Let me tell you why I think you should visit Oahu in the winter ::

#1 :: The rain may keep tourists away from Oahu in the winter…

Maybe. Maybe not. One of the reasons for the beautiful lush green landscape in Oahu in the winter particularly is the rain. But let me tell you :: unlike other destinations the rain won’t interfere with your plans, even in the winter [ho’oilo] which spans from November to about April. That is what is truly remarkable about Oahu. The rain will go away just as fast as it came. There is a saying in Hawaii that goes “if you don’t like the weather, wait 5 minutes.” That is the truth.

Oahu in particular gets about 270 days of sun per year. That leaves about 95 days of overcast skies. But that doesn’t necessarily mean it will be cold and that also doesn’t mean all the overcast skies come during the winter. It just means that in the winter the sun may not be shining as intensely as in the summer “kau wela.” And that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

#2 :: The untouched beauty of nature in Oahu surrounds you everywhere you go!

From the oceans to the mountains Oahu is filled with beautiful nature that will take your breath away. Pictures don’t even do Oahu in the winter justice. You’ll just have to go for yourself to truly understand.

#3 :: The food truck offerings in Oahu are off the chain!

Seriously. I’m not even kidding around about the food trucks. I mean, you probably are thinking I’m not for real right now but you have to try it for yourself when you come to Oahu. The amazing offerings on Oahu’s food trucks are bomb! And if you come in the winter you may not have to struggle with the long lines of tourists.

Oh and you can’t forget the drinks that are so popular. Have you ever had a Mai Tai in Oahu? If you haven’t you need to go and try it because you won’t taste a better one anywhere in the world! Of course there are several others you might like such as Blue Hawaiian, Lava Flow or a Pina Colada. They also make them “virgin” style like I like them. But the drinks in Oahu are not to be missed.

#4 :: You are always “ohana” in Oahu!

“Ohana” means family. Everywhere you go in Oahu you are family. You will be met with smiling faces and friendly people everywhere you go. I mean, what’s not to be happy about living on such a beautiful island especially in the winter when everyone else is shivering? There will be no doubt that you will feel right at home!

 #5 :: Sunsets in Oahu are among the most magnificent in the world!

Incomparable. That’s how I describe the sunsets in Oahu. And in wintertime they are no less beautiful than any other time of year. Breathtakingly beautiful sunsets paint the sky every night. Just amazing.

#6 :: Oahu offers something for everyone!

Where else in the world can you be shopping to your heart’s content in the bustling city in the winter and then 30 minutes later be laying under the island sun on a sandy beach? There are several places I can think of maybe in spring or summer or fall… but winter? Oahu in winter is amazing and somewhere everyone in your family or group can have their way.

#7 :: Romance is not just reserved for summers in Oahu!

Looking for a wedding destination? Oahu in the winter is just as beautiful as ever. You’ll have your choice of amazing resorts in Oahu in the winter when at home the weather is cold and damp.

#8 :: The views in Oahu are just as stunning in the winter!

Picture this :: you open your eyes after a restful night’s sleep and look out your window to see the most magnificent sunrise in the backdrop to a beautiful scene of lush green and crystal blue waters crashing against the rocks. You step out onto your garden and feel the cool morning breeze in your hair as you listen to the waves of the ocean. You look to your left and take in the breathtaking views of the lush hillsides protruding from the vast fields of green. Where are you? You’re in Oahu in the winter! Isn’t it amazing?

We stayed at the Turtle Bay Resort and I highly recommend it. Our condo was located at the expansive resort and the rest of our family stayed in condos throughout as well as the main resort on the beach. It was the perfect location for a family reunion, wedding or for any reason really.

#9 :: Shave ice in Oahu tastes just as good in the winter as it does in summer!

Hawaii is known for its shave ice and I’ve tried to create it at home but for some reason it never comes out as amazing as the shave ice in Oahu. You seriously need to try the shave ice and it’s just as yummy in winter!

#10 :: Every day is casual day in Oahu!

Winter is considered high season in Oahu and when you’re there you will realize why :: the weather is unlike anywhere else in the world during this time of year! And that means there is no need to dress up :: t-shirts, shorts, tank tops, skirts and flip flops are the attire of the day and night. It’s called “Hawaiian Casual.”

Oahu is definitely a destination for you if you are looking to have a great time living the island life in winter. No need for coats or galoshes, you’re coming into the Sun! Bring your flip flops and sunscreen and you’ll be good to go! Enjoy your time in Oahu next winter and you will thank me for the suggestion.

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The post Winter in Oahu :: 10 Reasons Why You Should Go appeared first on Where in the World is Louise?.

Whether you’re single or married or have a family there is no better time to be had than when you gather up your besties for Girlfriends Getaways. Whether it’s just for a long weekend or even better if you can manage an entire week, I highly recommend taking time in your busy life to slow down with your girls for a great time to breathe, re-energize and find yourself again.

In no particular order these are just some ideas to inspire you ::

#1 :: Eat Beignets in New Orleans

Of course there is much more to do in N’awlins than eating beignets but it sure is a great place to start! Cafe du Monde is iconic in the French Market and Cafe Beignet serving what they call the “original” beignets is competition for sure. But it doesn’t really matter where you go because You’re in New Orleans with your girls!

Go out for breakfast in one of the many adorable restaurants and cafes in town. Enjoy a self-guided walking tour through the Garden District and take in the history and architecture that IS New Orleans.

Have a muffuletta and red beans and rice for lunch and gumbo for dinner in that good ole N’awlins style.

Go out at night and listen to some really great jazz on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter…

…or go to a piano bar and sing along!

New Orleans. One of the great girlfriends getaways for sure.

#2 :: Go snorkeling in Belize

You may not know but Belize has the second largest coral reef in the world. And snorkeling it is pretty amazing. Unbelievable underwater beauty for sure.

There are lots of other options in Belize however :: visit the Mayan Ruins, eat some jerk chicken, snorkel with Manatees at Ambergris Cay, take a helicopter over the Blue Hole (way pricy at $500+ per person but if it’s on your bucket list I hear it is well worth it)…

Of course you can just as well lay on one of their beaches and soak up the sun…

…and enjoy a Belizian daiquiri… that won’t cost much!

And when you’re surrounded by your girlfriends it can be one of the best getaways ever!

#3 :: Tour Magnolia Silos in Waco

Even if you’re not necessarily into Joanna and Chip you will have so much fun at The Silos! Shop for the cutest housewares, get ideas for your own home…

…eat delicious delicacies in the Silos Baking Company…

…sit in the sun and listen to wonderful music while watching kids playing on the lawn. It’s all to be had here.

The town of Waco is bigger than just Magnolia although the town is on the map because of the Gaines’ but here are some of the things they recommend you see in Waco ::

Texas Ranger Hall of Fame Museum, Dr. Pepper Museum, Hippodrome Theater, Waco Mammoth National Monument. And if you want to live it up big and you’re lucky to get a spot, book one of the two Magnolia Stay Bed + Breakfast homes for your lodging!

#4 :: Take in the Shows in Las Vegas

Vegas may have a reputation for setting the perfect atmosphere for girls to get into trouble together. But if you’re anything like me that’s the last thing you want to do with your besties. Instead get all dressed up for a night out on the town to enjoy a concert or Cirque du Soleil show…

…dine at a fancy restaurant…

Rent a cabana at the pool…

…play Bingo together…

And just laugh until your sides ache!

There are so many great getaways to do with your girlfriends in Las Vegas :: but being together is the best.

 #5 :: Go Dunebuggying in Cozumel

What a blast you’ll have no matter how big or small your group… take dune buggies out for a spin around the island of Cozumel.

Drive out to Punta Sur…

…and out to the southern point to the lighthouse…

Take a dip in the ocean to do some amazing snorkeling…

…then duck out of the sun for some shade + some relaxation…

Exploring + snorkeling in Cozumel + then relaxing in the sun + the water. What better girlfriends getaways are there?

#6 :: Go Parasailing in Maui

You’re in Hawaii + surrounded by that beautiful blue water. And the weather is perfect nearly all year long. Perfect for parasailing!

Talk long leisurely strolls along the water + stop for stories + laughter…

Wake up super early to catch the sunrise atop Haleakala

Spend all day on the beach, stand up paddle boarding (SUP) + enjoy the sun…

And attending a luau is a must!

The list of things to do (or not do) in Hawaii is endless. Isn’t this one of the best girlfriends getaways you can imagine?

#7 :: Keep it Weird in Portland

I used to live in Portland when I was younger + I have so many fond memories… But things have changed so much since those days! Portland has gotten so trendy over the last decade or more.

But the things I remember are still cool :: check out Multnomah Falls… so beautiful + glorious. Drive out there + spend time hiking up to the top or at least to the bridge. Amazing views.

Whether you’re a bookworm or not a visit to Portland is not complete without checking out Powell’s Books. Browse, sit + have a latte in the cafe.

One of my fave places to meet with friends is Salt + Straw. Ice cream at its finest.

Portland is a fun place to meet up with the girlfriends :: with such a variety of things to do to catch up you can start planning one of your getaways today.

#8 :: Hang out in LA

LA has lots to do + see. And with the girlfriends you’re sure to have a great time! The Getty Center is an awesome place to start!

Maybe stop at Grand Central Market for a bite to eat…

Joining an audience of a talk show is always a fun time with the girls!

It’s not too far to the beach for some relaxation.

LA is a fun town + a great place to have some time with the girlfriends!

#9 :: Take a California Coast Road Trip

I feel pretty blessed to live in California. I have the best of all worlds here. I’m not far from the beach, the mountains, the river + the desert. There are a plethora of absolutely amazing things to do + see in California. But when you take the time for a road trip along its beautiful coastline you get to know California in a whole new way.

Malibu is a wonderful place to stop :: the views of the ocean are pretty awesome + there are lots of little restaurants along the way

Stop to see the elephant seals just north of San Simeon

Hearst Castle is a cool place to visit :: you can even stop to see some zebras on the property!

Morro Rock up in Morro Bay is such a beautiful place :: take a walk + enjoy watching the surfers + otters. You’ll find clean restrooms here also

Depending on how many days you have you can include tons more things to see + do along the California coast!

A road trip with the girls is one of the best ways to get to know each other better + to enjoy each other’s company. Blast the radio + sing at the top of your lungs, stop wherever you feel like it for as long as you want, a spontaneous trip up the coast can provide memories that you can’t make any other way.

#10 :: Take a Cruise

Just decide where you want to go + when. Then let the cruise line do all the leg work for you! Just relax (or not) + have a great time together!

Whether you want to see places you’ve not seen before or lay under the sun all day…

…or get crazy on the dance floor or sing karaoke with abandon or take on Casino Night…

Taking a cruise with your best girlfriends is one of the best ways I know to catch up + have fun without having to really plan much. You can do as much or as little as you want. Your lodging + meals are all taken care of. You just need to decide what onboard activities you want to participate in + maybe sign up for an excursion or two. The rest is easy peasy.

Spending time with your girls is the most important thing. As women we need this more than we know. But once you start planning a trip or two you will realize it is a necessity that all of us girls not only want but absolutely need!

Take all the time you need with your besties! You won’t regret it!

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