Things not to miss in Oahu

Ten things not to miss in Honolulu, Oahu.

Everybody has their own ideas about what makes a great Hawaii holiday. You can relax on the shore, go on adventuresome walks or cycle down Maui's Haleakala. And I often overhear that a person's favourite is Maui or Kauai, because Oahu is "too full and touristy". Born in Oahu, it's actually quite simple to move away from the overcrowded tourist areas; first of all, you should keep away from Waikiki.

During the 17 years I have been living in Oahu, my whole familiy went there 5s. These are my tips for Oahu (well, plus one for Big Island, which I strongly suggest if you have more fun discovering, walking and the outdoors than laying on the beach).

Old Hawaiians call this" old-fashioned dance" the real hero. So if you are interested in any of Hawaii' s cultures, you are guilty of seeing an idea of Hawaii' Hawaii' s music. It' s difficult to get better Hwaiian cuisine at a better cost than this favourite (726 Kapahulu Ave., (808) 737-2275).

Taste the Hawaiian lukewarm meat (tender lukewarm meat wound in tungsten tee leafs and sheets, then steamed), grated loin of loin (literally: grated loin, as it is grated with tomato and onions) and potatoe (the Hawaiian staple diet, and the excellent tasteless film with loin of lemon. A lot of folks are swearing by their favourite spots on Maui or Kauai, but one of the most beautiful and remote is Lanikai on Oahu.

Explore some thrilling tunnel and viewpoints used during World War II on your way to the summit, where you' ll find stunning mountain and Waikiki beach outlooks. But, since your trip may not be the same as yours, Champion is my next favourite choice (better than the more illustrious Leonard's, because Champion deep-fries hers to order).

There are great snorkelling opportunities off Oahu, but also off Kona, on Big Island, where you can see not only the colourful tropic rainbow sharks but also great stingrays. That' great to see if you live in Hilton Hawaiian Village or not.

Each Friday evening, around 7pm, there is a lovely Polyynesian dancing show around the swimming pools; there were even some hip-hop ahiko, not sure if they're still doing it or if it's all hip-hop aupa, followed by a firework display. Better yet, one of my favourite bands in Hawaii, Olomana, will be performing at the Tapa Bar on Friday and Saturday evening from 8 pm to 11 pm, often with a tiki singer.

Okay, so this 11th incentive is not really on Oahu, but very much to see. I' m not quite sure why Maui and Kauai get all the loving when my favourite spot (as Oahu natives call it) is by far the Big Isle. Not many places to go from the beaches to the snowcapped mountains (Mauna Kea) to the Kilauea in a single night.... although I suggest taking a few nights to really appreciate it.

What island and what hotels?