I wish you were here

Our exploration of O‛ahu’s natural splendors led us to the pristine waters of Hanauma Bay, a crescent-shaped sanctuary renowned for thriving coral reefs and diverse marine life.

With anticipation for an unparalleled snorkeling experience, we joined a reputable tour, ready to immerse ourselves in the bay’s underwater marvels.

The name “Hanauma” comes from the Hawaiian words “hana” (bay) and “uma” (curved or referring to a hand-wrestling game), perfectly capturing its elegant tuff‑cone formation.

Dana Point, a quaint beach town in southern Orange County, California, is known for its unique harbor along the Orange County coast, accessible via the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

Historical Insight: Dana Point was named after Richard Henry Dana Jr., author of 'Two Years Before the Mast', who described it as "the only romantic spot on the coast".

The city is a haven for surfers, watersports enthusiasts, kayakers, swimmers, hikers, and whale watchers. The Dana Point harbor bustles with specialty shops and dining experiences and serves as a starting point for various seafaring adventures.

p> This holiday season, my family and I embarked on an enchanting journey to the heart of the Imaginarium at Pomona Fairplex.

This festive destination transformed the familiar grounds into a luminous wonderland, teeming with spectacular light displays and captivating shows.

As we wandered through the expansive exhibition, the air was filled with popular Christmas songs, and the spirit of the season was palpable among the throngs of families.

Waikiki, a world-renowned beachfront neighborhood in Honolulu, is home to some of the most iconic resorts in Hawaii, each offering its unique blend of luxury, comfort, and Hawaiian hospitality.

Here's a brief overview of some of Waikiki's major resorts:

We start with Hilton Hawaiian Village, a sprawling resort known for its wide range of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, exotic wildlife, and over 20 restaurants and bars. It boasts the largest beachfront in Waikiki and offers a variety of accommodations, from standard rooms to luxurious suites.

Every year in springtime, people driving along highways are greeted with hills and canyons painted in orange, green and violet.

We recently visited the super bloom at Walker Canyon, which lies in between the Cities of Corona and Lake Elsinore.
If you stick to the main trail, you will notice that the first quarter mile is a little steep but it will even out later. The crowds will also thin out the further you go. If you want a longer hike, take a fork to the right, which loops back into Walker Canyon Rd for a total of 5 miles.