Hawaii Trip?

Question

CRITERIA:
-trip is for 2
-young man has not travelled extensively
-young man terrified, very THOUGHT of air travel
-on a budget
-wants to see 'real' Hawaii
-romance a must

-young woman in question shares none of the above criteria. Except the last.

Answer 1

If young man is terrified of very thought of air travel I'd recommend a flight more locally than a flight to Hawaii. I live in Houston and flight time is approx 8 1/2 hours. Before booking such a big trip I'd take a weekend trip somewhere that required air travel of maybe an hour or two just to see how he does. Personally I love to fly, but there are those that don't. Just remember you are much more likely to be killed or seriously injured in the car on the way to the airport than you are on the airplane itself.

Answer 2

Hawaii is very diverse - it really depends on what type of activity you want and if you want to be more secluded or in the middle of everything.

Kauai
Not much night life, but wonderful scenery - lots of hiking, zip line adventure, snorkeling, scuba, less populated, more rain.

Oahu
Everything under the sun, but very crowded and very trouristy. Lots of night life. Paradise Cove is the best luau. Lots of water sports/activities. Usually the first place anyone goes on their first visit to Hawaii.

Maui
More laid back, but still has some night life and lots to do - a good 'honeymoon' spot.

The Big Island (Hawaii)
Not as many sandy beaches, but enough. Very large island - each side totally different from the other. Has all the typical water activities. Also has volcanoes. Less populated. Rent a car!

Lanai
Very pricey - one major resort, but there is one there that is about $100 per night. Was a large pineapple plantation so has horse back riding and almost a 'western' feel.

Molokai
The most 'Hawaiian' of the islands - however, not much to do.

Flying - about 5 1/2 hours from the West Coast - I like Hawaiian Airlines - book early for the best rates. Hawaiian also has 'island hopping' flights around $29 one way - if you decide to do this, book early.

Hotels are pricey - see if you can get a condo - try a travel agent.

Answer 3

Padwinlearner summed up each islands' description very well. I've been to 4 of the islands, mainly for diving, and think that if you go it'd be a great experience. I too am a "white knuckle" flier and sympathize with your friend. Direct flights are available, but can be more costly. Also, let your friend know that flying is one of the safest means af travel. Aloha, Pacific Air, Hawaiian, and ATA are the airlines that I've had the best experiences with. If you can be flexible with your flight times, you can get some great deals. A lot of travel websites have packages including airfare, with the 5th or 6th night free. Maui is a bit in the middle when it comes to things to do and population. Include a car in your package and visit the different towns. Take time for quiet moments on the beaches or just a walk through the smaller towns with privately owned shops. Sometimes the least expensive things can leave you with the most memorable moments of your life. The "real" Hawaii can hit you even when you just get off the plane. Just don't forget the sunscreen!

Answer 4

I would stick to one island since he hates to fly.

My suggestion would be Hawaii as it is large and plenty to see and do..... Volcanoes, Waipo Valley, good snorkeling near captain cook monument (rent a kayak and paddle over there). Can be romantic if you stay at the Kona Resort area (good priceline prices there) you can wall along the water and have drink at the bar with your feet in the sand and watch the sunset...

Kauai is better if you like to hike and take scenic drives.
Oahu if you want some nightlife...... the side with Chinamen's hat is very pretty real Hawaii.....

Answer 5

I went to Kauai and had a fantastic time and it didn't break the budget (same with my friend Amanda who went even more recently, last Oct.). Don't stay in the Hyatt, look for something small and local. Kauai is a small island, not flashy, and VERY beautiful and romantic. I recently wrote about it...
http://wehow.ehow.com/how_2025679_see-kauai-hawaii.html

Answer 6

I always recommend Kauai. Awesome nature and beaches. Hanalei Colony Resort in Haena, Kauai has good deals. We liked it , see below.