Journal

One of the best parts about traveling is learning how another culture lives.  If you do your research right, you may be able to avoid the tourist traps - But a lot of times you don’t realize it’s a trap until it’s too late.

If you’re looking to get a real taste of what the locals dig in Honolulu, here are suggestions on how to make the best of your trip to Hawaii!

The Nightlife:
- First Friday - On the first Friday of every month, there is a huge block party downtown Honolulu.  These are the best ways to meet locals, and really see Hawaii’s character first-hand.
- Art After Dark - On the last Friday of every month, the Art Academy has a big party that you don’t want to miss.  Explore the arts with a drink in hand for only $10 for non-members.
- Karaoke - If you enjoy dusting off the old vocal chords, you’ll fit right in!  It’s something totally out of the norm, but always a local favorite.  The Karaoke Hut is one of the hottest singing spots where you can get a private room or sing your heart out in the bar.

Live Music:
- Anna Bananas is a throwback to the 50’s and 60’s folk houses where you can find locals jamming to blues, reggae, and any type of rock.  There are scheduled shows throughout the week nights, but during the daytime you can enjoy a yummy Mexican lunch.
- Jazz Minds - If you like great food, drinks, and live jazz - Jazz Minds is a must. It is Hawaii’s only dedicated live jazz venue - meaning it’s just so good that others don’t even try!

Fine Dining:
- Alan Wongs - This restaurant has a surprising combination of traditional Chinese ingredients to create wonderful tasting dishes.  As with many Hawaiian hangouts, though the food here is high class, you can still dress pretty casual.
- Le Bistro - Definitely make a reservation when visiting Le Bistro because the line can get pretty long (which is a good sign).  Service is superb and the Beef Quartet is to die for!
- Town - Their catchphrase is: “Local first, organic whenever possible, with Aloha always.” So you know their ingredients are as fresh as they come. Hit up Town for their Saturday morning breakfast with banana pancakes and a killer breakfast burrito.
- Yanagi Sushi - The atmosphere has a relaxed and casual feeling, yet some of the best upscale sushi you’ll try in Hawaii.  If you’re a sushi snob, Yanagi Sushi is your best bet.

Hole in the Wall Restaurants:
- Irifune - This place is quite the charmer with its handwritten chalk menus and tables and chairs strewn all over the place to create a mingling environment.  Once you taste the food, you’ll love the place even more.
- Mitch’s Sushi - Another great sushi place that will make your mouth water.  Mitch’s is a local hangout for some of the freshest fish in Hawaii.
- Gyu Kaku - Do you love a good happy hour?  Then Gyu Kaku is where it’s at.  They run happy hours from 11:30am - 6pm as well as 9pm to close.  You’ll be happy you went!

Activities:
- Hiking in Hawaii is a must.  Not only is it free, but the scenery is ridiculous. http://oahuhiking.com/
- Drive around the island - It sounds simple, but so many people never leave Waikiki, which is a shame.  Get in a car and follow the coast and stop whenever to take in the sights, or the local grinds.
- Canoe Sailing is a blast -  Book a trip with Captain Bruce at Aloha Spirit and let them know Michael Scott sent you.

Another local tip is to look for rentals on VRBO, especially if you’re traveling with family.  For less than the cost of hotel rooms, you can get an entire house (most likely close to the beach).  One last thing a person should check when they visit Oahu is The Weekly to see what's happening that week.

Feel free to message us on Facebook if you have any questions before your next visit to Honolulu!