Hawaii
is the ultimate dream destination for many of us. Even if we've been to Caribbean ports of call, we still think of Hawaii as an enchanting, inviting and romantic group of islands. But when you're ready to book your trip, which island should you choose?


Maui

My husband and I had the pleasure of visiting Maui on a company trip several years ago. We enjoyed every minute of it and stayed at the extraordinarily luxurious Four Seasons Resort. The island is as lush and beautiful as you might dream. From its rain forest to its mountains, its wonderful beaches and its volcano, Haleakala (a volcano that you can bicycle down at sunrise), Maui is a paradise we would definitely return to.
Oahu

On another trip we wanted to experience another of the islands and so chose Oahu. We stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village on Waikiki Beach. Oahu is quite different from Maui in that it has a rich naval history. We were able to explore Pearl Harbor, which is well worth the visit.

Our resort, which we took a timeshare condo, was right on the beach alongside numerous other luxurious resorts. Waikiki is actually a part of the city of Honolulu, so you have a big city atmosphere out one door and beautiful beach sunsets out the other. You'll find plenty of upscale shopping in Waikiki, too. I'd say it rivals New York for high-end designer boutiques. While there be sure to stop at Hilo Hattie's for reasonably priced Hawaiian products and souvenirs. You can catch the free shuttle in Waikiki.
Polynesian Cultural Center

We decided to rent a convertible and drove around the island quite a bit, stopping along the way at dozens of more secluded beaches and overlooks. We'd highly recommend Hanauma Bay, a nature sanctuary in which the coral reef comes right up to the beach. It opens at 6 a.m. for the early snorkelers. There is a $5 fee charged and you can rent snorkeling gear quite inexpensively. Thousands of fish are at your feet and in front of your mask. Be sure to get there early as it gets crowded by 10 a.m.

About an hour out of Waikiki at the north end of Oahu is this wonderful center operated by the Mormon Church. Set up somewhat like a Disney park, it offers seven Polynesian villages where real island people share and demonstrate their crafts, dances and culture. Most of the people working there are on scholarship to the Brigham Young University campus next door. These people would not have the opportunity for an education if were not for the funds raised by this center. Make sure you stay for the evening luau and show while you're there.


You Don't Really Need a Car

Our rental car cost about $300 for 10 days plus another $250 to park it. We found Honolulu traffic is in gridlock at times. Regular bus service covers the entire island and would be a viable alternative for the days you want to visit other island locations. There are also a number of trolley services that go to the tourist destinations.

For more details about what to visit on Oahu and Maui, how much things cost and places we'd recommend, visit my travel blog at travelswithtish.com.