After enjoying the beauty and hospitality of Bali, Suzy and I set our sights to the US mainland. We have been traveling the globe since April and we wanted to be back in the US to spend the Holidays with family. Both Suzy and I had never been to Hawaii and thought it would make an excellent detour as we continued east to the mainland. Upon our arrival we were instantly reminded we were back in the US. Customs was a flash, no trouble at all, just show your passport, get it stamped, and be on your way. We were staying in Waikiki Beach so we grabbed a cab from the airport to the Hotel. As we traveled along the highway it cried out “United States” as everywhere you looked from roadways to architecture, it was all very familiar. Although Hawaii is an Island, it is very un-island like, or should I say very un-island like as compared to the islands Suzy and I had visited in our travels. As a New Yorker, this island was very much the same as being on Long Island, full of commerce, stores, restaurants, cars and traffic. This is one busy place, full of action and bustle. After checking into our Hotel, The Ewa, Suzy and I decided to go downstairs and explore the sands of Waikiki. We found the beach to face west, just perfect to watch an evening sunset with cocktails. Since we’ve been exploring for several months, we decided to just kick back and enjoy the sand. We had only one priority, to visit Pearl Harbor before we leave. After a few days, we made reservations at the hotel for a shuttle bus to the Harbor and Air Base. Upon our arrival at Pearl there were several packages available for you to explore. We elected to make a day of it and see all the sites. We explored the inner workings of the submarine USS Bowfin, then off to stand on the deck of the battleship Missouri where Japan signed their surrender on September 2, 1945. Next we were off to the Arizona Memorial. You arrive via ferry, just a small boatfull at one time to preserve the sanctity of the memorial that straddles the sunken hull of the battleship in which 1102 sailors lost their lives that day, September 7, 1941. When you are standing there, just above the hull, you cannot help to find yourself thankful for all the sacrifice Americans had made to keep this great country free. As you look up, you’ll see our flag proudly flying. You’ll also find yourself reviewing the words; Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. This is truly a solemn place. With Veterans Day upon us, this year, remember a Vet, and be sure to give thanks for the sacrifice they have all made. Suzy and I have traveled the globe and perhaps for some, only after you leave this great country, can you truly appreciate all it is and has to offer. There is no place like home……..
