Happy New Year from the Pacific

Visiting Maui and Oahu

After four days at sea we sighted land – the first of the volcanic islands that were once known as the Sandwich Islands, but now make up the state of Hawaii.  Maui rises from the ocean with beaches and palm trees lining the shore.  We went ashore by tender boat to visit the town of Lahaina, which is mostly a tourist place.  Some people went hiking, golfing or surfing, but we were happy to walk around on solid ground, explore the shops and look at the beautiful flowers. Of course we had to taste the local beer, which was refreshing on a very hot day.

                                                First glimpse of land

 

     Morning beer!

Honolulu is such a big city!  Not far from the port, there is every kind of shopping imaginable.  This would be a good place to spend more time, but we were happy to go walking and then return to the ship to enjoy the swimming pool and relax.

                                    John in downtown Honolulu

 Honolulu skyline at night .  Flat Stanleys insisted in getting out for this!