Aloha Brings Customer

What will you find in every corner of the street in Waikiki? Of course, ABC Stores. They are all over the place in every corners of the streets. They sell varieties of foods, souvenirs, clothes, fresh pastries, and everything you can think of. These stores are so convenient for tourists to purchase whatever they need; however, their prices are quite too much in comparison to Walmart and other huge supermarkets. I supposed it is for tourists, and tourists usually have money to squander throughout their vacation. I believe that ABC company accumulate a good amount of revenue annually and provides many jobs for our locals. It is somewhat a monopolistic business because they are all over the place with a little competition. Overall, as long as they are providing jobs for many and satisfying the needs of customers then it is okay. Their aloha truly brings customer and money to our island.

Wild Things!

Do you ever wanted to go to Africa and experience the wild? Well, the closest we can get to that in this island will be the Honolulu Zoo. It is located in Waikiki across from the Waikiki Band Stand in Kapiolani Park. The Honolulu Zoo has many different exhibits such as the African Savannah, the aviary, the Asian forest, farm animals, and many more. The zoo also accommodates for kids' parties. The admission fee will be $14 for adults and $6 for keikis. In addition, they also accept Kamaina rates and military discounts. The zoo is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily. I always wanted to volunteer in the zoo, but I just do not have enough time to devote myself from doing so with my busy school and work schedule. If you want more information, visit honolulu zoo.

Pearl Harbor.

On December 7, 1941, the Japanese attacked the Pearl Harbor in Oahu which killed hundreds or even thousands of military, as well as, civilians. Tourists usually visits the Arizona memorial to commemorate and honor the servicemen and women who lost their lives in the attack. They also pay tribute or visit the historical site. The Arizona memorial offers tours to educate visitors about the eptragic event; however, there are fees depending on the tour they choose. In addition, this place is a great educational trip for students because they will learn many things, not only about the event, but as well as, military facts. The Pearl Harbos bombing has a huge significant factor of our world history and it became a national monument. Visit their website at http://www.pacifichistoricparks.org/

Hiking adventure!

There are many hiking spots for adventure seekers in Oahu. The closest hiking trail in town would be the Diaomond Head. Tourists can catch the bus #3, #23, #24 and so forth. Hikers; however, have to pay a dollar to get in. The diamond head hike is somewhat easy compare to other trails. The view on top of the Diamond Head is spectacular with the view of Waikiki, and if you're lucky, you might be able to see the neighbor islands. The other hiking trail close to town would be Manoa falls located after Univeristy of Hawaii at Manoa. This is actually my favorite hike because it is easy and fun. You can expect mud, huge trees, chirping birds, and especially the waterfall in the end. After the hike, you can treat yourself with an avail bowl or some yogurt :) Hawaii is such a beautiful place for everyone to enjoy and to get close with nature :)

Shop 'til you drop!

Ala Moana Shopping Center is the biggest shopping mall in Hawaii and fortunately I live across the street from it, so it's my number one hang out spot for me. There are thousands of different shops from Louis Vuitton to local products. In the Makai food court, shoppers and food enthusiasts would have so much option to try different foods that originated internationally. There would be poi, vietnamese pho noodles, filipino fast food, chinese food, japanese food, and so much more. Ala Moana Shopping Center is also on open mall, so enjoy the fresh air while shopping. It is like outdoor shopping hahaha. They also have hula performance everyday at the center stage, and i highly recommend getting an acai bowl from Island Vintage. There are so many malls in the island of Oahu, such as Kahala, Pearlridge, and so forth. Visit Ala Moana Shopping Center.

Have you ever been to Ala Moana Beach Park?

Ala Moana Beach Park is Honolulu's largest beach park and it allures both residents and visitors from all over the globe. Some locals gather here to have a pot luck and enjoy everyone's company. Paddlers, canoe riders, long distance swimmers, and surfers appreciates the deep open water. In addition, this beach park's landscape is also phenomenal for joggers, yoga enthusiasts, bikers, sports fanatic (e.g. volleyball, tennis, football, etc). I usually come here to just walk and relax sitting on the bench, since it is only five minute walk from my house. I also see newly weds taking pictures, and young lovers enjoying either the sunset, and/or the outstanding view. It is located across Ala Moana Shopping Center, too, how convenient! click to go to Ala Moana Beach Park .

(The image is the view of Ala Moana Beach Park from our lanai.)

Lei: symbol of aloha!

A fresh, colorful lei is one of the best ways to show your love with a uniquely Hawaiian touch. Lei symobolizes welcome and aloha, that is why we usually give them when people arrive, birthdays, graduations, etc. I received my first lei from my uncle when my parents and I arrived at the Honolulu International Airport. Lei became an icon throughout the world because of Elvis Presley, other movies, and so forth. Leis can be made up of orchids, other flowers, ti leaves, candies, money, nuts, strings and other things.