I decided to go to Honolulu to celebrate my birthday. During my visit I wanted to do a few tours and, thanks to Pearl Harbor Tours I had a wonderful time. They offered me an experience that I will remember the rest of my life.
My best tourist destination by far. Everything was nice, the people, culture, food, the locations, beaches, etc.
The 8 hours tour started with a visit to Pearl Harbor. A must see! What an emotional place to visit. They ensure the respectfulness for all those who were lost. Reminds me to never forget those who fought.
Also, I had the great opportunity to meet a true hero, Sterling Cale a Pearl Harbor Survivor, World War II, Korean and Vietnam War Veteran.
I watched a video of the attack on Pearl Harbor, which ended with a devastating of the Arizona exploding. Excruciatingly painful to watch, and most people left in tears.
It was so incredibly helpful to not have to worry about the logistics of the driving to the monuments and memorials. JC, our tour guide was absolutely incredible and made sure to keep in touch by text/call.
Our second stop was Dole Plantation, the largest pineapple plantation in the world.
Founded in 1901 as the Hawaiian Pineapple Company, and located on your way towards North Shore, I found this beautiful plantation flocked by tons of tourists eager to experience this popular Oahu tourist spot.
The garden itself is not that big, but is quite beautiful. So much to see around the plantation and get educated a bit on the history and a way to kick back. It’s scenic, cause it’s Hawaii and they have free admission to the grounds, free Parking, pineapple cutting demonstration with free pieces being passed out and sitting area outside of the cafeteria to enjoy your dole whips.
I purchased souvenirs, chocolate covered dried pineapples, and pineapple candies from the massive gift shop. The dole whip with chopped pineapple toppings was so refreshing!
Our last stop was Polynesian Cultural Center or PCC. A great one-stop-shop to learn about the different cultures that make up the Polynesian islands.
I walked and explored through the different areas as you see first hand performances from each culture as well as talk to people from those places. It’s rather remarkable.
Even more interesting to learn is that many of the performers are college students from their respective countries able to study at BYU-Hawaii through the park.
The food was delicious and I really enjoyed their canoe parade midday where each village performs a song. They get the crowd to interact by cheering for the village they are seated in. It was my favorite part.
They have different villages inside, one for every Polynesian island. Everything is well maintained and are in excellent condition. There are many many pictures locations inside. I loved it. Each village had different shows, almost every hour. They are fun and educational for all age groups. I enjoyed a lot, danced a lot, laughed a lot and also took many photos.
After learning about the Polynesian culture I fell in love with Hawaii even more. Personally to me, learning about Polynesian culture, it’s people and the history was important. It’s hard to imagine how these people used to live in the middle of pacific ocean, thousands of miles away from the developed land. I had many many questions in mind.. How did they survive, what did they eat, how they used to travel, how they used get married, etc. I must say I got my answers. I got what I was looking for.
On unfortunately, it was a semi-rainy day.The good thing, they have tons of small boutiques that sell ponchos’ and clothing. I got soaked but I had so much fun.
JC also put his own personal touch on our tour and things ran smooth since he got our tickets for everything. I would highly recommend this tour if you would like to see Pearl Harbor, Dole Plantation, North Shore of Hawaii and visit the Polynesian Cultural Center, and leave the logistics to someone else.
Thanks: www.pearlharbortours.com.
Leave a Reply