The number one reason this island calls to me... the people, my ohana (family)! They say that home is where the heart is, and every time I return to this place I feel like I have come home!
Starting with my #1 choice, and home most every time I return to Waikiki, and that is the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa! The rooms are huge, nice decor that is simple and clean, and great service. Most important, and actually even getting better (if that is possible) is the service! From the front desk to housekeeping, these people truly care about their guests, and the experience during their stay. No hotel/resort is perfect. But to me; the #1 sign of great guest service is not placing blame, but how quickly they fix the problem! The entire staff at this hotel lives by this philosophy, and it shows in all they do!
Another reason I love Waikiki; it's a "foodie's" paradise! There are so many great restaurants now in Honolulu, that you could stay a month and not have the chance to experience them all! But I must say, the "all new" International Marketplace, is now home to several. My all time favorite chef and restaurateur is Roy Yamaguchi, founder of "Roy's". His newest venture is called "Eating House 1849", and it's truly spectacular!
But my most recent experience, and one that sincerely "blew me away"~ is Yauatcha! Not only was the food absolutely the best Chinese/Dim Sum I have had in years! The service was amazing, like better than many five star fine dining experiences, and I have had many over the years! The credit for this goes 100% to our server "Joey". He was so knowledgeable, and knew so much about food, and food pairings. It was really a pleasure not only being served by him, but learning from him! I can not wait to return, and will request this wonderful young man again!
Another major reason I love this island so much, and so many people just never discover... it's one of the most beautiful of the island chain! Many visitors do not realize this, because they never leave the greater Honolulu area. Some of the world's best beaches are on the east side of this island! The landscape and beauty once outside of Honolulu is rich, green, and surprises so many visitors! O'ahu is about so much more than Waikiki Beach, and unless you rent a car, or take a great island tour (or work with a Certified Master Hawai'i Specialist~ like me!) you will never get to truly experience this special place. O'ahu is simply put... gorgeous, and just does not get the credit it so deserves.
It's hard sometimes for me to describe my level of passion for this very special place. I am at peace there, I can breath, and it touches my heart a little deeper every time I return. But I also have more trouble leaving O'ahu than any other of the islands. I can for sure tell you it's because of the people! Every time I have to say aloha... the tears flow, and my heart feels heavy.
Hawai'i is not just a beach, or a resort. It's incredible beauty, history, culture, and the most amazing proud and kind people I have every had the privilege of knowing. I'm a better person when I am in Hawai'i, and visiting these islands with an open heart and mind will make you a believer too!
Beautiful photos and very well written, Teri. You really captured the spirit of the island and how special it is in your words and photos. Everyone for whom you plan a trip to any of the Hawaiian Islands is very fortunate to be working with you since they're sure to have a memorable trip and, as has been the case for so many of your clients, it will more than likely be a life-changing experience as well.
ReplyDeleteMany thanks Marilyn! It means a lot.
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