Posts Tagged ‘winter’
If you are thinking about planning a trip to Hawaii, you may be wondering the best time of year to visit Hawaii. Well, anytime really. Hawaii really doesn’t have an off season. The winter months of January and February seem to be the rainiest, but it’s not the same kind of winter you would have in other parts of the United States. In fact the winter months may actually draw crowds during those so called rainy months. One reason is that the waves on the northern shores of the islands are much bigger during the winter. The North Shore of Ohau in particular is famous for those huge waves, sometimes coming in as high as thirty feet. These are some of the largest waves in the world.
On any given day on the North shore, you can expect to see world championship surfers, particularly at Waimiea Bay. The Banzi pipeline is another popular surfing spot for these amazing athletes. The pipline is famous for its long tubes. But, don’t be fooled by the lure of this gorgeous wave, the water underneath is shallow and full of coral reef. The waves at these famous hot spots are not for beginners. If you are just learning to surf, you should stick to the shallow waves at Wakiki Beach in Honolulu.
Another reason for the high number of winter tourists is whale watching. Whale watching season is generally from January to May. Whale watching is a popular activity during the winter months on the island of Maui. You can expect to see many different species of whales, including the humpback whale. They are typically found along the western shore of Maui. Ma’alaea Bay in particular is a great spot to catch a glimpse of the mother and baby whales. The shallow waters of the bay offer protection from possible shark attacks. You can see the whales, by simply taking a stroll along the beach. There are also many tour companies offering day trips to popular whale watching destinations. The island of Lanai also offers some whale watching opportunities, both on and off shore.
The humpback whale is the fifth largest of the whale family of mammals. The humpback is on the endangered species list due mostly to hunting of these animals in previous years. At one time hunting humpbacks was considered a great sport and it almost forced the species into extinction. Humpback whales can reach lengths of 45 feet and can weigh as much as 45 tons.
Another reason that Hawaii is such a popular vacation destination during the winter months is plain geography. Because the winter months are so cold and dreary during these months back on the mainland, visitors flock to Hawaii for a much needed respite. What better way to escape a February snow storm than to sit on a tropical beach in paradise and sip on Mai tais. Whatever your reason for visiting Hawaii, all of the islands are waiting and are sure to please even the most frostbitten winter visitor
When we think of traveling by RV, one of the first thoughts that come to mind is summer. Although summer is known as one of the most popular times to travel by motor home, it is important to remember that you do not have to limit yourself. In fact, many RV owners travel by motor homes all year round, including in the winter.
As previously stated, winter is a great time to travel by RV. With that being said, there are some dangers associated with doing so. To help ensure that your next winter RV trip is fun, as well as safe, try implementing a few of the helpful safety tips outlined below.
An RV inspection is an important component of safely traveling by RV in the winter. Although it does cost money to get your motor home professionally inspected, there are a number of benefits to doing so. Take all advice, especially where repairs or updates are involved, into consideration. Also, outright ask your mechanic if your RV is safe for winter travel.
Part of the fun associated with RV trips is seeing what you have never seen before. With that being said, during the winter months, you will want to try and stay on roads that you are familiar with. If you must take a new route, be sure to stay on the main roads. Main roads, especially highways and interstates are often much easier to navigate, especially in bad weather.
Speaking of the weather, always get updated weather information when on the road. If you have a satellite television or a television antenna installed on your RV, examine the weather forecast whenever you can. Even if your RV isn’t equipped with a television, there are still other ways that you can stay updated on the weather. One great way involves listening to the radio.
The easiest way to stay safe when traveling by RV in the winter is by keeping a cell phone with you at all times. Cell phones are a must have for any type of travel. Should you run out of gas, run off the road, or face another emergency, you will want to be able to call for help. In fact, did you know that many cell phone providers allow weather updates to be accessed through their phones? In addition to brining a cell phone, be sure to bring a charger as well.
Another easy way to stay safe when traveling by RV in the winter is by letting someone that you know and trust know where you are going, for how long, and when you plan on returning. This important tip is one that should be done even in the best of weather. In the event that you do not return home on time or if you are unable to be reached, a close friend or family member would have an idea of where to point the proper authorities, when looking for you.
It is also important to make sure that your RV is always filled with gas. Never let your motor home run on or near empty. This is extremely important during the winter months. Should you accidentally run off the road or get stranded in bad weather, you will want your RV to have enough gasoline to keep you and your family as warm as possible. When parked in a public campground or an RV park, a full tank of gasoline can also reduce the likelihood of freezing or other complications from cold weather.
The above mentioned tips are just a few of the many that you should implement, should you find yourself traveling by RV in the winter. The good news is that you likely already have a lot of needed emergencies supplies, such as water, snacks, warm clothes, and blankets on your motor home. With that being said, should you need to leave your motor home, which is generally advised against, be sure to leave prepared.