Maui – a dream vacation
You know you’ve had an amazing trip when you look back and realise how impeccable and dream like the whole experience was. Maui was exactly that for us. While we hadn’t planned everything to the T, we tried our best to discover less taken routes. Routes that google/ trip advisors will tell you that these are very gnarly and totally upon you to take the risk to the travel through it. Each day we travelled through a different terrain and a totally different landscape, blowing our expectations and of course, incomparable to the scenery of the previous day.
If you ever plan a trip to Maui, make sure you explore the back road to Hana and the highway 360 to the west side of the island, apart from all the to-do lists that’s usually recommended. While driving can be a bit strenuous and challenging during bad weather conditions, it’s not an uphill task for any Indian driver who has had prior experience driving through ghat sections and hilly areas. Just make sure you have someone who is adept behind the wheel and can make wise decisions based on the weather conditions for these routes specified above. I would not recommend this journey if you are travelling alone, but make those decisions for yourself based on all the factors. I recommend using gypsy guide, an application that guides you along and talks about the history of the land, people and takes you to all the popular places. However, they do not suggest taking the back road to Hana, and the highway 360 towards Lahaina.
I very much relished my scuba and snorkelling experiences, making me realise how much of a water baby I am. I can not wait to dive more and learn more about everything the ocean has to offer. Until a few years back, I resented getting into the water and always told myself that water activities, including swimming, aren’t for me. It’s amazing how malleable our thoughts and opinions can get as we grow and just taking that first step is everything you need to do.
We tried different types of food at a variety of restaurants and food trucks. Every place having that one dish that would leave our lips smacking, making us yearn for that experience again. Don’t forget to try those golden pineapples and açai bowls. It’s a must. Some things that I would recommend is the chocolate açai bowl from Island Fresh cafe in Paia, Paia fish market for it’s grilled fish and probably any catch of the day, coconut french toast from Grandma’s cafe, banana bread at the store from half way to Hana and this vegan food truck called Aloha earth eatery. My top of the list is Laulima farms near Hana, it’s a simple, dreamy store that will look right out of a 1980’s movie with a really warm lady at the counter who will slice a few fruits for you and recommend some homemade snacks made using the farm’s produce. Try their cocoa balls and you will never forget how that hits all your taste buds.
Every journey I embark on teaches me a whole new perspective and humbles me as I learn how insignificant all my worries are and that I am just a tiny speck in this gigantic world. This one was no exception. I have enormous respect for the culture, tradition and everything that the people and land of Hawaii have to offer. Remember to make way when you are driving. The narrow roads can slow you down, but locals and other tourists should not have to be stuck behind all the way. Make sure to follow the signs, respect nature, and people’s sentiments while you are there. You don’t necessarily have to believe in their beliefs but definitely respect them all!
Mahalo!