Travel and Lifestyle
Hawaii Girl Life - Travel and Lifestyle
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Best Boutique and Luxury Hotels on O‘ahu — A Local’s Curated Guide
When you’re comparing the best luxury hotels Oahu has to offer, choosing the right location makes a meaningful difference in how your trip feels—your morning views, your evening pace, and what becomes memorable long after you return home. Choosing where to stay on O‘ahu is one of the most defining parts of your trip—because the right hotel shapes your mornings, your pace, and the experiences that feel meaningful along the way. As someone born and raised here, my knowledge of these hotels comes from lived experiences—not quick site tours. Baby showers over high tea at Halekulani, weddings (including my own) inside elegant oceanfront ballrooms, graduation celebrations overlooking the water, staycations…
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Disney Aulani: The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Resort in Oahu
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Discover Venice, Italy: The Hawaii Girl Life Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Floating City
Venice, Italy. It’s one of the most enchanting and unique cities in the world and one that had been on my husband’s bucket list for a long while before we finally booked our tickets there for the first time. If only I knew how life-changing a visit to Venice was, I’d have visited long ago. Known for its winding canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, Venice attracts millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re admiring the grandeur of St. Mark’s Basilica, drifting along the Grand Canal, or enjoying a peaceful gondola ride, Venice offers a magical experience like no other. In this guide, we’ll explore the best things to do…
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Disney Aulani: The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Resort in Oahu
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In Love with Italia
Have you ever wondered where someone goes to vacation when they live in what many regard to be “paradise”? Various spots on the mainland U.S. are popular (of course Hawaii people love Vegas and Disney though various spots on the West Coast are also well-loved), as are Japan and South Korea. Australia and New Zealand are another. As for me? My love affair is with Italy. Why Italy? Why let me count the ways. All kidding aside, it’s a beautiful country with so much to offer. Stunning landscapes, beautiful hilltop villages and seaside towns, delicious food (oh and let’s not forget the wine!), warm people. Whether you love lakes, oceans,…
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Disney Aulani: The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Resort in Oahu
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A Unique Hawaii Gift or Souvenir: Martin & MacArthur
So you are on vacation here on Oahu and you want to find something really special to take back home as a gift or perhaps as a souvenir of the amazing trip that you had here. Where do you go? Our vote is for Martin & MacArthur. Let me tell you why. Featuring high-quality, handcrafted koa wood products that embody the spirit of Hawaii, Martin & MacArthur features the work of the finest local craftsmen. Established in 1961, this renowned brand specializes in creating stunning pieces from indigenous Hawaiian koa wood. Known for its exceptional beauty and durability, koa wood is a cornerstone of Martin & MacArthur’s exquisite craftsmanship. In…
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Disney Aulani: The Ultimate Kid-Friendly Resort in Oahu
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How I Pack Light for Autumn in Europe
Everyone always seems to have the same advice when they hear that we are about to embark on a trip from our tiny island here in Hawaii to far away Europe. Pack light! Make sure you fit everything in a carry-on. Tiny hotel rooms! Lots of stairs! It did seem pretty daunting while preparing for our first vacation abroad, but I forged ahead the best I could, learning by trial and error on how to pack light. And now I’m pretty comfortable that I have it down pat. Well at least what has worked beautifully for me (as well as packing for kids, though that is another story in itself)…
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What’s In My Bag: Beach Day
I really love this type of post or blog. Perhaps it’s due to being naturally curious and always on the hunt for great ideas to enhance my own bag contents or to make life easier. Or maybe it’s because I used to be so addicted to People magazine’s Style Watch. In any case, I thought it’d be fun to do my own version of What’s In My Bag. Let’s start with one I just packed for recently. A beach day! Beach Bag of Choice My current favorite is a mesh Lilly Pulitzer tote that I ordered off their website a couple of season ago. I completely adore this bag (I…
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Where to Stay: Waikiki
Experience the Moana Surfrider Hotel: The First Lady of Waikiki As you’re planning your next trip to Oahu, I have a personal favorite hotel recommendation. For the perfect blend of luxury, history, and exquisite Hawaiian charm, the Moana Surfrider Hotel, A Westin Resort and Spa in Waikiki is your ideal destination. Known as the “First Lady of Waikiki,” this historic hotel offers an unforgettable experience, complete with breathtaking views, exquisite dining, and cultural immersion with its beautiful blend of Victorian elegance and modern comfort. Here’s everything you need to know about this iconic hotel! A Historic Treasure in Waikiki Opened in 1901, the Moana Surfrider Hotel is one of Hawaii’s most cherished hotels.…
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Explore the International Market Place in Waikiki: The Hawaii Girl Life Ultimate Shopping and Dining Destination
Planning a trip to Waikiki? Don’t miss the International Market Place, a vibrant hub that combines shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in the heart of Hawaii. This iconic marketplace offers a unique blend of modern retail and rich local history, making it a must-visit for both tourists and locals. A Brief History of the International Market Place Established in 1956, the International Market Place has transformed from a bustling outdoor market into a contemporary shopping destination. Despite its modernization, the marketplace retains its cultural roots, offering visitors a glimpse into Hawaii’s vibrant heritage. Maybe not all locals will agree, but I personally love the new version and readily visit much more often than…
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Explore Ala Moana Shopping Center: Hawaii’s Top Retail Destination
Planning a trip to Hawaii? Don’t miss the Ala Moana Shopping Center—a must-visit destination in Honolulu that combines shopping, dining, and culture all in one stunning location. Maybe even a home away from home for some—you can really find it all at Ala Moana Center. This blog post will guide you through the best experiences that Ala Moana has to offer. Why Visit Ala Moana Shopping Center? Ala Moana Shopping Center is the largest open-air shopping center in the world, featuring over 350 stores. Whether you’re looking for high-end fashion or unique local products, this retail paradise has it all. I love a one-stop shop, don’t you? Shopping Highlights Luxury…
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Mini Itinerary: Haleiwa
I love a good day trip, don’t you? Hopefully these mini itineraries will inspire you and give a really good starting point for your next trip here to Hawaii or to one of my other favorite destinations (hello Italy and Disneyland/Disneyworld areas particularly!). Where should we start? Ah, of course a “Mini Itinerary” series has to start with my home island Oahu and specifically the best spot on the island-the North Shore. You’ll find a lot more chatter on this Hawaii blog that focuses on various spots on the North Shore, but for now let’s zero in on Haleiwa. Haleiwa Haleiwa is regarded as the “artistic and social hub of…
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