The Aloha Way Of Life
Known as the rainbow state, Hawaii is the ideal destination for those needing to inject a bit of magic into their lives. This Polynesian island is situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean and is the furthest island from any landmass in the world. So, this means that when you travel to Hawaii, you are quite literally getting away from everything!
And there is no shortage of places to visit, things to do and places to eat in Hawaii. With a total of 8 main islands, all different in their own way, you can pick and choose in terms of what type of vibe you are searching for, adventures you want to embark on or sites you would like to visit. And since we, at Swissgear, love to help you make your travel dreams come true, we thought that there was no better destination than this group of islands to help you recharge. Ready for some sun, fun, culture and adventure?
There are a ton of awe-inspiring locations on the various islands. One of them is definitely Mauna Kea. This dormant volcano is located on the Big Island and is the highest point in the state and, worldwide, the second-highest peak situated on an island. Not surprisingly, this majestic location is sacred to Hawaiians and is considered as the realm of Akua or the gods. It is also a world-class stargazing location but is also perfect for viewing sunrises and sunsets. A pure supernatural experience, to say the least.
Close by, there is another must-see location: the largest active volcano in the world, Mauna Loa. With a total altitude of 4,170 meters, there are two trails you can hike up to reach the summit or take the easier route and drive along the 17-mile Mauna Loa Observatory Road that is built through lava. No matter your preference, this is a must-see destination.
And we couldn’t possibly speak of the must-see spots in Hawaii without mentioning one of America’s most historical sites: Pearl Harbor. Not surprisingly, this location is Hawaii’s top tourist destination with millions of visitors each year. Located near Honolulu on the island of Oahu, visits and parking is free and the visit takes about an hour and a half to complete.
For those who enjoy spending the day by the water, there are two spots that will give you a nice change of scenery from the beaches: the Rainbow Falls and the Pools of ‘Ohe’o. The first is located on Big Island and is a great place to see rainbows. The second is located on the island of Maui and is known locally as the Seven Sacred Pools. Both are breathtaking and will be a great way to discover hidden gems around Hawaii.
For all those adventures, don’t forget your Swissgear 2205 15-inch Computer and Tablet Backpack. Made with top-quality materials, it is comfortable and functional so that you can take everything you need with you on your excursions. Even your computer and tablet! Plus, with a shoulder-strap pocket, you will have easy access to your phone to take all the photos whenever you want.
SWISSGEAR 2205 15-INCH COMPUTER AND TABLET BACKPACK
The Swissgear 2205 15-Inch Computer and Tablet Backpack has a dedicated compartment for your computer and tablet. It is also ergonomically designed with a multi-panel Airflow on the back and breathable padded shoulder straps. To make it even more convenient, this backpack has a ton of organizational space so that you can get to your things quickly.
Things to Do
Hawaii is known for its breathtaking views but it is also one of the world’s greatest playgrounds for sports enthusiasts. On the island of Oahu, there is a pro-surf school that is perfect for first-time surfers. As this island is a world-famous destination for surfing, there is definitely no better place than here to learn the sport. And for those who would rather start easy, stand-up paddle might just be up your alley.
Another activity to take part in is ziplining over the Hawaiian jungles of the island. A perfect way to take in the breathtaking views and the incredible sunsets. And we couldn’t possibly speak of Hawaii without speaking of its incredible coral reefs. A snorkeling tour is a perfect way to see them up close and one of the best spots to that is the Molokini Crater on the Maui’s southern coast. There you will be able to see over 250 different types of fish including sea turtles. Just don’t forget to pack your sunscreen in your trusty Swissgear 0567 toiletry bag!
SWISSGEAR 0567 HANGING TOILETRY KIT
The Swissgear 0567 Hanging Toiletry Kit is as stylish as it is practical. With a large main compartment and multiple pockets, including a water-resistant pocket, it has a hook so that you can hang it in your bathroom or hotel room.
For those who are less athletically inclined or those looking to taking it easy, a Laua or a helicopter tour might just be what you are looking for. The three-hour Kaanapali sunset luau is one for the books. With an incredible three-course meal and rhythmic Polynesia dances, this will be a night to remember. Another one for the books? The Maui helicopter tour that allows you to see the island in a whole other way. Although this is definitely more on the expensive side, it is definitely worth the investment.
Places to Eat
We believe that there is no better way to get a real feel of the place than through eating. And as Hawaii is the most diverse state in America, it is quite literally a melting pot of various cultures: Hawaiian, of course, but also Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Samoan and Tahitian. Just to name a few. And all these influences are very much reflected in the local cuisine. A great example of this is the restaurant owned by Roy Yamaguchi. Found throughout the islands of Oahu, Maui, Big Island and Kauai, his cuisine is inspired by Hawaiian cuisine with international influences. Plus, all the products used are directly sourced from local farmers and fishermen. You definitely cannot get any fresher than that. For those heading to the more remote island of Kauai, there are two places that are worth the detour: the Hamura Saimin Stand, a wonderful mix of Hong Kong flavours and Japanese-style ramen shop, and The Fresh Shave, the perfect spot to try Hawaii’s world-famous shaved ice.
For the sweet tooths among you, make sure to stop by the Two Ladies Kitchen if you are on the Big Island as they make some of the best one-of-a-kind mochis around. And, for those that are traveling to Maui, Leoda’s Pie House is definitely the perfect pit stop to get your sugar fix as they make amazing pies. Just make sure to get there early as their pies often sell-out quickly. But you may want to take your extra stretchy pants for all this feasting. And with our vast choice of roomy luggage, whether it’s the Swissgear Mod luggage collection, the Swissgear Spring Break collection, or the Swissgear 28-inch duffel bag, you will have all the options you need to find the perfect travel kit.
SWISSGEAR 48990 28 INCH DUFFEL BAG
The Swissgear 48990 28-inch Duffel Bag is the perfect travel companion. With in-line ball bearing wheels and a retractable push-button handle gives you room, maneuverability, and durability needed to carry all things safely and securely.
As the great Anthony Bourdain once said: ‘travel changes you. As you move through this life and this world you change things slightly, you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life—and travel—leaves marks on you.’ And isn’t that precisely what we’ve missed most about travelling during the last two years? So, let the aloha spirit of these breathtaking islands shine through so that you may come back rejuvenated and relaxed. And don’t forget to bring your trusty Swissgear travel equipment with you, such as your Swissgear Sleep Easy Set, to make everything that much more Zen.
SWISSGEAR SLEEP EASY SET – ACCESSORIES TRAVEL BUNDLE
The Swissgear Sleep Easy Set comes with everything to make your travels stress-free. With a double comfort travel pillow so that you can catch some Zs on the plane, to a deluxe TSA combination lock and a jumbo luggage tag, is the ideal way to add a little more Zen to your adventures.
To shop the complete collection, visit www.swissgear.ca.
