Sunday, March 27, 2016

Living Like A Local In Kona

By Stephen Baker


The Archipelago of five islands that make up Hawaii was granted entry into the union as the 50th American state in the summer of 1959. A scant 18 degrees north of the equator, its tempting tropical climate makes it an extremely popular destination for tourists. Visitors who want to get away from the hustle, bustle and expense of tourist Hawaii find tranquil comfort, together with independence, in the district of Kona, on the western, or lee side, of Hawaii, the Big Island.

The island is served by two international airports, Hilo and Keahole. A number of major airlines fly into and out of Keahole. Passengers arrive from destinations such as Los Angeles, San Jose, San Diego, Oakland, and San Francisco in California. The district is also accessible by air from Portland OR, Seattle/Tacoma WA, Denver CO, and Phoenix AZ. Keahole Airport also receives seasonal traffic from Anchorage, AL and the Canadian city of Vancouver BC.

The Keahole Airport looks nothing at all like a traditional airport. It more closely resembles a chalet-style resort or a night club or restaurant, with open-air buildings decorated with numerous palm trees. As quaint and charming as it looks, it really is a fully functioning airport.

While there are bright lights, noise and crowds of people if you should choose to go looking for them, you can just as easily convince yourself that you are a local resident. Attractions include a popular shrimp restaurant on the coastline that is themed after one of America's favourite movies. Here, you can observe swimming humpback whales or body-surfing humans.

The island is compact enough that everything you need is right there at your fingertips. One of the sights is Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano. At 14,000 feet above sea level, it is taller than Mt Everest and, obviously, the tallest peak in the state. Mauna Kea is a million years old.

If you are feeling adventurous and can find someone offering this activity, there is nothing in the world like parasailing. This involves getting hitched into a parachute and being towed by a speed boat as you ascend higher and higher into the atmosphere. The average distance above sea level is 800 feet, although the brave can signal being taken to 1,200 feet. The best feeling of the experience is being allowed to free fall. The ride is over all too soon.

Those who want the marine experience but aren't courageous enough or physically fit for parasailing can enjoy a boat tour. Discover dolphins, go diving, or go for a raft cruise. There is no shortage of seaborne adventures to be had on the island.

In Kona, you have all the necessary amenities without the high tourist prices. If you can find accommodation with your own patio/balcony, you can stroll around like a local. You retain your independence, yet somehow, you feel like you belong there.




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