photo credit: geraintandkim

Island Destinations – Cook Islands

The Cook Islands are in the South Pacific Ocean, Northeast of New Zealand. The Cook Islands consist of fifteen small islands in this South Pacific Ocean and they are a self governing democracy with the New Zealand. It is located in the South Pacific Ocean. Aitutaki, Rarotanga, Taranaki, Pukapuka and Palmerston are the main population centre in this region. Tourism is the country’s number one industry, apart from pearls, marine and fruits.

There are fifteen major islands, divided into two distinct groups: the Southern Cook Islands, which consists of Aitutaki, Atiu, Mangaia, Mauke, Rarotonga, Palmerston, Manuae, Mitiaro and Takutea and the Northern Cook Islands which consists of Manihiki, Nassau, Penrhyn Island, Pukapuka, Rakahanga, and Suwarrow. Aitutaki is the second most visited island of the Cook Islands The shape of the Island takes the shape of an equilateral triangle. Aitutaki is famous for its lagoon, almost uninhabited islands and its beautiful beaches. Another advantageous point is that it has been spared by mass tourism.

There is also an old church and some gigantic Banyan Trees on this Island.

One Foot Island, a small islet in the Southeast, is often said to be the most important attraction. It provides the best views of the Aitutaki lagoon and depending on the tide one can walk on a sandbank a decent distance away from One Foot Island.

There are two other noteworthy islets namely Rapota and Moturakau.

Mangaia is the southern most of the Cook Islands and the second largest, after Rarotonga.

It is also told to be the oldest island in the Pacific according to the Geologists. This Island is renowned for its coconuts. Rarotonga is the most populous island of the Cook Islands and the important establishments like the Airport and the Parliament buildings are located on this Island.

Palm studded white sandy beaches occupy most of the island and there is a popular cross island walk that connects Avatiu valley with the south side of the island. This walk passes through

Te Manga, the prominent Needle shaped rock visible from the air and some coastal areas. It should be noted that Rarotonga has only two bus routes: Clockwise and Anti-Clockwise and the driver’s pickup and drop anyone anywhere along the route. Manihiki is known as the Island of Pearls and is said to be one of the group’s loveliest islands.

Penrhyn Island is the most remote Island of all the 15 of the Cook Islands This Island is also called as the Tongareva, which is its original name.

Rakahanga is one of the most unspoiled places on earth.

The Cook Islands are known for Diving, the beautiful nature, and dining.

The universal language in these islands is English though the native language is Cook Islands Maori.

photo credit: goldberg

photo credit: robertpaulyoung

Pacific Islands

The Pacific Ocean consists of more than 25,000 islands. Those lying south of the tropic of Cancer but excluding Australia are traditionally grouped into three divisions: Melanesia, Micronesia, and Polynesia. Inhabitants of these islands are referred to as Pacific Islanders.

Micronesia means small islands. These include the Islands of Marianas, Guam, Palau, the Marshall, Kiribati, Nauru, and the Federated States of Micronesia. Most of these lie north of the equator.

Polynesia means many islands. These include the islands of New Zealand, the Hawaii, the Midway, Samoa, American Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, the Cook, French Polynesia, and Easter. It is the largest of the three zones.

Some of the famous islands in this region are:

1. Cook Islands
2. Tahitian
3. Samoa
4. Tonga
5. Ile des pins
6. Fiji
7. Vanuatu
8. Solomon
9. Papua New Guinea

There are also many other islands located within the boundaries of the Pacific Ocean, but these are not considered part of Oceania. These include the Galápagos of Ecuador; the Aleutian in Alaska; the Russian islands of Sakhalin and Kuril Islands; Taiwan; the Philippines; those in the South China Sea; most of them in Indonesia; The inhabitants of these places are not considered to be Pacific Islanders and are usually identified with their nearest continent.

There are so many to mention but this page is not enough to explain them all.

So, get ready for one good, once in a life time experience in these islands. Remember you have more than 20000 islands to discover and spend your valuable time with the nature and with your loved one.

Hope you have a nice time!

Author Praveen Nata

More inspiration for travelling to Pacific Islands

photo credit: robertpaulyoung

South America holds a staggering array of travel wonders both natural and cultural. Boasting the greatest rain-forest, the most spectacular waterfall, the highest waterfall and the greatest river in the world along with cosmopolitan cities and remarkable ancient cultures, there is something in this great continent for everyone.

It is near impossible to nominate a top ten travel wonders list without omitting a number of “must see” sights. Here is my list. How many have you seen?

1. Machu Picchu and Inca Trail (Peru)

Surrounded by thick forest and sitting atop a mountain, the precision crafting of the Incan stonework and the grandeur of its religious sites makes Machu Picchu a truly significant ceremonial center.

2. Iguazu Falls (Argentina / Brazil)

The sheer scale of the greater than 250 cascades and its surrounding lush tropical rainforest ensures that Iguazu Falls are the most mesmerizing waterfalls in the world.

3. Galapagos Islands (Ecuador)

The broad variety of wildlife that has adapted to the warm seas and volcanic islands offers one of greatest wildlife shows on Earth.

4. Amazon River and Rain Forest

Providing around half of the rainforest, one-fifth of the oxygen and home to ten percent of the variety of fauna and flora on the planet, spending time on the river or walking the forest trails is one of most treasured experiences in life.

5. Easter Island (Chile)

The mysterious stone statues (moai) cut from the local volcanic rock stand in testament to an isolated past civilization on this remote Pacific island.

6. Patagonia / Torres del Paine (Argentina / Chile)

Rugged mountain peaks, sapphire-blue lakes, thunderous waterfalls and icy glaciers provide a seductive outdoor experience to those spending time in the far south of the American continent.

7. Andes

Snaking around 8000 kilometres (5000 miles) as the backbone of South America, the Andes are the second highest mountain range in the world.

8. Angel Falls (Venezuela)

The tallest falls in the world are remote but remain unchanged changed from when an American pilot landed near the falls in a stranded plane.

9. Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

The sun-drenched beaches, the enchanting Carnaval festival and the great city vistas from the Christ statue and Sugar Loaf mountain makes Rio the most rewarding city in South America.

10. Nazca Lines (Peru)

Mysterious geometric designs and giant animals (100 to 200 yards across) including a spider, a hummingbird and a condor were marked into the dry and dusty Peruvian desert by an ancient culture.

South America has a tremendous variety of attractions, travel wonders and experiences from natural wonderlands of forests, glaciers and waterfalls to rich cultural cities, both historic and in the present. Travel with an open mind and enjoy this remarkable and diverse continent.

Author Mark H is the author of the popular travel blog Travel Wonders of the World. He has traveled extensively to all seven continents and believes that travel is the greatest education anyone can have.

Read more about The Galapagos Islands here

Read more about Easter Island here

Maui: This island is part of the Hawaiian islands and has breathtaking scenery and views. From the waterfalls and gorgeous white sandy beaches to the night life and Hawaiian culture, there is always something to do while on your luxury beach vacations. When it comes to activities Maui has you covered with numerous ground and ocean sports and adventures to indulge in. This is just the beginning when you visit Maui. If you are planning your luxury beach vacations for a wedding or anniversary, then Maui could be the perfect place to go. There are multiple 5 Star resorts to choose from that also offer impeccable service and quality and Maui even has something for the little ones, if your luxury beach vacations are a family trip.

Bora Bora: This tropical paradise is an hour flight from Tahiti or Moorea. These luxury beach vacations are not just for the romantics, but if you are with the one you love then you will love this gorgeous island. The ancient name was Pora Pora and it means first born. While in Bora Bora for your luxury beach vacations there are such accommodations as bungalows on the water, rooms over looking the ocean, and all the privacy and amenities you could ever dream of. Don’t forget there is plenty to do here as well, with snorkeling, wave running, outrigger canoeing, and jet skiing, you will have plenty to do and see while enjoying your luxury beach vacations.

Fiji: Located in the South Pacific, Fiji Me is the local saying since there is nothing that you can not do or see. From deep sea diving, to mountain climbing, to back packing through unbelievable terrain or even going for a sale on a beautiful ship or taking a short cruise through the Isles of Fiji Smiles, there is so much to do you and see that you will never want to leave. No matter what you are looking for, exploring this amazing island will always be breathtaking while on your luxury beach vacations.

Bermuda: While relaxing in Bermuda on your luxury beach vacations you can do a little boating or maybe you are a bird lover and would like do some exotic bird watching. There is also bowling, fishing, golfing, and horseback riding. No matter what you are looking for, Bermuda offers a wide range of choices while on your luxury beach vacations. Also, the choices of hotels are amazing, with hotels on the beach front to smaller guest houses that are much more intimate. There are completely full service accommodations that have restaurants, pools, spas, and anything else you might need while on your luxury beach vacations.

The Bahamas: When visiting the Bahamas you actually have a choice of 14 islands to choose from during your luxury beach vacations. Each one is different and unique in their own way. However, they all offer full service accommodations and services to fit anyone’s needs. Every island has different fun and exciting attractions and events. From the beaches to boating or sailing, festivals, fishing, gaming, or golfing, and these are just a few of the things you can do while there. You will have so many choices, you will not know which one to pick first while on your luxury beach vacations.

Any one of these destinations will give you exactly what you are looking for in luxury beach vacations. From the scenery, the hotels, and the all around beauty and luxury at these resorts and beaches. Which of these top five luxury beach vacations would you like to enjoy first?

Author: www.EzLuxuryBeachVacations.comEZ Luxury Beach Vacations is a U.S. based company that promotes one of the world’s top luxury travel memberships that has been in business for over 20 years. Together they offer the world’s leading private membership for luxury resort travel.

Fiji, the most well known of all is itself a group of about 330 islands. So if you are looking to enjoy an island vacation, the luxury islands of the Pacific would have to be the natural choice.

There’s something about an island that makes it easy to shed stress and enter a bubble of peace that incorporates heady fragrances, lush blooms, and the intoxicating smell of the ocean. The islands of Fiji bring this magic to life with their unspoilt natural beauty and vast expanses of silvery beaches glimmering under the tropical sun. What proves to be even more of a balm to the senses is the extreme acceptance and affection of the local people, who simply exude a natural bonhomie.

A variety of ethnicities call Fiji home and merrily add to the cultural melting pot that is evident in the cuisine, the dress, and mannerisms. However, one and all will greet you with a ‘Bula!’, welcoming you to participate in the fiesta that’s Fiji.

New Caledonia succeeds in blending a whiff of French in to its tropical ambience, to create a heady mix that spells vacation with a capital V. Prepare to enjoy French cuisine and excellent wine while revelling in the warmth of the tropical sunshine. Luxury hotels dot its beaches at strategic locations and its striking mountain ranges give you a change of scene. The special attraction here is the world’s largest lagoon with over a thousand varieties of marine life and a 1600 km long barrier reef. If you’re crazy about water sports, you’ve come to the right place.

Somewhere between New Zealand and New Caledonia is a hidden gem of tranquillity, also known as Norfolk Island, undeniably the creme de la creme of the luxury island holidays in the Pacific. Majestic pines tower atop picturesque cliffs, overlooking turquoise lagoons and emerald golfing greens, to give you yet another take on tropical beauty with a subtle difference. A popular getaway and honeymoon destination, this luxury island has its share of extravagances to suit all wallet sizes.

Tahiti is simply a rhapsody in blue that will sway your senses and blow you away. Tiny islands float ephemerally like pockets of paradise let loose for the pleasure of the chosen few. Bora Bora, Taha, and Moorea have luxury hotels and quaint resort style lodgings that blend in with the natural landscape. The lush tropical landscape dotted with lakes and lagoons designed by Cupid himself make this luxury island the ultimate romantic getaway.

A group of 83 islands sprinkled like exotic toppings on the surface of the blue waters of the Pacific are together known as Vanuatu. Be prepared for a change of scenery as you encounter the secrets of this volcanic island. Nothing sinister though; just natural beauty at its untouched, rugged best. Beaches change tones from a shower of Swarovski crystals to silky black. Coral reefs beckon tantalisingly beneath crystal clear water, while on land there are the amazing waterfalls, enigmatic rain forests, and placid lagoons that gleam silently in the sun. Port Vila, the capital, presents lively restaurants, shops, and luxury hotel accommodation.

The Cook Islands are made up of about 15 islands and are a popular destination among the luxury islands of the Pacific. Luxury hotels of all persuasion have been set up by experienced purveyors of good times and comfort to ensure you enjoy your stay on the island. Natural beauty has been left untouched to give you a sense of what the earth must have been like before the discovery of concrete.

The Solomon Islands with their majestic mountains and rivers welcome you to partake of a luxury island holiday like none other. The palm fringed beaches lolling by the aquamarine waters of the ocean are the perfect antidote to stress in the city and all its side effects. Feel the tension fall away from your shoulders as you contemplate the infinity of the horizon. A number of luxury hotels and resorts on the beach make this island the right stopover for some quintessential me-time..

In Samoa the way of life is as eternal as the blue waters surrounding it. Replete with all the features a beach resort can offer, it will probably be the Samoan people that capture your heart. Their friendliness and genuine love soon make you feel like you’re in your own private island. They still haven’t got around to commercialising this piece of paradise they call home and it retains all its unspoilt natural beauty. For the time being, they are just happy to share their good luck with whoever visits.

Author: Justine Richards.

Justine has been a journalist for 20 years and is a contributor to Just The Planet, the online luxury travel magazine for independent travellers. Read more about luxury spas around the world and discover more luxury getaways here.

There aren’t many pacific islands where you can surf in the morning and ski in the afternoon, especially ones that are ranked number one by more than one famous travel magazine, many years running!

But there is one!

An island with a history stretching back as far as the ice age, that perches on the western edge of a great continent and one that is growing very quickly as a “must see” destination.

Only about three hundred and fifty miles in length , Vancouver Island sits in the Straits of Georgia, north-west of Seattle and an hour and forty minutes by ferry from the mainland of British Columbia, on the west coast of Canada. Vancouver Island is home to the capital city of British Columbia, Victoria, and has been since 1850 at which time the interior gold rush brought prospectors and a supporting cast of many people to this pristine island.

Today, the temperate climate, stunning scenery and world class amenities make this island a travelers mecca, and for good reason: or to be precise, many good reasons. English speaking, well actually “Canadian” speaking, easy to drive and everything within fairly short distances helps make any vacation here very enjoyable and relatively stress free, especially as accommodations and food services are widespread, well located and of the highest standard: many rated the best on the continent and some, the best in the world.

But it’s the diversity that is the main attraction. Whale watching, body surfing, long cycling trails, wilderness camping, world class spa-resorts, museums, historical sites, famous gardens, ski-ing, sailing, salmon fishing, diving, real wild-life, or spa treatment with a Pacific ocean view. Home grown produce markets, fresh seafoods, local wineries, breweries and cideries, wilderness camping, bed and breakfast or famous five star hotels,

Vancouver Island supports it all and it’s there to be discovered. Jazz festivals, art festivals, opera, book fairs, antique fairs, garden tours, agricultural fairs, theaters and ghost walks. Marathons, cycling races, golf, lacrosse, soccer and ice hockey: and even the tall ships make an appearance!

Vancouver island is a celebration of agricultural, maritime and historical; of First Nations peoples and others from many nations. Of British and Spanish and Asian influences against a backdrop of stunning mountain scenery: a wilderness with all the amenities. Quality shopping, extensive tourist services, modern transportation and yet, the unusual. Float plane services, eagles on the lamp posts, art galleries on the walls, eight hundred year old trees, sea kayaking and afternoon tea with triangular sandwiches.

But more to the point, what shall we have for lunch!

How about some local oysters to start with, followed by a home grown emu burger on a home baked bun with garden grown tomatoes and locally grown herbs picked fresh for the table. Perhaps some locally made goat cheese and a pint of ale brewed on the premises. Actually I think I will have a small glass of the locally made blueberry port wine with my home grown strawberries, although the flambe pears look rather nice!

Hey, take some time to Discover Vancouver Island for yourself, you will be glad you did.

By David LeAche.

Hawaii’s Big Island vacation rentals put you on the forefront of some of the Big Island’s unforgettable attractions, such as:

- Hiking through Waipio Valley, the “Valley of the Kings”

- Exploring Puukohola Heiau, the largest restored ancient Hawaiian religious temple

- Enjoying the entertainment, culture, and cuisine in Hilo and the Kona Coast

Located on the northern Hamakua Coast, the sacred Waipio Valley was the boyhood home of King Kamehameha I and an important center for political and religious life in Hawaii. Not only is “The Valley of the Kings” an important site for Hawaiian history and culture, it’s also a place of dramatic tropical beauty. This fertile valley is about one mile across and over five-miles deep, and surrounded by cliffs up to 2000-feet high. Waipio Valley was once the home for thousands of native Hawaiians.

Today, there are less than 100 residents living amongst the waterfalls, taro fields, and rivers permeating the valley. The Big Island’s tallest waterfall, Hiilawe Falls cascades down 1,300 feet in the back of Waipio. You can view the valley from the coastal Waipio Valley Overlook, or you can take a guided van tour, hike, or horseback ride to explore the hidden wonders within. Tour guides will happily share the stories and legends of this special place. The road into the valley is extremely steep so driving isn’t recommended.

Puukohola Heiau, on the northwestern Kohala Coast, is the largest heiau in Hawaii. Heiau were sacred places of worship for ancient Hawaiians, and Puukohola heiau was a site built with added historic significance. Kohala born Kamehameha the Great was advised by kahuna (priests) to build and dedicate Puukohola heiau to the war god Kukailimoku in an effort to stop civil unrest and unite the Hawaiian Islands. The heiau was constructed overlooking the Kohala coast between 1790 and 1791.

King Kamehameha ultimately fulfilled the kahuna’s prophecy when he united the Hawaiian Islands in 1810. This massive stone temple has been carefully preserved, and it is believed to be one of the last sacred structures built in the Hawaiian Islands before Western influence. Puukohola, which means “hill of the whale” in Hawaiian, is also a great place to look for migrating humpback whales.

The sunny Kona coastline stretches from Kailua-Kona to beyond Kealakekua Bay and can take more than 45 minutes to drive through from your Hawaii accommodation. Within this expansive area you’ll find everything from Kona Coffee farms to historic Hawaiian landmarks. In fact, the Kona coast was once the home of Hawaiian royalty. King Kamehameha himself spent his later years in Kailua-Kona. Significant historic places like Puuhonua o Honaunau, Hulihee Palace, and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historic Park let you explore Hawaii’s past first-hand. South Kona’s calm and clear waters are also perfect for snorkeling, diving, and spotting dolphins and honu (green sea turtles). For the more adventurous, take a boat tour and swim with manta rays or go deep-sea fishing for giant Pacific Blue Marlin.

On land, the cooler uplands are home to hundreds of coffee plantations where you can sample Kona’s unique, aromatic bean. On the versatile Kona coast, the adventures are as big as the island itself. Whether you are looking for the perfect Hawaii villa, condo, or beach front rental, we can help you make your Hawaiian experience truly unforgettable!

Author by Alice Lane.

The private islands scattered across the globe offer savvy travelers with unique opportunities to experience unspoiled natural splendor in luxury accommodations accompanied by superior service and amenities. Island retreats provide the ultimate in privacy and tranquility.

“I want to be alone.” is the well-known statement oft attributed to the world famous movie actress of the 1930’s, Marlene Dietrich. People in show business are not the only ones who value their privacy. Consider joining the ranks of other celebrities and savvy travelers who find sanctuary and blissful peace at a private island rental destination. These island getaways are hidden gems in the seas that are reachable only by boat or helicopter for the ultimate in tranquility and seclusion.

Even though the location may be remote and physically removed from the urban environment, private island retreats can provide a full range of urbane amenities rivaling those offered by the best in luxury resorts on the mainland. Island dream destinations such as these may feature palatial architecture and accommodations or may make advantageous use of local building styles that provide a unique and eco-friendly first class travel experience. Expect nothing but the best in discrete service at a luxury island resort.

Tropical island retreats of the Pacific boast of unparalleled lush vegetation broken only by well-manicured lawns and gardens and seemingly endless stretches of warm sandy beaches highlighted by spectacular sunrises or sunsets. Ask the staff for breakfast or dinner on the beach and your wish is their command. Can you think of a more romantic setting for a honeymoon or special anniversary celebration?

The private islands of the Indian Ocean offer even the most discriminating of travelers an unparalleled opportunity to experience glorious beaches and magnificent coral reefs in an atmosphere of luxury. Islands of the Seychelles have been carefully developed with an eye to retaining unspoiled natural wonders while at the same time providing visitors with exclusive luxury resorts.

If relaxing on the beach or being pampered with a massage are not adventuresome enough for you, consider a private island vacation off the coast of Belize or other Central American country where you can engage in world class scuba diving and snorkeling plus windsurfing, surf kayaking, board surfing, and sport fishing. Warm island retreats are available in warm Atlantic waters as well as remote areas of the Pacific or Indian Oceans.

With its enormous land mass that overwhelms the imagination with scenic splendor and a superabundance of luxury spas and resorts, even seasoned world travelers may overlook first class private island rental opportunities off the thousands of miles of United States coastline. The rugged and rocky Maine coast boasts magnificent conifer forests that indeed rival their lush tropical counterparts for scenic and awe-inspiring beauty. For those seeking solitude that is in harmony with natural surroundings, this quiet area of the world surrounded by the cold Atlantic waters may provide the ultimate in peace and tranquility.

The mid-Atlantic coast of the U.S. off the Carolinas and Georgia provide some discrete private island hideaways that provide fine modern regional style accommodations for those seeking a quiet return to natural surroundings. While not in the luxury class, take advantage of the privacy and simplicity that these quiet sanctuaries have to offer.

Private island rental not only conveys unique opportunities for relaxation and escape in unspoiled scenic beauty that has been developed with an eye for local history and eco-tourism but it is also a means for conservation minded individuals to contribute to the preservation of these irreplaceable eco-systems that are home to unique species of flora and fauna.

With all the magnificent island getaway opportunities available across the globe, it may seem impossible to choose your ideal private island rental. The best advice for locating your dream luxury island destination is to consult with a travel expert who specializes both in luxury travel and exotic destinations.

By author Justine Richards.

In the Pacific Ocean, thousands of miles from anywhere, Easter Island, is the world’s most remote island.

Even if you know nothing about this island you will probably be familiar with the iconic Moai, stone heads up to 20m tall, that are to be found all over the island. The Moia and the people who put them there have been the subject of a plethora of theories and television documentaries that have attempted to explain the origin of the people and why they built the Moia.

The Norwegian archaeologist Thor Heyerdahl spent years studying the island and excavating ruins to try to unravel the mysteries of the island. Most famously he built and sailed the Kon Tiki, a raft made of reeds, from Peru to Easter Island in an attempt to demonstrate his theory that the island had been populated from South America.

Modern research using DNA samples taken from human remains on the island have conclusively shown that the people who arrived and settled on Easter Island, were of Polynesian decent not South American. This outcome is hardly surprising given the fact that the Polynesian peoples possessed the seafaring skills to populate many other remote islands throughout the Pacific, from New Zealand to Hawaii.

A trip to Easter Island is a truly unforgettable experience and if you should ever visit this mysterious place and contemplate the infinite ocean that surrounds it, it is hard not to ask yourself the questions that visitors have been asking for centuries.

By author Andrew Chaundler. Andrew Chaundler worked and travelled in South America for many years before setting up Optimundo, a travel company that specialises in Chile Holidays and Argentina Holidaysthat have been designed with expert knowledge of the region. The company also provides an efficient and friendly tailor-made service, to so that you can specify the elements that you want in your perfect trip to Chile and Argentina.

You’ve dreamed about a tropical Hawaiian vacation and know a little about the islands, but you may not know exactly what makes up the Hawaiian Islands. Don’t let your lack of knowledge stop you from planning a much needed vacation getaway. You do know that some most beautiful beaches, colourful sand and unbelievable natural wonders are all waiting for discovery.

The Hawaiian Islands are a group of six islands in the Pacific Ocean that include Oahu, Molokai, Kauai, Lanai, Maui and the Big Island. While each island is diverse and beautiful, they all make for unforgettable vacation getaways. Overtime, you will want to explore each island, but since your vacation is only one week, why not start your Hawaiian vacation on the Big Island.

As the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, you will be presented with endless adventure, excitement and lodging options. Avoid the overcrowded and bland hotels and try staying in a vacation rental that meets all of your standards. By selecting a Big Island vacation rental home, condo or villa, all of your visions of the ideal getaway can be fulfilled.

If the whole family is heading out to the Big Island, why not try staying in a vacation home right on the beach in Kailua-Kona. Located on the western side of the Island, Kona is known for its pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, abundant sunshine and famous Kona coffee. You’ll be steps from the beach where you’ll find snorkelling, boogie boarding and swimming. As a great convenience, grab beach toys, beach chairs and towels that are all provided by your vacation home rental.

Create an underwater adventure and take the family scuba diving. If you don’t know how, there are many places that can quickly get you certified and provide all the gear. Be lead by a knowledgeable guide on an exploration into the depths of the ocean to discover underwater caves, tropical fish and sting rays. This is surly to be a memorable family vacation outing.

As you drive home after a long day of excitement, your options are endless with the numerous restaurants lining the street. Or, if you’re feeling frisky, stop by a grocery store to pick up some of the local fresh seafood and take delight in preparing and cooking a delicious feast in the home’s fully stocked kitchen. With full bellies and sleepy eyes, tuck the kids into the bunk beds and pop in a DVD they select from the home’s movie library. While they start dozing off, slip away and enjoy the hot tub as you reflect on the day’s adventures.

Perhaps you’re travelling with your partner and looking for a private vacation filled with exploration. Imagine staying in a spacious vacation condo in Keauhou with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Be a short walking distance from the Keauhou Shopping Center, gift shops, galleries, museums, restaurants and world class golf resorts. Be sure to purchase a few souvenirs for yourself and friends.

Hop into the car for a short trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park where you will find Kilauea, on of the world’s most active and visited volcanoes. Hike through current lava flows and be in awe at Mother Natures work. Another great day trip is visiting Akaka Falls and Rainbow Falls located on the eastern side of the Big Island. Hike through lush tropical vegetation that will bring you to towering mountain cliffs with cascading water.

When visiting the Big Island you will be amazed with the lodging accommodations that are as diverse as the Hawaiian landscape. Taking it easy with no responsibilities and savouring all of Hawaii’s pleasures is most important.

Author: Emily Spin.