2) The Big Island, Hawaii

ASSALAMUALAIKUM AND SALAM SEJAHTERA...

I found the Big Island to be very welcoming. It made me feel curious, interested, 
and more open to new ideas than I normally am. 


The Island of Hawaii, also called the Big Island or Hawaii Island is a volcanic island (the eastern-most and southern-most in the Hawaiian islands chain) in the North Pacific Ocean.
 With an area of 4,028 square miles (10,430 km²), it is larger than all of the other Hawaiian Islands combined and is the largest island in the United States. The Island of Hawaii is administered as the County of Hawaii within the state of Hawaii. The county seat is Hilo. In modern times, Hawaii is known as the "Big Island" to reduce confusion between Hawaii Island and the state.

 The Big Island is often called the Orchid Isle for its heavy blankets of fragrant blossoms, but its given its official name to avoid confusion with the other islands of Kauai, Maui and Oahu. In the past, the name Hawaii was used to describe both the chain of islands and the Big Island of Hawaii itself. The Big Island Hawaii is twice as large as the other islands combined and with two volcanoes still active, one which is the most volatile in the world, the island continues growing. Mauna Kea and Kohala are Big Island's extinct volcanoes while Hualalai is considered dormant. The volcanoes are an integral part of Hawaii and create fascinating landscapes and backdrops that attract thousands each year.

The Big Island Hawaii is also well known for its fun events and holidays. When in the area on a Big Island vacation don't miss any current events or you'll miss a chance to experience the Aloha spirit at its finest. In April Big Island activities include attending the Merrie Monarch Hula Festival in Hilo. With total emphasis on Hawaiian history and culture, the week-long festival hosts demonstrations, craft fairs, art exhibits, exciting performances, a large parade and a three-day hula competition! Each year in Kona, Big Island Hawaii hosts the Ironman Triathlon World Championships which kicks off in October. Coffee lovers flock to the fun Kona Coffee Festival each year in November to taste world renowned Kona coffee.

An important aspect to know is the Big Island of Hawaii is not easily driven around. The loop encompasses more than 200 miles and stopping to see attractions makes the trip much longer. Visitors can make an adventure of it easily beginning with exploring the Kohala and Kona areas while staying at one of the Big Island resorts or hotels. Hit the north coast next and drive around stopping in Hilo for an overnight stay or two. Leaving Hilo, the next obvious stop is Volcanoes National Park. If there's time, consider taking a full day or two to explore the fascinating and uniquely beautiful and dramatic terrain. Swing around to the southern coast, stopping as you wish on your way back to Kohala or Kona.










To really see the island, a drive around is the best way. There are plenty of stops for enjoying Big Island activities like golfing, surfing and swimming. If the island journey sounds like an exhaustive journey, stick to the west Kona Kohala Coast and amp up your Big Island of Hawaii trip by opting for various tours in the area like a Circle Island Tour. Take in a Big Island luau, relax on a private lanai at sunset and simply let go of it all as you soak up all that the Big Island has to give.