And this is even more important, of course, if you have an event to attend - or throw. This is especially true for a visit during the high season or if you would like something specific, like an ocean view or adjoining rooms. DOīook your resort, hotel or condo as far in advance as possible. Once on the big island of Kauai, there are numerous ways to spend less money (cook in your own kitchen, enjoy all the natural wonders, skip the big tours) and ways to spend more money (dine at restaurants for every meal, book the helicopter, shop ‘til you drop) but if you’ve chosen a trip that falls within your own budget, and you’ve made your peace with the costs, you will be more relaxed - and have much more fun! And remember: some adventures in life are truly priceless. You will become aware of this as you book your airfare and accommodations.

DOįully understand that this will be expensive. Does everyone want to stay on the more tropical (read: rainy) North Shore because it has the best surfing, while others were hoping for the endless sunshine of the South Shore? Do some of you dream of being right on the beach in a hotel room, while others hope for the upscale amenities in an all-inclusive resort? Discuss expectations and arrive at something that works for all. Some Handy Do’s and Don’ts: Before You Go DOĬhat with your companions to determine what vacation you envision on Kauai Island. You know that by arming yourself with a little knowledge, you can start to relax. You know it’s time to start planning and packing smart, so you research and familiarize yourself with some common-sense do’s and don’ts of traveling to Kauai. So the questions now become: What exactly do you pack? What sort of things will you have to reserve in advance? Where is the most sunshine bang-for-your-buck? And which season offers the smallest chance of getting lost in the jungle with three sons and one small cookstove? Sure, they’re half joking, but you are well aware that in addition to your serene pool swims, tropical happy hours and shopping excursions, you will likely be partaking in some pretty rigorous, down-and-dirty adventures, too. “Ha ha,” you deadpan, secretly enjoying the teasing. “We’re gonna need our favorite cook when we get lost in the wild for days!” “Yeah, you gotta hike, too, Mom,” your younger son chimes in. “We’ll cliff jump and swim under waterfalls and stuff!” Meanwhile, your sons are raving about all the extreme hikes they plan to conquer deep in Kauai’s rainforests - and how they fully expect you to hike with them. You envision yourself on the sun-drenched South Shore, lounging on the white sand, ocean waves in view, a fruity cocktail in hand. You’ve all been working hard and are looking forward to getting off the grid together for a bit. You just had the rare fun of telling your college-age sons that you’re treating them to a vacation in Kauai, one of the Hawaiian islands.

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