10 Places to visit with kids in Hawaii

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The paradise island of Hawaii is considered to have some of the most perfect spots for families looking to take to take their children along for a memorable vacation. Hawaii offers many different types of tours and activities, which will not only fulfill the needs of the adults but keep the little ones occupied as well.

Having said that, when it comes to planning for a perfect Hawaii vacation with kids in tow, it takes some doing. From beach side activities to tubing or visiting museums, the choices are not only endless but confusing too. In order to make things simple for your next sojourn to this exotic place, I have made my research on some of the favorite haunts of a family with kids, apart from chilling in your fancy rental house in Hawaii.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Big Island

Located near Hilo, this famous park is home to two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea. Odd as it may seem, despite the constant volcanic activity, the park is quite safe and draws a large number of visitors, especially the young ones, who love to explore the remnants of the frequent outbursts from the two volcanoes. The Thurston Lava Tube, which is a cave-like aperture formed by a flow of red lava, is a great hit with kids who enjoy walking through it.

Honaunau National Historical Park

Known in the ancient culture of Hawaii as “Place of Refuge”, the park provides a meaningful experience for persons of all ages. Visitors can access the remains of the old Kiilae Village and

the Royal Grounds. Children will love to explore the fish ponds, salt vats, animal pens and the centuries-old temples to have a great educational experience. The waters near the landing are prime nesting grounds for sea turtles, which too are a great hit for everyone.

Kahalu’u Beach Park

This is the best park in the whole of Hawaii for water-related sports, especially for the younger generation. This marine preserve is well protected by reefs, as a result, the waters are always calm and ideal for swimming, snorkeling or just wading. Children will be engrossed with sightings of a large variety of marine life like sea turtles and different kinds of colorful fish. Kahalu’u is the right place for snorkeling beginners and there are many outlets renting out gear for the little ones as well as the grown-ups.

Atlantis Submarine, Maui

This perennial child favorite takes visitors to a depth of over one hundred feet on a two-hour underwear adventure. The trip allows guests to get close up views of the different fish in a dry and warm environment.The months of December through May are reportedly ideal for even whale sightings.

Maui Ocean Center

This engaging and rather compact aquarium provides great glimpses of the diverse marine life found in Hawaii. A Marine Mammal, Tide Pool and a Discovery Center are a great draw of school-age children, as is The Living Reef. This place exhibits vividly what life on the seafloor is all about, by taking guests to the deep reef zone of the ocean, which is home to sharks, tuna fish, and other deep-sea water life.

Bishop Museum, Oahu

This is one of the biggest museums in Hawaii, housing a huge number of family heirlooms and other precious artifacts pertaining to the state.The Hawaiian Hall occupies three stories of local history, culture, and exhibits of Hawaiian gods and deities. The Science Adventure Center is a big hit with kids where they can learn a lot about the oceans and volcanoes. Children even have the option of visiting the inside of a volcano and study and experience how the eruptions occur.

Hawaiian Kids Discovery Center, Honolulu

This discovery center, though a little less known, is hugely popular with the young locals, especially for families with kids up to ten years old. At “Fantastic You” children get to know about the human body, while the history of Hawaii is aptly described in “Hawaiian Rainbows”. Kids can simulate the role of a banker, fireman, mechanic and more at “Your Town”. For the toddlers in the age group 2 to 5, “Tot World” has been created to provide fun and education in a safe environment.

Kauai Backcountry Adventures

At some period of time, Kauai was a major producer of sugarcane. The plantations were irrigated by constructing a network of channels to transport water from the other side of the island. Though the plantations have long since gone, the channels which have survived have been put to excellent use. We all know that water and kids always get along well, hence the state has started tubing adventures in the lush dense backdrop of these channels. Children can have a gala time by simply grabbing an inner tube and floating down the wild landscape. It is a wonderful experience for kids five-year-old and above and takes roughly three hours to traverse.

Kalaupapa Guided Mule Ride, Molokai

This tiny island has been able to withstand the rigors of the outside world and maintain its pristine beauty until today. Molokai is best experienced on a guided mule ride, commencing from the Mule Barn. Children who are 16 years and over, can undertake this three-mile downhill trip to reach the once forbidden village of Kalaupapa. The area is now a historical park of national importance, and the mule ride makes the visit all the more memorable.

Winter Skincare Tips

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Winter is now in full swing in many parts of the world, that means much colder, harsher weather conditions.

It also means tougher times for your skin.The weathered look might be good for a vintage leather jacket or pair of boots, but it isn’t so good for your face, and for sure Atlanta Face and Body can give you a face-lift that will remove those wrinkles for a smoother, younger you, but isn’t it better to avoid aging prematurely in the first place? If you agree, check out these simple winter skincare tips to keep your skin soft, smooth and glowing all through the season...

Use Lukewarm Water

Washing in lukewarm water might not be the most desirable thing in the cool of winter when what you really want is a hot shower, but it is better at leaving your body’s essential oils on the skin, so that it doesn't crack or dry out.

Moisturize Right After Washing

If you want to maintain a youthful glow, not just throughout the winter, but for years to come, then you should always apply your moisturizer straight after bathing or showering. Doing this will lock in more moisture, which will keep your skin soft and line-free.

Oil-Based is Best

When it comes to moisturizers, in the winter, oil-based products like AHA! Are the best to use because, despite being called moisturizers, many water-based formulations contain things that can actually dry out the skin in wintry conditions. You can switch back to your usual moisturizer in the spring.

Exfoliate Often

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Because the skin is prone to get dry and crack more in winter conditions, it is even more important than usual that you exfoliate. If your skin can take it, exfoliate at least once daily to remove any dead cells and apply a face mask once a week.

Cover Up

Sometimes, the best thing for your skin is to protect it with hats, gloves, scarves and anything else that will keep the elements at bay. Luckily, you’ll probably want to wrap up warm anyway, so this shouldn’t be too much of a struggle.

Wear Sunscreen

A lot of women skip sunscreen during the winter months, especially when they live in places that don’t get too much sun, but even in winter, the sun makes its presence known and it can have a negative effect on the skin, aging it prematurely and causing fine lines, wrinkles and sunspots to form. Of course, even more seriously, exposure to the sun can cause cancer, so always apply some sunscreen before going out.

Use a Humidifier

When you have your heating system on, the air in your home, of course, gets very dry. This is bad for the skin and can seriously dry it out. Luckily, all you need to do to counteract its effects is to invest in and use a humidifier regularly, especially in your bedroom, where you probably spend the most time.

If you implement this routine during the winter, or should you ever travel to cooler climes, one thing’s for sure - you won’t have to worry about your skin!

Achieve The Ultimate Christmas Party Look

It’s that time of year again when yule logs adorn the supermarket shelves, multi-colored fairy lights dangle clumsily from rooftops, and Norwegian pines are dragged along the streets ready to be decorated, each in their own unique way. Christmas is upon us. You might be one of those Ebenezer Scrooge type characters who abhors any mention of anything remotely festive. Or you could be one of those Kris Kringle obsessives who wish every day of the year could celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The chances are that you’re somewhere in between. You love mince pies, toasty fires, the giving of gifts, hot chocolate, mulled cider and mingling with your nearest and dearest. During the season of goodwill to all men, you love nothing better than letting your hair down at the odd Christmas party or two. So what look should you go for? Take a look at these tips to see you achieve the perfect Christmas party style.

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Fancy Dress

Now, this sort of party is where anything goes. If you want to achieve the most glamorous look, the Rudolph the Reindeer outfit isn’t going to cut it. However, that’s the point of these soirees. They aren’t the time to whip out your sequined red festive ball gown oozing sexy Mrs. Claus vibes. You need to go with the flow and enjoy looking a bit silly. Pull on your elf ears, paint on your rosy red cheeks, and have fun enjoying the festive buffet that your best pal has laid on.

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The Classy Affair

If a member of your close social circle decides to throw a winter dinner party, this is your chance to indulge your love of short cocktail dresses. Paired with some cute kitten heels, a festive accessory or two along with a detailed little clutch bag and you have the ultimate party look. Show some restraint and wear your favorite pair of diamond earrings and choose a red, green or similar festive hue for your outfit.

Dinner parties at Christmas remain a tad more formal than their buffet equivalents, but it’s still a time to let your hair down, talk to friends you may not have seen all year and share thoughtful gifts. Swap the ubiquitous bottle of wine that you always take around for a bottle of festive port, a liquor or bucks fizz. If you want to take a true festive plunge take along a Christmas pudding, some gourmet candy canes or a gingerbread house. By welcoming the true essence of Christmas into your festivities, you’ll be able to enjoy every aspect of the season.

It doesn’t really matter whether you are attending a themed party, a formal dance, a dinner party or a kids get together, the most important thing is enjoying the gathering. If you want to achieve a festive look, opt for a touch of sparkle, sequins or glitter. Pair with the subtlest of heels and ensure you always remain comfortable and free to have a dance, eat plenty and be merry. Happy Christmas!