While all of your friends are drudging through the snow and slush, bundled up like Eskimos, you can be basking in the warm sun of Hawaii. Let your toes twinkle in the soft sandy beaches of the Big Island as the waves crash against the shore, sunshine smiling on your face and fresh breezes gently blowing you hair. Experience the relaxing breath of Hawaii: It's like you are in another world. 

Take an unbelievable hike through the rainforest or schedule a whale-watching boat tour and commune with nature at its finest. Picnic in one of the world's most enchanting parks, Lili'uokalani Park, with its Japanese gardens and unparalleled views of the Hilo Bay and the slopes of Mauna Kea.  Geothermal vents from miles below the crusted surface spew steam dozens of feet into the air. Awe-inspiring beauty captivates your senses from every direction. 

From the time you set foot on the Big Island of Hawaii, the chilly remembrance of yesterday melts away. With the average temperature around 85 degrees, the cold winter weather will soon be a distant memory. The island hospitality greets you everywhere as you engulf yourself in the scenery of your surroundings. "Ho'olo komo la kaua"...please join us!

Hawaii offers endless activities year round and specializes in bringing warm, soothing relaxation to everyone looking to get away from the harsh winter months. Bring your sleeveless clothes and a bathing suit, for Hawaii is what some say winter should be about. Snorkel among the phenomenal coral reefs and watch the many strange fish weave effortlessly through the moving coral extensions. The extraordinary palette of colorful fish seem friendly as their curiosity beckons them to swim next to you. Unlike any other experience, you become captivated and feel a part of their world. The water is crystal clear, making it a prime medium for photography.

Bird-watching is unsurpassed on Hawaii. The flocks of brilliantly feathered birds peacefully inhabit the island. Peacocks, among thousands of other species, happily display their majesty of colorful beauty. Join the hundreds of photographic moments and create your own postcard image.

The floral array consists of purples, blues, pinks and yellows like you have never seen before. Orchids and anthuriums grow wild along the roads on the Big Island - fresh aromatherapy that can't be purchased anywhere else in the world.

If you are really looking for something outside of the box, then go parasailing - an amazing adventure that will thrill anyone. Soar like an eagle above the pristine ocean and get a view unlike no other. The warmth of the Hawaiian air surrounding you as you glide high above the beaches, gazing at the beauty below. Miles of endless sand in white, green and black surround you, palm trees cascade around the island, almost as if to close it off from the rest of the world. The lava formations sprinkle color that seems almost painted on the land.

Hilo, the jewel spot of Hawaii, is where lush greenery kisses the ocean front. From emerald to forest, pastel to evergreen, Hilo is a magnet of intense visual stimulation. Home to the world famous Merrie Monarch Hula Festival, the International Festival and the Aloha Festival, Hilo has an activity-packed event calender. If it happens to rain in Hilo, then grab an umbrella and enjoy a stroll in the warm drops from heaven. Brightly colored umbrella's pop up everywhere as the locals and tourists alike become children again, playing in the rain.  Grab the handle of a sampan bus, Hilo's unique form of transportation, and tour the Farmer's Market in Old Hilo Town, tasting samples of food that you have only heard about.  Walk through the streets and smell the fresh scent of wild ginger in the air.  

The food in Hawaii is enough to warrant a vacation in itself. From the exquisite fresh catch fish to Vietnamese inspired dishes, everyone's taste can be fulfilled. Expert world class chefs prepare the plates with perfection and original design. Atmosphere and open hospitality invite you into settings with breathtaking ocean views. Swordfish, tuna and dolphin are prepared in unique flare that is native to Hawaii. The desserts are also given the same attention to detail, utilizing the fruits of the island as a main format of each delight.

"Kipa hou mai" - come visit again, as they say in Hawaiian. "Mahalo nui loa na ho'olaule a me la kaua"...thank you for celebrating with us! Bring the warmth of the spirit within you to this island paradise. Refresh yourself in surreal charm and atmosphere as you take part in the activities of winter in Hawaii. 

This tidbit of real travel advice was contributed by Hawaii vet Ray Fauteux.

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