Aloha Bruce takes on the topic of researching your next Hawaii vacation on this episode of the Hawaii Vacation Podcast, prompted by an inquiry from listener “Joan”. Bruce offers some suggestions about how to go about doing your own research, the latest Hawaii travel news, and a discussion about hiking on Kauai.

First up is the recent announcement of a concert by Weird Al Yankovich at the Polynesian Cultural Center on March 31. Yankovich is a part time resident of Hana, Maui, as it turns out, so he won’t have to travel far for the show. Also, The Grand Wailea Resort on Maui is seeking an “Instagram-sitter” to serve as a social media photographer of its many opulent amenities.

Bruce also notes that the airport at Lihue, Kauai is facing opposition to a plan to improve expand its capabilities. Some residents are against making it easier to bring more people to the Garden Isle. Others insist that modernizing the airport should be a priority for safety and economic reasons. “I really don’t understand the opposition to improvements to our infrastructure,” Bruce says, offering on his impressions of the dated airports in Hawaii.

On to the subject of researching Hawaii vacations, Bruce says it’s important to work with a travel advisor. “We’ve done it all, we’ve seen it all!” Bruce says. He offers up a story about his move to Hawaii 32 years ago, which included reading a book titled Hawaii for Dummies. “I don’t even know who wrote that book, but I used it like a cheat sheet.”

Bruce mentions other titles like the Revealed series, which is controversial in some circles because it makes recommendations for activities that are restricted or plainly illegal. Fodor’s Hawaii is mentioned along with Moon Hawaii, Lonely Planet, and several others. Hawaii’s Best Spooky Tales by Rick Carroll explores Hawaii’s supernatural myths and legends.

Another podcast listener had a question about hiking on Kauai along the Kalalau Trail. Bruce says that staying on Kauai’s east side near Kapaa is best for visitors keen to explore and adventure. Bruce makes fun of himself for butchering the pronunciation of Hanakapi’ai (ha-na-ka-pee-eye), and explains that it is along the way to Kalalau Valley. The remote valley is “like a three day thing” and takes serious commitment and preparation, which prompts our host to muse about Hawaii’s recent spate of high winds and heavy rains.

Up next is the Waimea Canyon Trail (HAT offers tours), Sleeping Giant Trail (4-miles), the Heritage Trail, and others. Bruce talks about some of the historic hikes, walks, and attractions on Kauai, like the Kilauea Light House and (great for kids). Bruce mentions Wailua River and the many activities to consider there when researching Hawaii vacations.

“Kauai is just a great place to visit,” Bruce says, noting that there are currently some attractive travel deals available to those planning to visit. Get in touch with us!