Aloha Kekemapa

“Hello December”

Jesse Gollubier, Cactus Staff Writer

Ah, winter break, the time for relaxing from homework, enjoying the holidays and vacations.  A great go-to destination for those vacations is Hawaii.  With activities like cruises, deep-sea fishing, and luaus, just to mention a few, Hawaii has many things to offer to many people.

Have you ever wanted to tour the oceans surrounding the islands of Hawaii?  Well lucky for you there are multitudes of cruise lines that are offering just that.  Some of them even have a snorkeling option so you can enjoy the various and lively sea life that inhabit those oceans, ranging from clown fish to sea turtles, this is of course dependent on the time and location of said snorkeling so be sure to ask the cruise lines for details.

If cruises are not your style you can do more physical activities, such as hiking and biking, though be sure to find out where those activities are allowed.  If that is not to your liking then you can find yourself a captain and take your venture to sea.  Deep-sea fishing is an adventure that may start out slow and boring, but once you get fish on the line you are in for at least an hour of non-stop struggle as you reel in some of the biggest fish you will ever see in person.  These fish can weigh more than you and put up a fight that could tire out even the Energizer Bunny.  Depending on your captain, you may be able to retrieve your prize after processing and take it home for a feast, though he may take a portion as an added fee. It is his livelihood after all.  Make sure that you do your research and find the right captain for you and be prepared with sunscreen as you will be out in the sun for an extended period of time.

After all these activities surely you must be hungry, right?  Do not fear for Hawaii has the traditional luau for you to partake of.  With roast pig, salmon, tropical fruits, poi, hula dancers and fire dancing, you will not be left wanting for more from your meal.  A luau is basically a grand party and feast and is part of many celebrations such as birthdays, graduations and weddings.  They are an amazing event to attend and I suggest you try it at least once.

For you historians and patriots out there, Hawaii also has many sights to see.  From volcanoes to Pearl Harbor, there is so much history to be found on the islands.  The island of Oahu is where you want to go if you plan on touring the location of Pearl Harbor.  There you can see the sunken USS Arizona, which is the final resting place for the 1,177 crewmen that lost their lives on that vessel, as well as learn about the events that transpired that fateful day of World War II.

As always inform someone of your trip in case of emergencies, stay safe, and most importantly HAVE FUN!}