
>>scenery.  Numerous beautiful ocean views and many pretty waterfalls. 
>>Go on past Hana to the Seven Pools state park.  Also, stop at the
>>Waianapanapa State Park and see the black sand beach - there's a
>>small cave at the right that opens out to the sea.
> 
>Wear your swim suit and try jumping in some of the streams & pools 
>on the way (or have a guava fight).  7 pools is nice.  There is a
>place half way that has all sorts of interesting trees (arboratum?).
>Not much food in Hana (that I found).  Leave early--it takes a while
>and you can't spend too much time at 7 pools.


For a change of pace, at the 7 pools state park, after you park your 
car in the parking lot, instead of going to the 7 sacred pools area, 
cross the highway, go through the gate,  and hike up the field about
1/2 mile (there's a trail). Here you will be at the top of a rather
high waterfall, looking down. From the lookout point, there is a muddy
trail that leads to a small grotto where you can actualy swim ABOVE
THE FALLS. It's completely safe, as the lagoon (and stream) is
separated from the falls by lots of boulders. In order to 'go over the
falls', you'd actually have to climb out of the water and hike over
some rocks and then jump. 

It was a rare treat, but you have to be a fairly good swimmer, since 
you might want to swim against the current (away from the falls) about 
30 yards or so to a small beach where you can rest and get a view of 
another waterfall that feeds the stream you're swimming in.
When I was there, there were about 5 other people swimming, so it was 
pretty private.

Ron Tencati
Hughes STX Corporation


From: cvl0@gte.com (Carol Lafond)
Subject: Re: More Hawaii info?
Date: 26 Jun 92 11:30:15 GMT

dcovell@pcocd2.intel.com (David Covell) writes:

>Thanks to all of you who've sent me information on Hawaii. I've been warned
>that I may have problems on the Big Island in August due to the Iron Man
>Triathalon, with respect to unavailability (overbooking) of rental cars,
>lodging, etc. I need more info on this; I certainly don't want to go to the
>BI if this is true. Our projected days on the BI are 8/15-20. When is the
>triathalon? 
>I'd hate to have to miss the BI, but it would be much worse to get there and
>find out there's no car or room available, or be forced to share the island
>with a bunch of steroid-heads (insert 1/2 smiley here).

We were on the island of Hawaii 2 years ago during the Iron Man, which was
in late Sept - early Oct. I don't know if it's held at the same time every 
year. We did have some problem with availability, and we called several months
in advance. It wasn't that there were no cars available, just that the rates 
were higher than we had found on previous trips.  We called a local company,
Tropical Rent a Car, and got a better price, but we had to deal with roaches.

Hawaii is a big island and there is no need to stay in Kona during the race.
We stayed in Hilo, a quieter, less touristy, wetter and lusher area that is a
good base for visiting the volcano area, and the lush environment and water-
falls of the Hamakua coast, not to mention the special charms of Hilo, a city
we fell in love with.

We spent the day of the Iron Man in Kona. Despite the intense heat, it was
an experience not to be missed. The thing that impressed me the most was 
watching the 2nd and 3rd tier of amatuer athletes who were out there proving
something to themselves, and the enthusiastic support they were receiving from
the small groups of spectators all along the route. The only hugh crowds we 
experienced were at the finish line in Kona. 

Don't miss the Big Island.  In my opinion, it has more to offer than many of
the other islands, especially if you prefer to experience the culture, history,
and natural environment of Hawaii to the culture and artifical environment of 
a tourist enclave.
  
--Carol Lafond


From: smezias@option.GBA.NYU.EDU (Stephen J. Mezias)
Subject: Re: More Hawaii info?
Date: 26 Jun 92 14:30:45 GMT
Organization: NYU Stern School of Business

cvl0@gte.com (Carol Lafond) writes:

>  Hawaii is a big island and there is no need to stay in Kona during the race.
>We stayed in Hilo, a quieter, less touristy, wetter and lusher area that is a
>good base for visiting the volcano area, and the lush environment and water-
>falls of the Hamakua coast, not to mention the special charms of Hilo, a city
>we fell in love with.

Agreed, but I would clarify a couple of points.  (1) Hilo is a bit
hard to love if it happens to pour there during your entire visit;
this is possible, but perhaps unlikely in August.  We had nice weather
but it had rained hard every day for two weeks straight when we
arrived.  (2) The best base for exploring the volcano area is up near
the Park headquarters.  For those on a budget, the cabins at Namakani
Paio are cheap ($21 in Jan.  1991); these are quite rustic with common
bath but hot water showers and no heat.  Make sure you bring a very
warm blanket -- we brought a down quilt which was not overdoing it in
Jan.  Reservations are through the lodge.  If not on a tight budget,
there is the lodge in the park as well as several bed and breakfasts
in Volcano Village.

I also would endorse not missing the Big Island.

SJM


From: bwe@navaho.uucp (25612-elliott)
Subject: Re: What to see in MAUI????
Organization: Bellcore, Livingston, NJ
Date: Wed, 1 Jul 92 13:18:03 GMT
Summary: Things to do.

The Perfect Week in Maui

You all arrive mid day or early evening at Kahului airport. 
Rd. Unit 1-401. After you unpacking and take a short stroll around 
the complex or down to the beach, you will be ready to eat
again. It is advised you make it a quick lite bite to eat.
Sleeping on a full stomach is at best fatting. Off to bed by 10:00
P.M. HST, your bodies think it is 3:00 A.M. don't you know.

Day 1

Your first full day in Maui starts early, 3:00 A.M. to be exact.
Aren't you glad to decided to come with me.  You were one of the 
smart visitors and me phone ahead to get us reservations with 
Maui Downhill or Cruiser Bob's. This trip is a must, 38 mile 
coast down 10,000 foot volcano "Haleakala". There is a trip 
that leaves later but you will miss the sunrise from the top of
the volcano, you would not want to do that would you. Do
not forget your camera. The sunrise alone is worth the cost
of the trip up, but the inside of the crater at sunrise provides
the photographer with plenty more reasons to kick themselves for
not bringing the camera. Word to the wise, dress in layers (warm)
it gets down to freezing at 10,000 feet. Eye protection while on
the bikes is a must, sunglasses are your best bet. You can figure
on being back to the condo around noon.  I need to know
who wants to participate?

Shopping is a great way to fill out the afternoon.
You may be ready for a dip in the pool or a short
walk on the beach at sunset, before dinner. For
dinner I suggest you have one of the islands
trade marks, marinated ribs from Azecki's market
(they're across the street from KMV), they only
require 10 minutes on the barbecue.

Day 2 & 3

Day two & three should be spent seeing the wonders of the island.
One trip takes you south the Hana. Plan to be gone most the
day and start early. Another good idea is to pack a picnic
type lunch with soft drinks.  In Kihei (across from
McDonalds) or out by the airport pick up a tape recorded self
guided tour. They are inexpensive and will add a great deal to
your trip. Take your time and make the suggested stops on the
tape. Waterfalls, breath taking views, etc. can be missed if you
do not take the time to wait for that parking spot. On your way
back to Kihei you should plan dinner at Mama's in Pia.

The other trip is much shorter but gives you a different view of
Maui entirely. Your first stop in the A.M. should be Iao Valley.
Talk about a great place for pictures, lush, green and tropical
are but a few of the adjectives used to describe this
beautiful stop. Then north toward historic Lahaina. Honoapillani
Highway takes you along the western shoreline of Maui. About 
.5 miles past Maalaea Yacht Marina you will come to a scenic 
lookout, this is a great spot to whale watch. Continue north
approximately 17 miles and turn off when you see the signs for 
Lahaina. Plan to eat lunch at one of the many restaurants in 
town. See the worlds largest Banyan tree, visit the historic
buildings, shop for souvenirs. Then further north to Kaanapali, 
Napili and Kaplua where you can swim, try wind surfing, para 
sailing or just sip Mia Tia, while relaxing
by anyone of the great poolside bars at the Westin, Embassy 
Suites, etc.

Day 4

No trip to Maui is complete without going to Molokini. The best
way for a group to see Molokini is to book a trip on the Four
Winds. This very large Catamaran (glassbottom so the non-snorkelers
can see the fish) provides a smooth ride, clean restrooms, free
snorkel gear, continental breakfast, lunch and a OPEN BAR. We
should book this trip very early it sells out fast. You will be 
sure to see whales going or coming on this great trip,
providing they have arrived from Alaska. Need I remind you to 
take your bathing suits.

Day 5, 6 & 7

Let's see you haven't gone golfing, deep sea fishing, water
skiing, played tennis, taken scuba lessons or a helicopter tour.
Nor have you seen big beach where the nude sun bathers hang out.
There is a great day trip called club Lani. Another must is dinner
at the Tropical Plantation. You'll see it when you go
to Iao Valley. This Hawaiian country western show/dinner
(barbecued steak all you can eat and not one Hawaiian dish 
on the buffet) is fun.  You must see a hula done to western music.
Will make reservations go early and take the free tram tour of the 
Plantation. This is better than any of the island luaus.


From: Marc J. Stephenson
Subject: Re: What to see in MAUI????
Date: 2 Jul 92 16:13:21 GMT
Organization: IBM, Austin

>bwe@navaho.uucp (25612-elliott) writes:
> [ In describing the perfect week in Maui ... ]
> [ Arrive at airport, get a little to eat, go to bed by 10:00 PM HST ]
> 
> Day 1
> 
> Your first full day in Maui starts early, 3:00 A.M. to be exact.
> Aren't you glad to decided to come with me.  You were one of the 
> smart visitors and me phone ahead to get us reservations with 
> Maui Downhill or Cruiser Bob's. This trip is a must, 38 mile 
> coast down 10,000 foot volcano "Haleakala". There is a trip 
> that leaves later but you will miss the sunrise from the top of
> the volcano, you would not want to do that would you. Do
> not forget your camera. The sunrise alone is worth the cost
> of the trip up, but the inside of the crater at sunrise provides
> the photographer with plenty more reasons to kick themselves for
> not bringing the camera. Word to the wise, dress in layers (warm)
> it gets down to freezing at 10,000 feet. Eye protection while on
> the bikes is a must, sunglasses are your best bet. You can figure
> on being back to the condo around noon.  I need to know
> who wants to participate?

This was a blast when we did it with Maui Downhill.  It was very cold
and windy up top for the sunrise, which is indeed wondrous from up there.
The colors that get exposed in the crater are just beautiful, and you
can see the volcano tops on the big island from up there.  I kid you not
though - the picnic lunch included with the ride ended up being the 
salad bar at the Sizzler in Kahului.

It might also be worth noting that you're not getting to see much of
Haleakala if you don't go down into the crater.  The bike rides take off
right after sunrise and send you down the side - you really don't get to
see much of Haleakala, and that's a shame.  Our last time there we took
a trail ride down into the crater - you can see silverswords, the crater
walls, and some amazing cliffs.  The ride was relatively easy even for
the most beginner of beginners (such as myself).  It was from an outfit
called Pony Express - they also offer more ambitious rides.


> [ fill out afternoon with shopping, dip in pool, Azecki's ribs ] 
> 
> Day 2 & 3
> 
> Day two & three should be spent seeing the wonders of the island.
> One trip takes you south the Hana. Plan to be gone most the
> day and start early. Another good idea is to pack a picnic
> type lunch with soft drinks.  In Kihei (across from
> McDonalds) or out by the airport pick up a tape recorded self
> guided tour. They are inexpensive and will add a great deal to
> your trip. Take your time and make the suggested stops on the
> tape. Waterfalls, breath taking views, etc. can be missed if you
> do not take the time to wait for that parking spot. On your way
> back to Kihei you should plan dinner at Mama's in Pia.

Only go to Hana if you just really lust after nothing but tight turns
and green vegetation.  You must really, really, really enjoy vegetation
(and waterfalls) before you undertake this.  If we go back to Maui a
thousand times, we'll never take this trip again.  If there hadn't been
the novelty of a tiny black sand beach not too far from Hana, it would 
have been a total waste for us.  No denying that some people just love
it, but we sure didn't.   And we did park and walk and look a lot. 

I assume that Pia is Paia, a windsurfer's haven with a flower-child feel to
the town.  We were able to pick up a nice picnic lunch at some place there,
but I can't remember the name.  Anyway, you should be able to find a 
picnic lunch in Paia - they are advertised, and it's a good idea.  There's
not much in the way of eateries on the Hana Highway.

> 
> The other trip is much shorter but gives you a different view of
> Maui entirely. Your first stop in the A.M. should be Iao Valley.
> Talk about a great place for pictures, lush, green and tropical
> are but a few of the adjectives used to describe this

Be prepared for rain.  Iao is one of the wettest places on Earth.  To
me, it always looks like the West Maui Mountains (where Iao Needle is)
scrape the clouds out of the sky.

> beautiful stop. Then north toward historic Lahaina. Honoapillani
> Highway takes you along the western shoreline of Maui. About 
> .5 miles past Maalaea Yacht Marina you will come to a scenic 
> lookout, this is a great spot to whale watch.

Whale watching is only possible in the winter.

> [ Relax on the west part of the island ]
> 
> Day 4
> 
> [ Snorkel Molokini ]

I preferred the Trilogy snorkel/sail to the Four Winds that we had taken
on the Big Island (Kealakekua Bay is a great place to snorkel there).
The lunch that they served (chicken and stuff) was great.  The glass bottom 
isn't that big of a deal, IMHO.

> 
> Day 5, 6 & 7
> 
> Let's see you haven't gone golfing, deep sea fishing, water
> skiing, played tennis, taken scuba lessons or a helicopter tour.
> Nor have you seen big beach where the nude sun bathers hang out.
> There is a great day trip called club Lani. Another must is dinner
> at the Tropical Plantation. You'll see it when you go
> to Iao Valley. This Hawaiian country western show/dinner
> (barbecued steak all you can eat and not one Hawaiian dish 
> on the buffet) is fun.  You must see a hula done to western music.
> Will make reservations go early and take the free tram tour of the 
> Plantation. This is better than any of the island luaus.

Someone also mentioned Tedeschi Winery, which makes pineapple wine (which
we actually enjoyed; we expected it to be putrid).  In any case, there's
something for most everybody on Maui.  The main industry is tourism, so
there'll be lots of activities available.  Check the activities desk at 
your hotel to see what matches your interests (and budget).  The rule
of thumb that we used in Hawaii was that everything cost 1.5 times what
it costs on the mainland.

We couldn't really handle the luau food at the Kona Village Resort on the
big island, but then we're not the most adventurous eaters.  I'll guess that
somebody likes it.  We never had time to see what the Tropical Plantation
was like.

One last thing, if you look at a map of Maui, you should be able to recognize
that the island is shaped like the profile of a woman (to about the waist).
Lahaina and Kaanapali are on the forehead, Maalaea is on the neck, Wailea
and Kihei are on the upper chest, and  Hana is at the base of the back.
I can never look at a map of Maui without recognizing the shape, so I thought
that I would spread that curse about. :-)

Hana is at the base of the back.
-- 
Marc Stephenson             IBM AWD (Advanced Workstations Division - Austin,TX)
DISCLAIMER: The content of this posting is independent of official IBM position.
INTERNET->marc@malone.austin.ibm.com     VNET: MARC at AUSVMQ  IBM T/L: 678-3189


From: staggers@casbah.acns.nwu.edu (Ken Staggers)
Subject: Summary: Maui: Royal Lahaina or Aston Maui Vista
Organization: Northwestern University, Evanston Illinois.
Date: Wed, 8 Jul 1992 18:06:22 GMT

Thanks for the replies.  I decided to stay at the Royal Lahaina.  It will
cost about $131/night including taxes.

--Ken
------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: mfirenze@wc.novell.com (Mary Firenze)

I stayed at Kamaole Sands two years ago, and I was disappointed.  It is in 
Kihei, which is mostly condos and does not have the large green expanses of
lush growth that Kaanapali does.  The Aston Kamaoloe was right on Kihei Road,
so there was a lot of road noise all night.  They also did not provide maid
service during the week I was there.

If you're looking for a place to sleep, the Aston Kamaole is ok.  But if you'd
like a resort on the beach (not across a loud, busy road from one) and would 
like a full-service resort-type place (swimming, tennis, various other activities), I wouldn't recommend the place by the Aston Kamaole Sands.

The decision between a resort and a condo depends on what you like.  A condo
has a kitchen, while a resort generally is just a bunch of hotel rooms.  A
condo is nice if you like to eat breakfast in.  A resort hotel is nice if you
prefer to eat in restaurants the entire time.

I hope you have a nice trip, whatever you decide.
Mary.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: ditt@gene.com (Debora Dittmar)

Ken-
Sorry if you received a message with no body; my mailer burped. I've stayed at
the Kamaole Sands. It had 2 (3?) courts that were generally empty during the week I 
week I was there (Dec). It's right across the street from the beach. I don't
know the location of the Maui Vista. 88/nite for a studio condo with car sounds
like a good deal. The Sands was 120/nite with car. 

The major difference between your two choices appears to be location. If the
Maui Vista uses the tennis courts of the Sands its probably in Kehei. The Royal
Lahina is on another section of the island (Lahina-Kaanapali). If you want 
night-life without a 45 minute drive stay at the Royal Lahina. While Kihei is
growing it is mainly condos and caters to more to families then swinging 
singles. (We went with 20 people ranging from 2 to 85). 

Where ever you stay be sure and take a boat trip out to the Molakini (sp)
caldera for snorkeling. Listening to the parrot fish munch on the coral and 
feeding them is terrific. (Akk- I want to go back; where's my travel agent!)

Hope I've been some help.
Deb Dittmar
ditt@gene.com

-------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: Nancy Colmer Schaub <ns28+@andrew.cmu.edu>

Hi Ken:

We really liked th condo; it was beautiful, TV, ocean view, etc.  Plus
we were able to buy our own food and cook (things are VERY $$ in
Hawaii).  The condo was more like home (we had a washer and dryer, etc.)
and had lots of room.  We would stay there again without doubt.  There
were no "planned" activities at the condo as there would be at a resort.
 We're just not into that and wouldn't take advantage of it even if
available.  I guess I wouldn't have a problem at all staying at a resort
(we honeymooned in the Poconos in PA which is all resort type places and
really enjoyed it!).  We actually did not meet many people at all --
simply because we didn't stop for one second while in Maui.  We went
with my sister and her husband and also made friends with another couple
that were on our flights from Atlanta-Honolulu-Maui.  We spent the week
doing things with them.  I am sorry I cannot tell you about meeting
singles -- we were all couples.  On Maui, things start early (i.e., we
were picked up for our snorkeling cruise at something like 4:00 AM) and
this was much the case for all things we did.  They "roll the sidewaks
in" at about 9:00 or so.  There are a few clubs (disco type places) in
the big hotels (Hyatt, Marriot, etc.), but we were so tired we didn't
venture out much at night.  We figured we'd better "do it all" in one
week cause we probably would never be able  to afford to come back.  We
were on the go continuously and really didn't do much at the condo
except crash to sleep.
If I can give you any more info, please let me know.

Nancy

From: Nancy Colmer Schaub <ns28+@andrew.cmu.edu>

Hi:

Read your note about Royal Lahaina Resort.  We spent a week on Maui a
few years ago and although we did not stay there (we stayed at the Aston
Kaanapali Shores condos) we did go to the luau (sp?) there.  It was a
really beautiful place.  We did talk to some people who were staying
there and they were impressed.  The grounds are beautiful.  I can highly
recommend the Aston at Kaanapali (I think they have rooms in addition to
the condos).  You might check it out.  Maui is absolutely heavenly.  You
are in for a real treat.  Make sure you do some snorkeling (if you are
so inclined), take a helicopter ride (very $$$ but work every penny!). 
Try to spend a day getting to and enjoying Hana.  The island is
unbelievable.  Aloha!

Nancy Schaub, Fin. Adm., Math., Carnegie Mellon Univ., Pgh., PA



From: par@teak18.cray.com (Peter Rigsbee)
Subject: Re: MAUI ROOM INO NEEDED
Organization: Cray Research, Inc.
Date: 8 Jul 92 15:40:48 CDT

coreyi@hpsad.sad.hp.com (Corey Imsdahl) writes:
> 
> From what I have read so far, the condos seem to be cheaper than the nice
> hotels but offer better or at least similar accomodations.  Anybody
> have a reason for this?  Which is really better?

There is no one "right answer" for this (like most things in life).  

First, there is a wide diversity of hotels and condos; its hard to 
generalize on "the condos" versus "the hotels".  You can pay more for a 
condo than for a hotel room.  You can have a condo on a great beach and a 
hotel several blocks away.  You can have a multi-room hotel room (known 
as a "suite") and a single-room condo (known as an "efficiency").  We've
stayed in hotel rooms with kitchenettes.  And so on.

Having said this, there are some generalizations that can be made:
	- the typical condo has multiple rooms, the typical hotel room is
	  a single room
	- the typical condo has a kitchen (anywhere from a kitchenette to
	  a full kitchen), the typical hotel room has at most a mini-bar 
	  refrigerator
	- the typical condo has fewer services than the typical hotel, and
	  services are often more limited (for example, weekly maid service
	  or a "front desk" that closes early in the evening)
	- the typical condo is probably cheaper on a square foot basis than
	  the typical hotel room (but who cares if you aren't going to be
	  spending any time in the room?)
But as I said, you can find exceptions for all the above.

You need to figure out what *you* want.  Condos are often preferred by 
families with children because of the kitchens and extra space.  For people 
traveling on a tight budget, a condo lets you better control food expenses 
since you can eat in.  (Not always as good as it sounds.  The kitchens often 
come with few cooking utensils and no food -- especially the mundane "pantry"
type things you use without thinking.  And how much vacation time do you want 
to spend in supermarkets?)

There is a good book out on places to stay in Hawaii (I forget the exact name;
it is part of a series and is called something like "Great Places to Stay in 
Hawaii").  It covers both hotels and condos, and covers a wide price range.
These are all places they recommend, but they tell you both the pros and
cons and make it easier to understand what you are getting into.  We're
going to Hawaii on August 4, and used the book to pick most of the places
we're staying at (mostly condos).  And this despite the fact that we've
been to Hawaii a number of times.

Hope you enjoy your trip.

	- Peter Rigsbee


From: coreyi@hpsad.sad.hp.com (Corey Imsdahl)
Date: Thu, 9 Jul 1992 16:48:58 GMT
Subject: Re: Intra-Hawaii Flying
Organization: HP Signal Analysis Division - Rohnert Park, CA

/staggers@casbah.acns.nwu.edu (Ken Staggers) / 11:20 am  Jul  8, 1992 /
>said about $84 roundtrip.  When I settled on a time and place, the
>travel agent said that Aloha was $68.95 one way and Hawaiian was $69.95.
>So I was wondering what happened to that wonderful $84 roundtrip.  

>Also, if you are island hopping, Hawaiian offers a 5 day unlimited travel
>pass for $139.00, and an 8 day pass for $159.00.

>--Ken

Yeah, I just went through a similiar exercise.  I was using EAASY 
SABRE on prodigy.  Two or three days ago I looked at the fares from
HNL to JHM (Kapalua, Maui) and the cheapest fare was $80 round trip. Last
night I looked and the fares jumped up to $100 round trip (along with
the rest of the air fare increases).  Anyway, a 25% jump overnight -
pretty ugly.  Only Hawaiian and Aloha (I think) fly to JHM.  What
really gets me though is that there are seats on this plane that cost
up to $160 round trip.  Now I know that this plane ain't very big , so 
I can't imagine what you get for the extra $60 bucks - maybe a bigger
bag of macadaim nuts ;)   

Your $69.95 price was one of the mid range fares and may have been driven
by availability.  Most of the mid day flights are booked up except for the
high price seats.  If you want to fly cheaper try a earlier or later time.

Also, Prodigy tried to stick us with that 5 day unlimited travel pass at
the $139 price using it's "bargin hunter" button.  I had to force it
to except my booking ($49 going to, $57 coming back from).

Have a good trip, my wife and I can't wait.  We'll be there (Hawaii) from
August 11 to August 20.

Corey Imsdahl


From: lzs@indetech.com ()
Subject: Kauai Scuba Recommendation
Organization: Independence Technologies, Inc. Fremont, CA
Date: Wed, 29 Jul 1992 00:43:31 GMT

I haven't been on the net in a while, but I wanted to make sure that this
message gets out.

My husband and I were in Kauai, HI a few months ago and decided to try
scuba diving for the first time. Well, I was very hesitant, having heard
horror stories about these "teach you for one hour and then dive" trips.

Well, we had a fantastic time, and it is due to our instructor, Richard
Neumann. My husband and I both know how to swim, and have been snorkling
before, so we weren't total gringos. Rich started us out at the pool of
a nearby hotel. For one hour, we learned how to breathe using the regulators,
get the feel of the weights around our waists, etc. He wouldn't take us out
until we could successfully clear our masks of water (which is no small
accomplishment if you've never done it before!)

I was having some trouble with it, and almost decided to quit. But Rich
was very persistant and patient, and went over several more basic steps
until I could finally do it with confidence.

We did not dive from a boat. Instead, we went to a launch point in
Poipu and WALKED into the water. It was not scarey, and Rich constantly
monitored us. Much to my surprise, once I was under the water, I was just
*fine* and had a terrific time. We dove about 30 feet, and spent about
an hour under water. Rich pointed out all kinds of sea life, and we
got to handle some starfish, etc. It was really neat. When we finished,
he gave us both a "high-five" and seemed genuinely jazzed that we
had such a good time. Later, over donuts and juice (which he provided),
he told us that diving is his life, and he loves to give beginners
a feel for diving. He has something like 15 years of experience, and
is a "master instructor."

I must say, it was the highlight of my vacation in Kauai.

If you're planning to go to Kauai and want to try scuba diving,
give Rich a call! Here's his number. Tell him you saw it on the
computer network. He'll get a kick out it!

Richard Neumann
Sunrise Diving Adventures
Kapaa, Kauai
808-822-REEF

-Lynn and Rob
-- 
Lynn Schneider              lzs@indetech.com
{sun,sharkey,pacbell}!indetech!lzs
Fremont, CA
 

From: smezias@option.GBA.NYU.EDU (Stephen J. Mezias)
Subject: Re: Interisle Hawaii Flts
Date: 2 Aug 92 15:25:20 GMT
Organization: NYU Stern School of Business

lm00+@andrew.cmu.edu (Louise B. McFeaters) writes: 
>just got an awful shock for an interisland airfare from Honolulu to
>Kanui, of $138 roundtrip. Can there be a cheaper fare available for a
>week? I can't tag this fare along on my arriving flt (thanks to a botch
>up of NW). Pleas respond if you can help me find a cheaper fare. Thanks

We need a FAQ file with this question and NYC accomodations!  

We went to Hawaii the last two Januaries.  The cheapest way between
islands is to buy your ticket from one of the local travel agents.
This usually involves having to send a certified check and some also
want you to make a trip to downtown Oahu to pick up the ticket.
Others, one of which we used, will deliver your tickets or let you
pick them up at the Aloha or Hawaiian Air counters.  Most have 800
numbers from the mainland (Call 800 information if I only supply the
local (808) number):

Akamai 1-800-922-6485

Island Getaways 800-733-4292
I think this was who we used; ask for Nancy.

Roberts Hawaii (808) 523-5187

Affordable Tours (808) 922-5522

Nene Travel (808) 926-8147

Tickets to go: (808) 942-7785

SJM


From: viviana@igor.tamri.com (Vivian Aldridge)
Subject: Kauai,Hawaii:Trip Notes
Date: 6 Aug 92 14:45:34 GMT
Organization: TOSHIBA America MRI, South San Francisco, CA

Hi I just got back from Kauai and have a few trip notes
to share. The following is geared toward people interested
in not spending much money, local interests vs tourist/
resort type activities, and outdoor sports.

Places worth snorkling:

1.Tunnels Beach
2.Hanalei beach Park 
3.Ke'e Beach(spectacular coast line although it rained every
  15 mins, but I didn't mind)

All these places mentioned above are located in or near Hanalei--
north end of island.

Places not worth snorkling (in my opinion):
Salt Pond (western side of island near Hanapepe). The water was
too rough there for my taste.

Lydgate Park (Eastern side, south of Kapaa)
Again, rough water here if you don't count the "pool"
the kids swim in.

Best deal for renting snorkling equipment:

Kaua'i Visitor Center
(808)822-7727
fins, snorkel and mask is $10.00 per person a week!

Inexpensive restaurant:
The King and I (Thai cuisine)
4-901 Kuhio Highway (Highway 56), Kapaa
(Going towards Princeville it is located in Waipoli Plaza
right after Kuai village.)
(808)822-1642
SUNT-THURS 4:30-9:30; fri-sat 4:30-10
Dishes average $5 a plate. For two people,three dishes and
one glass of wine I paid about $21.00.
Thats inexpensive for this island.

Road side take out place:
Kalalea's Hale Aina
Pu'u Hale LP 4390 in Anahola, north of Kapaa.
It looks like a shack  surronded by several picnic tables,stray cats,
and chickens. The shack sits by itself on the road across
from Whalers General Store.
Sells the best bar-b-que chicken I've ever tasted.
Plate lunches are $5.00 Soda .60
Open tues-sun 822-7144,823-0906

Restaurant/luau
I heard by word of mouth that this place should not be missed.
(I didn't have time to visit it, but it sounded great)
Tahiti Nui is a funky restaurant with local flair.
Kuhio Hwg at Aku Rd, Hanalei
(808)826-6277 call ahead.
Luau is $70 for two. (I think the luau is on Tuesdays, but call
first)

Best small town I enjoyed:
Hanapepe (southwestern side)
Only two stores cater to tourists. My favorite was the Hanapepe
bookstore. It had the best selection of books on Kauai that
I saw.
3830 Hanapepe Road
335-5011
335-8544

Sport I enjoyed the most was kayaking:
You can rent a two person kayak at Jungle Bob's in Ching Young
Village in Hanalei for $40 half day. The owner is a transplant from LA and is
quite friendly and helpful. We went up the Hanalei River to its end
and back in four hours.

Thats it! Hope you enjoy Kauai as much as I did!

Vivian


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