OUR DESTINATIONS
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We offer holidays to the four corners of the globe. If you want specialist advise please phone our travel team and we will be happy to help.
Alternatively, check out some of our holiday offers below.
- Destinations
- North America
- United States of America
- Hawaii
- Oahu
Oahu
Oahu is only the third largest of the inhabited Hawaiian
islands, but it is home to nearly three-quarters of the state's
residents, most of them living in the ultra-modern capital city,
Honolulu, and its adjacent beach resort suburb of Waikiki, on the
south coast of the island. Beyond the urban bustle of the south,
Oahu is quiet and enchanting; flaunting 23 state parks and
punctuated by ancient stone heiau (temples). The island's most
recognisable landmark is the 761ft (232m) tall Diamond Head to the
east of Waikiki. This mountain is a 'tuff cone' formed 100,000
years ago when an eruption of volcanic ash hardened into solid
rock. The extinct volcano is traditionally believed to be the home
of Pele, the fire goddess. Oahu means 'gathering place', and the
island certainly lives up to its name in its ethnic diversity,
which becomes evident at a glance at the annual festival calendar.
From the Chinese New Year in late January to King Kamehameha Day in
June and the Aloha Festivals in September there is barely a dull
moment and always a reason for celebration.
Information & Facts
Climate
Oahu experiences constant warm, balmy weather all year round,
its tropical climate subject to variations caused by different
elevations and geographic exposure rather than seasons. The
southern side of the island, including Honolulu and Waikiki, is
drier than the leeward side, the rain-bearing trade winds blocked
by the mountain ranges.
Language
English is the most common language but Spanish is often
spoken in south-western states.
Money
The US Dollar (USD) is the unit of currency and is divided into
100 cents. Only major banks exchange foreign currency. ATMs are
widespread and credit cards and travellers cheques are widely
accepted. Travellers cheques should be taken in US Dollars to avoid
hassles. Banking hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm.