“Hawaii is not a state of mind but a state of grace.”- Paul Theroux Hawaii takes its responsibility as a tourist destination very seriously, and so should its millions of annual visitors. By leaving the island a better place, tourists enjoy a richer experience from their Hawaiian travels and gain a deeper appreciation for Hawaiian people…

The is the third story in our series on travel to the Hawaiian island of Oahu.  From Duke Kahanamoku holding court at the Royal Hawaiian Hotel’s Mai Tai Bar to Don Ho singing “Tiny Bubbles” at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, Oahu is known for its legendary hotels and iconic surf culture. When you stay at…

Take a well-organized, thriving metropolis of more than 1 million people and add in hipster food joints, craft cocktails, the culture of a cosmopolitan city, and vibrant street art. Shake it up like a martini and scatter it in the Canadian prairie surrounded by mountain villages and jaw-dropping scenery. This is Calgary — and all…

This is the second of four travel stories on exploring Oahu, Hawaii. Flavors of Aloha Hawaiian food has deep cultural, spiritual, and historical significance. The taro plant, which gives us poi, is fundamental to the Hawaiian creation myth, known as the child of the sky god and the older brother of Native Hawaiians. Food is,…

When you’re one of the oldest cities in the world, you’re bound to experience some ups and downs. Witness Athens, historically 3,400 years old but probably many thousands more. Anyone who might have visited Athens — say, during their college years with a backpack on the way to the islands — may have decided they…

Hawaiian Renaissance Renewed A buzz raced across the island of Oahu, from the North Shore to Waikiki, from local Hawaiian diners to plush hotel bars: The Eddie was on! The Eddie Aikau Big Wave Invitational is one of the rarest events in sport, having taken place just ten times since 1984 due to its unique…

For savvy Seattleites, the secret is out: Winter snowbirds in search of sunshine don’t have to fly south in winter — they can also drive east. A quick trip over Snoqualmie Pass opens a world of possibilities for vitamin D-deprived city dwellers, from Suncadia to Spokane. For turnkey sun and relaxation just two-and-a-half hours away,…

Seattleites are intrepid by nature, seeking escape away from the well-worn path. Places that are artistic, culinary, adventurous and a bit bohemian call to us. Snowbirds fly south for the sun’s rays, while surfers head west for winter swells. Powder addicts set their course due north, while national park enthusiasts gallop to the east. Whichever…