Tropical Island Hopping - Hawaii Style

Welcome to paradise for that is what the wordThe introduction of the Superferry has
'Hawaii' means; and with a warm, sub-tropicaldramatically altered the fare structures for
climate, friendly outgoing people, some of thetraveling within the Hawaiian Islands, forcing
world's most wondrous scenery and thoseairlines, which have long dominated inter-island
famous beautiful beaches, who are we to argue?transportation, to slash their fares to meet their
The islands of Hawaii each have their own uniquenew competitors head to head. Of course airfares
characteristics and the four main islands offer achange regularly, but in recent months Hawaiian
world of contrasts. There are black lava desertand Aloha airlines have been offering inter-island
plains, waterfalls, rainforest, the world's mostsale fares of $19 one way. These airlines also
active volcano, endless beaches and evenoffer tour packages that allow you to see as
snow-capped mountains.many of the major islands in Hawaii that you
The Hawaiian Islands are known for theirhave the time and resources to visit.
breathtaking scenery and the hospitality of theirCruise ships also run services to Kauai, Oahu, Maui,
people, as well their abundant marine life. Surfingand Hawaii (often called the big island to avoid
and diving are popular pursuits, but you can kayakconfusion with the state of Hawaii), giving you a
or bicycle tour the islands as well. With mosttaste of the best each island has to offer.
high-density tourism activity located aroundA trip from Honolulu to Maui by Superferry takes
Honolulu, on the island of Oahu (also home to theabout three hours, compared to about 40
famed Waikiki beach resort), visitors looking for aminutes by plane. To secure cheap air and ferry
more laid-back holiday usually head for one of thefares, be sure to make your reservation early -
other islands.at least two to three weeks in advance, or at
The long awaited Superferry service has nowleast as soon as you know your travel dates.
started operation, so access to the outer islandsAlso, flying on a weekday usually costs less than
is better than ever and cheaper. This high-speed,flying on Saturday or Sunday, and flights departing
866-passenger catamaran carries both people andon Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday generally
vehicles between Oahu and Maui, and should beginoffer the lowest fares.
services to Kauai in the near future.If you visit during the low season (January-May,
You can drive aboard the Hawaii Superferry inSeptember-November) you can save up to 20
your own car, relax in the lounges, watch TV andper cent on fares. So whenever you travel to
enjoy refreshments during the three-hour oceanHawaii, keep in mind the different options for
voyage. Adult, advance purchase, midweek faresinter-island travel and check the transportation
start at $44 one way (plus a fuel surcharge),companies well in advance for new services and
while peak fares (Friday-Monday) start at $54.special rates. Welcome to paradise!
You can take your car for an extra $59.