Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

Of course, now that it's December, it's time to look back at my last vacation of the summer, and sadly of the year. This was my first time in Hawaii and my family's second time. The direct flight from D.C. to Hawaii is about 10 hours. Talk about jet lag.

Honolulu Airport
This airport has a lot of outdoor areas since the Hawaii weather is usually so nice. In the center of the airport there is a large garden that has different themes and some structures as well.

Along Waikiki Beach
We got a hotel just walking distance away from the beach, pretty much around the busy parts of the area. It was nice being able to simply walk to all the shops and restaurants and multiple shopping centers.

Diamond Head
Beautiful view at the top. The hike up wouldn't have been so bad if I were wearing the appropriate shoes and it wasn't unusually humid. I was told this was a leisurely hike. Nothing leisurely about it. Lots of stairs and I almost passed out in that one unvented tunnel. But I guess the view at the top was pretty worth it.

Pearl Harbor
Getting into here was pretty strict. You have to buy tickets ahead of time because they often get sold out. You are not allowed to bring in bags. There are different types of packages of tours you can buy and they can get expensive.

The main part of the area where you can buy tickets have some things like old torpedoes and nuclear war heads, as well as gun turrets that used to be on the ships. There is also some museums, one that is free and is about the event of pearl harbor, and another one you have to pay for so I didn't get to go inside.

One of the main things to see is the USS Arizona. This battleship was unlucky in that it was hit right where all the gunpowder and other flammables were stored, causing in an instant massive explosion. Many were burned instantly and many others were stuck in the ship when it sank, unable to be rescued in time.

Another part we explored is the USS Missouri Battleship. This battleship is huge and it was tiring actually going through all the levels and hallways. It did get a bit confusing at some parts. Still it really gives you an accurate look to how people lived in these old battleships.

Iolani Palace
The only official royal residence in the United States. It was the home of Hawaii's last reigning monarchs before the monarchy was overthrown in 1849. It also features displays of the old dresses and jewelry of the monarchs. The land around it is also decorated by large Banyan trees.

Next to the building just separated by a fence that does have an opening is the State of Hawaii legislature. Then across the street is the Hawaii Supreme Court with the famous King Kamehameha statue. Honestly I only know about this statue because of animal crossing.

Ala Moana Center
I make the effort to visit every major mall or shopping center in the area. The Ala Moana Center is huge with multiple floors. Definitely a tourist destination.

My family and I only stayed at Honolulu for three nights so not a lot of time to do things considering it was two full days and two half days. I would definitely love to explore more of the island of Oahu next time!