I got LEI'd at the Westchester Marriott

Thank you to George Johns, of Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, for graciously extending me a lei greeting at the Hawaii Destination Specialist Training this week! The native Hawaiian practice of ho'okipa, or greeting and welcoming of strangers, is deeply embedded in the Hawaiian culture.

Some people go on vacation to a destination and think they are a 'specialist' but this was serious training. It took a full day to learn the unique characteristics of each of the 6 Hawaiian Islands, the history and culture, the islands geography, tons of accommodation options and last but perhaps most importantly, the activities/events/cuisine and entertainment that is offered to meet every traveler's needs. I have visited the islands more than once, which helps put all the information in perspective.

Many people are aware of the iconic activities such as visiting Pearl Harbor, attending a luau and seeing a waterfall. The benefit of talking with a Hawaii Specialist is planning the lesser-known activities that will give you the authentic cultural experience. For example, it isn't as widely known that if you visit Lana'i's northwest shore, there is a beautiful white sand beach that is a nesting ground from endangered green sea turtles. Or if you are foodie you will want to know all about the

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 Hawaiian Regional Cuisine. Here are some fun facts of each island:
KAUAI  - 80% of this island is inaccessible by car​ - so ditch the rental car and enjoy the island by way of boat, helicopter, kayak or even by foot!
OAHU - 70% of the Hawaiian population lives on Oahu, BUT that doesn't mean the entire island is a city!
MAUI - offers more swimmable beaches than the other Hawaiian islands and has a little bit of everything!
MOLOKAI & LANAI - there are no stop lights located here, these islands are truly rustic and far from tourism!

If Hawaii is on your bucket list, I  would love to discuss which island is right for you!

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