Tourist attractions and Tourist destinations in Hawaii

Malaysia seeks action against Burundian soldiers held responsible for killing Malaysian reporter

2011-10-12T05:45:00.000-07:00

Malaysia seeks action against Burundian soldiers held responsible for killing Malaysian reporter

Malaysian Foreign Minister, Anifah Aman said on Wednesday that his ministry is seeking possible legal action that would impose appropriate penalty on four Burundian peacekeepers who were said to have accidentally shot dead a Malaysian journalist in Somalia.

The Malaysian television cameraman was shot dead in Mogadishu, Somalia last month by Burundian peacekeepers patrolling the coastal city.

Another cameraman was injured in the shooting.

The four soldiers were suspended from duty and repatriated for trial after the African Union Mission for Somalia held them responsible for the shooting.

Anifah told the parliament that a Malaysian mission has been asked to observe the trial of the four soldiers.

Editor: Yamei Wang

English.news.cn 2011-10-12 19:24:35 FeedbackPrintRSS
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 12 (Xinhua)

History of Kauai

2007-11-13T01:57:00.001-08:00

History of Kauai :

KAUAI is the oldest island of Hawaii so it seems only appropriate that British explorer Captain James Cook landed in Kauai’s Waimea Bay for the first time in 1778. Cook’s discovery of what he called the “Sandwich Isles,” named after the Earl of Sandwich, introduced Hawaii to the world.

During this era of western discovery, King Kamehameha I was attempting to unify all the Hawaiian Islands under his rule. Kauai and the small, neighboring island of Niihau were the only islands to deter his efforts. Eventually, Kauai’s reigning king decided to peacefully unite with Kamehameha.

The fertile soil and bountiful rainfall provided excellent conditions to cultivate taro. The plant’s edible starchy tubers were pounded into poi and became part of the staple diet of the native population. Taro plantations are still scattered across Kauai today, contributing to the island’s beautiful green fields of heart-shaped taro leaves.

HISTORICAL SITES ON KAUAI :

Polihale Heiau

Located along the Coconut Coast, this Hawaiian temple still houses ancient idol sites along terraced land and is the largest heiau on the island.

Hauola Place of Refuge

Ancient Hawaiians fled to this sacred spot to seek sanctuary after breaking the law or being defeated in battle.

Waioli Mission House

Built in 1837, the Waioli Mission House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places with its antique furnishings that take you back 160 years. Learn more

Grove Farm Homestead Museum

This 80-acre sugar plantation depicts life in old Hawaii during the plantation era (1864) and showcases the restored Wilcox family home.

Kauai Museum

Established in 1960, Kauai Museum contains exhibits, artifacts, dioramas, and murals portraying the history of Kauai, its people and its unique culture.

Information by : Hawaii's Official Tourism Site - http://www.gohawaii.com

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History's Hawaii

2007-11-13T01:53:00.001-08:00

History's Hawaii :

The Aloha State - Became The 50th State in 1959

But the history of Hawaii goes back centuries earlier. More than 1500 years ago, Polynesians from the Marquesas Islands first set foot on Hawaii's Big Island. With only the stars to guide them, they miraculously sailed over 2000 miles in canoes to migrate to the Islands.

500 years later, settlers from Tahiti arrived, bringing their beliefs in gods and demi-gods and instituting a strict social hierarchy based on a kapu (taboo) system. Hawaiian culture flourished over the centuries, but land division conflicts between ruling chieftains were common.

In 1778, Captain James Cook, landed on Kauai at Waimea Bay. Naming the archipelago the "Sandwich Islands" in honor of the Earl of Sandwich, Cook opened the doors to the west. Cook was killed only a year later in Kealakekua Bay on Hawaii's Big island .

In 1791, Kohala born Kamehameha united the warring factions of the Big Island and went on to unify all of the Hawaiian Islands into one royal kingdom in 1810. In 1819, less than a year after King Kamehameha's death, his son, Liholiho, abolished the ancient kapu system.

In 1820, the first Protestant missionaries arrived on the Big Island filling the void left after the end of the kapu system. Hawaii became a port for seamen, traders, and whalers. Throughout these years of growth, western disease took a heavy toll on the native Hawaiian population.

Western influence continued to grow and in 1893, American Colonists who controlled much of Hawaii's economy overthrew the Hawaiian Kingdom in a peaceful, yet still controversial coup. In 1898, Hawaii became a territory of the United States.

In the 20th century, sugar and pineapple plantations fueled Hawaii's economy bringing an influx of Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, and Portuguese immigrants. On December 7, 1941, the Japanese launched a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor on Oahu. Four years later, on September 2, 1945, Japan signed its unconditional surrender on the USS Battleship Missouri , which still rests in Pearl Harbor today.

In 1959, Hawaii became the 50th State of the United States. Beyond the sun and surf of the islands, we urge you to discover the rich cultural history of the Islands of Aloha to add even more depth to your visit.

Information by : Hawaii's Official Tourism Site - http://www.gohawaii.com

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Choose an Island - Hawaii

2007-11-13T01:50:00.001-08:00

Choose an Island - Hawaii :

KAUAI

The oldest and northernmost island in the Island chain is graced with dramatic, natural beauty. Outdoor adventures and romantic escapades flourish on Kauai.

- Explore the golden sand beaches of the Coconut Coast.
- See the massive Waimea Canyon, "The Grand Canyon of the Pacific."
- Take a boat ride to marvel at the towering cliffs of the Napali Coast.

OAHU

Home to the state capitol and the majority of Hawaii's population, Oahu is a vibrant mix of natural and cultural wonders with the modern arts, entertainment, and amenities of the 21st century.

- See pro surfers charge the big winter waves of the famous North Shore.
- Learn about American history at the memorials and museums in Pearl Harbor.
- Soak up the sun and learn to surf yourself on legendary Waikiki Beach.

MOLOKAI

With almost half of its population being of native Hawaiian ancestry, Molokai is an island that has preserved its connection to the past and its love for the outdoors.

- Step back to a simpler time in the sleepy town of Kaunakakaki.
- View the verdant flora in Halawa Valley.
- Learn about the works of Father Damien at Kalaupapa Settlement.

LANAI

Without a single traffic light, Lanai is a true island getaway for luxury, romance, and privacy away from crowds.

- Play golf at Lanai's two prestigious courses.
- See the rock formations at Keahiakawelo, "The Garden of the Gods."
- Off-road amongst the pine trees along Munro Trail.

MAUI

The second largest island is home to what some believe are the best beaches in the world, as well as Humpback whales who migrate off Maui's shores every winter.

- Wake up early to catch the sunrise atop Haleakala Crater.
- Stroll through historic Lahaina, and learn about Maui's whaling past.
- Drive the long and winding road to Hana for spectacular scenery.

HAWAII'S BIG ISLAND

Bigger than all of the other islands combined, the island of Hawaii, or Hawaii's Big Island, is vast enough to hold 11 of the world’s 13 climactic zones—from sandy beaches to snowcapped mountains.

- See the waterfalls and seascapes off the Hamakua Coast.
- Snorkel, scuba, or fish off the Kohala Coast.
- View Kilauea, the world's most active volcano in Volcano's National Park.

Information by : Hawaii's Official Tourism Site - http://www.gohawaii.com

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Introduction Hawaii

2007-11-13T01:30:00.001-08:00

Introduction Hawaii :

Home to the world’s most active volcano and the world’s tallest sea mountain. Birthplace of surfing and the hula. Former seat of a royal kingdom. Hawaii is one of the youngest geological formations in the world and the youngest state of the union. But perhaps Hawaii’s most unique feature is its Aloha Spirit: the warmth of the people of Hawaii that wonderfully complements the Islands’ perfect temperatures.

There are primarily six major islands to visit in Hawaii : Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and Hawaii’s Big island. You’ll find each island has its own distinct personality and offers its own adventures, activities, and sightseeing opportunities. We invite you to explore all of Hawaii to find the unique island experience for you.

Hawaii Quick Facts :

- Kauai's incredible Waimea Canyon is 10 miles long, and one mile wide.
- Duke Kahanamoku, the "Father of Modern Surfing," grew up in Waikiki on Oahu.
- The tallest sea cliffs in the world can be found on Molokai's north side.
- A hulking ship is still trapped in the waters of Shipwreck Beach on Lanai.
- The crater of Haleakala on Maui is roughly the size of the island of Manhattan.
- Kileaua Volcano in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on Hawaii's Big Island is the world's most active volcano.

State Name :

Hawaii

State Nickname :

The Aloha State

Capital City :

Honolulu

Population :

1,262,840

Time Zone :

Hawaii Standard Time (GMT-10 hours), 5 hours behind the US East Coast, 6 hours behind during Daylight Saving Time (Hawaii does not observe Daylight Saving Time).

Languages :

English

Hawaiian

Currency :

US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted. Traveler's checks are accepted at many businesses.

Average Temperature :

April- November: 75˚-88˚ F.
December- March: 68˚-80˚ F.
Average water temperature: 74˚ F.

Area Code/Cell phones :

The area code for all of Hawaii is (808). Cell phone coverage on most Islands is readily available if you're coming from the US. Check your carrier and calling plan for details.

Internet Access :

Internet access is readily available on most islands and at many hotels.

Accommodations :

Luxury resorts, hotels, bed and breakfasts, rental cottages and condos are located throughout the islands.

Transportation :

Transportation options include car rentals, tour buses, shuttles, taxis or city buses.

Clothing :

Dress casually. Bring a light jacket for nights. Bring semi-casual dress clothes or resort wear for restaurants and nightlife. Suits and ties are rarely worn.

Tipping :

U.S. standards apply: 15-20% on meals, at least $1 per bag for porters, and at least $1 per night for housekeeping.

Information by : Hawaii's Official Tourism Site - http://www.gohawaii.com

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