Suzie Jones:
Where else will you find a bank clerk with real Frangipani in her hair? I have always thought that those typical Hawaiian shirts were a laugh... but I dare you to visit Hawaii and not see the sense in covering...
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Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head © HVCB/Joe Solem
Oahu is only the third largest of the inhabited Hawaiian
islands, but it is home to nearly three-quarters of the state's
residents, most of them living in the ultra-modern capital city,
Honolulu, and its adjacent beach resort suburb of Waikiki, on the
south coast of the island. Beyond the urban bustle of the south,
Oahu is quiet and enchanting; flaunting 23 state parks and
punctuated by ancient stone heiau (temples). The island's most
recognisable landmark is the 761ft (232m) tall Diamond Head to the
east of Waikiki. This mountain is a 'tuff cone' formed 100,000
years ago when an eruption of volcanic ash hardened into solid
rock. The extinct volcano is traditionally believed to be the home
of Pele, the fire goddess. Oahu means 'gathering place', and the
island certainly lives up to its name in its ethnic diversity,
which becomes evident at a glance at the annual festival calendar.
From the Chinese New Year in late January to King Kamehameha Day in
June and the Aloha Festivals in September there is barely a dull
moment and always a reason for celebration.
