Things to do in Hawaii for March

This weekend sees the start of the 19th annual Honolulu festival, taking place from 1st - 3rd march 2013. Located on the Hawaii Island of Oahu in Waikiki, the theme for this great festival is going to be Harmony of cultures across the Pacific, showcasing a fantastic display of Hawaiian cultures. Over the weekend you can enjoy local crafts, music, singing, dancing, fireworks, and a vibrant colourful parade through Waikiki, perfect for all the family on a holiday to Hawaii.

The Hawaiian Island of Kauai celebrates Prince Kuhio birthday from March 16th – 30th 2013 (an official state holiday in Hawaii). Kuhio was one of Hawaii’s most beloved alii (royalty) and statesmen. Located in Poipu, Eleele, Lihue and Wailua the various celebrations and events will provide many insights into the Hawaiian culture, from music, dancing and crafts to a traditional Hawaiian boat race, the festival shows a beautiful array of Hawaiian history.

So if you are visiting Hawaii in March then be show to check these colourful events out!

International Driving Permit Update

Charter Travel have been advised by ABTA that the Florida Department of Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles have suspended the state’s recently enacted International Driving Permit requirement and is pending further study. International visitors who plan to drive in Florida will now only need a valid driver’s license issued from their own country (both parts - if applicable) and a major credit card.

Do I need an International Driving Permit?

Do I need an International Driving Permit to drive a hire car in Florida? In short, YES, you do!

This has been the topic of conversion across forums and social media sites in the last week and has been a question that we have been swamped with. In fact we are quite surprised at the lack of communication there has been to inform anyone of this … we weren’t informed and even the car hire companies did not appear to be aware of this??
However, after some extensive research it has come to light that if you have a UK driving license and you are planning on driving in Florida then you will need an International Driving Permit(IDP). This came into action on the 1st January 2013 and can be purchased from your local post office - currently priced at £5.50.
As it stands we are aware that this is just a law that has been implemented in the state of Florida, however there may be a possibility that it will be adopted in other states so be sure to check with your local post office if you plan on driving in the USA.
You will find more information on this at your local Post Office and The AA.

Top Water Sports to do on a Maui Holiday

So we have done the research and found the best water sport to take part in on a Maui holiday! If you’re into ocean activities then this article will give you the information you need to have a blast on your holiday to Maui, Hawaii.

Whale Watching in Maui

This has got to be a number one for all. Whale watching in Maui is truly magical and can be enjoyed by all ages. Humpback whales migrate to Hawaii during the winter months, so why not treat yourselves to this amazing experience as Maui is regarded as the best place in the world for whale watching.

Snorkelling in Maui

In second place we have snorkelling of course. Submerge yourself into the underwater world of Maui and see the fantastic colours, sea life and coral reef of the warm ocean of Maui. You will find the very best snorkelling tours on offer in Maui and you will be able to cater it to your needs as the tour instructors will adapt it to your snorkelling abilities. Something that would be worthwhile is a snorkel tour to Molokini Crater and you will be sure to pick up memories to last a life time.

Surfing in Maui

Ok, so surfing has to be next on the list. If you fancy yourself as a surfer or would like to learn, then where better to start than Hawaii? Maui is known for having fantastic surf conditions all year round and is in fact the best island to learn to surf on as the conditions tend to be just right for new surfers. Allow your surf dreams to become a reality in Maui!

Kite Surfing in Maui

Slightly more active – we have kite surfing. Becoming more and more popular on Maui, kite surfing is a great activity that you can partake in on your holiday to Maui. However, we must say that kite surfing is a difficult skill to learn and it is very important to book with a great instructor who can take you through the safety too. A good place to start is with Aqua Sports, a great kite surfing school in Maui.

Sport Fishing

Last but not least we have sport fishing in Maui. Now, sport fishing may not be for everyone but it is great fun in Maui if you love to fish. There are many fishing tours that you can go on to take advantage of the great marine life in the Hawaiian oceans. You will find a wide variety of fish surrounding Maui including Bill fish and Hawaiian game fish including; Striped Marlin, Spearfish, Sailfish, Mahi-Mahi, Ono, Ahi, and Aku to name a few. Be sure to check out Maui Sport Fishing Charters to guarantee a great fishing experience.