Hawaii: The Paradise in the Pacific

Hawaii, a lush archipelago of islands spread over the central Pacific region, is well-known for its natural beauty and vacation destination location. Undoubtedly, it is one the world's most exotic places with its warm equatorial climate, inviting blue waters, and luscious rain forests. The name, Hawaii, came from the native Hawaiian word "Owhylee", which means homeland. On August 21st, 1959 Hawaii was included in the United States of America as the 50th state. It is the newest member of the United States and the only state that is entirely consisted of islands.

The Hawaiian Islands, which actually consist of many smaller islands and atolls along with its eight major islands, were formed by volcanic magma from an undersea source known as hot spots. Due to its location, the Hawaiian Islands are the most remote island group on earth.

This paradise of the pacific was first discovered by a British explorer Captain James Cook in 1778, who actually called the islands, the Sandwich Islands. During that time, the islands were inhabited by the native people of Hawaii and even today, descendants of the ancient Hawaiian bloodline still live there.

Honolulu, the capital city of Hawaii, is located on the island of Oahu, which is home to almost 80% of the state's population. Of the eight islands, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii, the island of Hawaii is the largest, with a land area of approximately 4,000 square miles. The Island of Hawaii is also called "the Big Island" to avoid being mistaken for the entire state.

Hawaii's among the best tourist destination locations on earth because of its matchless natural beauty and tropical climate. The flora and fauna, summery weather, and lush green surrounding, are few of the many things that Hawaii offers to its tourists, not to mention its friendly residents and delicious international cuisines. It is also a surfer's paradise, where residents and visitors alike can enjoy the island surf year-round. Not only used as a tourist location, but researchers from around the world also come to Hawaii to study its amazing geography and biodiversity, some of which are found nowhere else on earth. Well known travel writer and novelist, Paul Theroux, has glorified Hawaii quoting that:

"Hawaii is not a state of mind, but a state of grace"

However, during its history, Hawaii was never always in a state of grace. On December 7th, 1941, the island of Oahu experienced an attack by Japanese forces on its military and naval facility situated in Pearl Harbor, which resulted in over two thousand deaths. This incident sparked America's involvement in World War II. Yet, over the years, Hawaii managed to return to its normal beauty.

Aside from tourism, which is Hawaii's major economic driver, exporting of coffee, macadamia nuts, pineapple, and sugar cane are also significant contributions to its economy. The islands act as a sanctuary for snow birds during the winter. Due to its year-round tropical climate, many visitors, especially those that live in cold locations, visit Hawaii during the usual winter months. Sometimes you'll get a chance to see a fleet of private airplanes that line the tarmac at the local airports.

As you can see, Hawaii has a rich history and a lot to offer. From its ancient past it has developed into a multicultural melting pot that is known to many across the world. In Hawaii, you can experience nature's best kept secrets, adventurous activities, and world-class accommodations. If you choose to make it your next vacation spot, you won't be disappointed.

Just make sure to plan ahead and look for some great deals online. Once you're there, you can experience the wonders that give Hawaii its reputation.

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