On our latest Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast hosts Aloha Bruce and Lanai Tabura fill listeners in on the best way to experience a Big Island vacation. We talk about some of the best places to stay and the best things to do.

Lanai fills us in on his latest travels, and where to find his CNN specials on his work in the Philippines and elsewhere around the world and appearances on other networks like Lifetime TV.

Lanai make clears the distinction of the Big Island, or Hawaii Island as it’s often referred. Bruce and Lanai talk about how the name of the Big Island (or Hawaii Island) often confuses visitors. The conversation turns to how big the Big Island actually is and how it surprises visitors.

Bruce says that Hilo and Kona on the Big Island are the main destinations for visitors and that the Kona area is the most popular among visitors. He and Lanai offer their insight about major resort brands like Marriott, Hilton, and Four Seasons.

Bruce notes that the Fairmont Orchid in Hawaii the only private resort in Hawaii where it is legal to have a cocktail on the beach in Hawaii. Our hosts talk about their personal preferences when staying on the Kona side and why they love them.

The conversation moves on to accommodations on the northern Hilo side of Hawaii Island. Lanai offers some history on the Naniloa Hotel, the famous and oldest hotel in Hawaii. Bruce also mentions the Hilo Hawaiian and the Volcano House. He says that the best way to experience a Big Island vacation is to make time for both the Hilo and Kona sides of the island. Lanai notes the beauty of the Hamakua Coast and compares it to the Pacific Coast Highway in California.

Our hosts then offer their unique insight into experiencing the wonders of Volcanoes National Park. Kilauea Volcano is still erupting, but not in the spectacular fashion that made global headlines in the past couple of years.

Bruce offers his animated take on manta ray tours that are available on the Big Island. Lanai says that a helicopter tour is one of the best ways to experience the natural beauty and splendor of the Big Island.

With their typical casual and informed style, Bruce and Lanai talk about out of the way places on the Big Island that many visitors are simply unaware of, but that they are not difficult to get to. Lanai mentions the wild horses to be seen in the famous and stunning Waipio Valley on the Hilo side of the island.

Bruce and Lanai move on to popular luaus offered at the Royal Kona, Sheraton. Lanai says that visiting coffee farms is a great part of any Big Island Vacation, noting a couple of iconic farms on the Big Island. The conversation turns to an organic vanilla farm open to tours.

Our hosts point out there is so much to do during a Big Island vacation that visitors should speak to people with detailed local knowledge, the kind that Hawaii Aloha Travel offers 24/7. We’re the experts!