What I enjoy most about sharing are the places I’ve been and the things I’ve seen. Let’s face it, the bulk of us want to go out and have time well spent with the little time we often have that doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. While once in a while I do like to indulge in fine dining, but most of the time I appreciate good eats at local restaurants. I love to hit up the secret locations only locals know about such as the best places to see not listed in travel brochures (including the most opportune time to visit them). One of the places I have never thought in a million years I’d ever visit is Hawaii. If I am to be completely transparent, it was because they are home to volcano’s. That’s right! While I can camp and backpack amongst cougars and grizzlies, I was terrified of the idea of being trapped on an island where there are volcano’s. My logic was that if it was gonna explode, it would be while I was there. Crazy I know. But the year I went was the year I wanted to make change in my life. I wanted to face my fears and venture outside my comfort zone. So Hawaii here I come. Oh and by the way… I also felt this way about British Columbia (because of the earthquakes) but overcame that fear by living there for 4 years. Visited San Diego (for the same reason) and ended up falling in love with the place. Now I understand when people explain their love for SoCal I get it! You have to go to understand.
Oahu - Hawaii
Most people think that the islands of Hawaii is unattainable to visit since many of the hotels and entertainment costs a fortune, however this has not been my experience. Before I visit anyplace, I do a lot of research. I like to make my dollar stretch as far as it can (especially since our Canadian Dollar is so low when traveling to the United States and abroad). To share my research means others can reap the benefits as well. It makes my research more meaningful.
When planning this vacation, I knew I didn’t want to stay at a hotel because let’s face it, ka-ching! I also didn’t want to stay at a hostel because I’m a grown woman and didn’t feel comfortable in a house full of kids in their mid-twenties. So, looking at my options, I found an AirBnB just 1 block away from Waikiki beach where I stayed for 8 days, 7 nights for only $500. While many of the activities did cost a fortune, I uncovered a few that were stunning and cost effective. Diamond Head Crater (photo above) was one of the highlights of this trip. If you’re feeling adventurous like me, it was about an hour walk to the crater or you can take a local bus that drops you right off in front of the entrance way. Entrance fee was only $1 dollar. Yes, that’s correct! Plus, you get to brag to your friends about hiking a volcanic crater. Pretty wicked stuff.
During my stay I found a bus line that for $110 you spent an entire day from 7AM until 6PM traveling with a local guide and a group that took you to various locations along the North Shore. You got to pick from a selection of activities you wanted to participate in and they dropped you off and picked you up at a set arrival time. I got to visit 4 different beaches, did some kayaking amongst the sea turtles, visited a park where Jurassic Park was filmed and swam in the waterfalls, and so much more. Oh and seeing Jackie Chan’s house was pretty cool too! Our driver was so funny and explained the beauty of the island along with the culture.
There is so much to do on the island, you just have to know where to look and get the most out of your money. For me it was a journey overcoming fear of the unknown and getting comfortable traveling independently to far away destinations, and well hiking a volcanic crater was just the icing on the cake from this trip. There is something magical on this island, and the best spots were all next to free!
Recommended Low Cost to No Cost Locations to Visit:
- Diamond Head Crater
- North Shore - Bonzai Pipeline
- Free Kuhio Beach Torch Lighting & Hula Show
- Hanahuma Bay
- Waimea Bay