Unbelievable Hawaiian Cruise Deal

With prices like these even the locals might be tempted to go cruising around the islands. I was born and raised on the Big Island of Hawaii and spent my childhood watching cruise ships float past my home. And if I still lived there I would absolutely consider taking advantage of the following deal. Right now Norwegian Cruise Line is offering a seven-night cruise, including all meals and port charges, from $599 for select departure dates between November 26 and December 31, 2007. That breaks down to just about $86 per night for accommodations and meals. And considering a comparable … Continue reading

Going (Coco) NUTS In Hawaii

It’s the only food festival in the world where I don’t walk away 5 pounds heavier. If it were not for the fact that I am allergic to the hearty fruit I would eat everything in sight at Kauai’s Coconut Festival. Believe me (I was born and raised in Hawaii); if you find yourself in the “Aloha State” during the month of October this is one event you don’t want to miss. The 11th annual Kauai Coconut Festival takes place this year on October 6th and 7th at Kapaa Beach Park on the lush eastern portion of the Hawaiian Island … Continue reading

Holiday Quick Bread with a Tropical Twist

I don’t know about you, but for me banana bread falls into the category of “quick bread.” It’s fast, the ingredients are affordable, and it doesn’t require the sweat or time associated with kneading, proofing and punching down. If you are tired of baking the same ol’ Christmas cookies year after year you might consider going the quick bread route this holiday season. They are the ideal homemade treat to pass out to friends or family members as gifts. They also make great additions to a holiday brunch. I used to make the following recipe each December and take it … Continue reading

California’s Olive Festivals

You’ve heard about fly fishing in Montana, coconut cracking in Hawaii, and cow milking in Wisconsin. But, what about a family vacation spent olive picking in California? In Pasadena, California it’s out with the pumpkins and in with the olives. Tis the season for harvesting the black and green fruit before the overstock falls from the branches and stains the city’s sidewalks. The best part: no previous picking experience is required. Families with members of all ages are encouraged to visit the sunny city during the month of November to help tend to the thousands of olive trees that surround … Continue reading

How The Weather Will Affect Your Fall Leaf Peeping Trips

Perhaps, I am just naïve. After all, I grew up in a place where the only things that fell from trees were coconuts. So when it comes to judging the brilliance of fall foliage I may be a bit out of my league. Personally, I think the mere fact that the leaves changes hues at all is exciting and amazing. However, it seems other more astute leaf peepers have different ideas on what constitutes a prize-winning season. Experts in the Midwest and South are warning travelers who are criss-crossing the nation in search of the ultimate fall foliage that they … Continue reading

Top 5 “Sweet” Travel Destinations For Families

Just in time for Valentine’s Day here are my picks for some “sweet” travel destinations for families with children of all ages. Each of the following destinations has one thing in common–the chance to sample delectable treats (and in most cases, they’re free). Our family has had a blast at each attraction. Here’s hoping your family will have as much fun spending “Love Day” at one of these yummy destinations. Happy Valentine’s Day! 1. Hershey’s Chocolate World, Hershey, Pennsylvania Gather the family and hop aboard the Great American Chocolate Tour Ride at Hershey’s Chocolate World. It re-opened less than a … Continue reading