Who deserves a winter break? You do!
Sea or mountains -
why not both? You can enjoy the best of both worlds on Hawaii's Big
Island. Yes, Big Island - bigger than all the other Hawaiian islands
put together - has room for everything you could possibly want.
Winter
temperatures are pleasantly warm on Big Island, where the average is
between 75 and 85 degrees, so you can travel light. You'll maybe need
to wear something warm in the cooler evenings, or if you are high in
the mountains.
The privilege will be yours, only in the winter
months on Big Island, to see snow capping the peak of Mauna Kea, the
world's tallest mountain measured from the ocean floor.
This
fascinating island holds many other unique attractions: You can explore
ancient ruins, walk on beaches of black sand and observe an active
volcano, Kilauea. There is big-game fishing, snorkeling and golf for
the sport enthusiast. Perhaps you'd like to visit an area of streams
and waterfalls, or wander around the Botanic Garden, which is home to
thousands of exotic plants.
You might like just strolling in the
charming historic district of the Big Island's capital, Hilo, and
learning something of Hawaii's history. What sort of food do you enjoy?
The Big Island's gastronomic delights are endless, and you can choose
to eat formally or be totally relaxed in the outdoors. Accommodation is
also immensely varied, to suit individual preference - from studio apartment rentals to luxury, private homes, you can stay however you please.
Winter
is a special time on Big Island, as there are many seasonal festivities
to enjoy in addition to the natural delights of the island. There are
Christmas concerts and parades, food and wine events, and the Christmas
tree is ceremoniously lit each year. The Island Dance Academy
traditionally performs in mid-December, and the whole "merry season" is
certainly one to enjoy, as Christmas and New Year's are always
celebrated in style.
If you visit us in winter, because of the
many festivities, you may find that you don't have enough time to see
the whole island and all its natural wonders. You'll just have to come
back again in a different season!
This tidbit of real travel advice was contributed by travel vet Noreen Dayton.