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Hawaii Travel Planner

Your one-stop guide for planning your trip to the Aloha State

By , About.com Guide

Why should you plan to travel to Hawaii for your honeymoon, romantic getaway or family vacation? Thanks for asking! That's why we're here - to try to help you answer that question, and others, about our 50th State - Hawaii, the Aloha State.

Hawaii - A Mult-Racial, Multi-Ethnic Culture

Photo Copyright © 2006 Paradise Cove Luau. All Rights Reserved.

Hawaii is part of the United States, so, if you're a U.S. citizen, you don't need a passport or a visa to visit, but it's unlike any other State you've ever seen. In many ways it's almost like visiting a foreign country. Hawaii has a multi-racial, multi-ethnic culture. Its society is a melting pot of the various races that have made their way to the islands: the Polynesians, the Caucasians, the Chinese, the Japanese, the Filipinos and many more. Nowhere else in the country can you experience this wonderful mix of people, all living together in relative harmony.

  

The native Hawaiian people, descendants of the ancient Polynesian voyagers, have a proud culture of their own which has seen a rebirth in recent years, marked most excitingly by the re-emergence of the Hawaiian language in the schools and in everyday life. Hawaiian music has never been stronger nor more popular world-wide. The aloha spirit is much more than just an expression. It is, for many, a way of life. Here is all the information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Hawaii.

Before Going To Hawaii - Essential Information

Photo by John Fischer, licensed to About.com

This is where you find all the necessary information on such subjects as passports, visas, customs, health and safety, insurance, what to pack, money matters and weather.

Before Going To Hawaii - Money Saving Tips

Photo by John Fischer, licensed to About.com

Were you planning a trip to Hawaii but were put off when you found that airfare for two was up by as much as $1000? What can you do to make up that money with the rest of your trip expenses and still get to visit paradise? Here are some tips to help you save money for your Hawaii vacation.

Which Hawaiian Island Suits Your Best?

One of the hardest parts of planning a trip to Hawaii is deciding which of the six major islands you should visit. We recommend that you plan on visiting at least two islands so that you can get a feel for what Hawaii is all about. In order to help you choose which islands are best suited for you, we have developed a 23-question scorecard. After you have completed each of the questions and determined your final score you will have a better idea of which islands best suit your tastes and vacation preferences.

Getting To & Around Hawaii

Hawaiian Airlines Logo

In this feature we look at the airlines that fly to Hawaii and give you tips on how to get around once you've arrived. We also look at deals, packages and special offers at Hawaii Hotels & Resorts. You'll find maps of each island and finally information on both intra-island and inter-island tours where they'll do the driving for you.

Events, Festivals, and Holidays

Photo by John Fischer, licensed to About.com

Why not coordinate your plans with one of the many special events, festivals or uniquely Hawaiian holidays that take place throughout the year? We have information on all of the major festivals and events in the islands.

Where to Stay in Hawaii

Photo Courtesy of Hilton Hawaiian Village® Beach Resort & Spa

One key to a successful trip to Hawaii is choosing the right type of lodging that is best for you and your family. Whether you decide on a bed and breakfast, rental condominium, private rental property or a world class hotel or resort, Hawaii has something that will fit your needs and your pocketbook.

Hawaii's Top Activities and Attractions

Photo by John Fischer, licensed to About.com

The types of attractions and activities that you can experience in Hawaii vary from island to island. You'll soon learn that, while all of the Hawaiian islands were born from Pele, the goddess of Hawaii's volcanoes, each island is quite different from the others, and each has its own unique charm. We help you find the best places to go, the best things to see as well as  the best air activities, cycling, golfing, hiking, land activities, and water activities.

Photos and Videos

Photo by Eileen Fischer, licensed to About.com

Here you can enjoy our thousands of photos of Hawaii or view one of the videos that allow you to see what's going on live in Hawaii. We also give you our tips for taking great photos while you're in the islands.

Beach Guide

Photo by John Fischer, licensed to About.com

We present all you need to know about the beaches in Hawaii. We include our picks for Hawaii's best beaches, lots of beach photos, and even information on where you can find Hawaii's unofficial nude beaches.

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