The Polite Traveler

Review of the 'Iolani Palace Revised 4/2021 Dear Polite Traveler, The more we visit the islands of Hawaii, the more I feel compelled to learn more about the culture and the past, including the politics of various time periods.  Consequently, we have visited the  Polynesian   Cultural Center  a few years ago and this year, the ‘Iolani Palace. I thought I knew much of the history behind Hawaii becoming a state and its previous relationship with the U.S.  What I knew was just a split second of Hawaii’s true history.  What I learned on our guided tour would be too much to share here, but I can share my opinion and impression of Queen Liliuokalani and the tour’s accuracy. Note : Follow CDC and county guidelines when visiting.  Always wear your face mask when in public King David Kalākaua Upon King David Kalākaua death, her brother,  Queen Liliuokalani  became the true leader of the Hawaiian Island...

Hiking the Diamond Head Trail Revised 4/2021 Dear Polite Traveler, Many of the YouTube videos about hiking the Diamond Head Trail are not entirely honest.  After hiking this trail for myself, I found it to be challenging for many.  As for me, I exercise daily and walk miles just for fun.  Nevertheless, I was out of breath often as I climbed.  The real issue, I believe, many may find with this trail is the unevenness.  Most of the trail is rock.  Some are smooth, most are not.  Consequently, this is a real issue and could be dangerous for those not in good health .   Note : Follow CDC and county guidelines when visiting.  Always wear your face mask when in public.        Please follow the advice on the map offered at the gate and read it well.    We took the bus—very convenient—from Waikiki to Diamond Head.  The fares for adults are:  $2.75 for o...

Old, Odd but Friendly Revised 4/2021 Dear Polite Traveler, After a half-day of air travel that began early in the morning, we arrived at the DoubleTree in Waikiki.   From the outside, the hotel didn’t impress.    It looked dingy, small, and old.    To be honest, it is small (ish) compared to so many in Waikiki, but somewhat cozy. Old?     Yes, even though its website mentioned being recently updated.    Still, it was adequate, especially when receiving a deal not easy to pass up.   Note : Follow CDC and county guidelines when visiting.  Always wear your face mask when in public.   Upgraded Again!  Upon reaching the welcome desk, we were greeted by more than a friendly face.  Rebecca automatically upgraded our “deal room” to a suite.  Gotta love that!  And, besides sharing the same name as me, she shares my love of tea.  Subsequently, she made sure I had plenty ...

Memorable.     Learning Opportunities.    Simply Amazing! Revised 4/2021 Dear Polite Traveler, I must admit; my hubby and I are two lucky people.   We stumble across a docent who is an expert of amphibians and reptiles at the Honolulu Zoo .   And, then the very next day, we stumble across a retired Professor at the Waikīkī Aquarium .   How lucky is that?!       Having someone at our side explaining habitats and the ocean life we were witnessing enabled us to enjoy our visit more.   We came to see, and we found knowledge. Note : Follow CDC and county guidelines when visiting.  Always wear your face mask when in public.       To fully appreciate this gem, please watch my video. Please Read Hotel Review: Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Hotel Room Review: Hilton Garden Inn in Waikiki Room #1435 Activity Review: Fun Activities in Honolulu 2020