After checking into the Alila Napa Valley and settling in, it was time to head to dinner. On this night, I chose Press Napa Valley as our dining destination. And, boy, this was one of the best eating experiences of our whole trip. … [Read more...] about Review: Press Napa Valley
Destinations
Officials Must Charter Flights to Molokai
I've been reporting on the deplorable state of travel to Molokai and Lanai for several months now, and there doesn't seem to be a good solution in sight. In fact, things are so bad that officials must charter flights to Molokai when traveling there on official business. … [Read more...] about Officials Must Charter Flights to Molokai
Hawaii is a Special Place
I'm sure most people will agree that Hawaii is a special place. However, the reason why people think Hawaii is special will vary based on who you ask. Specifically, born & raised locals' answers will differ quite a lot from that of visitors and transplants. … [Read more...] about Hawaii is a Special Place
Review: Alila Napa Valley
As you'll recall from my intro post, the whole reason I booked our Living it Up in California adventure is because I was able to secure award nights at the Alila Napa Valley. That stay was in the middle of our trip and is where we headed after checking out of the Hyatt Carmel Highlands. … [Read more...] about Review: Alila Napa Valley
Review: Utage Restaurant
People often think of Japan as a homogeneous society - it is not. There are two major minorities in Japan, including the Ainu in the North and Okinawans down in, well, Okinawa. Each has its own, unique cuisines, which are often difficult to experience. Luckily, in Honolulu, we have places like Utage Restaurant serving up Okinawan fare. … [Read more...] about Review: Utage Restaurant
Kilauea June 2023 Eruption is Officially Over
Almost two weeks ago, Hawaii's most active volcano abruptly stopped erupting and has been sitting quietly ever since. Well, scientists are now declaring that the Kilauea June 2023 eruption is officially over. … [Read more...] about Kilauea June 2023 Eruption is Officially Over
Mokulele Suspends Hilo Service
Hawaii's last remaining commuter airline has been under fire recently. The reliability is in the tank while their prices are soaring. Despite promises, things haven't gotten all that better. To cope, Mokulele suspends Hilo service to focus more on its core markets. … [Read more...] about Mokulele Suspends Hilo Service
Hawaii Hotel Occupancy May 2023
In April, we saw occupancy and rates drop in the islands. Not by a lot, but any decrease is welcome news, given how expensive hotels have gotten since 2020. And the Hawaii hotel occupancy May 2023 report continues to reflect a downward trend. … [Read more...] about Hawaii Hotel Occupancy May 2023
Hawaii Tourism Has a Long Road to Recovery
A couple of reports that came out last week hint that Hawaii tourism has a long road to recovery. Sure, tourism is booming, but the mix of visitor isn't the same as it was pre-pandemic, which also means that visitor spending isn't what it used to be. … [Read more...] about Hawaii Tourism Has a Long Road to Recovery
Offshore Rescues Are Up On Oahu
Doing it for the Gram combined with a poor understanding of the environment, failure to do research, and not understanding one's abilities is the reason why offshore rescues are up on Oahu. And that has officials pleading with the public to think twice before heading out. … [Read more...] about Offshore Rescues Are Up On Oahu