Wednesday, January 30, 2008

#START FILE#Hawaii: Where Romance Meets RecreationThe lush and accommodating volcanic formed Hawaiian Islands offer an enchanting Pacific, Polynesian paradise for travelers worldwide. The main islands of Oahu, Kauai, Hawaii and Maui, steeped in history and tradition, are temperate and comfortable year-round, as would be expected from their tropical or sub-tropical locale. Travelers arrive by air and ship to celebrate the fascinating Hawaiian heritage.

The island natives have a rich culture based on an ancient Polynesian belief system. The islands are rich with legends, mythology, gods and goddesses. Long ago, island natives planned fishing, planting, harvesting and farming on moon patterns, using the Hawaiian moon calendar. Another traditional practice is the Kumulipo, or song of creation, an ancient chant recited by kahunas, or priests, at important festivals or events to explain the origin of the Hawaiian people.

While traveling, visitors can enjoy authentic Hula and Fire dancing, Tiki parties and luaus, an island tradition gathering large groups of friends and neighbors for a night of dancing, feasting and extravagant entertainment. To ensure luau accommodations, book space well in advance of your arrival on the islands as the most popular events sell out quickly.

Hawaii offers some of the most sought-after surfing conditions in the world. Whether you prefer to watch, learn or participate in the action, the islands warm, turquoise waters and massive summertime swells are sure to make a big splash.

Offshore, whale and dolphin watching bring tourists side-by-side with the natural, breathtaking underwater world. Humpback whales seasonally migrate December through April, while the nearby Pacific depths are home to many other spectacular breeds year-round. Hawaii also hosts various dolphin breeds, the bottleneck being the most popular. The Hilton Waikoloa Villages Dolphin Quest lets visitors swim alongside many well-trained, aquatic mammals. As with all events, advance booking ensures space.

Local cuisine blends the rich tastes of the Pacific Rim, classic American and European favorites for dishes from luscious seafood and fresh vegetables, to tangy fruits and select sauces. Island restaurants serve tastes from as far off as Vietnam, India and Thailand. Feast on abobo (braised pork or chicken), poi and laulau (taro leaves wrapped around pork or chicken and baked to perfection) and mochi (a sinful rice cake). Island-grown grapes flavor select wines while micro-brewed beers offer ideal complement to your meal.

Book your Hawaii vacation package today to experience all these beautiful islands have to offer.

By Clinton Douglas IV of http://www.vasrue.com/ who provides free, quality articles for your newsletter, website or publication on topics such as Hawaii: http://www.vasrue.com/ vacations. Please link to this site when using this article.