Hawa Hawaii

Published in the Sunday Anandabazar Patrika(ABP) on 03 August 2025

Aloha! The lady at the counter greeted me with a warm smile, and when I left the meeting, she said it again. Aloha. Not just a word, but a feeling, a spirit. I was at a travel conference in the U.S., and this particular stall stood out. Draped in flowers, pulsing with music, and buzzing with gentle laughter, it had an energy that felt different. “Welcome,” said the hostess, “you’re in Hawaii now.” She wasn't joking. I wasn’t in Hawaii physically, but I felt transported. That brief encounter left me spellbound. In a world full of destinations, Hawaii had suddenly risen to the top of my list. Because once you feel the Aloha Spirit, it stays with you. And if you’re looking for paradise on earth, then Hawaii should be on your bucket list too! Especially when you're dreaming of the trip of a lifetime, something fresh, meaningful, and unlike anything you've done before. Hawaii is the answer.

Even before setting foot there, Hawaii feels like a mythical place. For many, it exists like a dream, somewhere distant, exotic, and maybe even unreachable. But look westward from the U.S. mainland, deep into the heart of the Pacific, and you'll find it. Hawaii, the 50th U.S. state, a tropical archipelago unlike anywhere else in America.

It’s the only state made entirely of islands, the only one located in the tropics, and the only one whose cultural heartbeat aligns more closely with Polynesia than the continental U.S. Hawaii stands at the northern edge of the Polynesian Triangle, sharing ancestry, language, and seafaring legacy with New Zealand (Aotearoa) and Easter Island (Rapa Nui). And yet, despite its deep cultural roots, Hawaii is a modern American state. In fact, it’s the birthplace of President Barack Obama, proof that even paradise can shape presidents.

In Hawaii, Aloha is more than just a greeting. It’s a way of life. It means living with love, compassion, patience, and humility. It’s about treating others with kindness, respecting nature, and fostering harmony in all things. You’ll find it in the sway of the hula dance, the warmth of local smiles, and the gentle way islanders speak of their land.

In fact, Hawaiian law actually defines and upholds the Aloha Spirit as a principle for its citizens and public officials. Each letter in Aloha represents a deeper value:
A, Akahai (kindness),
L, Lōkahi (unity),
O, ʻOluʻolu (agreeableness),
H, Haʻahaʻa (humility),
A, Ahonui (patience).
It’s rare to find a place where philosophy, hospitality, and community align so beautifully.

A trip to Hawaii involves island hopping from one island to another. The best place to start this journey is on Big Island.

Nowhere else is the planet as alive as on Hawaiʻi Island, often called the Big Island. It’s larger than all the other Hawaiian islands combined and more geologically diverse than entire countries.

This is where lava shapes the land in real-time. Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park is a wonderland of fire and stone, home to both Mauna Loa and Kīlauea, two of the world’s most active volcanoes. One moment you’re walking on fresh lava fields, the next you’re standing at the edge of a steaming crater. It’s otherworldly.

The Big Island is also home to Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach, where jet-black sands meet crashing waves, and endangered sea turtles bask in the sun. And when night falls, head up to Mauna Kea, Hawaii’s tallest peak, where the skies open up to a galaxy so bright it feels like time has paused.

And just when you think you’ve seen nature at its most powerful on the Big Island, the island of Maui welcomes you with a softer rhythm. A place where time slows down, landscapes soothe the soul, and every road leads to something beautiful. Maui isn’t just a destination, it’s a mood. Known as the Valley Isle, it weaves together romance, serenity, and epic beauty in a way few places can. Drive along the legendary Hāna Highway, a winding ribbon of road that hugs Maui’s cliffs and curves through rainforests, waterfalls, and hidden beaches. Stop by Keʻanae, a tiny coastal hamlet untouched by time, and visit Koki Beach, where red sands meet turquoise waves. Each stop feels like discovering a secret. Maui is also home to the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, showcasing native plants that tell the story of Hawaiian ecology, and the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum, offering a glimpse into the island’s plantation past. For underwater lovers, snorkeling at Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic crescent, offers the chance to swim with tropical fish and maybe even sea turtles.

From the romance of Maui, your next stop should be the island of Oahu where culture, history, and energy collide. Oahu is the beating heart of Hawaii, a dynamic mix of natural beauty, urban flair, and deep history. Honolulu, the capital, is a fusion of high-rise hotels, food trucks, surf shops, and royal legacy.

Start with a walk through history at Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on U.S. soil, and the King Kamehameha Statue, honoring the monarch who unified the islands. Visit Pearl Harbor, where history whispers through still waters and memories of World War II live on.

Then, let nature take over. Hike up Diamond Head Crater for sweeping views of the coastline. Feel the power of the sea at the Halona Blowhole, and find peace at the Byodo-In Temple, a replica of a Japanese sanctuary nestled among the mountains.

Cap it all off with a drive to the legendary North Shore, where surf legends are made and waves roll in with ferocious beauty. Don’t miss a stop at the Dole Plantation for fresh pineapple and a ride through the pineapple maze.

And when the sun dips low, attend a traditional Luau, a celebration of dance, music, and flavors that will stay with you long after the night ends.

Hawaiian experiences touch the soul in ways you never expect. Watch the sun set above the clouds from Mauna Kea, snorkel through crystal-clear waters at Molokini Crater, stroll along Waikīkī Beach at sunrise, or soar above active volcanoes by helicopter. Even the short island-hopping flights turn into unforgettable moments, offering aerial views of craters, coral reefs, and jungle-lined coastlines, each one more breathtaking than the last. Hawaii is also the perfect honeymoon destination and works perfectly well with a holiday in California too.

If parts of Hawaii feel familiar, it’s no coincidence. The islands have starred in countless blockbusters like Jurassic Park, filmed across lush valleys in Kauai and Oahu; 50 First Dates, where the romantic charm of Oahu’s coastline is on full display; and Pearl Harbor, shot at the very site where history unfolded.

Hawaii offers more than picture-perfect views and tropical weather. It’s a place where culture, nature, and community flow together in harmony. Where volcanoes shape the land and ancient chants echo in the breeze. Where you can surf at sunrise, hike a crater by noon, and dance beneath the stars at night. Whether you're seeking a soulful escape, a romantic hideaway, or simply a reminder of Earth’s wild beauty, Hawaii delivers.

And just like that moment at the travel conference, when I felt the Aloha Spirit through a stranger’s smile, Hawaii reminds us what travel is really about: connection, wonder, and the joy of discovering something truly special.

So what are you waiting for? Isn’t it time you felt the magic of Hawaii for yourself?

And here’s something even more exciting. From Veena World, you can experience not just one but two stunning destinations in one unforgettable journey. With a valid U.S. visa, you can explore both Hawaii and Mexico in a single tour, two bucket-list dreams, one seamless adventure. So, Chalo, Bag Bharo, Nikal Pado!

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Dekho Apna Desh
Tripura
A Land of Culture and Natural Beauty

Explore your own country, Tripura, a state full of culture and beauty. Tripura is one of the smallest states in India, located in the north-eastern region. The traditions of the local tribal communities here are influenced by Bengali culture. This state is known for its ancient temples. The Tripura Sundari Temple is one of the oldest temples and one of the 51 Shakti Peethas in India. The state offers a scenic blend of hills, forests and valleys, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and trekkers. Tripura is home to indigenous tribes such as Tripuri, Reang, Jamatia and Chakma, each of which has its own unique traditions and festivals. The state celebrates many vibrant festivals like Kharchi Puja, Garia Puja and the Reang dance, which display its rich cultural tapestry. The mysterious archaeological site of Unakoti is famous for its rock-cut sculptures and intricate carvings. These artworks represent a fusion of Hindu mythology and local tribal artistry and are believed to date back to the 7th to 9th century. In Agartala, the grand Ujjayanta Palace stands as a symbol of Tripura’s royal history and heritage and is known for its architecture. The state has wildlife sanctuaries and national parks such as Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary and Clouded Leopard National Park, where one can find rare orchid species and endangered animals like the clouded leopard. Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary, also called the Bison Sanctuary, is home to the Indian bison. Tripura is also an important center for rubber production in India, contributing to the state's economy. Compared to many other Indian states, Tripura has a higher literacy rate, which reflects its focus on education and the development of its citizens. The state is also known for its rich traditions of folk music and dance. The Hojagiri dance performed by the Reang tribe is a beautiful example of this heritage. In recent times, homestays and eco-resorts have gained popularity in Tripura, allowing tourists to experience its rich culture more closely. While nearly 60 lakh tourists visit popular northeastern states like Assam and around 20 lakh visit Meghalaya, Tripura receives only around 5 lakh tourists, as it is still developing in the tourism sector. However, western tourists from countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, Hungary and Switzerland often visit the state. So when are you planning to explore the unique charm of this small but extraordinary state?

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Oh… I didn’t know this!

Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional Gassho-zukuri farmhouses. The term Gassho-zukuri means constructed like hands in prayer. The steep thatched roofs of these farmhouses resemble the joined hands of Buddhist monks in prayer. This architectural style was designed to withstand the heavy snowfall that the region receives during winter. Shirakawa-go is located in the remote mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture. The village is surrounded by the Shō River. These houses date back to the 1600s and were traditionally used for cultivating and storing silkworms. They were built without using any nails. In winter, Shirakawa-go receives more than 30 feet of snow and the steep roofs help reduce the impact of this snowfall. Due to its traditional architecture and remote location, Shirakawa-go is sometimes referred to as Japan’s Snow Country. The village has fewer than 1,700 residents. In January and February, a special illumination event is organized where the snow-covered houses are lit up at night, attracting many tourists. The village offers a panoramic view especially during sunrise and sunset. Many of the traditional homes have been converted into museums, craft shops and cafes, allowing visitors to experience the local culture firsthand. Local artisans here practice traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving. The village is nestled along an alpine route. Following the pandemic, tourism has increased and more than two million tourists visited Shirakawa in 2024. You can visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site with its iconic houses on our Treasures of Japan and All of Japan tours. So what are you waiting for, let’s go to Japan.

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Veena World Seniors’ Special
Travel is a search for novelty!

I book my tours from the office on Phadke Road in Dombivali. I started travelling with Veena World in 2022. My first tour with them was to Nepal in November of that year. Since then, in the last two and a half to three years, I have done seven tours with them across India and abroad, including Gujarat Vadodara, Assam Arunachal Meghalaya, Dalhousie Dharamshala Amritsar, a 13-day Europe tour, South Africa and Andaman. With Veena World, I have always experienced excellent arrangements. Their hotels are good and the travel vehicles are comfortable. What I like the most about them is their tour managers. I still remember them because all of them were excellent. They cared for everyone like family and were cooperative, which made each trip truly memorable. Today I am over sixty years old and I travel alone because my wife is still working and cannot get such long holidays. So I choose to go with their Seniors’ Special tours because there is a guarantee of room sharing. On these tours, I get to see different places, taste new dishes and make new acquaintances. Through social media and WhatsApp, we all stay connected and continue our bond even after the tour ends. Every moment on these tours can be lived joyfully. This coming September, I will be travelling to Sri Lanka with Veena World and the preparations for that will begin soon. For me, travel means new connections, a break from the daily routine and in short, travel is a search for something new.

• Makarand Joshi, Dombivali, Thane, Maharashtra

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Private Holiday Ideas
Qatar Grand Prix 2025
with Veena World Customized Holidays

Some holidays stay with you for life, where every moment is so exhilarating that it becomes a lasting memory. The roar of speed, the glitter of night racing, and the most glamorous race in the world under the clear sky, this is the moment. This year, come experience such a thrilling holiday with Veena World at the Qatar Grand Prix 2025. Veena World brings you this special package designed just for you. From 28 November to 1 December 2025, four days and three fun-filled nights. This exclusive package includes three-day tickets to the T16 Grandstand, a comfortable three-night hotel stay and transfers to the circuit. All of this starts at just ₹77,000, which means total excitement at the best price. The T16 Grandstand is the ultimate hotspot of action where the cars take their final turn, slam on the brakes and the fate of the race is decided. The thrill is so intense; you’ll never get it out of your head. That moment when the sound pauses and the adrenaline kicks in, being a witness to that is the real magic. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. This holiday package also includes access to the Fan Village featuring live music, exciting games, delicious food stalls, plenty of F1 activities, real-time merchandising and super fun entertainment for the whole family. In short, endless joy along with unforgettable memories. From kids to adults, there’s something special for everyone. This is not just a race, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience filled with speed, style and passion. And yes, the Grand Prix is not just for motorsport fans, but for anyone who wants to experience the thrill of life. So what are you waiting for, book your Qatar Grand Prix holiday with Veena World right now because seats are limited and why miss this best-price and never-before opportunity, right? Our team is ready to deliver you an exciting and memorable holiday.

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Around the World
Oktoberfest

Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer festival held annually in Munich starting in the latter half of September and ending in the first week of October. Locals call it Wiesn. It features large beer tents hosted by Munich’s historic breweries. The official mascot of Oktoberfest is a giant gingerbread heart decorated with colourful icing bearing the Bavarian phrase O’zapft is, which means It’s tapped. On the opening day, the festival begins with the official tapping of the first beer keg by the Mayor of Munich. In addition to this, visitors can enjoy carnival rides, games, music, Bavarian folk songs and traditional folk dances. Tourists here can also taste German wine, schnapps and soft drinks. Oktoberfest attracts around six million visitors every year. On the final day of the festival, a grand fireworks display marks its conclusion. So when are you going to this unique festival?