tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-16645571867753468772024-03-04T21:27:59.149-08:00Michele Bigley's Kauai MusingsLearn about Kauai travel from Michele Bigley, author of the Kauai guidebook GREAT DESTINATIONS KAUAI (Countryman Press, Dec 08).Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-54321626254115771582010-05-07T11:20:00.000-07:002010-05-07T11:33:01.883-07:00Kauai Cheap Food<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyX6Cssxv97vYRDC4XmdIoTdhPfm3EREjTDF35ejyHZA6oX07iu16T702halLjV8Pd1LfaE_jEj7Rzc9THBqRlsEfZWyxZjyNftIK7rieedpiH_kE62N58jCrIvxRSAUJYZD_c3RwaJk/s1600/DSC03901_1.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFyX6Cssxv97vYRDC4XmdIoTdhPfm3EREjTDF35ejyHZA6oX07iu16T702halLjV8Pd1LfaE_jEj7Rzc9THBqRlsEfZWyxZjyNftIK7rieedpiH_kE62N58jCrIvxRSAUJYZD_c3RwaJk/s200/DSC03901_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5468597895168031058" /></a><br />Ancient Kauai royalty (alii) dined on fresh caught ahi and taro. Today most dining establishments want you to think that regal dining in Kauai means forking over 40 dollars for toenail sized serving of fish more reminiscent of a Kandinsky painting than a meal. However, if you know where to look, you can enjoy the freshest seafood in the state without having to take out a second mortgage. <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Kapaa and Lihue:</span><br />Often when people imagine breakfast on the island, their reveries feature melting ice sculptures surrounded by crab, heaps of pineapple and plates of banana pancakes, accompanied by a $30 a person tab. Instead, follow the locals. In Kapaa, you won’t find a better banana pancake, smothered in homemade piping hot coconut syrup than at Ono Family Restaurant (808-822-1710; 4-1292 Kuhio Highway). <br /><br />For lunch, it’s hard to avoid a trip (or three) to Hamura’s Saimin Stand (808-245-3271; 2956 Kress St, Lihue) for huge bowls of noodle soup, lilikoi pie and grilled meat for well under ten bucks. However, if you look a little farther, you’ll find many local favorites. In a little shack on the ocean side of Highway 56 in Anahola, locals line up at Duane’s Ono Charburgers (808-822-9181) for tetherball-sized burgers, addictive fries and marionberry milkshakes.<br /><br />Stay nearby at <a href="http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/aston-islander-on-the-beach/">http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/aston-islander-on-the-beach/</a><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />South Shore: </span><br />For South Shore breakfast, you are in luck. Here you’ll find the best traditional breakfast on the island at Joe’s on the Green (808-742-9696; 2545 Kiahuna Place). On Sundays locals crowd the patio along the golf course to eat the most authentic loco moco around. <br /><br />For lunch and pupus, don’t miss the hole-in-the-wall Koloa Fish Market (808-742-6199; 5482 Koloa Road). They serve up the best poke on the island, fantastic seaweed and macaroni salads, and massive plate lunches to go. <br /><br />Stay nearby at <a href="http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/aston-islander-on-the-beach/">http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/sheraton-kauai-resort/</a><br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">North Shore:</span><br />A trip to Kauai is not complete without a visit to Kilauea Fish Market (808-828-6244; 4270 Kilauea Lighthouse Road, Kilauea). Locals line up out the door for lunch or an early dinner. Serving up the freshest sustainable fish on the island, you can’t go wrong with an ahi or tofu wrap enjoyed on picnic tables overlooking a meadow. <br /><br />Locals and surfers testify that pizza and burritos are the best ways to fill a hungry belly after a long beach day. North Shore locals favor the fresh (and huge) slices at Kilauea Bakery and Pau Hana Pizza (808-828-2020, Kong Lung Center, Kilauea). <br /><br />Stay nearby at <a href="http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/aston-islander-on-the-beach/">http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/hanalei-colony-resort/</a><br /><br />Dining like alii shouldn’t break the bank and with a little know how, you’ll find that food at inexpensive restaurants often outshines the pricy offerings of traditional sit down places, leaving you plenty of cash to take that helicopter tour, and return to Kauai next year.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-28976619787779548882010-04-29T13:38:00.000-07:002010-04-30T09:40:30.665-07:00Tiny Waves for Tiny Feet<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0iZzyTc7ooXmOVjLar7jeKBASoGZSV7ZXLwsQsd3iMOAW585MYc1H0LPwVlHvdksfyFJeqfcmzPiyb_y1wgejGLHSnHNGGykoJztwbX5WotNnGfR4m4-q1JgU7UQ2GcTcvg7WD4YKW0/s1600/DSC04704.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp0iZzyTc7ooXmOVjLar7jeKBASoGZSV7ZXLwsQsd3iMOAW585MYc1H0LPwVlHvdksfyFJeqfcmzPiyb_y1wgejGLHSnHNGGykoJztwbX5WotNnGfR4m4-q1JgU7UQ2GcTcvg7WD4YKW0/s200/DSC04704.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5465662130497127874" /></a><br />Picture it now, the swaying palm trees guarding crystalline sand, leading to the United States’ most clandestine stretch of the Pacific. The sun beats on your back, the water beckons. Then crash. An epic swell—one that has lured daredevils to Kauai since the Tahitians introduced surfing—crushes your hopes of letting your tot (and if you’re really honest, even your timid swimmer of a partner) touch more than a toe in the warm seas. <br /><br />However, moms and dads (and weak swimmers) don’t scratch Kauai off your safe swimming vacation lists yet. There are enclosed swimming areas on Kauai, safe enough for you to let Little Amber snorkel while you stick your nose in the latest Dan Brown novel and enjoy your vacation too. <br /><br />The Kauai people have a long held respect for the ocean, so in order to give their little keikis a way to cool off in the rough seas, they constructed enclosed swimming areas (with that oh-so-useful lava rock). While you may want to admire the rough seas of Ke’e Beach and Polihale Beach from afar, you can schedule a day (or three) of lounging in the warm waters of the following kid friendly beaches. <br /><br /> Quite possibly the crowning glory of the Kauai community, Lydgate Beach Park promises plenty of safe swimming opportunities. Strewn along the eastern shores of the island, this park attracts joggers and dog walkers (the beachside trail stretches for miles), picnickers, sunbathers and oodles of kiddos. Chalk up the attraction to these strands as part of the community spirit (Kauai people designed and then spent a weekend constructing the magnificent playground just steps from the sand). Plus, the lava rock enclosed swimming hole makes nascent swimmers, teeny tots and tropical fish spotting snorkelers feel both safe and warm. It’s like a pool in the ocean! Stay nearby at the <a href="http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/castle-kaha-lani-resort/">Castle Kaha Lani Resort</a>.<br /><br /> Probably the most crowded beach on the island, the ever sunny Poipu Beach Park has plenty of fans for a good reason. Her reputation for being a sunbather’s spot du jour (What more could you want? Great weather, a shave ice truck, close bathrooms, a playground, a restaurant and even some decent surf) is deserved. Throw in a warm enclosed swimming area where you can watch waves pass and swim within feet of monk seals and you surely understand her allure. <br /><br /> Further south and west, on the sunny side of the island hidden in a salt harvesting region is the aptly named Salt Pond Park. Popular with resting monk seals and sea turtles, plus local picnickers and lap swimmers, this shady (and grassy) beach proves to be a lovely spot to spend a day. As long as you stay away from the monk seals, you can have most of the lava rock enclosed swimming area to yourself. Stay nearby at <a href="http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/areas/kauai/hotels/roundups/best-luxury-hotels-on-kauai/">Koa Kea Resort Hotel</a>, <a href="http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/sheraton-kauai-resort/">Sheraton Kauai Resort</a>, or <a href="http://www.oyster.com/hawaii/hotels/grand-hyatt-kauai-resort-and-spa/">Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa</a>. <br /><br /> If you find yourself tempted to brave the swells at other beaches, be sure to check the surf report. And follow the local mantra, If in doubt, don’t go out. <br /> Happy swimming!<br /><br />For more information visit <a href="http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/">http://www.kauaiexplorer.com/</a>Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-92056591633625712842010-02-27T14:02:00.000-08:002010-02-27T14:16:04.391-08:00Tidal Wave of Thoughts--Tsunami Musings 2010<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4VDm7Ctmh8WqFCRFXV3lQCUgOd2j4hjLBjnt3qgMRBSGkFfQa5n3mB6uHi1eTY3NB3n8PFvRLBf22IJM-x587bgd_zNWYnPmBk8TeZ7Y4PsT1Np5djHnZAwmqehJXo6ZSKBXtczAA83E/s1600-h/DSC04704.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4VDm7Ctmh8WqFCRFXV3lQCUgOd2j4hjLBjnt3qgMRBSGkFfQa5n3mB6uHi1eTY3NB3n8PFvRLBf22IJM-x587bgd_zNWYnPmBk8TeZ7Y4PsT1Np5djHnZAwmqehJXo6ZSKBXtczAA83E/s200/DSC04704.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5443050487700998194" /></a><br />Throughout centuries, Kauai and her sister isles have had to endure plenty of Mother Nature's whippings. Hurricanes, earthquakes, disease, invasive plants, and of course a less environmental beating (but no more painful) colonialism. And time and time again, she has bounced back, stronger, more humble, and more enriched because of it. <br /><br />As I sit in my living room today, three thousand miles from the Garden Isle, watching CNN coverage of the tsunami destined to wash Hawaii's shores, I imagine the people of Kauai as I know them: sitting near Sleeping Giant, banding together, sharing papaya, talking story, and marveling in the power of nature. <br /><br />If any people know how to embrace natural happenings (I won't say disasters, it's too early for that), it is island people. After Iniki, the locals gathered together to help rebuild. After the tourist slump, the people hunkered down and tried innovative ways to lure visitors back, and the list goes on. <br /><br />I write this not only to send love and strength to all people affected by the Chilean earthquake this morning, but to also remind us all that the power of nature pales by comparison to the power of people in great numbers working together. If there is destruction, we will rebuild. Together.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-50488166159670055282009-12-11T12:10:00.000-08:002009-12-11T12:13:09.447-08:00United Slashes Winter Flights to KauaiGet it while it's hot. I just heard that United has slashed winter fares to Kauai (and all islands) to hover at just around $500 round trip from San Francisco. The past couple of years found winter fares to be closer to $600-$700.<br /><br />For more information <a href="http://www.travelzoo.com/Newsflash.ashx?709690-66549848">click here</a>.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-29742738327323609052009-11-13T12:41:00.001-08:002009-11-13T12:43:30.369-08:00Wintertime Deals to KauaiOK friends, time to start surfing the web to score some of the insane flight deals to Kauai. At last glance on both <a href="http://www.travelzoo.com">www.travelzoo.com</a> and <a href="http://www.beatofhawaii.com">www.beatofhawaii.com</a>, I saw round trip flights to Hawaii hovering around $300. <br /><br />Get your flights now! They'll go fast.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-30721262753841381912009-07-06T11:22:00.000-07:002009-07-06T11:23:12.782-07:00Kokee blaze mostly containedA brush fire torched 10 acres of Kokee forest in the Waimea Canyon State Park this weekend. As of Sunday morning, the blaze was 75 percent contained, with a few hot spots still burning. The fire started along Makaha Ridge Road and has burned over 2 miles of pine forest. Though it threatened a few cabins, no one had to be evacuated.<br /><br />For more information, <a href="http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6346-Northern-California-Getaways-Examiner~y2009m7d6-Kauais-Kokee-forest-brush-fire-mostly-contained">click here</a>.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-56649576578756579992009-06-24T11:57:00.000-07:002009-06-24T11:59:49.043-07:00Great Destinations Kauai reviewJust wanted to share my recent interview and book review. To read it, <a href="http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-8808-Sacramento-Outdoor-Travel-Examiner~y2009m6d23-Interview-with-a-Kauai-travel-expert">click here</a>.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-65683085726642859472009-06-05T10:34:00.001-07:002009-06-05T10:35:35.486-07:00Kauai Inns Offer the True Spirit of AlohaFor those of you interested in finding an authentic Kauai lodging experience, <a href="http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6346-Northern-California-Getaways-Examiner~y2009m6d5-Kauais-Inns-Offer-the-True-Spirit-of-Aloha">click here. </a>Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-6151226880860500522009-06-01T11:04:00.000-07:002009-06-01T11:05:24.350-07:00A Shameless Plug for a New BookOK, so I know I am supposed to be writing about Kauai here, but I couldn't help letting you know about my new book. <br /><br />Looking for summer road trip ideas? Romantic getaways? Family friendly getaways? Campsites, gourmet taco trucks, hikes and hidden mountain towns? My new guidebook <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Northern-California-Explorers-Michele-Bigley/dp/0881508322">Northern California: An Explorer's Guide</a> addresses the need for honest coverage of California's most beautiful landscape from a local perspective. The book covers the region from Big Sur to Yosemite, all the way up to the Oregon border, including hidden gems like Dunsmuir, Gualala, Shelter Cove and Twain Harte, not to mention Lake Tahoe, San Francisco, Wine Country and the redwoods.<br /><br />For more information, <a href="http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6346-Northern-California-Getaways-Examiner~y2009m6d1-Northern-California-An-Explorers-Guide-A-guidebook-for-all-budgets">click here</a>.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-75601068944905712632009-04-22T10:24:00.000-07:002009-04-22T10:25:50.995-07:00Facing death makes life sweeterEddie, Kai and I recently faced death, again...here's a link to what happened. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6346-Northern-California-Getaways-Examiner~y2009m4d22-Facing-death-makes-life-sweeter">http://www.examiner.com/examiner/x-6346-Northern-California-Getaways-Examiner~y2009m4d22-Facing-death-makes-life-sweeter</a>Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-57393141693129256952009-04-09T16:40:00.000-07:002009-04-09T16:47:53.356-07:00Polihale State Park--Why Locals Love It<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRH4ePhNyIGoHC3tMO3c5qBkrh-1V0jGazr2-b4g0mswz88bllHlKCVUwQyzSy_yN229rdNK6zz02ZTEnXcTXy0gZ0YlGNTRKpFn8CDQIhyphenhyphen_sn38iVTLAxW0wRUbGPogihyqmsJJdrCIo/s1600-h/DSC03390.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRH4ePhNyIGoHC3tMO3c5qBkrh-1V0jGazr2-b4g0mswz88bllHlKCVUwQyzSy_yN229rdNK6zz02ZTEnXcTXy0gZ0YlGNTRKpFn8CDQIhyphenhyphen_sn38iVTLAxW0wRUbGPogihyqmsJJdrCIo/s200/DSC03390.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322842264697500546" /></a><br />Imagine a bumpy potholed road, 5 miles long that breaks rental cars that merely think about the trip. Throw in 15 miles of white sand that stretches to the western edge of the Na Pali Coast, free camping, intense surf, and even a mellow sheltered reef for keikis. Oh, and did I mention that it is almost always sunny and is Kauai's best place to watch the sunset?<br /><br />Now you know why locals are volunteering to help rebuild a washed out bridge that leads to this magnificent beach. Wouldn't you? <br /><br />Polihale may open up again sooner than you know it, thanks to the Kauai community.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-74955902648287246732009-04-07T09:55:00.000-07:002009-04-07T09:57:17.746-07:00New travel trend: Hire a travel coach and take a Life SabbaticalHere's a link to an interesting travel trend for people who want help arranging the trip they always dreamed of. <br /><br />Check out <a href="http://www.examiner.com/x-6346-Northern-California-Getaways-Examiner~y2009m4d7-New-travel-trend-Hire-a-travel-coach-and-take-a-Life-Sabbatical">http://www.examiner.com/x-6346-Northern-California-Getaways-Examiner~y2009m4d7-New-travel-trend-Hire-a-travel-coach-and-take-a-Life-Sabbatical</a>Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-5981513512158326452009-04-01T12:05:00.000-07:002009-04-01T12:21:25.695-07:00If I only had one day on Kauai I would...People ask me this all the time. Often they are cruise ship visitors with only 8-24 hours to "see" the island. And though I can easily prove that a day is not enough to see the island, it is enough to be become smitten with it. <br /><br />Here's how. <br /><br />Kauai is different than every other island in that it is lush and looks like that a tropical island is supposed to look like--if you know where to go. Save sunny beaches for Maui ahd Oahu. In Kauai you get to experience the garden isle in all its splendor. <br /><br />Start by renting a car through your cruise ship or at the Lihue airport (you can take a cab from the harbor). Every major car rental agency is located at the airport. <br /><br />After you have your car, drive north to Princeville (if you are starving, pitstop at Mango Mama's for a fruit smoothie). Head to the Hanalei Bay Resort's Bali Hai restaurant to have breakfast. Though not the best service, the views remind you why South Pacific was filmed on the island. <br /><br />Keep traveling north, through the town of Hanalei (you'll be back) to the Limahuli Garden for a tour of native plants. Then drive north until the road ends to stop at the picturesque Kee Beach. <br /><br />Venture back through Hanalei, stopping at the surf shops and art galleries. <br /><br />When your belly rumbles, head straight to the Kilauea Fish Company for fresh fish wraps and veggie offerings. Even better take your food to the Kilauea Lighthouse for a picnic with views of the albatross sailing over the sea. <br /><br />If you want a little beach break, drive back to Wailua to enjoy the kid-friendly Lydgate Park. <br /><br />Or head ot old town Kapaa for some souvenir shopping and a cocktail. <br /><br />For dinner, I love Hukilau Lanai for fresh (and super sweet) seafood and decadent cocktails. <br /><br />By that point, you should be tuckered out and ready to return to Kauai for a month. <br /><br />Pick up a copy of GREAT DESTINATIONS KAUAI (Countryman Press) for more information.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-73317227333699814292009-03-31T11:29:00.000-07:002009-03-31T11:32:08.415-07:00Fish are bitingAnglers are in for a treat. <br /><br />I have been informed that there are some great catches floating around the island. Contact <br />http://www.deepseafishingkauai..com <http://www.deepseafishingkauai.com> for more details.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-58286169465895473452009-03-29T15:02:00.000-07:002009-03-29T15:04:00.368-07:00Little Sprouts Playhouse OpensA new indoor playground opening in Kapaa gives parents another activity on a rainy day. Check out this link. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.kauaiworld.com/articles/2009/03/28/news/kauai_news//doc49cdd2ec2722d745944912.txt">http://www.kauaiworld.com/articles/2009/03/28/news/kauai_news//doc49cdd2ec2722d745944912.txt</a>Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-52360397722169193932009-03-27T09:59:00.001-07:002009-03-27T10:06:29.997-07:00The Perfect Day in PoipuThis morning I woke up thinking about Kauai's south shore--the sun, the waves, the roosters. I wanted to share with you the ideal day in this region. <br /><br />6am: Roosters wake you up, just in time for an oceanfront sunrise stroll.<br /><br />8am: Get a coffee and pastry at the Grand Hyatt Resort.<br /><br />9:30am: Head to Joe's on the Green for loco moco.<br /><br />11am: Venture to the National Tropical Botanical Gardens for a tour of the Allerton Gardens. <br /><br />1pm: Grab a picnic lunch at the Koloa Fish Market and take it to Poipu Beach. <br /><br />4pm: Schedule a massage at the Grand Hyatt Resort Spa: ANARA.<br /><br />6:30: Enjoy sunset cocktails at the Sheraton Resort. <br /><br />8pm: Trek to Plantation Gardens for gigantic plates of local food in a plantation style house. <br /><br />10pm: Head back to your lodging and relax. You'll have another big day tomorrow.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-17313484111824259672009-03-26T09:36:00.000-07:002009-03-26T09:41:49.161-07:00Civil Unions Bill Fails in State SenateThough the Hawaii state senate denied LGBT couples the right to civil unions (a bill that is rumored to be revisited soon), gay and lesbian travelers should not despair. Aside from California, New York and Massachusetts, Hawaii is one of the most welcoming vacation destinations for same sex couples. <br /><br />There are a number of gay-owned inns, restaurants, and shops on the island. For more detailed information on this, pick up a copy of GREAT DESTINATIONS KAUAI (Countryman Press, 2008).Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-5547105081751308632009-03-23T12:13:00.001-07:002009-03-23T12:18:43.385-07:00Adios SuperferryAnd so the story ends. Superferry, once a way to travel between the Hawaiian islands without getting on an airplane, has met its demise. <br /><br />After protesters on Kauai camped out in front of the vessel on surfboards, halting its passage, this ship has not been running between Oahu and Kauai. Now the State Supreme Court stopped service between Oahu and Maui, siding with environmentalists. <br /><br />Locals are rejoicing. Tourists and airplane-ophobes are bummed. But flights are still cheap.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-63378264366756443772009-03-18T10:21:00.000-07:002009-03-18T10:22:42.386-07:00VISITING A HEIAUA heiau is a temple built of rectangular lava rock, fit together so adeptly that many walls still stand today. They used to be filled with palm leaves, wood, grasses, and sacred objects. Though they may look like a pile of rocks to you, often overgrown by brush or seemingly forgotten, remember that these are religious sites, sacred to Hawaiians. They are fragile and cannot be replaced. So please honor the suggestions listed below. <br /><br />▪ View the heiau from the exterior. Do not climb on or over the rock walls, they may collapse. <br /><br />▪ Do not excavate, destroy, or alter any historic site on state land or you will be fined $10,000. <br /><br />▪ Do not leave offerings or trash at a heiau structure. Coins, candles, incense and similar items cause long-term damage.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-66042265626603351512009-03-16T11:46:00.000-07:002009-03-16T11:49:59.405-07:00Great Destinations Kauai LA Reading and Slideshow<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpTfcSGm6Gr4F_bWyHWkE-C6QSslmoWWkpIm5lKjqUc9xNcjkk_vSuJA8ZxSLPN9gcC3_n_hraoaxMcOQjIFx7ETab1bXUumImAeg1AUYe5b38P-qcJrhoZhWE9Lb7ZuEeCYinGse3m8/s1600-h/GDHIKauaii1.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixpTfcSGm6Gr4F_bWyHWkE-C6QSslmoWWkpIm5lKjqUc9xNcjkk_vSuJA8ZxSLPN9gcC3_n_hraoaxMcOQjIFx7ETab1bXUumImAeg1AUYe5b38P-qcJrhoZhWE9Lb7ZuEeCYinGse3m8/s200/GDHIKauaii1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5313859754497314178" /></a><br />Aloha!<br /><br />Just in time to take advantage of those springtime deals to Kauai (have you seen the $400 round trip from the west coast to Lihue on United???), I will be sharing photos and talking story about my favorite Hawaiian island. <br /><br />Please join me this Saturday March 21 at 6pm at <span style="font-weight:bold;">Traveler's Bookcase</span> 8375 West Third Street Los Angeles, CA 90048. 323-655-0575. Refreshments will be served. <br /><br />Bring the keikis, your friends and Hawaii-lovers.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-53275181492172205822009-03-13T11:40:00.000-07:002009-03-13T11:49:23.756-07:00Niihau--Can We Appreciate the Isolation?Nothing creates intrigue like hearing a place is off limits. Ni‘ihau, 17 miles away from Kaua‘i, is an illusive and forbidden land. This privately owned island houses over 200 Hawaiians. <br /><br />The majority of the population lives in the community of Pu‘uwai. This is the only island where Hawaiian is the primary language (though children learn English in grade school). Rumor has it this is the only place where some full-blooded Hawaiians still exist. Though a notable irony since the people who own the island are non-Hawaiian. <br /><br />Unlike the rest of the archipelago, there is no electricity (but people use power generators for their televisions and refrigerators); no cable TV, phone service, indoor plumbing, wireless, or paved roads. <br /><br />For work, the residents farm and create shell necklaces and craftwork that sells for big bucks on Kaua‘i. Unfortunately, the economy is suffering from draughts, hurricanes, and a lessening of ranch activities. There is talk of a bigger military presence on the island to subsidize the economy, and maybe a high-end resort. But as of now, the land and its people are a pristine example of life without outside influence. <br /><br />As a tourist, the only way to visit is by invitation from a local. Otherwise, you have to settle with diving off shore or taking a helicopter tour over the uninhabited edge of the island. <br /><br />It seems to this traveler that there is something special about the isolation of Niihau. No other Hawaiian island has been able to retain its soul in quite the same way--and for that we might be able to appreciate the fact that we are not quite wanted there. Don't some places have to stay sacred?Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-64715590480558761262009-03-10T11:40:00.000-07:002009-03-10T11:46:01.187-07:00Negotiating the Condo ConundrumThe majority of lodging opportunities in Kauai are condos. Spread throughout the east, south, and north shores, you’ll find a condominium option for nearly every price range. However, finding the right unit for you, might take a little research. <br /><br />There is no central booking agency for any one particular condominium complex and décor is all over the map. For the most part, each condo unit is individually owned and operated, which means two condos right next to each other will be entirely different. <br /><br />Another consideration is that some condo complexes are “resort condos” which means that they are a condo with resort benefits (often this means that the company will charge a resort fee; this will be noted if it is the case), like maid service, wireless, etc. <br /><br />An easy way to negotiate the condo conundrum is to contact a rental agency, tell them exactly what you are looking for, and then ask to see specific pictures of the units they suggest. <br /><br />Below are the vacation rental companies that I like most:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Castle </span><br />(808-822-7700 or 800-367-5004; fax 808-822-7456. www.castleresorts.com).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Rosewood</span><br />(808-822-5216; fax 808-822-5478. www.rosewoodkauai.com. rosewood@aloha.net.)<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Parrish Collection</span><br />(808-742-2000 or 800-325-5701; fax 808-742-9093; www.grantham-resorts.com, stay@grantham-resorts.com). <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Poipu Connection: </span><br />(808-742-2233 or 800-742-2260; fax 808-742-7382; www.poipuconnection.com, poipu@hawaiilink.net). <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Suite Paradise: </span><br />(808-742-7400 or 800-367-8020; fax 808-742-9121; www.suite-paradise.com, mail@suiteparadise.com).<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Hanalei North Shore Properties: </span><br />(www.vacation-rental-kauai; 808-826-9622 or 800-488-3336; fax 808-826-1188) <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Oceanfront Realty: </span><br />(www.oceanfrontrealty.com; 808-826-6585 or 800-222-5541; fax 808-826-6478).Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-20627788977114305632009-03-08T13:10:00.001-07:002009-03-08T13:18:43.557-07:00Living AlohaTo help inspire Bay Area folks to travel to Hawaii, the Hawaii Visitors Bureau has funded a number of free Hawaiian concerts throughout March in San Francisco. Last Friday, I attended Brother Noland's show (because my friend Verge was playing) and was reminded of why Hawaii is such a unique place. <br /><br />Prior to the show, we were all sitting upstairs nursing our drinks, when Brother Noland commented that in the end music will bring us all together--it has in the past and will carry us through the current cloud hanging over us all. <br /><br />And it dawned on me that we all need to offer ourselves a dash of goodness, especially now, when the newspapers are filled with doom and gloom. <br /><br />So when I looked around Gordon Biersch, I noticed that most of the people in the lofty restaurant were smiling--something you don't often see on the Muni or BART. And my Hawaiian friend Verge said, maybe we need to give people leis more often, reminding them that the Aloha Spirit can exist, even when we are not in Hawaii. <br /><br />So here's my little call to you all: After reading the Sunday paper, or after not sleeping enough, or losing your job, or, heck, after a crappy day at the office, even if you can't afford a trip to the islands, allow yourself to honor the aloha spirit for a few minutes each day. Basically--be nice to yourself, listen to Hawaiian music, and treat yourself to a lei from a local flower shop. Your psyche will thank you.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-62600681041814366742009-03-05T10:08:00.000-08:002009-03-05T10:10:33.287-08:00Kauai Country Inn--Last Minute SpecialsOK, Beatles fans, here's your chance to visit the only Beatles Museum in Hawaii for a steal. <br /><br />After working in the film advertising industry for 17 years, Mike and Martina Hough moved to Kauai, and created their own work of art, the <span style="font-weight:bold;">Kauai Country Inn</span> (808-821-0207; www.kauaicountryinn.com; 6440 Olohena Road, Wailua). The five suites and cottage are decorated with exotic tiles, Hawaiian motif furniture, hardwood floors, murals, and have big windows overlooking the valley, plus kitchenettes. Soaking in the hot tub, surrounded by guava and starfruit trees, will enable you to embrace the solace of these undulating hills just a few minutes drive from Kapaa town. A major perk here is access to Mike’s private Beatles Museum, which showcases Brian Epstein’s Mini Cooper. Suites run $129-$169; 3-bedroom cottage is $249. <br /><br />Check last minute specials for some pretty good deals.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1664557186775346877.post-38711293891507687322009-03-02T11:18:00.000-08:002009-03-02T11:20:35.271-08:00Kauai Air DealI had to share this deal with you all--United Airlines has a $265 (all-inclusive) deal from SF to Lihue, Kauai through the beginning of April. Now is the time to book those flight deals. Nothing takes the edge off the winter like the tropics.Michele Bigleyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11954329802676781228noreply@blogger.com0