I just came across this brief write-up about the Big Island. It included a few photos too that I thought some might be interested in seeing. So, this is where Adriana and I will be living. Sounds like paradise. You're all welcome to visit! Here goes:
While its official name is in fact Hawaii, the state's largest and southernmost isle is more commonly known as the Big Island (to avoid confusion with the name of the state it occupies). And, at nearly twice the size of all the other islands combined, the Big Island deserves its name indeed. This remote island packs a lot into its large expanse as well: snow-capped mountains (yes, there is snow in Hawaii!), lush rainforests, the world's most-active volcano, arid deserts, bustling towns, and fascinating beaches, including the world's only green-sand beach, South Point. Indeed, if there's one place that really showcases the full gamut of Hawaii's offerings, this eponymous island may well be it. While not quite the gushing, fiery liquid of your imagination, the lava at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is impressive nonetheless; the eruption viewing area is best visited after nightfall, when, with the help of binoculars, you'll be able to spot lava flowing into the ocean about 4.5 miles away. The lush landscapes and tropical flora you expect of Hawaii is found in Waipio Valley, or Valley of the Kings, the home of King Kamehameha I, who conquered the islands and united them in 1810; exploring its vast beauty is best done by horseback or four-wheel drive. In contrast, the snow-capped mountain peaks of Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano at the island's center that ranks as the world's tallest sea mountain—it's taller, even, than Everest—makes for prime stargazing thanks to the high altitude, clear air, and utter darkness.
While its official name is in fact Hawaii, the state's largest and southernmost isle is more commonly known as the Big Island (to avoid confusion with the name of the state it occupies). And, at nearly twice the size of all the other islands combined, the Big Island deserves its name indeed. This remote island packs a lot into its large expanse as well: snow-capped mountains (yes, there is snow in Hawaii!), lush rainforests, the world's most-active volcano, arid deserts, bustling towns, and fascinating beaches, including the world's only green-sand beach, South Point. Indeed, if there's one place that really showcases the full gamut of Hawaii's offerings, this eponymous island may well be it. While not quite the gushing, fiery liquid of your imagination, the lava at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is impressive nonetheless; the eruption viewing area is best visited after nightfall, when, with the help of binoculars, you'll be able to spot lava flowing into the ocean about 4.5 miles away. The lush landscapes and tropical flora you expect of Hawaii is found in Waipio Valley, or Valley of the Kings, the home of King Kamehameha I, who conquered the islands and united them in 1810; exploring its vast beauty is best done by horseback or four-wheel drive. In contrast, the snow-capped mountain peaks of Mauna Kea, a dormant volcano at the island's center that ranks as the world's tallest sea mountain—it's taller, even, than Everest—makes for prime stargazing thanks to the high altitude, clear air, and utter darkness.
