The Bliss I called Hawaii

I just came back from a beautiful walk along the ocean side, here in North Shore, Oahu. From Waimea Beach Park, up north to Kahuku there is trail, that I call the magical pathway. It takes you through the best of the north shore. Its almost summer here and the big surf is gone. Many people would ask me anyway, if I don't surf what's the point of living here, in the so called "country". Marked by luscious tropical hills, well defined shore line and cottages, as well as great beach front properties this is my favorite place in the world, and it feels I'm in the heart of the best the planet has to offer to any of us. For the north shore visitors there are the famous Sunset Beach, town of Haleiwa, and the waterfalls at Waimea. For us who live here, we feel the island's heartbeat with every step we take, wherever we take it. Going to the local grocery store, or Saturday's Market is as much fun here as playing with the dolphins if you're lucky at Waimea, or just plain swimming at Sunset. Magical path along the very famous now north shore had been my pathway for the last four years, and even though there are no major developments in the area, the changes that are brought by the real estate developments are quite altering for the local landscape. Once my conversations on the path with my friend Debbie changed from "look at that plant" to " have a look at that house" we knew the landmark in the neighbourhood is changing. And so the vacation interest shifted as well from going to Waikiki to renting a cottage or a beach front property here in the country, on the North Shore.
I'll be exploring those options for you and looking into what's available for short term rental or long term rental. And that adventure will be made possible to me by the great team at Trinity Properties.
To be continued...

Hawaii Real Estate Daily Updates

May 17, 2007

Aloha everyone!

I'm back with more positive news, especially if you're planning on moving to Hawaii and buying a piece of real estate. Local news informs us about city's plan to further cut the property tax rates for homeowners on the island of Oahu . The rates dropped for properties that were classified as apartment or residential from $3.59 to $3.29 -accordingly per thousand dollars of estimated worth. Very encouraging, as we are also assured that the city's council will definitely look for more tax cuts for the homeowners, shifting the rise towards commercial businesses.
Well then, if you are on the way here to check out some exquisite real estate on location, please take a moment and enjoy my favorite homes here on Oahu, that are brought to light by Trinity Properties...
I'm on my own location exploring 2 beautiful houses, that I'll blog on later on...
To be continued....




May 16, 2007

With all the buzz in the media about the daily rising rates of foreclosures, you may wonder how does it pertain to the housing situation here in Hawaii. As the Honolulu Advertiser informs us today, even though the rates are higher than from the previous year, they are yet at the level of lowest in the nation. Based on the current statistics it looks like there's been one foreclosure execution for every 6,978 households (43 % rise to 66 foreclosures). In comparison the national average rate rise is 62% to one foreclosure per 783 households.
If you're wondering how does the numbers are looking for undeveloped land and apartment building foreclosures, the paper reports there was one in 3, 982 households, total of 116, of which 29% affected condominiums.
Not bad at all considering that only 6 states had lower rates than Hawaii.
If the above is irrelevant to your situation and you've decided to move to Hawaii for short term or long term, check the current exclusive real estate in Hawaii at Trinity Properties.

To be continued...




Aloha Everyone,

Just a quick note to let you all know that Trinity Properties team will keep you posted on all the current nuances of the Hawaii Real Estate. In the meantime ensure to try their website and find your dream vacation or long term home, here in Hawaii. Also for your convenience I brought you my very personal outlook on some of the properties I fell for, that you can read about in my previous posts. Enjoy!
Stay tuned...there's lots more to come...

Fireknife Dance - hottest attraction on Oahu

What if you're already here on Oahu, vacationing in one of the best of the best vacation homes Hawaii has to offer. Let's say you've profusely enjoyed the beach and would like to experience something that is traditional to the Polynesian culture and tradition.
If you're currently on the Island, you should certainly take advantage of the annual fireknife dance world competition that is held in the Polynesian Cultural Center, Laie. Starting May 16 through May 19, you can watch performers from the Islands of Aloha, Samoa and the U.S. mainland fight the fiery knives to win the 15th this year contest. This popular spectacle is performed during as much anticipated by everyone coming to the Islands, Hawaiian Luau (Dinner of the chiefs).
Tradition that came to Hawaii is rooted in the Samoan folklore, passed from generation to generation. Highly anticipated and enjoyed by the crowd show, for its elements of great athletic skills and bravery performance is mostly unique and you should definitely attend. And if the heat is too sizzling, you can always go back to peaceful waters of Lanikai and enjoy your vacation home...
To be continued...

Heavenly waters, Heavenly close...

at the Cottage in Lanikai...I think as I get myself on the property. I rest in the back yard, deeply breathing as if attempting to contain with all the capacity of the senses this purely divine view that surrounds me.
Looking at soothingly drifting waves in front of my very eyes, it comes to mind what E.E. Cummings once said: " For whatever we lose, it's always our self we find in the sea."
I can stay here for hours without any purpose whatsoever, and I will be filled, and I will be found, and so will you...
I decide to take a peak inside the cottage, and what I see reminds me of my fun overflow getaways with girlfriends, or romantic escapes with a boyfriend. Cottage at Lanikai is just plain welcoming with its casual comfort. It's intimate, private, surrounded by delightful and succulent carpet of grass, heavenly soft for your feet. I imagine the mornings and late evenings here, when barefoot you greet the sunrises, and celebrate the colors of the sunset. What about the full moon nights in this magical setting...The only thing you'd need while you here is perhaps a company to share this immensely thrilling experience of rejoice your Hawaiian vacation in the Cottage at Lanikai. Ultimate Paradise it is...
I love the interior even though it's kept to necessity and laid-back basics. Living room and the kitchen all together, defined by the high vaulted wooden ceiling and spectacular large windows, bringing the enchantment of the outdoors for your enjoyment, within. Two bedrooms the Cottage has for its guests are arranged with decor much at ease. This accessory free space can be used for your inner creativity, so that you can rest and find the opulence and happiness in the surrounding you seascape.
For "Happiness is a butterfly, which once pursued is always beyond your grasp, but which, if you will sit down quietly, may alight upon you." - Nathaniel Hawthorne...
And I know it did, once I entered this home, another dream of Hawaiian vacation home. This time not because of its carefully placed artwork and embedded luxury, but because of its graceful appreciation for the true nature of the Island's treasure, which is its bountiful scenery. Here in Lanikai is just the way it is, blissfully. And there for you it is, The Cottage in Lanikai if you desire to enter the garden of Eden. Who would you like to bring with, should be your only wandering thought now...
To be continued...

Hale Aloha...says Aloha

Aloha...you will hear that from the minute you find yourself in Hawaii till the time you step off the plane if you choose to fly Aloha or Hawaiian Airlines back home.
And as much as you think that you understand the translation of the word, you will still realize that it's meaning is beautifully vague, because it's truly adheres to all the good things the life in paradise has to offer.
Aloha means hello, Aloha means I love you, Aloha means goodbye, and all the good things in between. The word Aloha though is also connected with a spiritual tradition that is native to Hawaii.
As Puanani Mahoe explains in my very cherished book on Hawaii titled "Pele's wish", "...the word Aloha holds the consciousness the ancients placed there: "A" (ah) is the first light of dawn, the spark of god, god the father, goddess the mother. "Lo" is the symbol and the sound of eternity, of forever. "Ha" means breath, the gift, the blessing of life that comes from God. And so, to say "aloha" is to remember our gift, what we have been given. It reminds as of our inner greatness."
I came upon that thought myself when I realized after couple years of living on the Islands of Aloha, that as much as I had been journeying the archipelago, I made quite a few inner self discoveries along. And I can tell you this: every time you're open to receive the Aloha, the islands has to offer in so many ways, the more you'll be aware of your own magnitude.
But I found my home, my place to treasure the thoughts above, and now I'm helping you find yours, whether you decide to come and visit for Hawaiian vacation or - like many others I know - will decide to make Hawaii your new home. So many possibilities. So many choices, some of which I delivered in my previous notes.
Today another home for you, the Hale Aloha. Another nugget that the very Aloha Trinity Properties Team has in their rich array of hawaiian vacation homes.
Now that you fully understand the basic and the deeper meaning of the world wide word associated with Hawaii, you can make Hale Aloha, the home to your Hawaiian vacation and see what you'll discover. A cottage really, located in the quiet, friendly and very private residential area of Lanikai is the charming example of the classic architectural exterior and interior found throughout older build vacation homes in Hawaii.
Hale Aloha is a meant to be for family of four, or a tropical lodge for a couple. Ideally located just a stroll away from famous Lanikai Beach, Hale Aloha offers you a comfortable, modern, and amiable accommodation for your Hawaiian vacation. With three bedrooms island themes accentuated, you will have a choice between the sunny golden room, or the sky blue, or rose blossom room. Delightful in pastels and equipped with contemporary island linens, and classic tropical living room set, the Hale will offer you aloha throughout your stay.
With spacious and always green lawn in the back of the house offering barbecue, you will find yourself enjoying not only the Lanikai awesome surroundings but your cottage as well.
For a price that would offer probably a garden level hotel room in Waikiki, you can have entire three bedroom home in this most exquisite vacation wise part of the island. And the house is fully equipped and provides internet as well - all for you!
I leave the property to promenade to the beach and I'm positive that if you come to visit and stay in the Hale Aloha, you won't feel like stranger in paradise. Such a friendly place, built with warmth and Aloha that beams through the vivid walls of this house.
A stranger no more...
To be continued...

Aloha ia o'koa-pa'ulo.
When we meet with Love, we shall be whole.

O Ke Kai...one of a kind

Aloha everyone!

I'm back with more stories about island vacation rentals that will truly make a difference for your family stay here in Hawaii.
Last week I brought you closer to some of my very favorite, luxury and more casual Hawaiian real estate introduced to me by the team at Trinity Properties. That was such a fantastic treat! (Check out my earlier blogs).
This week I opted for a bit different choices, having in my mind families like mine, that love to travel in big numbers, especially if we have a family reunion. I found perfect Hawaiian vacation rentals within walking distance to beach, or beachfront for that matter.
One of my top preferred properties in a long run is Hale O Ke Kai. What a charming gem of a property that is. Located within a walking distance to the immaculate beaches of Lanikai, it is a perfect home to spend your Hawaiian vacation. It is always a question, when you have children, how far is that "walking distance". I took that under consideration and you will be able to carry all your beach accessories and keep your precious little ones without any extra help whatsoever. Hale O Ke Kai is located in the quiet, private, residential area of Lanikai, and the worst thing that can happen on your way to the beach from your home is that your family would be showered by tropical flowers, and that's of course the island saying ..Aloha...
From the very beginning at my arrival at Hale O Ke Kai I envision happy family vacation when I look at very large, tree shaded front yard, where your kids can play freely, while you're preparing their meal in the newly renovated and refurbished, spacious kitchen. The front and back yard are actually connected here, so you don't have to enter through the house, to find yourself in the delightful backyard gazebo, beautifully settled almost under the mango tree.
I immediately fell for that picture, because I know what a joy it is here in Hawaii to be outside in the nature, when it rains...
That's when you can smell the Island, and witness the growth almost overnight of the tropical lush that surrounds you every step on your journey.
So imagine yourself under the pergola, when the sweet, warm summer rain pours in...
Well I'd perhaps brew a fresh cup of the Kona coffee, considered one of the best in the world and snack on Macadamia nuts, since Hawaii is one of the three places on the planet these nutrient rich nuts are grown...
Or perhaps you'd pick up the camera and shoot your children's laughter and their sudden joy of playing with the rain...
Maybe you're by yourself for a moment, so indulge your senses as the rain's bringing blessings of fresh water supplies, and vegetation. Maybe just rest your eyes, and listen to the island's blossom....
Dancing in the rain...is also an option...the truth is the island and Hale O Ke Kai will find its way to your hearts.
The Hale sleeps total of 10, plus it has an independently of the main building built a guest cottage in case you plan to bring your babysitter along.
The overwhelming feature of O Ke Kai is its comforting simplicity, invitation to live your time here to the fullest without a scare your children might brake something, or hurt themselves while having never too much fun. The Hale's interior has contemporary, casual, island decor that is kept within the contended of functionality and adornment. That's what I truly appreciated about it.
I loved the fact that each space creates an opportunity to be with each other, and really spend your vacation together. The living room setting, the dining room area, the kitchen, the roofed porch with a daybed, their space designs and limited accessories will have you spend evening in the company of everybody's stories from the day, and the children's happy sparkle in their eyes would be enough to light up the enitre house.
And then you have the bedrooms...Enough beds and pillows to invite guest or two, and enough comfortable to catch up on resting.
Beautifully located on each corner of the house, where after entire day of adventuring the island and pobably mostly the beach, you will adore to welcome your dreams. Children will love to be tucked away to sleep while looking through house's large windows into twinkling sapphire of a Lanikai night sky.
So dream away, knowing your dream Hawaiian vacation home is right here...
Did I mention that O Ke Kai means one of a kind...I know that's how you think about your family..I feel the same way and that's why I look for the best for myself and you...
To be continued..

Aloha Friday is here...

Aloha everyone...Aloha Friday is here...

If you're here in Hawaii, that means it's time to get the barbecue ready for the weekend, make sure you have enough of long rice in your cabinet and Kailua Pig by the large numbers is on its way to your kitchen. It's time to party with your family. The weekend is here!

If your everywhere in the planet but not here in the best place in the world - Hawaii - of course, Aloha Friday might mean everything and nothing to you, as it is something accustomed to the local traditions and the way of living here on the Islands of Aloha.

So if you're coming to visit you must know this: Aloha Friday means casual Friday, when everybody seems to be more laid-back looking forward to the weekend's promise of pure leisure and fun. Even most businesses in Hawaii are keeping up with highlighting the Aloha Friday true spirit by allowing their employees dress more casually, which refers to Aloha shirt for men and a very flowery tropical dress for women, called Mumu. That tradition is over a century old as it was inspired by a simple worker's shirt and then became more popular in the 1920 and 1930. A short-sleeved shirt that its bold print truly resembles the tropical motifs found in the island's artwork, was not considered a proper business attire at the time, considering as well the fact that it was worn untucked. That was the reason for the Hawaii Fashion Guild in 1966 to successfully establish upon their winning campaign that the Aloha attire can be only worn on Friday. That's how Friday became designated for the Aloha Spirit wear...

Well I'm heading off for a beautiful drive along the Windward (eastern) coastline of the island of Oahu. I'll be exploring more exquisite vacation beach rentals made available to me by team at Trinity Properties, rich in experience but also like this island living up to the Aloha Traditions.

Over the weekend myself and my dear friend Alicia will dive in the pristine waters of Lanikai and play with the fish, snorkel and give our feet the spa treatment of the golden sands...
I'll also check and bring you closer to what is very hot attraction wise this time of the month...

And what about you? If you're dreaming about the Hawaiian vacation, check some of one of a kind luxury properties that I reported to you, earlier this week. While there is more to come to your and my delight, I already know there is nothing as breathtaking as Lanikai, and the properties that were carefully chosen by the team at Trinity Properties.

Do you know what will be the main topic of conversation today?...yes..Aloha Friday...
And this is how is going to sound:
"It's Aloha Friday cuz! Where you like go dis weekend?
Translation for you: I" can't believe it's Friday already! What do you feel like doing this weekend?"

I say Aloha as I'm singing away the very Hawaiian song by the very loved ad recently passed away Don Ho:" E Lei Ka Lei Lei"....lalalala.." the higher the mountain, the cooler the breeze"...
.."the younger the couple, the tighter the squeeze...."

To be continued...

Naupaka Hale...the garden to heaven

Another gorgeous day here on Oahu. And I bring you another recount of outstanding house for your Hawaiian vacation that I had a pleasure to explore due to the ever so kind team at Trinity Properties.
I'm again in Lanikai, the small beach town with always perfect sunny breeze weather and unforgettable turquoise ocean blanketing the entire shoreline.
Referring to the Hawaiian Dictionary, the word Naupaka means "native species of shrubs(Scaevola) found in mountains and near casts, conspicuous for their white or light-colored flowers that look like half flowers".
I can absolutely agree that this picture perfect Hawaiian beachfront estate could not bear any other name. As I make my way through the gated entry, I find myself surrounded by very well kept landscaping concept that features beautiful tropical flora. Blossoming, colorful and plentiful of surrounding me plants reminds of my favorite trips to botanical gardens. I'm already taken just by the the flowery front yard, swaying coconut trees, and refreshing oceanic zephyr.
I've already decided that beachfront estate is another great Hawaiian vacation rental you'd be so happy to book, when you settle on to make yourself a favor and hop on the plane to Hawaii if you're truly looking for your very personal experience of paradise.
Before I enter through seaside stylish front door, I enjoy myself for a moment engaging my senses with the smell of softly sweet plumeria flower tree, which blissfully blooms right at the very entry to Naupaka Hale. As I cross the threshold of the house I'm instantly welcomed by the one of a kind view, that you can only experience here in Lanikai, Hawaii. Voted one of the top beaches in the world seems to be part of the interior of this home, as much as its exterior, and that is thanks to very popular here large rectangular windows. That skylight occupies entire back wall of Naupaka Hale, translating it into live painting of rich display of colors. Golden yellow of the velvety sand, all shades of oceanic turquoise, and sea green jades of the grassy stripe, the only thing that separates you from the warm, glassy see through sea.
Just amazing...I think and whisper probably, believing time had stopped. And I truly consider that would be your experience as well, that's why the living room set is right there. Comfortable, but very island styled and elegant, awaiting your arrival. I can already see you sitting here for hours and just watching as that live, idyllic painting changes throughout the day, from sunrise to sunset, that's where you want to be...truly in paradisum....
I glance through Naupaka Hale, and it is already so hard to rest my eyes in one place. As each space here is exceptional. Everything here is accomplished architecturally wise with so much love. Adoration and appreciation for the best of what Hawaiian and Polynesian cultures has to offer. From the bamboo floors to the mulberry and pandalus kitchen vaulted ceiling, through the striking artwork placed for your enjoyment around the house. Absolutely breathtaking....
Everything here is a perfect match, and everything is derived and inspired by the surrounding nature you'd be so delighted with. Even though it is one story house, I would not change a thing If I'd to own it, live in it or vacation in in. It is the essence of modern, classical Hawaiian interior designs combined with heartfelt intention to make your stay treasured beyond your imagination.
Overlooking the magnificent waters of the Pacific, I'm certain that is the house that you'd cherish for your Hawaiian vacation. There are tree words in Hawaii that represent the cultural values of this happy nation, and they are: Hale (home), Ohana (family), Aina (land).
So bring your Ohana to Hawaii to enjoy the awe-isnpiring Aina, and this created with Aloha Hale, Naupaka Hale....
More to come...meaning to be continued...

Aloha ia o'ko a -pa'ulo.
When we meet with love, we shall be whole.

Treat yourself to Sunrise Retreat

On your behalf I gave myself a treat to be smitten by the exquisite estate Sunrise Retreat in Lanikai, Oahu. The very personal and professional team at Trinity Properties made it available for me to spend some quiet time at what I now consider to be one of the most original and luxurious properties you could ever imagine for your vacation rental. Driving to Lanikai is a treat in itself as we've already established. The little but very prestigious town of Lanikai as every jewel is hidden away and is located on Oahu's eastern (Windward) shores. With the population of slightly above 50, 000 residents and not more than 169,000 properties you will find your ways around very quickly. With all the real estate available to you, it might be quite overwhelming to find the house that would become a home for you, your family and to house your Hawaiian vacation memories. Not only as the Hawaiian Island enthusiast but also as future home owner I'm always on the look out for a property that would combine the essence of this magical Hawaiian archipelago with contemporary elegance and comfort. And so I found it at Sunrise Retreat...and yes I was treated even though no drinks were served.
As the gate opens up to this very private and spacious estate (over 18,000sq) I'm smiling out loud and I won't stop until I leave. Carpet of luscious green front yard and the most charming house welcomes me. All set in the perfect background of always safe, clear and turquoise waters of Lanikai beach. Where do i go first? Inside the house, or perhaps I take a moment to sit in its welcoming porch, but I can't, wanting to run straight to the backyard...
Could I be closer to heaven, I ask gazing away into the most pristine beach and gently drifting waves reminding me of the gracious Hawaiian dance of Hula. Only here though I think, remembering the crushing blue ocean on the Northshore, where I live.
Barefoot I stand at the footsteps to heaven...I'm thinking as I'm about to enter that beachfront dream of a hawaiian vacation home . And when I finally do I instantly realize I don't ever want to leave. And then I think of you...
Somewhere in the world, day after day you think about Hawaii, but not the popular Waikiki with its always crowded hotels, beaches and pedestrian zones packed with tourists from your hometown. You want the paradise of this island to yourself. You want to be pampered and romanced and inspired in the most luxurious private estates and their stunning tropical surroundings. And that's exactly what Sunrise Retreat is.
I feel the gentle breeze welcoming me as I enter the house. Chocolate brown koa wooden floors with contrasting white walls and high vaulted ceiling makes me feel at home. Rich colors of the original, Hawaiian artwork spread with gusto throughout the estate and unique Polynesian styled designer furnishings and accessories makes every corner of this house beaming with lively, sunny energy. If you truly wouldn't grasp the Aloha on your way to this beachfront jewel of estate, Sunrise Retreat and its classical Hawaiian interior would be the fine response to any of your wanderings. I'm surrounded by it and so I surrender to it, as I run through the house to see it all. Its effortless but refined decor invites me, bedroom after bedroom, hallway after corner, I feel the most welcomes. This is a house that will become your home very fast. And always at the side view of my eyes, the background space with a view on the always here true turquoise water.
If that's all is not enough, you will be spoiled by all top kitchen appliances for your accessibility and comfort, so you never have to leave the property unless you want to explore the near by attractions.
With every step I take throughout the Sunrise Retreat , I'm being treated to visions of the happiness this home can bring to anybody who decides to gift themselves and spend their Hawaiian vacation here.
Waking up to the soothing sounds of the ocean brushing through the windows of the house, breakfasting under the mango tree on the hammock or just lounging throughout the day in one of the rooms of Sunrise Retreat will become your new favorite thing at the very time of your arrival here, You'd be inspired to journal day after day about your relationship with this home, and I'm sure enough that you'd also decide to come back as soon as you desire.
Each detail, no matter how simplistic in its setting and design had been placed here with one thoughtful intention of making your Hawaiian vacation unforgettable and to make you feel that Hawaii is your new home too. Even if only for the time being.
So fly yourself over and treat yourself to glorious sunsets and sunrises at Sunrise Retreat, where you will relearn to celebrate your life with passion in this divine, tropical ambiance.
One that will fulfill your vision about Home Sweet Home...Hawaii.
And stop asking yourself if you're sure, if you should risk coming to Lanikai, and not Waikiki.
My friend Alicia always says "Sure, sure".

P.S. Aloha means amongst all the good things in life - sharing...so I leave the Sunrise Retreat so you can enjoy it and look at your flip flops at the front entry and not mine, and I decide to explore more of the Lanikai's beachfront estate made available to me by the Trinity Properties team.

And so...to be continued....


Aloha ia o'ko a -pa'ulo.
When we meet with love, we shall be whole

If you long for a cottage on the beach, there is Longs at Lanikai...

Here I am again. Your private browser through beachfront estates in Lanikai, Oahu, reporting you on the best of the best and my personal favorites of all times.

How accommodating I think when I'm being introduced to another property by the incredibly Aloha Trinity Properties team. I remember traveling different places all around the world and sometimes the only reason that I found myself where I were, was because of somebody's experience of it, somebody's spoken or written account about it.

So as I'm standing in the breezy, crispy ocean air in the front yard of the Longs at Lanikai Cottage I can only hope that my brief but profuse encounter with this lovely place would inspire you to spend your Hawaiian vacation right here.

This truly old-styled beach house makes me think of all the charming houses I was lucky to visit while in Rhode Island, or Rockport, Ma. It has that flavor to it. But the pristine turquoise waters drifting in the background, so close from the front yard where I stand, remind me instantaneously that I'm ever luckier now. I'm in Hawaii. I glance through the white Lanai furnishings set up and I can sense the friends & family gatherings here in the warm afternoons. Simple, natural, and neutral comes to mind when I enter the Longs at Lanikai Cottage . The large, spacious, rectangular windows throughout the house invite the outdoors in, so you could never stay too far away from the golden sand beach outside.

I walk barefoot throughout the house, enjoying its cool floors, and explore each area with focus as not to miss its subtle and graceful seaside décor. Shades of blue spread around the house mix along the azures outside. Sunny canary kitchen makes me exclaim out loud the cheesy words: So cute! But adorable it is to the point where I can smell the freshly brewed Kona coffee in the morning when all the Longs guests meet somewhere between the kitchen and the always pleasantly gusty front porch. And then I go into each bedroom and I know you would only have sweet dreams in here. Comfortable furnishings and tropical elements encourage excellent rest among the natural Hawaiian earth elements of bamboo, the pandulus tree and the island's flowers painted on your beddings.

Plants, shells and sea glass pieces that are spread around the house awaken the ingenious urge in you. If you're absolutely certain there is not such possibility for you, then get barefoot in the back yard of the Longs at Lanikai Cottage and soon enough you'd be.

Jumping and dancing, warming your feet deep in the white, fine almost velvety like sand of the Lanikai Beach, half mile long, you will find your longing. Lanikai waters, "heavenly waters" as we call them here, will sooth you and bless you until you'll realize you don't have to long anymore, as you find your peace of paradise at Longs at Lanikai Cottage ... and you can always return ...

Wherever you stay...

As you continue to drive to the Windward side of the island to the charming towns of Kailua and Lanikai to find out why their beaches and luxurious accommodations belong to the best in the world, you already learned that your trip will be a two way discovery. The more you will reach out to find about the universal meaning of Aloha and what the Oahu has to offer, the deeper the island will take you into the journey of your self discovery. How short or how long is your stay it will be one of the most profound travel experiences of your life. It will be always the place and the time that welcomes you, soothes you, and gives you the peace you may need. No matter your island destination - one of the luxury vacation homes in Kailua with world famous Lanikai beach, or maybe one of the beach estates on the North Shore of Oahu. Wherever you choose to stay the paradise will capture your senses intensely enough to have you think perhaps your vacation or long term rental would turn instead into long term stay meaning indefinitely. Let's explore those options then. To be continued ...

E Komo Mai Hawaii

So here you are. You land at Honolulu International Airport, and unless you have a bad sinus case the mixture of the sweet plumeria flower and the tropical island breeze gets right into you. And then you know you're in Hawaii. If you've ever took the time to look into the sky wherever you were before, you'd quickly notice the true blue of the Hawaiian skies. It stops you in your tracks and you start to think perhaps about Elvis's Blue Hawaii. You're still in the southern part of the island so you'd be rarely lucky enough to be welcomed by tropical rain. What a treat if you do though, in a part of the island where the sunny skies rule over 320 days in a year.

You should not get disappointed, especially if you're coming from Oregon or London perhaps, thinking...rain ...not again. Tropical rains are part of Hawaii's microclimate, which is considered the top climate in the world. Top weather. Top beaches in the world. Top surfing. You will find your draw very soon. The minute you get out of the always busy Airport and start heading east to meet the best of what Oahu has to offer, you will fall for the island as you drive mile after mile. You will be embraced instantly, in the same way the tropical mountain range meets the glossy ocean shores. Fisherman here and there, but barely anybody in a plain view. Is that my private piece of Eden? You ask, and then before the answer comes you're in for a surprise again, as you take another turn farther down the highway. Majestic sceneries so powerful so gently take you into humbleness. Yes you're in Paradise. You feel you should perhaps stop and capture it all with all you've got in this moment, but then you can't, being so eager to see more. And when you think there cannot be something more breath taking away than what you've seen already, the Aina (land) is unraveling more of its creations. Your eyes can barely stay on the road as they enjoy the captivating views of waves arriving to the all over sandy beaches. Same scenic views greeted Captain Cook when he first reached to Oahu through its eastern shores. You realize suddenly that what you're seeing had been here for over 4 million years, as that's how old is this volcanic island. So 4 million years of waves washing off the Oahu shores. Pondering more on the glorious surrounding makes your heart weep, even though you feel purified in the happiness that's filling you up. That's how the islands are smiling through its sunny ocean side and cry the tropical rain high in the mountain ranges. And then you have rainbows, the most stunning in their colorful intensity and arrays. Native Hawaiians believe it is a sign from the gods that island is protected and overlooked by the royal heaven family. You noticed by now that rainbow is also on the registration plates, proudly announcing the Aloha State.

E Komo Mai Hawaii...as your journey with the Island's attractions, and treasures begins."What a wonderful world" you think... or sing perhaps...To be continued...