Alone in Honolulu - Some tips on seeing the sites and having fun in the capital of Hawaii on the island of Oahu.
Honolulu is one of the most fabulous cities on earth, rich with diverse people from all walks of life and all over the world, not to mention the intense skyline.
When you're traveling to Honolulu, especially when you're alone, you will most likely encounter experiences which will be matched by no other city in the world. Since Honolulu is a major layover for those traveling to both Australia and the Far East, you will more than likely meet some quite amazing people if you're up for it.
People watching and actually meeting people can be a lot of fun, but you must use caution. Use common sense and the guide's that your mother taught you while growing up including those dealing with strangers in cars.
If you want to watch people, you should do it in a manner in which you won't be noticed, like lying on the world renowned Waikiki Beach. With sunglasses in place, watching both the locals and tourists can be hours of enjoyment for just about anyone.
But if you're the type who isn't satisfied with just watching people, try sitting on a park bench located just outside of the beach. You can still watch people, but others will feel more comfortable coming up and talking to you if you're sitting on a bench.
Don't forget to walk up and down the strip at Waikiki, too - especially at night. You'll be sure to see street performers, dance performances of both modern and traditional Hawaiian culture, not to mention Hari Krishna's and other religious groups of human interest.
Shop until you drop! Whether you're looking for souvenirs for you and your friends, or you forgot to pack your toothbrush, everything for tourists to buy is located in Waikiki.
Learning a little bit about the bus systems can get you out of the tourist trap that is Waikiki. The busses run continuously throughout the day and can easily take you off the beaten path. You know what they say, When in Rome"¦
Taking the bus will give you a better feel for the way life is lived in Honolulu by blending you in with the locals instead of the tourists. How about a visit to Ala Moana, the world's largest outdoor shopping mall? Locals of Honolulu need to shop too, as they don't all wear Hawaiian shirts and muumuus. This is a great place to pick up some extra basic clothing items which you will probably need. One caveat about shopping in Honolulu: Since everything needs to be imported by either boat or plane, the prices can be dramatically higher than you would pay in the continental US. But it's always nice to throw on a t-shirt that you bought on your trip that doesn't have the words ALOHA written on the front.
While you're alone on your visit, be sure to walk up to Hotel Street. This is an historic street brought into play during World War II, as it was the big hang out for soldiers looking for a good time. A visit to the ports of Honolulu can be a lot of fun alone and makes for some fabulous people watching.
Why don't you rent a car? The north shore of Oahu is a hot spot for surfers from beginner to advanced. Park yourself on a bench and watch the pro's ride the waves, as this is something that you won't be able to see very often in your life.
While you're in your rental car, hopefully a convertible with the top down, make sure to visit Diamondhead State Park. Diamondhead is the extinct volcano which made the island of Oahu thousands and thousands of years ago. Lava poured out from the bottom of the ocean making and underwater volcano which kept growing and growing until the volcano became extinct, thus making the island. It's worth a visit to pay homage to what created the beautiful island. Since you're alone, you can stay for a while or make your visit short and brief without someone else's opinion influencing your stay. Enjoy your visit!
