American World traveler Spring 2017 Issue

32
Hawaii
From Whale Watching to Summiting a Volcano
Article & Photography by Alfred Junco
Hawaii is a bliss location that
never seems to escape the bucket
list of any traveler. Recognized
for its pristine national parks and laid pack
culture Hawaii is an essential stop, and I
wanted to make sure I reaped all of its benefits.
On my first trip to Hawaii it was of
great importance to that I immersed myself
in Hawaiian culture and got a true sense of
everyday life for the island people. My partner
and I decided the best way to achieve
this was to utilize Airbnb properties, that
way we could stay in a variety of locations
and have more organic interactions with
the locals.
We were gratefully offered an opportunity
by Body Glove Hawaii to snorkel, and go
dolphin and whale watching followed by a
dinner cruise. The Captains were very
involved and supportive. Due to water conditions
we snorkeled in a different location,
the water was clear and we got to see
exactly what we came for the sights of fishes.
We also got to experience a mother and
baby whale emerge from the water, which
was as equally as breath taking an experience.
Later on the cruise we got to share a
buffet dinner with a great variety of foods.
On our fourth day we jumped at the
chance to experience surfing lessons all
thanks to Kahala'u Bay. Our instructors Ben
and Isha were an energetic pair who were
both helpful and patient as we learned our
way on a surf board. By the end I am proud
to say I was able to catch a wave or two.
The same day we had an excursion with
Fair Wind guided tours where we snorkeled
at Captain Cook.
An experience I will not soon forget was our
Hawaii Grand Circle Island Tour offered by
Roberts Hawaii. This consisted of a full day
getting to experience and educate ourselves
on the many wonders of Hawaii.
Stops included a nut factory, bakery shop,
and among my favorite a visit to Rainbow
Falls.
One of our last adventures included a four
mile walk into the Volcano national park
where we got to see flowing lava for ourselves
among the many other inactive volcanoes
available to see on site.
On our last day before departing Hawaii
we experienced the food of the Lava Lava
Beach Club which offered a variety of local
dishes as well as comfort fast foods. The
Lava Lava Beach Club on the other hand
was a charming change of pace as it offers
seating just by the beach.
In summary, the island of Hawaii is a vast
sanctuary I truly wish I could of have
explored further. I will be sure to visit again
soon.
Mahalo kakou.
American World Traveler Spring 2017