Everyone has their own idea of vacation. For some, it may be skiing in the snowy mountainous terrain; for others, they might envision a picture perfect beach filled with Piña Coladas and gentle waves rolling in and out of the horizon. Whatever your poison may be, the Big Island of Hawai'i is not only a number one tourist destination for avid surfers and beach goers, it is also home to the World's largest volcano, houses thousands of indigenous species, possesses multiple fresh water rivers, lakes, and waterfalls, and on top of it all, there's a live volcano constantly spewing molten rock on one end of the most climatically diverse area on Earth.
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In our seven years of living on the island, my family and I have come across the most bizarre, and unique experiences that we will most likely ever in counter. Once when I was little, my dad and I drove straight through piles of Lava Rock to reach a secluded local swimming hole; little did we know that we had company, a sea lion swam with us, it was a life changing experience. The Kilauea active volcano stood five miles from my house, we could see the beautiful red glow from our window, and even went to see the spectacular site, which is a huge tourist destination, and quite worth it.
My family's weekend getaway was always to drive the short two hours across the diverse island of desert, to tropical forests and stay at the Hilton Waiakoloa Resort, probably the best place on Earth. We would endulge in amazing sushi and incredible performances such as fire dancers and hula dancers. The highlight of the trips was always going to Hapuna beach in Kona, Hawai'i. It is a mile long of powdery white sand that sinks into crystal blue, amazingly warm water. If I could choose one place to spend the rest of my life, it would be this beach, and this entire island.
Back on our hometown side of the island, we live in the shadow of the Monstrous Mauna Kea, that would be covered in snow during the winter, and excessible to tourists. Although I have never been up to the slopes, I hear it has an incredible view, and is home to international telescopes. While living in Hilo Hawai'i, my family and I had met some of the most diverse and amazingly kind people i think I will ever know. Everyone was so compassionate and generous, it was amazing. You would nevermknow how much history has occured in this small little area unless youve experienced it yourself, queens have been overthrwown, battles have been fought, and a society has prospered on its diversity and beauty. Why go anywhere else when you could have it all on spine island? It is truly an amazing paradis full of enriching culture, beautiful beaches, and incredible views.
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