This November, Hawaii will be hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation. The association is an organization of  several nations that work together for area economic advances. Along with island-born President Barak Obama, the heads of state of twenty-one countries and a host of dignitaries and business elite will converge on Oahu for a week of meetings, summits, and other activities. Although the official meetings are scheduled for November 7-13, related events are expected before and after the conference as well.

These meetings are by far Hawaii’s most important business gathering and many preparations have been in the works months. Numerous palm trees have been added to Honolulu main thoroughfares. Waikiki sidewalks have been spruced up and streets have been resurfaced for this very important event.

Along with the public works projects, there are numerous security measures that have been put in place. Many of Honolulu traffic cameras will be commandeered for surveillance to insure the security of some of the world’s most important people. No less than nine federal, local, state and military security agencies are in place on Oahu. These security teams have the authority to close streets, re-route traffic and screen individuals in the area. Security agencies will establish and secure a perimeter around the convention center that will be maintained throughout the conference.

Many may or may not know, that on a normal day, Oahu is a crush of traffic, narrow streets and busy intersections. Although access to Waikiki hotels, beaches, restaurants and shops will be accessible, delays and increased island traffic congestion will be unavoidable.

Aside from the normal island visitors, there is expected to be an increase of crowds that are planning demonstrations and protests.

For those who will be on Oahu during the meetings, allow extra time to get to and from Honolulu International Airport. Plan ahead for activities and have Waikiki restaurant reservations in advance. There will be Honolulu City and County public transportation and APEC shuttle services will be readily available for all during the meetings.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island.

Open 24 hours a day a visit to Haleakala can be an all day or all night affair. The National Park offers several activities that range from hiking past cinder cones and ancient lava flows at elevations of 10,000 feet to swimming in tropical ponds under a rainforest canopy.

Planning a day-trip to this large dormant volcano starts with deciding on summit or slopes first. Since planning the day for one experience is completely different than the other. A summit visit is by par the quickest and easiest of the two. The drive from the West Maui resorts can take up to two and half hours one way, while driving from the South Maui resorts of Wailea and South Kihei is about ninety minutes. From the Haleakala Highway, the road ascends slowly at first then continues up to the park entrance in a series of turns though upcountry towns, ranchlands and Koa forests. One inside the park the road narrows and the turns become even more challenging. Many choose to stop at the visitor’s center before continuing up to the summit. The visitor’s center offers a gift shop, restrooms and an overlook that provides sweeping views of central Maui. Aside from the shopping and views, many choose to stop to acclimate to the altitude. Although not at high at Mauna Kea on the Big Island, many will find the time spent here adjusting will bring benefits when up at the summit. Once at the summit, park rangers are positioned to provide a short lecture on the volcano. If it’s a clear day views to include several neighboring islands will an added treat. On cloudy days, the above the clouds atmosphere and cool alpine weather conditions is a wonderful experience.

Visiting the Kipahulu area of Haleakala is more of a challenge. Access to the eastern flank of the volcano requires a drive along the Hana Highway. Popularly known as the Road to Hana, the drive consists of a  narrow road that crosses over forty bridges and offers scenic ocean views and several parks and waterfalls. From the Kahului Airport takes about two and a half hours each way. Once at Kipahulu, the Pipiwai hiking trail is one of the main attractions. A slice of rainforest fantasy it cuts though stands of bamboo, across fresh water streams. Many choose to swim in one of the several fresh water pools in the area. A stop at the visitor’s center is highly recommended before heading out on the trail.

Haleakala is a varied experience that will provide memories for all who visit. Regardless if the preference is for summit sunrises or shoreline swimming, be sure to take along sunscreen, water and a cell phone for a safe day of fun and exploration.

Hawaii Travel Advice:  Novemebr 11 and 12 2011 are free entrance days for Haleakala.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island

Lahaina has been many things to many people over the years. Today many know this small seaside town as a collection of shops, restaurants and bars where anyone will find a comfortable spot to luncheon seaside or Mai Tai at sunset. Many of the wooden buildings have original facades and lend to an atmosphere that is unique from anywhere else in the world. However, Lahaina is much more than trivialities of the tourist trade. Known as a wahi pana or celebrated place, Lahaina began as a native Hawaiian village that supported taro patches, heiau, royal residences and even healing stones.

The most important historical sites in Lahaina can be found along the oceanfront near the rows of tour boats and ferries.

Kamehameha I claimed Lahaina as the official seat of his kingdom after defeating Chief Kahekili in the famous battle of Kepaniwai at Iao in 1790. Lahaina then became the center of international commerce for the kingdom.

The site of the Lahaina home of King Kamehameha I is located near the waterfront. Built in 1803 the foundation of the famous brick palace is still intact. It was originally surrounded by a taro patch an observation tower, a long house for his kingdom’s fleet of canoes. Also nearby along the waterfront is where the Hauloa stones are located. Believed to have mystical healing powers, these stones were visited by all those who sought spiritual and physical healing.

The age of whaling made a huge impact on the tiny seaside town. The more interesting sites associated with this period can be visited to this day. The two story Seaman’s Hospital is located at the edge of town. Constructed of lava rock, it served United States merchant seamen. Another popular building was Hale Paahao. Located along Prison Street, this open air prison houses the unruly and unlawful.

A visit to Lahaina today will find it still much alive and bustling. Many come to explore this old capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom from nearby resorts and hotels to find an oceanfront setting with lots of character, ocean views of the neighbor island of Molokai. Others come to board whale-watching tours or board ferries for a day-trip to the island of Lanai.

Everyone has an opinion about Lahaina. Either bawdy or beautiful it’s certainly a place that should be included in every Hawaii vacation.

Hawaii Travel Advice:  Free walking tour maps are available at the visitors center behind the Banyan tree.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island

One of the most beautiful sights in all of Hawaii is located along the Hamakua Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii. Located nine miles off of Mamalahoa Highway, it takes each visitor off the beaten path to a time rich in legend, conflict and nature.

The valley is a collection of working taro fields or lo’i, fishponds, several heiau and two of the longest waterfalls in the Hawaiian Islands. It’s easy to find, the signs to Waipio are well marked that will skirt the plantation town of Honokaa and offer wonderful ocean and forest views along the way. Ideally the drive should include an exploration of the entire Hamakua Coast to include at least a quick visit at the valley overlook to enjoy the views and perhaps capture a photo of the elusive I’o or Hawaiian hawk. Alternately, many come to spend the day hiking challenging trails, horseback riding or a four wheel drive tour along valley floor. Either way, Waipio is not to be missed.

The lo’i or taro fields are numerous in the valley. Fed by fresh water streams, picked by hand and taken up the valley road to be processed into some of the sweetest poi known in the islands.

The valley was inhabited by Hawaiians that preceded the Kamehameha Dynasty. The legends say the earliest inhabitants included Aliiaimoku Liloa who was the ruling chief of the Island of Hawaii. Liloa declared Umi, his long long son as predecessor to the island kingdom. The valley was inhabited by Hawaiians that preceded the Kamehameha Dynasty.

The heiau in the valley were considered to be some of the most sacred in the islands. Among the heiau were Honuaula, Pakaalana, Hokuwelowelo and Moaula. Pakaalana was known as the most sacred in the islands, while Honuaula was a mystical sacrificial alter. Hokuwelowelo was the heiau where the divine Kihapu shell was guarded until it was stolen by sly dog called Puapualenalena. Moaula was built by Hakau before it was raided by Umi. Umi is said to have made Hakau the first human sacrifice at this cliffside heiau.

Waipio is also the location of Hawaii’s longest waterfall. It is the largest of a cluster of what sometimes can be three waterfalls that are located along the south side of the valley. The waterfall is the subject of a love song that speaks of young love and legends that speak of a discarded infant discovered by gods to be royalty.

Hawaii Travel Advice: Arrange for an offical tour since rental cars are not allowed on the valley floor.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island

For those who area interested in lovely views, interesting museums and waterfalls, a day in the bay front town of Hilo may just be the perfect way to spend the day. Quieter than the Oahu resort of Waikiki it is a laid back and un hurried setting that can be enjoyed by everyone.

Here are a few things to see and do when in Hilo:

Hawaiiana Live
Palace Theatre 38 Haili Street ~ Admission $5   ~ Showtime: Wednesdays 11am

Located on Haili Street a block from the bay front, the Neo Classical exterior is easy to spot among the other historical buildings on the block. Built and opened in 1925. One of the largest of the movie theatres in the state, it was a center of the islands entertainment and arts scene for more than 75 years. It features stadium style seating and an original Robert-Morton pipe organ. A visit to the historic palace theatre in downtown Hilo on Wednesday morning will not only provide an hour of enjoyable presentation of hula, mele and Hawaiian culture, it will also provide entrance to the historic Palace Theatre.

Rainbow Falls
Wailuku River State Park along Waianuenue Avenue  ~ Hours: Daylight hours only

Located a few blocks mauka past Hilo’s largest public library and schools, this eighty foot waterfall is one of the easiest to access in the islands. it just takes a few steps from parking lot to enjoy the beauty of this ever flowing waterfall. The cave below the waterfall is said to be the home of Hina the mother of demi-god Maui.

Liluokalani Gardens
End of Lihiwai Street at Banyan Drive ~ Hours: 24 hours

Hilo’s waterfront is a special place.. It is a collection of unique Hawaii beaches and brackish ponds. The best example of this is at Liliuokalani Gardens. The thirty-acre gardens features a walking path that winds over bridges and ponds past Japanese tea houses. The area also provides wonderful views of Hilo Bay.

Hilo Farmer’s Market
400 Kamehameha Ave ~ Hours: Wednesday and Saturday 6a-4p

Smaller than the swap meet at the Aloha Stadium, this market offer many items unique to the Big Island. Located in the heart of downtown Hilo, this farmer’s market has grown from a simple fruit and flower stand to include a large selection of art, souvenirs, t-shirts and other unique items. It is one of the best places in Hilo to buy island coffee, crafts and specialty items.

Lyman Museum
276 Haili Street ~ Admission $10 ~ Hours: Monday – Saturday 10a-430p

Not as large as the Bishop Museum on Oahu, this small and enjoyable museum is a brief exploration into the geological and cultural uniqueness of Hawaii. There is a unique climatic zone exhibit, a wonderful collection of shells and gems. The second floor offers a large collection of Hawaii artifacts and more.

Hawaii Travel Advice: Be sure to take a photo in front of the Tsunami clock

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island

Far in lifestyle and attitude from the resort areas on the Valley Isle, Makawao is a local community filled with cool temperatures, charm and character. The charming town is by far the busiest of a string of upcountry towns that include Olinda, Kula and Pukalani. The area is situated between 1500 and 3200 feet above sea level on the eastern flank of Haleakala.

Once off the Haleakala Highway, the road changes from straight and wide to narrow that follows the contours of the dormant volcano through farms, ranches and forests of koa and eucalyptus trees. Different from other sea level plantation towns, Makawao is a cattle ranching town where the Hawaiian Paniolo lifestyle still very much a reality amidst several family own ranches. A few of the more active are Piholo Ranch, Haleakala Ranch Company and Ulupalakua Ranch. Visitors are welcome at these ranches that offer horseback riding, vacation rentals and zip line tours.

Of all the upcountry towns, Makawao is certainly the busiest of all. Arrive on a typical morning and the streets will be filled with rental cars and people hunting down breakfast or a quick cup of coffee after experiencing the demi-god Maui pull the sun into the morning sky at the summit of Haleakala.

A visit to Makawao is best done on a Saturday morning where in addition to the sweeping views of the central Maui towns of Kahului and Wailuku clear to Iao Valley, one can enjoy a suburb farmer’s market and the lively arts scene in anyone of the numerous galleries located along Baldwin Avenue in the heart of town.

On other days, there are several boutiques and Maui restaurants that offer everything from fresh baked goods and coffee to hearty local grass fed beef steaks.

Hawaii Travel Advice: Plan a visit to enjoy the Annual Makawao Paniolo Parade typically scheduled for the last weekend in June.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island

Just two miles long and five blocks wide, Waikiki is home of Hawaii’s most popular vacation destination. Hardly a resort but more of cluster of hotels, condominiums spread along busy streets. The area is filled with restaurants, spas, nightclubs, shops and walkways that provide at least a week of relaxation and excitement. Waikiki also is the location of the island’s only Zoo and only Aquarium.

Historically, Waikiki was immensely popular with Hawaii’s royalty. Hawaii’s last reigning monarch, Queen Liliuokalani had two homes in Waikiki. The largest was located where the Waikiki Library stands. It was called Paokalani. It was the home where she entertained dignitaries from all over the world including the Duke of Edinburgh. The second was a smaller home called Kealohilani located across from Kuhio Beach.

Also across the street from Kuhio beach was the home of Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole. Visitors to the beach can visit his statue. The statue faces his seaside home named Pualeilani. The property was deeded to the city of Honolulu when he died in 1922.

King David Kalakaua also has a home in the Uluniu district near the shores of Waikiki Beach. Sheltered in a large grove of towering coconut trees, the house was a two-story structure that was known to host many parties. His estate was left to Princess Kaiulani upon his death.

The most elaborate royal estate in Waikiki was that of Princess Kaiulani. Ainahau was located where the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel now stands. The estate consisted of 10 acres of flower gardens, peacocks, mango trees and a giant banyan. The princess died at the estate in 1899, she was just 23 years old.

What is now the International Marketplace was the summer home of King Lunalilo. The area was known as Kaluaokau. The estate was not large, but it did include the banyan tree that today is the centerpiece of the Marketplace. The home was given to Queen Emma when Lunalilo died in 1874.

Hawaii Travel Advice: Visitors are welcome to visit the statue of Princess Kaiulani at the corner of Kaiulani and Kuhio Avenues in Waikiki.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island

Many who journey into Waikiki via the H1 freeway are certain to have traversed the edges of the Barak Obama’s childhood Oahu neighborhood. Referred to by locals at the Punahou-Pawaa area, it is in the heart of Honolulu. In 35 years it hasn’t changed much. The monkey pod trees along neighborhood streets certainly have grown taller and broader, but they still retain that all important shading, noise buffering and cooling quality so important to life in a tropical climate. Young Obama was raised by his grandmother in the Punahou Circle Apartments.

Built in 1965 of the first apartments in the area, the well kept building stands proudly on the corner of South Beretania and Punahou Streets. It is a simple 10 story building with an open breezeway as a first floor. Each apartment has a balcony that faces Central Union Church, one of the largest protestant congregations in the islands. The apartment neighbors the Shinshu Kyokai Mission one of the more established Buddhist temples in the islands. Across the street is the only Mormon Temple in the heart of Honolulu. The area also has easy and convenient access to island wide public transportation. The area is also filled with many unique restaurants.  Around the corner on South King Street is a well-known chain ice cream spot where Barak worked as a teen.

There are a couple of well established schools within walking distance of the apartments. A couple of blocks away is Maryknoll School. The campus is consists of two separate locations. The high school is located along Punahou Street, while the grade school is located along Alexander Street.

The most prestigious school in the area and in fact the islands is Barak Obama’s al ma mater, Punahou School. It was founded on a land that is the site of a historical fresh water spring called Ka Punahou. Established island missionaries on lands that were given by Hawaiian royalty, it was founded to insure a quality education for their children. It graduated its first class in 1858 as Oahu Collage. Today it is proud to say that it has produced heads of industry, professional athletes and now the first black President of the United States.

Hawaii Travel Advice: Visitors are welcome to visit the iconic lily pond and spring at the Punahou campus.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island.

Ancient Hawaiian temples are and burial places are scattered throughout the islands. Some of the more notable include Puukohola along the Kohala Coast of the Big Island and Puu O Mahuka along Oahu’s North Shore.

Heiau served many purposes. Some were dedicated to a particular deity, others were for sacrifice and war. Most are located in areas that offer panoramic ocean views, and most are a wonderful part of anyone’s Hawaii vacation.

Here are a few of the lesser known heiau in the islands that are open for visitors.

Ahuena Heiau

Located adjacent to the pier in the heart of Kailua-Kona, this heiau is one of the more easily accessible. This well preserved heiau is known as the personal heiau of King Kamehameha the Great, it was also the site where he died on May 8 1819. It was the site where the course of cultural traditions were changed when Liholiho sat to eat with women.

Ulupo Heiau

Located on the windward side on the island fo Oahu, this heiau is one of the few intact heiau dedicated to fishing. Set along the edge of Kawai Nui Bay and at the edge of a 400 acres fishpond constructed by ancient Hawaiians. It also overlooked several fields of taro or lo’i. Today this heiau can be found at the rear of the Windward Oahu YMCA.

Ka Ulu o Laka Heiau

Located on the north shore of the Garden Island, this heiau is dedicated to the Hawaiian hula diety Laka, this heiau is just steps from the trailhead of the Na Pali Coast trail in Haena. Wedged between the cliffs and the ocean, this hula heiau is often visited by students of the hula to show respect and reverence.

Kukuipuka Heiau

Located in Kahakuloa on the island of Maui. This heiau is a part of a puu honua or a place of refuge. Much like the larger one at Honaunau on the Big Island, it is a place where anyone would be welcome and would be expected to be resolved of their wrongdoings.

Although most of the grander heiau have been preserved or at least documented, There are many others that remain lost to the valleys, fields and mountains of the islands. Many more have been destroyed by development of hotels and golf courses.

Hawaii Travel Advice: There are sacred areas. Do not touch or move any rocks, ever.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island.

For most who have had their day or two in the sun along the warm waters and white sands of world famous Waikiki Beach, may find a desire to venture out past the resort area to see more of this island called The Gathering Place.  A wonderful way to start an island without too much effort is to take a visit to the Diamond Head Lookout.

Not to be confused with the Diamond Head State park, this lookout is perfect for those who cannot undertake the stress of an uphill hike. Instead, this lookout can be accessed several ways. Just 2.5 miles from the center of Waikiki, those looking for an energetic early morning jog or an ambitious walk along the beach and through the park will find this route an especially enjoyable one.

For those who want to enjoy the vistas of the area there are several turnouts along Diamond Head road that will provide panoramic ocean views and on very clear days, views of Maui and even Molokai. On windy days, there are amazing views of expert windsurfers slicing though the waves and break neck speeds. On almost everyday there will be views of surfers riding waves at the popular Diamond Head surf break called Cliffs.

Visitors will find that searches for pods of dolphins are always in order. During the winter months, the lookout is a great location to spot Humpback whales frolicking in the Hawaiian waters.

The lookout is also the location of the historical Diamond Head Lighthouse, and the finishing line for the Transpac yacht race. For aviation buffs, there is a small memorial dedicated to Amelia Earhart’s 1935 flight from Honolulu to Oakland.

From the center of Waikiki, the walking and driving route is almost identical. Just follow Kalakaaua Avenue past the Honolulu Zoo, along the park past the fountain. Continue along Diamond Head Road to the lookout.

Hawaii Travel Advice: Bring a pair of binoculars since the ones at the lookout rarely work correctly.

Lottie Tagupa is a native Hawaiian, born and raised on the island of Oahu. She has been writing about Hawaii for over 10 years and currently lives in Waimea on the Big Island.