Uniting for Recovery: State, Federal, and Local Support

Wildfires are a recurring issue in many parts of Hawaii, including Maui, due to factors such as dry weather, strong winds, and the presence of flammable vegetation. Maui’s most recent wildfire created significant impacts on the local communities, particularly the community of Lahaina, in addition to effecting the island’s ecosystems and environment. The devastating Lahaina fire caused the residents to evacuate their homes and community with heartbreaking loss of life and property damage. The response to the wildfire has brought assistance from state and federal resources as well as Hawaii locals and businesses.

In response to the fire, Hawaii Dream Realty LLC worked to accommodate evacuees and pulled blankets, sheets, towels, and pillows from our ready storage for drop-off donation to those in dire need. We continue to do smaller actions such as attending Lahaina charity events as we mourn the losses and mend our hearts. As a guest to Oahu, you may consider an island hop to Maui. The Maui community needs your support too.

Island-Hopping for a Cause: Supporting Maui’s Communities

More recently in speaking with a Maui resident from Kihei, aside from the staggering list of missing family and friends, she expressed concern for the remaining communities of Maui. Maui, much like Oahu, is economically dependent on tourism. Visitors contribute to the prosperity of many small businesses and restaurants that cannot be sustained by the local residents alone. Taking a short flight from Oahu to Maui gives you a taste of the island-hopping experience, allowing you to see more of Hawaii’s unique landscapes and cultures. While Oahu is known for its bustling city life, historical sites, and famous Waikiki Beach, Maui offers a more relaxed and natural environment and is renowned for its stunning landscapes, including lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and the famous Road to Hana. The Road to Hana is a scenic drive that takes you through picturesque vistas, exotic flora, and numerous waterfalls.

Planning Your Visit: Making the Most of Your Short Trip to Maui

While Oahu and Maui offer distinct experiences, combining a visit to both islands can provide a more comprehensive appreciation of Hawaii’s diversity and natural beauty while helping the Maui community recover from the wildfire. Keep in mind that travel logistics, such as flights and accommodations, should be planned in advance to make the most of your short trip to Maui.

If you plan to visit Haleakalā for sunrise, you are required to make a reservation in advance. These reservations can be made through the official Haleakalā National Park website. Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance of your visit. They tend to fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to book as early as possible, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak tourist seasons.

that I was watching MTV Ridiculousness and the host and co-hosts were discussing car rental insurance which led to to think about trip insurance. The host was adamant that the insurance wasn’t necessary. He believed the insurance was a means for the car vendor to get more money for the same rental. The co-host thought the host was being ridiculous. The co-host believed that the expense was minimal relative to the cost and anxiety if the car was damaged during the rental period. For the co-host, the peace of mind was well worth the few extra dollars. The Ridiculousness hosts’ choices were personal preference. Ultimately, the decision to purchase trip insurance is a personal one. Some travelers may simply prefer to take their chances. However, there are a few reasons you might want to consider before declining trip insurance.

Cancellation Coverage

In most circumstances, Hawaii Dream Realty LLC will refund your reservation prepayment for cancellations made 60 days prior to check-in.  For full details on our cancellation policy, visit Vacation Rentals Frequently Asked Questions. If you are concerned that you may need to cancel hen trip insurance can help protect your investment.  The insurance can reimbursing you for prepaid, non-refundable expenses. Trip insurance can provide coverage for cancellations, Cancellations include unforeseen events such as illness, injury, or death in the family, severe weather, natural disasters, or terrorism.

Medical Coverage

If you become ill or injured during your trip, trip insurance can help.  Trip insurance provides coverage for medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation of remains.  For me who, traveled during the pandemic, this was my primary reason for purchasing trip insurance.  Even though I never got sick while traveling, the piece of mind was well worth the cost.  I knew I was going to avoid significant out-of-pocket expenses if I required medical treatment while traveling.

Travel Delay Coverage

Hawaii is a tropical paradise however we have our fair share of hazards. Our typical hazards including active volcanoes, tsunamis, and several storms and hurricanes. While the occurrences of nature’s hazards in infrequent, they do exist.  Nature can cause a travel delay due to circumstances beyond your control.  In such circumstances, trip insurance can provide coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations.

Lost or Stolen Luggage Coverage

Luggage that is lost, stolen, or damaged during your trip can definitely put a damper on your vacation.  Trip insurance can provide coverage for the cost of replacing your belongings.  So the vacation damper becomes an all-expenses paid shopping spree.  The Waikki strip offers many shops and boutiques.

Discussing Trip Insurance

Perhaps the most important benefit when discussing trip insurance is the peace of mind it provides. Piece of mind that you are protected against unexpected events.  This can help you relax and enjoy your vacation.  You will not need to worry or have anxiety about what might go wrong. Purchasing trip insurance can provide valuable protection.  Trip insurance helps ensure you are not left with significant financial losses.  Trip insurance helps cover your unexpected expenses if something goes wrong during your trip.

Hawaii Dream Realty LLC offers trip insurance through InsureStays. InsureStays is an industry leading provider that offers trip insurance at competitive prices.

Click Here To download a brochure on our Trip Cancellation and Travel Insurance Program

The brochure provides an overview of the Standard Travel Protection option and the Cancel for Any Reason Travel Protection.  The insurance is offered when you book through our website.

Travel + Leisure Magazine Honolulu Ranked #5 in U.S. Cities

Honolulu ranked #5 in top 15 cities in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure Magazine.  Travel + Leisure Magazine is a top world travel media brand.  The magazine’s mission is to inform and inspire passionate travelers. The magazine covers cities, tried-and-true destinations, beaches, mountains and valleys, national parks and outdoor adventures.  In addition, the magazine covers fine-dining experiences and secret hole-in-the-wall establishments, and everything in between much of which you can find in Honolulu.  Overall, the magazine equally offer travelers inspiration along with advice for planning trips.  Additionally, the magazine offers valuable guidance once they are on the ground.  To subscribe to Travel + Leisure Magazine, please click here.

Best in the U.S.

The best cities in the United States, according to Travel + Leisure readers, offer a welcoming mix of history, delicious food and drink, and attractions for the whole family. Every year Travel + Leisure asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions. First, readers rated cities on their sights and landmarks.  Second, readers rated cities on their culture, cuisine, and friendliness.  Finally, readers rated cities on shopping experience resulting in an overall value of 85.43.  The rating ranked Honolulu #5 in top 15 cities in the U.S. according to Travel + Leisure Magazine. Readers continue to appreciate destinations like Honolulu (No. 5) with easy access to some of America’s spectacular outdoor offerings.

“So much to do and never enough time,” one reader said about this city on Oahu’s southern shore.  A second reader specifically called out the “amazing local restaurants” and “lots of hiking and walking areas to explore.” Afatia Thompson, president and owner of Tihati Productions Ltd.,  said, “All the surveys show that the top two things that visitors want to do when they visit Hawaii is go snorkeling and attend a luau.”

Honolulu Accommodations and Excursions

Hawaii Dream Realty LLC offers a great selection of Waikiki vacation rentals for all budgets and family sizes. Our rentals are all right in the heart of Waikiki and all within walking distance to the world famous Waikiki Beach. Our vacation rental properties are privately owned and vary by amenities, building, square feet, number of guests, improvements, and views.  For help with tickets and tours, we recommend Mauka Tours agency that provides a level of service and hassle free knowledge that best compliments our services to you.

Why Spring Is The Best Time of Year to Visit Hawaii

Spring is undoubtedly the best times of year to visit Hawaii.  Fragrant white pikake and colorful yellow hibiscus flowers take bloom.  To add to natures ambiance is the extra daylight we enjoy in spring.  Additionally, while most of the rest of the nation adjusts their clocks for daylight savings time, we just take the day in stride and lounge in the extra sunshine.

We have much to celebrate too in March.  We have Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Day on March 26.  Walk out of your accommodation and enjoy a parade right in Waikiki.  Typically in late March, we start to see the southern Pacific Ocean come to life.  Wax up your surfboard, schedule a surf lesson, break out your boogie board, or just sift your toes in the Waikiki Beach sand watching the waves.

Lifting of COVID Restrictions and Mandates

For our visiting guests, Hawaii has taken an abundance of precaution with respect to COVID.  The state has achieved an 80 percent vaccination rate on Oahu.  The hospitals are no longer inundated with COVID cases.  Our governor recently announced that the mask mandate and Hawaii Safe Travel Program will cease on March 26.  Guests arriving from the United States no longer have to show proof of vaccination or a negative test to avoid quarantining for five days.

Governor Ige said, “I do believe that we are the last community to release the mask mandate because we care about each other and we care about our community and we are all willing to sacrifice to keep each other healthy and safe.”  The vaccination and testing as well as the mandates and lockdowns contributed to Hawaii as having the lowest rates of COVID in the country.

Come and enjoy the lovely spring sunshine and celebrate with all that Hawaii has to offer.  This spring we look forward to once again frolicking in the sand and waves and we know we have much to be grateful.

Christmas in Hawaii was inspired by past blog posts from Megan Shute. Megan is a professional write who resides on Oahu. She compiled photographs from social media that supports Oahu’s local attractions and features Christmas time in Hawaii.

Now that Thanksgiving has come and gone, it’s officially the Christmas season. When you think of a traditional holiday season, the Hawaiian Islands are probably the last place to cross your mind. After all, you won’t find freezing temperatures or snow here, unless you head to the summit of the Big Island’s Mauna Kea, that is. However, Christmas in Hawaii is pretty incredible, and here are eleven reasons why.

Surfing Hawaiian Santa is so much cooler than regular Santa

Santa can shed his big, red suit and clunky boots in this tropical climate and don a festive Hawaiian shirt instead – or simply not zip up his suit.

Cliff/Flickr

Make a “snowman” on the beach.

You won’t have to worry about your sandman melting though you might have to worry about your creation being swept away with the tide…

Scott Schiller/Flickr

Witness Santa arriving on an outrigger canoe

Because everyone knows that reindeer don’t thrive in a tropical climate. Santa arrives on Waikiki Beach by outrigger canoe.

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort/Facebook

Experience the beautiful lights that adorn Honolulu Hale

The beautiful light displays at the Honolulu Hale will be up through January 1 and are an absolute must-visit in the Hawaiian capital.

Kyle Nishioka/Flickr

Drive thru a holiday wonderland at Aloha Stadium

Enjoy a leisurely drive through a Christmas landscape.

Provided by Honolulu KHNL

 Blast the AC while drinking hot chocolate

It may be 80 degrees outside, but we can pretend we live in a winter wonderland, can’t we?

Dave Dugdale/Flickr

See someone surfing in a Santa hat

What’s better than a holiday trip to the beach?

Paul Oka/Flickr

See blooming poinsettias and decked out palm trees

Did you know that poinsettias can grow as tall as trees in Hawaii, and that they bloom near December 25?

Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr

You never have to worry about bad weather changing your holiday plans

There will be no blizzard that forces you to miss your annual family holiday celebration in Hawaii.

Sam Posnick/Flickr

Christmas dinner is followed by a trip to the beach — wearing Santa hats and leis, of course

Because we want to be festive AND still enjoy our days off at the beach. Besides, what’s better than a holiday trip to the beach?

Rob Bertholf/Flickr

Telling other “Mele Kalikimaka” instead of “Merry Christmas”

Bing Crosby said it best: “Mele Kalikimaka is Hawaii’s way to say Merry Christmas to you.”

Daniel Ramirez/Flickr

Hawaiian Christmas music is quite unique

What other states in America can say that they have completely unique Christmas tunes sung by the famous Bing Crosby?

Waikiki Budget Accommodations

We have hosted thousands of guests visiting Waikiki on a budget.  Our guests value our hospitality, quality and reliability.  From young to retirees, our guests come from a range of cultures and places seeking a budget stay in world famous Waikiki.

When you spend a lot of money on travel, you tends to isolate yourself.  Imagine that you are staying at really exclusive resort with a pool, spa, fitness center, lounge, and restaurants.  You probably don’t want to or have to ever leave the resort.  If your intention is to simply relax and remain at one place and you have plenty of money then Waikiki does have ritzy resorts to suite your wants.

Our guests tend to seek adventure.  Sometimes they are solo travelers out exploring the world one location at a time.  Other times, they are travelers who are able to work remotely and are looking for some alternative scenery.  We host families too and we do have accommodations with resort amenities.  Amenities are great for when you want to just relax after a day of adventure.  But most are visiting Waikiki on a budget.

Let the Adventure Begin

Traveling is an opportunity to meet and interact new people, to experience different cultures and cuisines, and to learn about a new place.  Budget travel kind of forces you to get out and explore.  Your travel adventures do not necessarily mean that you must plan every moment of your trip and we do not recommend that you fill each day with tours or event.  However, if you know you want to visit the Arizona Memorial or attend a Luau, do not wait until you arrive to book the events.  You may also consider front loading your visit with booked events but leave plenty of time for more spontaneous adventures.  After all, once you get here, you are likely to find and learn about many things to do that you did not previously consider.

You do not want your schedule packed with activities.  You might miss out on an enticing recommendation from a local because you already filled your entire trip with activities.   When unexpected things happen, you really feel alive and you feel like you are experiencing a place. You don’t feel like you are experiencing a package deal. I have nothing against going to Disney World.  Disney World is very well done, but nothing unexpected happens, or if something unexpected happens, it tends to be very carefully planned by the people who work there.

Adventure Resources

To get you started with your planning process, we recommend Mauka Tours who can provide you with local information and exclusive guest offers.  The Mauka Tours staff are happy to simply talk story with you even if you do not book a single tour.  They are personable and do not pressure you which is why we decided to promote them.   We try to meet all of our guests and provide them with useful information about their unit and the local area and are available to answer any questions. Our office is open daily so you can always stop by to talk story and get advice. We try to provide you with resources before you arrive and once you arrive so you can have a dream stay and create memories to share until you are able to visit us again.  Visit our property rentals to start planning your next adventure today.

Oahu Vacationers Useful Links

You have options while visiting and below are some useful links for Oahu vacationers.

• Current Weather Conditions
• Honolulu International Airport
• Honolulu Bus Information
• Public Announcements & Events
• Shuttles & Tours
• Oahu Hiking Trails
• National Park Services

Phone Numbers

The area code for the state of Hawaii is (808).
Oahu Visitors Bureau: (808) 524-0722
Marriage License and Civil Unions: (808) 586-4545
Honolulu International Airport Visitor Information: (808) 836-6413
Camping Permits: (808) 523-4525 (county), (808) 587-0300 (state)

EMERGENCY INFORMATION

The City uses a multi-layered system to notify and alert residents and non-residents of disaster or emergencies. Ways the city will notify, alert, or warn you of disasters:

• Radio and television broadcasts
• Emergency Alert System (EAS) notification to radio/television/NOAA weather radio
• Outdoor siren warning system
• Responders using public address systems
• Nixle notification services
• HNL Info

Nixle keeps you up-to-date with relevant information from local public safety departments and schools.

TEXT 96815 TO 888777 TO OPT-IN TO RECEIVE NIXLE ALERTS FOR HONOLULU AND WAIKIKI

Emergency Shelter

• Waikiki Elementary, 3710 Leahi Avenue, Honolulu

General travel safety and security tips are a key to an enjoyable travel experience. Due to heightened airline security measures and changing FAA policies and procedures, it is imperative you are as prepared as possible for your trip.

A significant increase in travel is expected over the summer at the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead if they will be making trips through these airports, especially during the peak times between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

General Travel Safety Tips

Make the most of any vacation by taking note of the following travel tips. We recommend that you print a copy of this list as a reminder to make safety your top priority. Also keep a printed copy of your domestic or international travel insurance plan just in case.

• Check the status of your flight before heading the airport. At least two hours before your flight departs most airlines want you to check-in.
• Allow plenty of extra time at the airport (generally 2 hours prior to departure). Changing security procedures have increased the time needed to check in. Build in more time if traveling with young children, infants or people with disabilities.
• Check with your airline to see if curbside check-in is available.
• FAA guidelines are being updated often. Find the latest from the FAA at www.FAA.gov.
• Consider checking your luggage. Reducing the number of carry-on bags and personal items that need to be screened through the security checkpoint saves a lot of time for everyone. Also remember most airlines only allow travelers one carry-on item plus one personal item such as a purse, briefcase, laptop computer, or small book bag-style backpack. Other personal items allowed include coats, child safety seats, diaper bags, books or newspapers, small bags of food and assistance devices such as wheelchairs, walkers and oxygen. These carry-on allowances vary from carrier to carrier.  Before leaving home confirm what is allowed with your carrier .

Travel Safety Tips at the Airport

• Check www.tsa.gov for the most up to date information to get you through security quickly or down load the MyTSA App for airport security information.
• Keep your bags and personal belongings within reach at all times.
• Do not accept packages from strangers.
• Joking about terrorism, weapons, explosives, or other threats while going through the security checkpoint will likely lead to issues with the TSA personnel.

Checking-In and Security Checkpoint

• Adult passengers required a government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one of these available, bring two pieces of ID, one of which must be from a governmental authority.
• Remember, the security checkpoint only allows ticketed passengers to pass. Be prepared to show identification at the ticket counter and security checkpoint.
• Electronic items such as laptop computers and cell phones may be subject to additional screening. Be prepared to power on electronic items for screening personnel. Also, be prepared to remove your laptop from its travel case so it can be X-rayed separately.
• Those leaving Honolulu are also reminded that they may use any of the available TSA security checkpoints throughout the airport, regardless of their airline or gate. If one checkpoint has a long line, it may be better to go to the next one available.

International Security Tips

• Lost passport: Call local police and the consulate. Temporary passports are available. Pack a photocopy of your passport separately from the original and carry an additional passport picture to expedite the replacement process in the event of a lost or stolen passport.
• In the event of a riot or civil unrest, go to your hotel and call the consulate and your airline. Do not go to the airport without a confirmed ticket or assurance that it is safe.
• International law requires that the American consulate (U.S. Interests Section, if no consulate) be notified if you are arrested or detained. You are entitled to a timely visit by a consular officer. They will notify family, aid in money transfer, and ensure you receive fair treatment.

General Security Tips

Whether you are traveling domestically or abroad, don’t become a victim.

• Do not carry large quantities of cash.
• Do not carry jewelry, wallets, or purses—wear a non-visible money belt. Transfer money from your money belt to pockets in your hotel room or in a bathroom.
• Use your dress and appearance to blend in with the crowd. Take the time to research local dress codes, so as not to stand out.
• Once you have arrived, keep your airline tickets in a separate, secure location from your passport. Also, remember your credit card number is on your airline ticket!
• When traveling to a foreign country, always carry the required travel documents such as your passport, visa and tourist cards.
• Be aware of local scam artists.
• Always inform others of your plans (family, consulate/embassy).
• Keep your camera hidden until you are ready to use it. Use tote bags instead of camera bags. Do not hang your camera around your neck.
• Avoid viewing maps in wide-open spaces.
• Leave copies of all your information (credit cards, passport numbers, travelers checks, air tickets) with family or friends at home.
• Avoid walking alone at night.
• Do not take shortcuts. Stay on well-traveled streets.
• Withdraw money from ATMs only during daylight hours, preferably in banks or hotels.
• Never leave valuables in plain view in your car. Lock items in your trunk before reaching your destination.

Experience Hawaii’s Cuisine

To experience Hawaii’s cuisine is to experience Hawaii’s culture. People from different countries, cultures, and religions fill our world. However, one universal bridge ties us all together. The universal bridges is food.  Food fills bellies and imparts a feeling of nourishment upon us all.  Furthermore, food crosses language barriers and opens hearts.

Local Grinds

The cuisine of Hawaii is also referred to as local grinds. Our local grinds continue to evolve with influence from chefs from all over the world. Micro farms and aqua culture farmers deliver fresh and unique island foods daily. The island foods provide a true farm to table experience with a fusion blend to tantalize the taste buds. The selection of restaurants represents the cultural diversity found in Hawaii. Enjoy beautiful views, beach side locations, romantic and fun ambiances, lovely and elegant settings, creative and innovative menus, and great food from Hawaii’s restaurants that accommodate all price points.

Experience Hawaii’s cuisine is to experience Hawaii’s culture. Pictured are four rice bowls decorated with locally caught poke, farm fresh vegetables, and crispy wanton.

Taste some of Hawaii’s favorite ono delicious foods including Kailua pig wrapped in ti leaves cooked in an underground imu oven. Try some fresh cubed fish known as poke served in with variety of sauces and seasonings.  Yearning for some fast food Hawaii style then go for a bowl of Saimin. Saimin is an inexpensive broth with noodles similar to Japanese ramen.  Eat your Saimin with chopsticks and then pick up the bowl and drink the broth.  Subsequently, on the sweeter side, indulge in a malasadas deep-fried dough rolled in sugar best eaten warm.  Finally, dig into an authentic Hawaii shave ice desert, a flavorful tropical cocktail. In summary, to experience island cuisine is to experience Hawaii.

Where to Eat

Finally, if you are looking for restaurant suggestions, our  mobile app includes a selection of Waikiki restaurants. Each restaurant includes a link to the menus, locations and contact information.  We update our local restaurant lists as we discover fun atmospheres and ono dining worthy of your time.

The Aloha Spirit

Hawaii’s unique charm comes from the Aloha Spirit. Aloha means the spirit of love, and is commonly used as hello and goodbye. However, Aloha also means compassion, kindness and giving. But the Aloha Spirit encompasses more than Aloha as it embodies Hawaiian values:

• malama: to care for
• ‘ohana: family
• ho’okipa: hospitality
• ‘olu’olu: graciousness
• kokua: helpfulness
• lokahi: unity and harmony
• kupono: honesty and fairness

In summary, the Hawaiian value provide the foundation for a respected and treasured culture.

Hawaii is more than the physical beauty of the land, sea and sky.  Hawaii is a community with a long and fascinating history that continues to be felt in many ways. The people are happy and happy people are friendly people.

Discover Hawaii

Discover more about Hawaii by visiting the Bishop Museum or the Polynesian Culture Center.  Our Waikiki Bucket List offers more suggestions to help you discover Hawaii. The more you discover about Hawaii’s past, the more you understand modern-day Hawaii.

The past is still a vital part of the present in Hawaii.  Enrich your experience of the culture by experiencing the people and the spirit of aloha during your visit.  In doing so, you are helping to keep history alive.  Explore the traditions of the past that are still prevalent in the culture of Waikiki and Oahu’s small towns.

Kapuna bless Kuhio Village Towers through traditional chant and ceremony. The towers memorialize the Hawaiian Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole who was a prince of the Kingdom of Hawaii. A coalition of American and European businessmen overthrew the kingdom in 1893.

Chanting

The early Hawaiians had no written language but they developed chants. As a result, chants recorded the genealogy of chiefs. Chants also are used during blessings and are a highly evolved verbal communication. Chanters remain an important member of Hawaii’s society. They preserve history and legend.

The Hawaiian Blessing is a traditional ceremony to bless new homes, canoes, businesses, babies, and food. The blessing calls upon great powers to assist in the safety, well being and success of the new creation. The blessing also cleans and clears the way of any conflict or negative experience that may have occurred in the past. The ceremony, performed by a spiritual leader, draws a community together to participate in honoring a new beginning.