Our very last meal in Portland aside from dinner at the wedding we attended was brunch at our hotel's only restaurant, Craft PDX. Sort of. The restaurant was in the process of being rebranded at the time. … [Read more...] about Restaurant Review: Craft PDX at the Hi-Lo Hotel
Restaurant Review: La Vie Waikiki
While we were staying at the Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach, I made it a point to finally give La Vie Waikiki a try. After all, they are one of the most exciting recent additions to Honolulu's dynamic restaurant scene. And, I'm glad to say that the experience pleasantly surprised me! … [Read more...] about Restaurant Review: La Vie Waikiki
Honolulu Cracks Down on Illegal Vacation Rentals
Controlling illegal vacation rentals has long been a challenge for Oahu. Even during Hawaii's lockdown, some illegal rentals continued to operate. However, with help from major online vacation rental platforms, Honolulu cracks down on illegal vacation rentals. … [Read more...] about Honolulu Cracks Down on Illegal Vacation Rentals
Hanauma Bay Reopens with New Restrictions
After months of remaining closed, Hanauma Bay reopens with new restrictions aimed at maintaining improvements made during the pandemic. Fees at the nature preserve have also changed too. … [Read more...] about Hanauma Bay Reopens with New Restrictions
Hawaiian Airlines Expands West Coast Testing Options
With a month and a half of pre-trave testing under its belt, Hawaiian Airlines expands West Coast testing options. This move sees the airline bringing pre-travel testing to cities it didn't previously offer in. … [Read more...] about Hawaiian Airlines Expands West Coast Testing Options
Review: Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach
I've long wanted to stay at a Ritz-Carlton property. But, I never could bring myself to pay the cash or award rate for the privilege. That is, until now. You see, since the pandemic continues to be a very real threat, I decided to treat the Mrs. & I to a staycation at the Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach. … [Read more...] about Review: Ritz-Carlton Residence Waikiki Beach
The Big Island Implements New Testing Requirements
In Hawaii's revolving door of pre-travel testing rules, the Big Island implements new testing requirements for all arriving passengers. What's more, some exempt travelers will now need to test upon arrival too. At the same time, Honolulu's Mayor Kirk Caldwell does have his own suggested changes too. … [Read more...] about The Big Island Implements New Testing Requirements
Kauai Suspends Pre-Travel Testing – Quarantine Returns
Kauai long enjoyed being COVID-free. But, since Hawaii began its pre-travel testing program, Kauai has seen steady growth in new cases. The island even experienced its first COVID death recently. As a result, Kauai suspends pre-travel testing to help slow the island's rate of infection. … [Read more...] about Kauai Suspends Pre-Travel Testing – Quarantine Returns
What I’m Thankful for This Year – 2020 Edition
Typically, I title these posts, "Happy Thanksgiving YYYY!" But, given the wild ride we've been on this year, that didn't seem appropriate. So, instead, I'm opting for a more subdued, reflective "What I'm Thankful For This Year - 2020 Edition" post. … [Read more...] about What I’m Thankful for This Year – 2020 Edition
Hawaii Surveillance Testing is a Complete Joke
Governor Ige and Lt. Governor Josh Green have long told us to not worry about imported COVID cases because they're monitoring the situation by testing 10% of passengers upon arrival. However, it turns out that Hawaii surveillance testing is a complete joke. Surprised? I'm not. … [Read more...] about Hawaii Surveillance Testing is a Complete Joke