Hawaii help!!
Hi all! My dad and I are planning a trip for December break, ideally to Hawaii. If you have any advice that would be awesome!Here's the breakdown:
-My dad (60 years old) and me (20 years old)
-We both love the flavor of local culture (i'm picturing a down-to-earth restaurant with a live band on a rainy night with really good fish tacos)
-I would like to be able to surf & snorkel
-We would prefer to be somewhere that feels somewhat lively (so not totally isolated)...Paris & Barcelona are our favorite cities
-We're not really into hiking
-We are both foodies
-We're not trying to break the bank ($200 or less a night if possible)
-My dad is a big fan of comfort, so no hostels/motels/dives
Overall, I would love something that feels authentically Hawaiian, if possible, with a slight bit of cushiness for my dad.
We are also open to other places if you have ideas---Caribbean, Asia, Europe---just as long as it's warm :)
Thanks for your help!
Edited by: londonrules33
1
The Christmas break is the absolute peak season in Hawaii. You are going to find flights, hotels, condos, and rental cars are all more expensive than at other times of year.You need to decide on an island to visit. There are 4 major islands. You would need a rental car on any island other than Oahu.
December is also the winter season. Although warmer than most other places, it won't be hot and the water can be a bit chilly.
Foodies would want to stay in Honolulu on Oahu, but that is a major city with high-rises and freeways. In many ways, being a foodie doesn't match with your description of the "flavor of local culture"
I would look at Maui, maybe trying to find condo in Kihei for under $200 a night.
www.vrbo.com
3
Small addition to #1: "local flavor" in Hawaii usually means things like shave ice, poke, Spam, and plate lunches (see en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cuisine_of_Hawaii). You can find fish tacos in various restaurants, but you would be indulging in a comparatively recent addition to island cuisine. Think Asian and Portuguese, not Mexican.5
With those priorities, I would go to Costa Rica or Guatemala. Not much "Culture" left in Hawaii, its been huge resorts and developed for 50 years. $200 day is going to be tough as well, at peak season. Hawaii is not cheap, period.6
Are you aware that unless you turn 21 before your arrival, you will not be able to drink alcohol in any bar, club, or restaurant in Hawaii, not even if your father buys it for you? You also cannot drink "in any public place, public gathering, or public amusement, at any public beach or public park."7
You can drink your brains out in Central America...10
Costa Rica is $450 R/T right now.
