Say Hello to Hawaii - Heaven on Earth

Mark Twain declared Hawaii to be 'the loveliest fleet of islands that lies anchored in any ocean', and not even years of mass tourism have managed to prove him wrong. Its very name conjures dreamy images of drinking mai tais to slack-key guitar.

But it's not all hibiscus behind the ear and papaya on the chin: it's also hikes along the smoldering crust of a living volcano, hip-hop in Waikiki and snorkelling with vivid fish.

Thousands of gems fashion the archipelago's necklace, but only six islands welcome visitors. Each is as different as the multi-ethnic complexions of the local population, who talk story and share their passion about Hawaii as if you're long-lost pals.

Travelers to Hawaii should be aware that the Big Island is home to one of the world's most active volcanoes, Kilauea.

On 25 March, its Halemaumau crater erupted - lava waves up to 12m (39ft) high were reported in July.

Visitors to the area should heed any local advice or warnings issued, and be vigilant for volcanic gas emissions.. Find out how to get around in the Hawaii.

When to Go
Although Hawaii's busiest tourist season is during winter (December to February), this has more to do with the weather elsewhere, since many visitors are snowbirds escaping cold winters back home.

Average temperatures differ very little from winter to summer. June through October is the hottest period, while rainfall is heaviest between December and March - neither extreme is worth worrying over. Hotel prices are lowest during the spring (April to mid-May) and autumn (October to mid-November).

Big holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and Easter mean accommodation is tight and prices a bit higher.

In terms of cost, visiting between mid-April and mid-November can be a bargain because some hotel prices drop in the off-season.

Hotels and resorts catering to summertime vacationing families do not lower their rates significantly.

If you're a board surfer, you'll find the biggest waves in winter, whereas if you're a windsurfer, you'll find the best wind conditions in summer. Football freaks will want to plan holidays around the Hula and Pro Bowls, while cowboys might plan an adventure around big rodeos.

Alternatively, you might want to avoid big-time events. For example, unless you've scored tickets to the Merrie Monarch Festival, visit Hilo another time.

Climate in Hawaii
The climate in Hawaii is fantastic. It's balmy and warm, with northeasterly trade winds prevailing most of the year. Near the coast, average highs are a pleasant 27°C (80°F), and the difference between summer and winter average temperatures is minimal.

The rainiest period is between December and March. In general, the driest, sunniest conditions and the calmest waters are on the southwesterly, or leeward, side of the islands.

Conversely, the northeasterly, or windward, side of the islands receive decent rainfalls: Hilo, the rainiest city in the USA, is on the windward side of the Big Island.

Notable Events in Hawaii
With its multitude of cultures and permanently good weather, Hawaii always has something to celebrate.

Some of the events to look out for include Hawaii's biggest hula competition, the Merrie Monarch Festival (April); May Day, an extravaganza of lei-making (May); King Kamehameha Day, a state holiday with parades (June); Aloha Festival, a celebration with parades, cultural events, canoe races and Hawaiian music (August to October); the Quicksilver/Eddie Aikau Memorial Big Wave Classic, a surf event held "on O'ahu" when wave heights exceed 6m/20ft (December); and the Ironman Triathlon World Championship on the Big Island (October).

Tourism & Getting Around
Inter-island flights are plentiful between Honolulu (O'ahu) and airports at Lihue (Kauai), Kahului (Maui), Kona and Hilo (Big Island). The main carriers are Aloha Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines; commuter services are run by Island Air and Air Molokai.

There are inter-island ferries between Lahaina (Maui) and Manele (Lana'i), and Lahaina and Kaunakakai (Moloka'i). In 2007, the Hawaii SuperFerry will start sailing between O'ahu, Maui, Kauai'i and the Big Island.

O'ahu has a comprehensive bus system, making the island easy to explore by public transport. It will be necessary to hire a car to fully explore the other main islands. Folks in Hawaii drive on the right-hand side of the road and consider horn honking extremely rude unless required for safety.

Cycling is a legitimate way of getting around but be prepared for hefty climbs and narrow, traffic-clogged roads.

You can find out more about Hawaii at Hawaiiguide.com. For travel agents try Virginholidays.