Molokai. Kamakou in the

Molokai, Hawaii - History and Culture on The Most Hawaiian Island. One and a half million years ago (give or take a week) two large volcanoes pushed through the surface of the Pacific Ocean and created the island of Molokai. Kamakou in the east, and Maunaloa in the west. A couple days later a third and much smaller caldera, Kauhako, popped up to form the Makanalua peninsula on the north side. Over eons, the north side of the island eroded and fell into the sea, leaving behind the vertical sea cliffs which today make up most of Molokai's spectacular North Shore. It's the fifth largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago; 260 square miles (420 sq km) in area, 38 miles (61km) long, and ten miles (16km) wide at its widest point. Anchored in the center of the 8 major islands, Molokai is 25 miles (40km) southeast of Oahu, and a 25-minute flight from Maui. From the eastern end of the island, it's only 8 miles (13km) across the Pailolo Channel to Maui. The population is estimated at 8,000 residents, half of whom live in or near the principal town of Kaunakakai. Nearly 40% are of Hawaiian descent, thus the nick name, "The Most Hawaiian Island." According to the experts, Hawaiians first came to live on Molokai about 650 A.D. Those first settlers most likely originated from the Marquesas, with later migrations, in double hulled canoes, from Tahiti and other areas in the South Pacific. As the Hawaiians had no written language, most of their pre-contact history has come from chants, passed down from generation to generation, which have kept a chronology of events, battles and genealogy. In November, 1778, Captain James Cook sighted Molokai on his first visit to the Sandwich Islands, as he named these islands, but it wasn't until 1786 when Captain George Dixon anchored off Molokai's coast, that Europeans first visited this island. In 1832 a Protestant mission was established at Kalua'aha on the East End by Reverend Harvey Hitchcock, to serve an estimated population of 5,000. His church has not been maintained, but the walls and part of the roof stand today at the 14.5 mile marker. A white marble headstone marks his grave on the hill east of what remains of the church. The oldest known Hawaiian settlement on Molokai occurred in Halawa Valley, at the eastern end of the main highway that crosses the length of the island. The eastern side of the island was heavily populated in pre-contact Hawaii, a result of ample water from the mountains, fertile and level land for farming, and a rich and abundant ocean. More than 60 fish ponds were built along the south shore of Molokai. Most have nearly disappeared, but a few have been reconstructed and are used daily by residents for aquiculture. A drive along the southshore of the island bears testimony to the reliance on the ocean by early Hawaiians. Molokai was renowned for the wisdom and power of its religious leaders, greatly respected and often feared by others in the archipelago. In the 1500s, the famous prophet, Lanikaula, was so revered that pilgrims came from all the Islands to seek his wisdom and advice. Molokai became a place of retreat, protected from war by its religious prestige and the marital alliances of its chiefs. Others were reputed for sorcery. Legend tells of the Kalaipahoa, or poisonwood gods, entering trees on Maunaloa. The grove is said to have been so poisonous that birds fell dead as they flew over it. Legend also tells us that Laka, goddess of the hula, gave birth to the dance on Molokai, at a very sacred place in Ka'ana. This is recognized on Molokai every May, at a celebration of the birth of hula, called Ka Hula Piko. When Laka died, her remains were secretly hidden somewhere beneath the hill, Pu'u Nana. The hula was finally established, the work of Laka was complete, and the dance flourishedthroughout Hawaii. Molokai was praised as "Molokai Ka Hula Piko," Molokai, the center of the dance. This design, by John Kaimikaua and Wainwright Piena, uses traditional Hawaiian motifs to depict the essence of the saying, "Molokai Ka Hula Piko." To the early Hawaiians the mo'o (lizards) were a symbol of spirituality and good fortune. The central design depicts this spiritual continuity with the mo'o arranged in a circle. The triangle depicts a Hawaiian value called "Lokahi," which is symbolic of a balance between man, nature, and God. Petroglyphs within the triangle portray a man and woman in dance. In the uppermost part of the triangle is a rising sun with a dot in the center symbolizing the piko of the hula. Beneath the circle is a motif depicting water, while at the top, the triangles represent fire. In the real world, water and fire are the two elements that cannot be mixed, but the spiritual essence of these elements mix in the hula. The ancient kumu hula of Molokai stressed to their students that they should dance with the fluidity of water and with the spark of fire. The middle row of diamonds, is a design called by the Hawaiians "na maka ke akua," or "eyes ofthe gods." Eyes are symbolic of the past, because our ancestors look upon us and guide us in thislife. Eyes also represent the living, as we look back upon the paths of our ancestors for inspirationand guidance. The hula provides a means for us to look back to the works of our ancestors through its movements, motions and chants. Above the "na maka ke akua" design are ferns representing the greenery worn by the dancers and below is the half-circle-point motif representing the rays of the sun rising in the east. To the early Hawaiians, the rising sun was symbolic of constant renewal and rebirth in the hula. Home | Photo Tour | Maps | Kalaupapa | FAQ | History | Activities Events | Molokai Ranch | Climate | Feedback Visitor Center

Hawaii Cruise is the

Hawaiian Cruises, Hawaii Cruises Company Info | Customer Service Home Hot Deals Cruise School FAQ Quote Form Hawaiian Cruises Have you ever dreamed of visiting the wonderful islands of Hawaii? If so, a Hawaii Cruise is the best vacation choice. Hawaiian Cruises allow you to visit all of the islands with only having to pack and unpack once! Your vacation time is too precious to waste waiting on transfers to travel to each island! Also, a Hawaii Cruise allows you to experience Hawaii at a relaxed, leisurely pace. Another advantage of Hawaiian Cruises is that all of your meals are included, even 24 hour room service! Of course, cruises have a great reputation when it comes to fine dining! In addition, cruise ships feature state of the art workout facilities, an exciting array of activities and entertainment, and an experience unmatched by land vacations. During a Hawaii Cruise , a cruise ship turns into a floating resort allowing you to experience all that Hawaii has to offer. There are several wonderful cruise lines from which to choose when planning a Hawaii Cruise . Norwegian Cruise Line is the only line to offer Hawaiian Cruises year round. They operate under the US flag in order to do so. In addition to their exciting Hawaii Cruise program, they offer pre and post cruise options to extend your stay in Honolulu. Other cruiselines offering Hawaii Cruises include Princess, Holland America , Celebrity, Carnival, and Royal Caribbean . Company Info | Employment | Quote Form | Our Discount Cruises | Our Cruise Experts | Contact Us | Discount Cruises - Home | Company Info | Employment | Contact an Agent | Buy a Cruise On-Line | Previous Discount Cruise Deals | | Carnival Cruises | Celebrity Cruise Lines | Disney Cruise | Holland America | Norwegian Cruise Lines | | Princess Cruises | Radisson Cruises | Royal Caribbean | Oceania Cruises | Seabourn Cruises | Hawaiian Cruises | | Caribbean Cruises | Alaska Cruises | Discount Cruises | Cruise Lines | Cruise Vacations | Luxury Cruises | | Cruise Travel | Cruise Deals | European Cruises | Cheap Cruises | Last Minute Cruises | Asia Cruises | | Cruise Specials | Tropical Cruises | Cruise Agents | Discount Cruises Sitemap | Resources 1 2 3 | Please read our Terms and Conditions before buying a cruise on-line. Unless otherwise noted, all prices listed on our site are per person based on double occupancy. Port charges included. Airfare , travel insurance, government fees and taxes are additional.Prices subject to availability and may be withdrawn by the cruise line at any time."Abracadabra Cruises" and Abracadabra logo are trademarks of Abracadabra! Cruises 1993-2005 all rights reserved. CruiseMagic registered slogan of Abracadabra! Cruises 1993-2005 all rights reserved. Abracadabra! Cruises is a registered seller of travel in California (CST#1018507-10) and in Florida (FST#ST36087). This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in any form. Abracadabra Cruises and Family Vacations offers discounts on all cruise lines.

Hawaii Hotels Kailua Kona

Island of Hawaii Vacations & Tourism, Island of Hawaii Hotels, Island of Hawaii Attractions - Yahoo! Travel Primary Navigation Overview | Hotels | Things to do | Restaurants | Flights | Cars | Deals | FareChase Island of Hawaii: Search Travel Travel > Guides > North America > United States > Hawaii > Island of Hawaii Email this page Print Island of Hawaii Vacations, Tourism, Hotels View slideshow Cities in Island of Hawaii Captain Cook Hawaii Volcanoes Natl Pk Hilo Holualoa Honaunau Honokaa Kailua Kona Kamuela Kohala Coast Naalehu Paauilo Pahala Volcano Waimea Popular Island of Hawaii Hotels Kailua Kona Four Seasons Resort Hualalai Casa de Emdeko Mauna Loa Village Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa Kona Village Resort Hilo Shipman House Bed & Breakfast Inn Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Dolphin Bay Hotel Wild Ginger Inn Inn At Kulaniapia Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Volcano House Waimea ResortQuest Waimea Plantation Cottages Volcano Kilauea Lodge Hale Ohia Cottages Volcano Bed & Breakfast Volcano Inn Toad Hall Hawaii Bed and Breakfast Holualoa Holualoa Inn TNSZ Generations Rental Kamuela Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel at Mauna Kea Kamuela Inn The Jacaranda Inn Kohala Coast The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii Waikoloa: Kolea Islands at Mauna Lani Mauna Lani Terrace Mauna Kea Villas Related Information Popular Attractions in Island of Hawaii Papohaku Beach Hapuna Beach Park Waimea Canyon Akaka Falls State Park Koke'e State Park Polihale State Park Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Jack's Tours Pana'ewa Rain Forest Zoo Dolphin Discoveries Popular Hotels in Island of Hawaii Mauna Lani Bay Hotel & Bungalows Four Seasons Resort Hualalai The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii Casa de Emdeko Shipman House Bed & Breakfast Inn Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel at Mauna Kea Mauna Loa Village Hilo Hawaiian Hotel Sheraton Keauhou Bay Resort & Spa Popular Cities in Island of Hawaii Kailua Kona Hilo Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Waimea Volcano Holualoa Kamuela Kohala Coast Naalehu Honaunau Yahoo! Travel: Your best choice for cheap plane tickets and other great deals! Help get your favorite places listed on Yahoo! Travel: suggest a hotel or suggest an attraction .

Hawaii Resort

Waikiki Beach Hawaii Resort & Spa Traditions established by Queen Lili'uokalani, the last Hawaiian monarch, continue to flourish at our resort. home over view testimonials -- -- Let us show you exclusive offers & updates tailored to your interests. resort services fast facts testimonials map & directions "The room was excellent, large enough that we didn't feel crowded - very comfortable for our extended stay. The hotel had many pleasant seating areas in both quiet and busy areas. Great. Terrific staff at this hotel! Friendly, helpful. Just wonderful." - Ruben Pradel, Des Moines, Washington "What a beautiful Hotel! Very nice staff." - Matt Grabowski, East Pointe, Missouri "From the moment we checked in to the time we left, we were impressed by your staff's willingness to go the extra nine yards to make sure our stay was enjoyable. The grounds were immaculate, the pool area always clean and neat with enough chaises and towels available, as well as shaded areas that we could retreat to when necessary. We also appreciated the little things: rows of orchids in the lobby, room amenities, soft Hawaiian music poolside capturing the mood of the islands, the magnificent views of Waikiki. All subtle reminders that we were truly in paradise. When we return next year, we will choose Marriott because of the outstanding service and luxury that you offer at affordable prices. Thank you for your high standards of excellence." - Mr. & Mrs. William H. Swick, Manahawkin, New Jersey "I was very impressed with the cleanliness of the room. This hotel staff was awesome! They make a great team running the hotel. Everyone I came in contact with was excellent. Again, I must say how much I enjoyed this hotel! It was so clean well maintained." - Marsha Gaines, Antelope, California "We found everyone we met very happy, helpful & friendly. We felt very comfortable here." - Robert & Pamela Starrett, Redding, Connecticut "The rooms were beautifully and luxuriously decorated with the most comfortable and luxurious beds we have ever slept on. Each room has a beautiful view of the ocean and Waikiki beach. The dinner buffet was extraordinary and equal to any cruise ship on the ocean! Just a few steps from the Pacific Ocean!" - Rhonda C. of Springhill, LA "This hotel made everything perfect." - Mike W. of Iowa City, IA "Across from Waikiki Beach and near everything. The service was outstanding and the staff is very friendly. This hotel has all the amenities. Poolside entertainment and bar are excellent. This hotel is one of the best in Waikiki." - Jerome L. "Thank you so much for making our stay so enjoyable. We stayed one night at the Hilton before we stayed with you the rest of our trip & there's No comparison! Your rooms & hospitality FAR exceed the Hilton. Thanks for being so nice! Everyone was nice, helpful from the maids to the bellboy and valet guys. The desk help was wonderful, too. Our 2 little girls love the activities & had a ball. Thank you again so much! Marriott is the best wherever we go." - Rosemary Huish, Orem, Utah "Two thumbs up! Excellent location on the best part of Waikiki Beach. Exceptionally clean and modern rooms with incredibly comfortable beds with down pillows and comforter. Very friendly and helpful staff. Definitely recommend this hotel and will stay there again when we return." - Breck P., Phoenix, AZ home resort overview accommodations check rates reserve now packages specials meetings & events weddings spa olakino things to do resort dining resort activities news press room take a tour contact privacy policy site map 2552 Kalakaua Avenue Honolulu, Hawaii 96815-3699 RES 1.800.367.5370 PH: 1.808.922.6611 FAX: 1.808.921-5255 ©2005 Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa Developed by Symbolic

Hawaii Honeymoon

Maui Weddings : FREE Wedding Guide Site Map FAQs Free Brochure -- Wedding Packages Wedding Locations Accommodations Our People Wedding Coordinators Wedding Flowers Ministers Photographers Activities FREE Wedding Guide Wedding Receptions Maui Info Site Map Contact Maui Weddings and Honeymoons in Hawaii. Maui'd Forever has assembled a quality team of professionals who make dream Maui weddings andhoneymoons a reality. We can accomodate Maui weddings of all sizes, both small and large. Call us at 1-800-395-7807 today or get our FREE Maui Wedding Guide . Why choose Maui'd Forever? When looking to plan destination weddings in Maui, you need to find the best local experts for friendly advice, guidance and planning. Maui Weddings - Packages start at just $459! Use our website to choose Maui wedding packages and preview some of the most fabulous locations for Maui Weddings available. Beach weddings at sunset are the most popular, but we do offer other spectacular locations in Maui . Actvities: Maui'd Forever clients receive 10% off all their activities .You can even preview and price every Luau, snorkel trip, helicopter tour and more.Use us as your trusted resource for all your Maui needs. Accommodations: Our accommodations for Maui weddings are spectacular and ideal for your wedding and honeymoon plans. To meet Our People and your Wedding Coordinator contact us at 1-800-395-7807or email us at info@mauidforever.com today! contact: info@mauidforever.com phone: 1-800-395-7807 2006 Maui'd Forever optimized by HRSEO