Spotlight: Cancun, Mexico

Spotlight: Cancún is the most populous city (almost 1,000,000 inhabitants) in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The city is situated on the Caribbean Sea, on the northeast coast of the Yucatan Peninsula, just north of Mexico's Caribbean coast resort area known as the Riviera Maya. Interestingly, the word "Yucatan" means "I don't understand you" in Mayan, which is how the Mayans responded whenever the Spanish asked where they were. The city’s name, Cancún, is derived from the Mayan name kàan kun, composed of kàan 'snake' and the verb kum ~ kun 'to swell, overfill'. Ironically, this so-called 'nest of snakes' has become one of Mexico's most popular tourist destinations. Cancún has a tropical climate with wet and dry seasons and an average temperature ranging from 83-95 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season runs from late August to November, the dry season from November through April, and the summer months variable due to unpredictable hurricane conditions.

After the Spanish conquest of the region, most of the Mayans living around Cancún died or migrated elsewhere. Modern Cancún is a planned city, designed as a profitable tourist destination by the government. FONATUR (the National Fund for Tourism Development) was used to construct the city in 1974 as an Integrally Planned Center. The population boomed throughout the late 20^th century, growing by an annual average of 62.3% from 1970-1980, and its tourism growth outpaced even the most optimistic projections. In 2023, a record 21 million tourists visited Cancún. Although Cancún had initially avoided the violence associated with the drug trade that has plagued much of the country, violence in the urban center has been on the rise since 2018.

The Beaches of Cancun

Cancun 2023

Activities: Most hotels in Cancun are "all-inclusive" - so many visitors spend their entire vacation on the hotel property enjoying the amenities. While each hotel is different, most will provide a similar set of options. Some of the amenities include: a variety of restaurants (Mexican, Italian, Chinese, Thai, American, ice cream snack bar, pool-side bar, etc.) that serve all-you-can-eat buffets or fine dining with unlimited food and drink at no additional cost; a variety of swimming pools that are designed for different activities (swimming, relaxing with a drink, volleyball, or tanning); use the sauna or enjoy the spa treatment (full-body massage - costs extra); a variety of instructional classes where you can learn a new dance or how to do Pilates, a variety of evening entertainment (the "Chef's dinner," listen to live music, watch a "Michael Jackson" dance medley, watch a sand artist, etc.); work out at the fully-stocked gym or Yoga center; enjoy the hot tub in your bedroom; and beach access, where you can sit in a lounge chair under a large sun umbrella and read, soak in the sun, play beach volleyball, snorkel, rent a kayak, look for sea turtles, or bob in the waves.

Michael Jackson Dance Medley

Chillin' in the Infinity Pool

Casual dining

- Cost: Since it is an all-inclusive resort, most things are included in the cost. However, there are some things that cost extra, or are only available to those with premium memberships - otherwise, how would they be able to entice you to pay for a premium membership.

- Things You Should Know: You should bring with you several dozen small bills (American dollars are encouraged) to tip the workers who will be on hand to carry your bags, set up a lounge chair on the beach, bring you a drink, etc.

- You will be "encouraged" to attend a "90-minute" tour (that will likely turn into 3 hours) in which you will be shown all the amenities that the resort has to offer, and the benefits of membership (which is divided into different categories - diamond, platinum, gold, etc. - each with different benefits). The benefit of taking the "tour" (sales pitch) is to get hotel credit that you will be able to use to offset the expensive taxes that you will otherwise have to pay out of pocket. The disadvantage of taking the tour is that you will have to endure a 2-3 hour high-pressure sales pitch by your host (who gets paid on commission), which will be followed up by at least two of his/her associates that will offer progressively less-expensive options. It was easily the least enjoyable 3 hours of our vacation, but the $500 credit paid for our taxes as well as our dolphin excursion and spa appointment.

Hotel lobby from our 3-hour "90-minute tour"

Activities: Dolphinaris Mexico is an animal encounter that allows visitors to "swim with dolphins." The Marine Mammal Habitats are designed to allow visitors to interact with these vivacious creatures in an open-air environment. There are multiple pools, and each visitor is treated to a variety of dolphin encounters including: a kiss, a hug, a handshake, and a short ride in which you hold onto the dolphin's dorsal fin as it pulls you through the water for about 10 meters. It was definitely a fun, unique experience!

The Pools of Dolphinaris

Dolphin "Hug"

Swimming with Dolphins

Playing with Dolphins

Dolphin Kiss

- Location: Plaza Isla Cancun, about 12.5 km. from the hotel district.

- Hours: Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. 

- Cost: Anywhere from $49.50 - $149 USD, depending on which package you are able to find.

- Things You Should Know: This activity is often available as a way to use your "hotel credit" that you are given as part of the package deal you get with your all-inclusive resort. Of course, when "purchased" this way, you won't be able to get the discounts that you could normally find on your own, but it is usually one of the more popular ways to use your credit.

- Rating: 4 of 5 stars

 Activities: Tulum is a Mayan city about 130 kilometers south of Cancún. It was built in the 13^th century, during the Mayan post-classic era. The main thing that differentiates Tulum from other Mayan ruins is its location on the seashore, where it served as a major port trading in jade and turquoise. In addition, Tulum was protected by a 784-meter limestone wall that enclosed the city on three sides. The wall was seven meters thick, and varied between three and five meters in height, with five doors to enter the city. Although many of the structures no longer exist, the most prominent structure, El Castillo, stands on a 12-meter limestone cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. In front of the Castillo is the Temple of the Frescoes. Inside this well-preserved structure, visitors can view a large mural painted in three sections: The first level represents the Mayan world of the dead; the middle represents the living; and the final, highest piece is of the creator and rain gods. You can also see the Casa del Cenote - a two-room structure built on top of a cave with a staircase leading down to a cenote. The walls of the house were built at a seven degree angle to slow down the wind and allow it to survive hurricanes. The Temple of the Wind was built on top of a cliff overlooking several shrines. The holes in this temple would whistle when hurricanes were approaching, giving the Mayans advance warning to seek shelter. When you get tired of exploring the ruins, you can sit and relax on the nearby beach – a luxury unavailable at other Mayan sites.

El Castillo of Tulum

Temple of the Wind

Casa del Cenote

Tulum's Coastline

- Location: Coordinates, 20°12′53″N 87°25′44″W / 20.21472°N 87.42889°W; About 130 km. south of Cancun

- Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. 

- Cost: 515 MXN (about $28 - $30 USD); cards are accepted, but cash is recommended

- Things You Should Know: - Sundays are free for Mexican citizens and residents, so it will be crowded.

- You will see dozens of iguanas lounging around the site. They are wild and should not be approached - they may bite you. If an iguana starts moving its head up and down rapidly, it is a sign that it is feeling threatened.

- Outside the archeological site, among the many tourist shops, some of the local Mayans like to put on a show called Danza de los Voladores ("Dance of the Flyers"). In this performance, five of them climb a 30-meter beam. Four of them hang upside down from ropes, and swing in a circle as they are slowly lowered to the ground, while a fifth person, the caporal, remains on top, playing a flute and drum while directing the ritual.

Danza de los Voladores

- Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Activities: Xel'ha Water Park is a natural water park named after the Xelha archaeological site of a pre-Columbian Mayan civilization. Xel'ha means "where water is born" - an appropriate name due to the number of underground rivers that flow into the park. According to legend, the Mayan gods appointed three guardians to protect this natural wonder: the Iguana (guardian of the earth), the Pelican (guardian of the sky), and the Fish parrot (guardian of the water). The theme park was founded in 1984, and centered around a natural inlet and lagoon, allowing its creators to seamlessly create a dynamic waterpark that blends in with its natural environment. The natural aquarium is inhabited by hundreds of species of aquatic plants and animals, including a sea turtle reserve and stingray cove. There is also a dolphin area where visitors can "swim with dolphins." A shark fence along the outer border keeps large predators out of the park, making it safe for visitors to swim, snorkel, and scuba dive in the lagoon, and explore dozens of underwater caves and grottos that have been carved out of the natural limestone. Due to its ecological practices, Xel'ha became the first tourist park to receive an EarthCheck Gold certification in 2014. In addition, Xel'ha retains 75% of its habitat due to its Rescue, Reproduction, and Reforestation of Native Plants Program.

     Some of the park's attractions included in your admission are: the Scenic Lighthouse (with a 40-meter high viewing platform,and water slides that encircle the tower); floating down the river of Xel'ha through mangrove forests in an inner tube; exploring Xel'ha Cave; jumping off the Cliff of Courage (15 meters high); riding the Salpichanga ziplines; playing in "Children's World"; Iguana Grotto and El Dorado Cave; the Xel'ha Wall (remnant from a pre-Columbian city); the Path of Consciousness (a nature walk through Xel'ha's natural forests); Chacah's Garden (a cultivated garden paradise of trees and plants typical to the region); Xel'ha Nursery (an educational center cultivating native flora); swim in Xel'ha's natural cenotes; Queen Conch Sanctuary; and biking along nature paths. There are also some additional activities that cost extra (between $40-$100 USD each): Power Xnorkel Xel'ha (snorkeling with a personal motorjet); Sea Trek Discover (walking the seabed with a diving helmet and gear); Manatee Encounter; Stingray Encounter; Sea Trek Stingray (a more immersive underwater experience); Adrenalina Xel'ha (speedboat ride in the lagoon); Zip-bike Xel'ha (explore Xel'ha on a zipline bike); Spa Xel'ha; and Fish Therapy (natural skin treatment with fishes nibbling off your dead skin).

Xel'ha - El Faro Mirador

Lazy River - Extreme Style

Exploring one of the many natural canyons

Ziplining

- Location: México, Carretera Chetumal - Puerto Juárez Km 240, locales 1 & 2, módulo B, Playa del Quintana Roo, Mexico, 77780: Located 122 kilometers south of Cancun, and 13 kilometers north of Tulum

- Hours: Open daily from 8:30 am to 6 pm. 

- Cost: $116 USD for all-inclusive tickets; although some activities have an additional cost 

- Things You Should Know: - Wear some sort of water shoes or water socks to protect your feet since you will be walking on a variety of surfaces in between going in the water.

- The park provides free bicycle transport between some key areas of the park.

- Only bio-degradable sunscreen with titanium oxide and zinc oxide is permitted in the park.

- The All-Inclusive benefits include: breakfast, lunch, snacks, an open bar, plus unlimited snorkeling gear and lockers. However, some activities cost an additional price (see above).

- Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Nearby: Ek Balam is located 172 kilometers west of Cancun.

- Chichen Itza, named one of the "Seven Wonders of the Modern World," is 197 kilometers west of Cancun. (see previous post)

- The Island of Cozumel is approximately 100 kilometers south of Cancun, and can be reached by car via a ferry.

Spotlight: Chichén Itzá, Mexico

 Spotlight: Chichén Itzá was a large pre-Colombian city built by the Mayans of the Late Classic period, rising to prominence during the 7^th century AD, with its peak coming during the Terminal Classic period (c. AD 800-900), and losing much of its influence by 1100 AD. Today, it is a popular archeological site, with about 2.5 million visitors per year. As one of the largest cities among the Mayans, it is believed to be one of the mythical great cities, or Tollans, referred to in later Mesoamerican literature. Mexico’s Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia has maintained stewardship over the site since 2010. As with most of the Yucatan, there are no bodies of water on the surface of the site. Rather, water for the city was provided by four sinkholes (known as cenotes) fed by underground rivers. The most famous of these cenotes was the Cenote Sagrada, into which the Mayans offered sacrifices (both human and other objects) to the Mayan rain god Chaac. It was believed that if a sacrificial victim survived being thrown into the Sacred Cenote, that he would have the gift of prophecy.

     Chichén Itzá became famous in the modern world after John Lloyd Stephens featured it in his book Incidents of Travel in Yucatan, in 1843. In 1894, Edward Herbert Thompson, U.S. Consul to the Yucatan, purchased the Hacienda Chichen, which included the ruins of Chichén Itzá, and spent 30 years exploring the ruins of the ancient city. He dredged the Cenote Sagrada and recovered artifacts of gold, copper, jade as well as examples of of pre-Colombian Mayan cloth and wooden weapons. He shipped most of the items to the Peabody Museum at Harvard University. Later, the Carnegie Institution, in collaboration with the Mexican government, conducted extensive excavation and restoration to the site. Among the most famous sites to be restored are those on the Great North Platform: El Castillo, known by the Mayans as the Temple of Kukulcán, the Temple of Warriors, and the Great Ball Court.

Activities: The Temple of Kukulcán, aka. El Castillo, is a step pyramid that stands about 30 meters (98 ft) high and consists of a series of nine square terraces, each approximately 2.57 meters (8.4 ft) high, with a 6-meter (20 ft) high temple upon the summit. Each face of the pyramid has a stairway (with 91 steps each) that rises at a 45-degree angle. The final step at the top makes 365 total steps. Excavations inside the temple have uncovered a statue of Chac Mool and a throne in the shape of a jaguar (painted red with spots made of inlaid jade). One of the most fascinating aspects of the temple is the optical illusion that is visible around the Spring and Autumn equinoxes. “In the late afternoon, the northwest corner of the pyramid casts a series of triangular shadows against the western balustrade on the north side that evokes the appearance of a serpent wriggling down the staircase, which some scholars have suggested is a representation of the feathered-serpent deity, Kukulcán.”

Temple of Kukulcan

The slithering snakes

     The Temple of Warriors complex consists of a large step pyramid flanked by rows of hundreds of stone columns depicting warriors. At the top of the stairway on the temple’s summit is a statue of Chac Mool. Along the south wall are exposed columns that would have supported an extensive roof system. The columns are grouped into three distinct sections. The columns surround other smaller temples within the complex: the Temple of the Carved Columns, the Temple of the Small Tables, and the Palace of Ahua Balam Kauil (or Thompson’s Temple).

Temple of the Warriors

     Archaeologists have discovered thirteen ball courts at Chichén Itzá. The Great Ball Court, located to the north-west of El Castillo, measures about 168 meters by 70 meters. It is not only the largest ball court that has been discovered in Mesoamerica, it is also the best preserved. Parallel platforms flank the ballcourt, measuring 95 meters in length and 8 meters tall. Set high on each of these platforms is a stone hoop, carved with intertwined feathered serpents. The game, pok-ta-pok, is one of the oldest team sports in the world, and the rules have evolved over time. It consisted of forming two teams of approximately 7 members each, where the main objective was to pass the ball through the stone hoops, provided that the solid rubber ball (about 9 lbs.) was only manipulated by the body parts (padded) allowed by the rules of the game: the hips, shoulders, and elbows. Legend has it that the Mayans adopted this game as a way to resolve conflicts between factions and avoid wars, or to negotiate agreements. The top level even has a set of "box seats" for dignitaries. The ball game also had religious significance, representing the struggle between good and evil, and the losing team was often sacrificed as part of the ritual. The skulls of the sacrificed players were displayed on the tzompantli (or Skull Platform) near the ballpark, and their images carved into the stone.

The Great Ball Court

The Stone Hoop

The Wall of Fame (the Tzompantli)

     In addition to these features, there are many other structures at Chichén Itzá, including: The Platform of Eagles and Jaguars, the Platform of Venus, the Temple of the Tables, the Steam Bath, the Sacred Cenote, the Chultun of Children, El Mercado, the Osario (a smaller step pyramid), the Temple of Xtoloc, the Casa Colorada, Las Monjas, El Caracol, Akab Dzib, the Phallic Temple, the Platform of the Great Turtle, the Temple of the Owls, and the Temple of the Monkeys. Approximately 4 miles south-east of Chichen Itza are the Caves of Balankanche – with a large selection of ancient pottery and idols. Honestly, I could have spent all day exploring the marvelous treasure trove of ancient structures and artifacts here, so I would recommend doing some research beforehand to make sure that you see the things that you most want to see.

- Location: Located in the middle of the Yucatan Peninsula, it is about 50 kilometers west of Valladolid, and roughly midway between Merida and Cancun.

- Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. There is a separate night show at 7:00 pm Tuesday through Sunday. Most people spend between 2-4 hours.

- Cost: General admission: $648-$697 MXN (approx. $35-$44 USD); Guided tours will cost extra.

- Things You Should Know: The best time to visit is between 8-11 am. to avoid crowds and heat (which often exceeds 90 degrees with limited shade). 

- Bring cash to facilitate purchases with local venders, who usually don't accept credit cards. Bring your own water since it is more expensive at the site.

- There are lockers at the entrance to store items since you aren't allowed to carry large bags into the park.

- Wear sun block, a hat, and good walking shoes since the sites are spread out among a large area. 

- I recommend that you hire a guide since it is the best way to find out historically accurate information of what you're seeing. However, when comparing tour prices, make sure that you factor in the entrance price ($648-$697 MXN), since some tours include it in the base price while others don't.

- Entry Feed are divided into two separate payments (federal and state) that you must pay at different windows; keep both tickets in case you are asked for proof of purchase.

- Drones, tripods and professional video equipment are forbidden. There is a small fee for tourists who wish to use "Go Pros", 360 degree cameras, and selfie sticks.

- Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Activities: The landscape of the Yucatan Peninsula is almost completely devoid of rivers and lakes. However, underground rivers and ponds, known as cenotes, provide the region with fresh water. Of the approximately 7,000 cenotes located in the Yucatan, Cenote Ik Kil is probably the most famous due to its proximity to Chichen Itza. The cenote has a profound cultural heritage dating back to the era of the Mayans, who believed that its waters held sacred significance, and were the abode of their rain deity, Chaac. To appease this god, they conducted human sacrifices within its depths, believing that the cenotes were gateways to Xibalba – the Underworld. Over time, archaeologists and speleologists have discovered remnants of these sacrifices, such as bones and jewelry, concealed in its depths.

     Today, anyone can swim in the cenote. The waters of Cenote Ik Kil are a vibrant shade of deep blue-green, while the cenote itself is draped with vines and ferns. The cenote has a diameter of approximately 60 meters and a depth of 40 meters. The natural pool is visited by hundreds of tourists daily, but is also inhabited by fish and the occasional turtle. If you want to add to your adventure, jump off the 30-foot high diving platform. Just make sure that you have waterproof casing on your phones because you are going to want to take pictures!

Cenote Ik Kil

A view from the wooden deck

Yes, we bought waterproof cases for our phones

Looking up from the Cenote

Taking the plunge from the diving platform

- Location: Located only 3 kilometers from Chichen Itza.

- Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. Plan on spending about an hour.

- Cost: General admission: adults - $150-$220 MXN (approx. $8-$11 USD), which includes a life jacket.

- Things You Should Know: - Life Jackets are mandatory, but sun block is forbidden in the cenote.

- There are lockers you can rent for 30 pesos ($1.50 USD) where you can store your belongings while you swim.

- Ik Kil has a parking lot, and parking is free for paying customers.

- The best time to avoid crowds is to arrive early (from 8-11 am - before the tour buses arrive), or from 4:30-5:30 (after the buses leave).

- Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Activities: Ek Balam is a Mayan phrase that means “black jaguar” or “jaguar star.” The site dates back to 300 B.C. and was the capital of the Tah Empire, with about 12 to 18 thousand inhabitants. The city thrived until the arrival of the Spanish. The site was rediscovered in 1886 by the French archaeologist Derire Charnay. However, at the time it was only partially excavated. In 2005, in the aftermath of Hurricane Wilma, some interesting architecture was discovered under a pyramid temple. Further explorations uncovered additional ruins that were heretofore unknown to the archaeologists, opening a new wave of excavations.

Climbing up to the Astronomy Tower

The steep steps of the pyramid

The temple facade

One of the Stelae

    The archaeological site has uncovered 45 buildings surrounded by two concentric stone walls that were used for defensive purposes and to control access. There is also a ball court and a sacbe (a Sacred Road) that used to connect it to other Mayan kingdoms. The site also includes an astrology tower. Archaeologists have also uncovered several stelae (stone markers with hieroglyphic writings) from which they’ve been able to unravel some of the history associated with the site. As opposed to other archaeological sites we visited, at Ek Balam, we were allowed to climb the pyramid to the top, giving us a panoramic view of the jungle that surrounds it on all sides.

Ek Balam - the top of the pyramid offers
360-degree views of the jungle

- Location: Located in the middle of the Yucatan Peninsula, it is about 27.5 kilometers north of Valladolid, and roughly midway between Merida and Cancun.

- Hours: Open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. (best between 8-10 am. to avoid crowds and heat). Most people spend between 2-3 hours.

- Cost: General admission: adults - $561-$709 MXN (approx. $31-$45 USD); children - $100 MXN; Guided tours will cost extra.

- Things You Should Know: Wear study shoes for climbing the pyramid. The steps are steep, so take it slow and use the rope as a hand hold. You should also wear a hat, sun screen and bug spray.

- Bring cash since there are no ATM machines and card readers are unreliable.

- Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nearby: Cenote Xcanche is a beautiful cenote 1.5 kilometers from Ek Balam.

- Valladolid is the largest city in the area, and a great home base (50 kilometers east of Chichen Izta, 27.5 kilometers south of Ek Balam), and is known for its rich Mayan heritage, colonial architecture, cenotes, and traditional cuisine.

Spotlight: O'ahu, Hawaii

 Spotlight: The Island of O'ahu, 73 miles southeast of Kaua'i, is the third largest island in the Hawaii chain (596.7 square miles - 1,545.4 km²), and 20th largest island in the United States. The name O'ahu supposedly means "the Gathering Place" - somewhat appropriate for the most populous island in the chain. The island's population in 2020 was 1,016,494 - accounting for approximately 70% of the total population in Hawaii. Over 80% of the island's residence live in or around the state capital, Honolulu, which is located on the southern coast of the island. Modern analyses indicate that the first settlers probably arrived around 900–1200 A.D., from either the Marquesas and/or Tahiti. The first great king of O'ahu was was Maʻilikūkahi, the lawmaker, who initiated a 304-year dynasty of monarchs. On January 19, 1778, O'ahu was the first Hawaiian island sighted by English Captain James Cook, during his third voyage of discovery, but Cook bypassed the island before landing at Kauai. The islands were in the midst of a tumultuous war between rival chiefdoms vying for control of the islands. The islands were not fully unified until 1810. As trade with foreign nations grew, the city of Honolulu, with its ideal harbor, grew in importance until it was made the nation's capital in 1845 by King Kamehameha III. 'Iolani Palace was built there as a modern residence (the only royal palace still standing on American soil). In 1893, a group of American businessmen, aided by U.S. Marines, led a successful insurrection against the monarchy, establishing the Republic of Hawaii. They eventually succeeded in lobbying the U.S. government for annexation. The islands, and particularly Pearl Harbor, became a key military outpost for the United States, and were the target of a Japanese attack on Dec. 7, 1941, which led to an official declaration of war by Franklin D. Roosevelt against both Japan and Germany to cement the nation's involvement in World War II. Hawaii became the 50th state of the United States on Aug. 21, 1959.

Waikiki & Diamondhead

Activities: The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is a cultural theme park with a variety of different activities for visitors of all ages. The main attraction are the shows performed at the different "islands." The main portion of the park is divided into six "islands of Polynesia": Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti, Fiji, Aotearoa and Hawai'i. Each island has a variety of activities, displays and shows (performed several times daily between 12:30-5:30). I recommend planning out your itinerary beforehand to hit as many of the shows as you can since they are very entertaining and give you an appreciation of some of the unique cultural differences from one island to another. In addition to the shows, each island has activities to try. You can "play ancient games, dance with grace, learn how to fish without a net, and sample poi" in Hawaii; "Learn the significance of Maori tattoos, test your dexterity by playing with twirling poi balls, and watch the Maori warrior dance known as, 'the Haka'” in Aotearoa; practice pounding on a derua (bamboo stick), learn how to make coconut oil, and get a temporary tattoo in Fiji; learn how to start a fire with two sticks, learn how to twirl a fire knife, or crack open a coconut with a rock in Samoa; sample coconut bread and fish with a primitive pole in Tahiti; or throw a spear and paddle a canoe in Tonga. After the island shows, there are several different dinner options, including a full-scale Lu'au with the accompanying show. The Breath of Life evening show is a "Pacific isle saga of birth and death, love and family, tragedy and triumph" told with dance, music and blazing fire knives. The Center is also home to the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame, featuring players such as: Offensive Lineman Al Lolotai (the first Polynesian to play in the NFL), College Football HOF “Squirmin” Herman Wedemeyer, Heisman Trophy winning quarterback Marcus Mariota, Pro Football HOF Junior Seau, and other greats - Kevin Mawae, Kurt Gouveia, Jesse Sapolu, Jack “The Throwin’ Samoan” Thompson, Troy Polomalu and Olin Kreutz. The Hukilau Marketplace offers a variety of Polynesian food, clothing, jewelry and other souvenirs.

Welcome to the PCC

Coconut show on Samoa

Fire Knife show

Canoe Ride in Tonga

Music show

Location: The park is located on the north-eastern side of the island. The address is 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy; La'ie. Transportation is available from Waikiki via Motor coach for about $28 per person. See site for details: https://www.polynesia.com/packages

Hours: The Polynesian Cultural Center is open from noon to 9:00 pm, but is closed on Sundays and Wednesdays. It is also closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.

Cost: There are several different packages available, depending on what type of experience that you are looking for: https://www.polynesia.com/packages. They range from $95-$294 for adults and $76-$235 for children (age 4-11). Children under 4 are free. 

Luau dinner show

Things You Should Know:

- Although the PCC is only 35 miles north of Waikiki, it will take more than an hour to get there. There are only two major highways that connect Honolulu with the northern shore. One goes over the mountains, and the other winds around the coast, slowing down at every little village along the way. Even under the best conditions, don't plan on averaging more than 40 mph. A traffic accident can easily double your travel time so make sure that you allow plenty of time when travelling with a time deadline. On our first trip to Hawaii, we almost missed our plane home because of traffic.

- The Cultural Center also offers their Circle Island Tour, which takes you around the island to many historical and cultural sites including: Diamond Head, Hanauma Bay, the Poli Lookout, the Dole plantation, several famous North Shore beaches, and the Hawaii LDS Temple.

Rating: 5 stars

Activities: Kualoa Ranch is a private nature reserve that is 4,000 acres, and is an active cattle ranch. It was once a sugar plantation. During WWII, the U.S. army built bunkers there and used it as a base and airfield. Recently, it has earned the nickname "Hollywood's Backlot of Hawaii." Some of the movies filmed there include: Jurassic Park (1993) Jurassic World (2015), Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (2018), Mister Roberts (1955), In Harm's Way (1965), George of the Jungle (1997), Godzilla (2000), Pearl Harbor (2001), Windtalkers (2002), Fifty First Dates (2004), Soul Surfer (2011), Journey 2: the Mysterious Island (2012), Kong: Skull Island (2017), and Jumanji - Welcome to the Jungle (2018). Several TV shows have also been filmed there including: Hawaii Five-O, Magnum P.I., Lost, and E.R. Many of the props used in filming some of these movies (in particular the Jurassic Park movies) are displayed at the ranch and can be seen on the various tours. Some of the different tours offered at Kualoa Ranch include: the UTV Raptor Tour, the Movie Sites and Ranch Tour, the Jurassic Valley Zipline Tour, an Ocean Voyage Tour, an E-bike Tour, the Jungle Expedition Tour, a Horseback Walking Tour, the Jurassic Adventure Tour, and Secret Island Beach Activities. We did the ATV Raptor Tour (now the UTV Raptor Tour). We got to drive our own ATV jeep, following the leader, and got dirty from all the dust kicked up by the other vehicles. It was a lot of fun, an we saw several cool movie props, but honestly I was a bit disappointed. Since we were warned to stay with the group, we couldn't stop to take pictures unless the whole group stopped. We only stopped at 3 places where the guide gave us the history of the place we stopped. However, there were at least five other places where I would have liked to stop and take pictures. I hope they've changed it in favor of a little more freedom of movement. For more information on the various tours, visit their website: https://kualoa-ranch.tickets-hawaii.com 

Dinosaur escape

Driving the ATV

Following the Leader into Jurassic World

One of our 3 Stops on the Tour

The King Kong set we couldn't explore

Location: The park is located on the north-eastern side of the island. The address is 49-560 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe. Although there are no buses that go directly to Kualoa Ranch from Waikiki, you can make it via one transfer. First, travel to the Ala Moana Center. From there you board Bus #60 or 88A to reach the entrance to the ranch. Taking the bus from Waikiki will take from 1 1/2 - 2 hours, and cost approximately $3 for a one-way ticket.

Hours: The Ranch is open from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm daily. It is also closed on Christmas and New Year's Day. Most tours run between 90 min. and 3 hours. 

Cost: The different tours range anywhere from $59.95/person to $184.95/person.

Things You Should Know: 

- You are instructed to arrive 45 minutes prior to your tour time.

- Wear clothing that you don't mind getting dirty. Also, I would recommend wearing a hat, sunglasses and of course sunblock.

- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, so you'll have a better chance at getting your preferred time slot. Tours often sell out weeks in advance during the peak season (June-August; mid-December to early January; March)

Rating: 4 stars

Activities: Pearl Harbor National Memorial honors the lives of the 2,400 Americans who were killed at Pearl Harbor due to the sneak attack by Japanese forces on Dec. 7, 1941, which sank 12 boats. The attack triggered the United States' entry into World War II, changing the course of history as the Allied forces rallied to defeat the overextended Axis forces of Germany and Japan. The National Memorial includes: the open-air Pearl Harbor Visitor Center, two museums, the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Utah and USS Oklahoma Memorials on Ford Island, shipwrecks, submerged resources, and historic sites like Battleship Row and the Chief Petty Officer Bungalows. 

The highlight of any tour is the USS Arizona Memorial Program. The Memorial, built in 1962, is a 184-foot "floating bridge" that is only accessible by the NPS boat. It doesn't touch the sunken battleship, but rather straddles it, offering different viewpoints of the sunken battleship. The central assembly room features seven large open windows to commemorate the date of the attack. There is an opening in the floor overlooking the sunken decks where visitors can pay their respects by tossing flowers in honor of the fallen sailors. The shrine at the far end is a marble wall that bears the names of all those killed on the Arizona. To the left of the main wall is a small plaque which bears the names of thirty crew members who survived the attack. 

USS Arizona Memorial

In Memory of...

The remains of the USS Arizona

Museum model of the Memorial

Location: The Pearl Harbor Memorial Visitor Center is located at 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu. Parking is $7/day, or you can take TheBus (Routes #20 or #42 for about $3.)

Hours: The Memorial is open from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. It is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas and New Year's Day. Plan on spending about 4-7 hours at the Memorial. 

Cost: Parking at the Pearl Harbor Memorial parking lot is $7. Entrance to the Memorial and the museums is free; however, it is recommended that you make reservations to secure a time slot. Be aware that if you wish to do the Pacific Historic Parks Pearl Harbor Audio Tour or the Virtual Reality Experiences, these do cost extra. 

Things You Should Know: 

- No reservations or tickets are required to enter the Memorial, the Visitors Center or the museums. However, you are strongly recommended to make reservations ahead of time to participate in the USS Arizona Memorial Program. You are asked to arrive 1 hour prior to your scheduled time (but there is plenty to see while you wait). Check in at the Memorial Theater validation desk 10 minutes before your reserved program time. Since the Program can only accommodate a set number of visitors, those without reservations will need to put their names on the standby waitlist and hope that there's an opening. Reservations are required to go on the Ford Island Bus Tour, which makes stops at the USS Utah and USS Oklahoma Memorials. Reservations can be made at Recreation.gov.

- The Memorial enforces a strict no-bag policy for items that offer concealment, including: purses, handbags, backpacks, fanny packs, camera bags, diaper bags, luggage, etc., exceeding the dimensions of 1.5" x 2.25" x 5.5". There are lockers nearby where you can store the items, but there is a fee to use them.

- The VR Experience has three possible adventures, including "Walking the Deck of the USS Arizona Before the Attack" and "Witness the Attack on Battleship Row."  

- Despite their proximity to the Pearl Harbor Memorial, the Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum (aboard the World War II fleet submarine USS Bowfin SS-287), Battleship Missouri, and Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum are privately owned, and thus not run by the National Parks service. If you wish to visit these sites, you will need to visit their websites for details on hours and prices.

Battleship Missouri

-  "The Pearl Harbor National Memorial is a site of significant loss and serves as the final resting place for hundreds. It is a space for remembrance and reflection. Appropriate dress and conduct are recommended to honor the solemn nature of the site." (NPS website)

- The Pearl Harbor Historic Site shuttle is free, and operates from the Visitors Center.

- Although some of the facilities are indoors, much of the Memorial is outdoors, so make sure you wear a hat, sunglasses and sunblock. 

Rating: 4.5 stars

Activities: The Byodo-In Temple is a Buddhist temple located in Valley of the Temples Memorial Park on Oahu.  The temple is a replica of the 900-year old Buddhist temple in Uji, Kyoto Prefecture on Japan - which is a United Nations World Heritage Site. The temple was dedicated in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii. The Byodo-In is not a functioning temple since it doesn't host a resident monastic community, nor does it have an active congregation. However, it is a quiet place of reflection and worship for thousands of tourists who visit it from around the world. Inside the temple is an 18-foot statue of the Lotus Buddha, a wooden image of Amitabha, covered in gold and lacquer. Outside the temple is a three-ton brass peace bell that visitors can ring with a large wooden beam. Surrounding the temple are large koi ponds (covering 2 acres), and beautiful Japanese gardens where several different fowl nest, including swans. 

The Byodo-In Temple

Feeding the koi

Ringing the bell

Location: The temple is located on the south-eastern side of the island. The address is 47-200 Kahekili Highway, Kaneohe.

Hours: The temple is open from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm daily. It is occasionally closed for special events, so check ahead of time. Most visitors spend between 60-90 minutes. 

Cost: General Admission is $10/adult, $8/senior (65+), and $6/child (2-12). Parking is $6/hour.

Things You Should Know: 

- Do not wear beach attire. Remember that this is a place of meditation. The following activities are prohibited: running, yelling, throwing things, climbing trees, bothering wildlife, or anything else that would detract from those who are seeking tranquility.

- Feeding fish is permitted, but only food purchased from the temple gift shop.

- Pets are not allowed except for service animals.

Rating: 4 stars 

Activities: The Waikiki Submarine Tour is conducted by Atlantis Submarine Adventures aboard the Atlantis XIV - "the world's largest hi-tech passenger submarine." To board the sub, you first take a shuttle boat out into the harbor, where you witness the submarine rise from the depths and open its hatch to allow its passengers to transfer from the boat to the eco-friendly, battery-powered submarine. Once aboard, you head out to explore the ocean floor at a depth of about 100 feet. At first, the fish are few and far between, and you wonder whether or not you've wasted your money. However, when you arrive at a few shipwrecks, you find schools of tropical fish swimming in and around the wrecks. You will also see the occasional sea turtle or shark gliding around the artificial reefs created by ships and even an airplane.

The sub surfacing from the depths

Entering the sub

Inside the sub

Fish exploring the wreck

Sea turtle

Location: Atlantis Submarines Waikiki, 150 Paoa Pl, Honolulu, HI 96815 (drop-off location - no parking); Tours depart from the Hilton Hawaiian Village pier, 2005 Kalia Rd., Honolulu, HI, 95815 - (Parking available for $4 that is valid for 4 hours from the time you park your vehicle with a discounted validation sticker card that can be obtained through Atlantis Submarine Adventures (see website for details - https://book.atlantisadventures.com/details/151625/atlantis-submarine-tour-in-waikiki. This validation sticker card is for the self-parking garage only. Normal parking fees are $15 per hour for the first hour and $10 per hour after.)

Hours: Tours are available on the hour from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm daily; but is usually closed on Wednesdays. Most tours run for 90 minutes (which includes the shuttle boat ride out to the sub). Guests should check in 30 minutes prior to departure.

Hilton Hawaiian Village Pier

Cost: $75.39/child; $167.81/adult

Things You Should Know: 

- There is no parking at the drop-off location; however there is parking at the Hilton Hawaiian Village pier (the departure site). See above (Location) for details.

- Children must be at least 36 inches (3 feet) tall to ride.

- Guests should check in 30 minutes prior to departure.

- There are no restrooms on the submarine or tender boat.

Rating: 4 stars

Nearby: - Diamond Head State Monument is located 3 miles southeast of Waikiki. This is a popular 1.6 mile round trip hike that takes you to the top of Diamond Head Crater - a 300,000 year old extinct volcano. The trail is fairly steep (560 feet of elevation gain), but is paved and offers panoramic views of Honolulu from above. The hike takes most people 60-90 minutes.

The top of Diamond Head

View of Waikiki from the top

- The Dole Plantation is located in the north central portion of the island, about 27 miles north of Waikiki. The plantation offers an informational train tour through the pineapple fields, the World's Largest Pineapple Garden Maze, and of course the famous Dole Whip frozen Pineapple treats.

The Dole Plantation

- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is located 10.4 miles east of Waikiki. This is probably the most famous place to go snorkeling, and was my #1 favorite activity on our first trip to Hawaii. Unfortunately, we couldn't fit it in on this trip. Another popular snorkeling spot is Shark's Cove on the north shore (39 miles north of Waikiki).

- The Pali Lookout is 9.6 miles northeast of Waikiki. This roadside stop offers breathtaking panoramic views of the sheer mountain cliffs on one side and the beautiful windward coast on the other from an elevation of 1,200 feet.

View from the Pali Lookout