Hawai'i Island is called Moku o Keawe

 

I just returned from an unforgettable trip to Hawaii, where the islands’ natural beauty and rich culture left me truly inspired. The lush landscapes, vibrant traditions, and the spirit of aloha made every moment magical.

Meet Duke Kahanamoku Hawaii’s ultimate wave riding legend! Olympic swimmer, surfing pioneer, and all-around aloha hero, Duke basically made  catching waves a lifestyle long before it was cool. Whether he was gliding across the ocean or sharing island vibes with the world, he showed that life in Hawaii is all about sun, surf, and smiles.

I had an amazing time at Duke’s Waikiki! From the moment the food arrived, I was in paradise every bite was fresh, flavorful, and downright delicious. The dishes had that perfect balance of island charm and bold taste, making it impossible not to smile with every mouthful. Each drink was bright, refreshing, and bursting with tropical flavors the kind that instantly put you in island mode. From sweet, fruity concoctions to zesty classics, every sip felt like a mini-vacation in a glass. Cheers to delicious drinks and unforgettable vibes. Definitely a must try for anyone visiting Waikiki! 

Carry a little aloha wherever you go! This Hawaiian-style tote bag isn’t just for groceries or beach days it’s a mini-vacation in your hands, full of sunny vibes, tropical colors, and island spirit. Whether you’re strolling the city or the sand, this tote says: “Good vibes only, Hawaiian style!”

Sun, surf, and good vibes that’s Hawaii in every heartbeat. The golden sun kisses the waves, the ocean hums its endless song, and every day feels like a celebration of life, laughter, and aloha. Whether you’re riding the surf, strolling along the sand, or sipping something sweet under a palm tree, Hawaii wraps you in warmth, joy, and a sense that anything is possible.

Hawaii, sunshine, and the sweet scent of a Purple Orchid Lei pure paradise! Every step feels magical with vibrant blooms brushing your shoulders, the ocean sparkling nearby, and aloha filling the air. The purple orchids aren’t just flowers they’re a hug from the islands, a promise of joy, and a splash of color that makes every moment feel like a celebration.

 

Hawaii girls live the tropical lifestyle to the fullest where every day is a mix of sun, surf, and sweet aloha. Barefoot on the sand, hair dancing in the breeze, they savor fresh fruit, salty waves, and golden sunsets like a ritual. Life moves a little slower here, laughter comes a little easier, and every moment feels like a celebration of island joy, freedom, and endless good vibes.

I tried Hula Hula ʻAuana on my Hawaii trip, and wow my hips definitely felt the aloha! Swaying to the ukulele and waving my hands like the ocean waves, I felt like a true island dancer (even if I stumbled a little). There’s something magical about letting the music guide you, laughing along the way, and feeling the spirit of Hawaii in every move. Who knew dancing could be this much fun in paradise?

 

You have to try Hawaiian coffee its pure magic in a cup! There’s just something about that first sip that makes you feel the islands: the soft breeze, warm sun, and the aloha spirit all rolled together. The beans, especially the famous Kona coffee from the Big Island, grow in rich volcanic soil, hand-picked, sun-dried, and roasted to perfection. Each cup has this amazing smooth, rich flavor with little hints of chocolate, honey, and tropical fruit basically a taste of paradise.

Drinking it isn’t just about caffeine; it’s about connection. You can feel the love and hard work of the farmers, the energy of the land, and a little sprinkle of island joy with every sip. Whether you’re watching a sunrise in Waikiki or just daydreaming at your kitchen table, Hawaiian coffee makes your day a little brighter. So next time you pour a cup, take a moment, smile, and say Mahalo to the farmers, the islands, and that unforgettable taste of aloha.

 

In Hawaiian culture, Wahine means woman but it carries a much deeper meaning than just gender. A Wahine is strength and grace woven together, like the waves that shape the islands. She is the keeper of Aloha, the heart of her family, and the storyteller of her community. From the legendary surfing queens of Waikīkī to the artists, teachers, and mothers who carry forward island traditions, Hawaiian women embody balance, beauty, and resilience. The spirit of the Wahine reminds us that true power flows not from force, but from harmony with nature, with others, and with oneself.

Hawaii is full of beautiful flowers and colorful birds. Bright hibiscus, plumeria, and orchids grow everywhere, making the islands smell sweet and look like a rainbow. You can often see birds like the red ʻIʻiwi or the ʻApapane flying around, drinking nectar from the flowers. The mix of flowers and birds makes Hawaii feel alive, peaceful, and full of Aloha.

Dinner in Hawaii was pure paradise! I started with a fresh poke bowl tender cubes of ahi tuna mixed with soy, sesame, and a little island magic. Every bite tasted so light and full of flavor! Then came my main dish a beautiful seafood plate, perfectly cooked and swimming in a delicious tropical sauce that brought the ocean right to my table. And of course, my drink was as fun as it gets  served inside a real pineapple, complete with a cute umbrella! Surrounded by warm smiles, ocean breezes, and Hawaiian music, it truly felt like dining in paradise.

Mahalo, everyone! Thanks for joining me on this Hawaiian adventure, from sun-kissed beaches to the magic of Hula and the taste of Kona coffee. I hope you felt a little aloha in every story and every photo. Until next time, keep chasing good vibes, tropical sunsets, and a little slice of paradise in your day. Aloha and see you soon!

"A WEEK IN EGYPT, TRAVEL WITH STYLE"

Egypt is one of the most mysterious countries on the planet and had been on my bucket list for years. There are so many places to travel in Egypt; it's hard to decide just where to go from ancient Egyptian sites to places tourists don't usually think about, like some of the most amazing coral reefs in the world, Egypt has so much to offer!

The Sahaba Mosque in Old Town Sharm El Sheikh is beautiful. I enjoyed seeing it lit up at night. It’s centrally located near a popular tourist market

Egypt, famous for its rich history and iconic landmarks, also hosts some of the best beaches in the world, making it a prime destination for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike. The Red Sea is particularly famous for its turquoise water, and vibrant coral reefs, which serve as a paradise for snorkelers and divers. A spot like Sharm El Sheikh is not only renowned for their breathtaking underwater landscapes but also offers unique activities.

After a quick coffee, light breakfast, it was time for the dive. I was finally all geared up for my first diving experience. Within seconds on my first dive I felt my heart sink in with the sea. The feeling was exhilarating but also very scary.  This Red Sea was adobe to thousands of brightly colored reef fish, coral and many other things, which I witnessed within minutes of my first dive.

A visit to Egypt is not complete without a cruise on the Nile River, the world’s longest river and a source of life for Egypt and its ancient civilization. I knew I had to do it, but not aboard a regular cruise ship. Instead, I sailed the Nile on a Felucca, the traditional Egyptian wooden sailboat that has been around for centuries.

For those wondering, it's an Egyptian bar named Farsha Cafe. An incredible lounge bar built into the side of a cliff overlooking the Red Sea: Romantic, Bohemian, Unique The venue sweeps down from the top of the mountain to the sea with and there are many different terraces and ledges where you can chill, have a few drink and maybe smoke Shisha - the typical middle-eastern water pipe.

Nearly 5,000 years ago, Memphis was the capital of Egypt and Giza served as the burial grounds for the royals. The three pyramid complexes were created in honor of their kings. The pyramids are located on the west side of the Nile River because this is the side the sun sets on. Thousands of years ago, Egyptians believed that the living should be on the east side where the sun rises while the dead should be on the other side.

There was simply no way I was going to miss the treasures of Tutankhamun, much less the mummies of the pharaohs. So I knew our trip to Cairo wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the landmark Egyptian Museum.

One of the oldest but still popular places in Naama bay is a world known Hard Rock Cafe. If there's a Hard Rock in the city I’m in, odds are good that I'll eat there