Aloha Adventure: Our Day on the Road to Hana – Day Seventeen
A Lively Morning Kickstart
Well, well, well, rise and shine! The alarm rudely interrupted our beauty sleep at the ungodly hour of 05:40. Why, you ask? Because we had a date with destiny — a guided tour of the legendary Road to Hana awaited us, and our chariot was scheduled to pick us up at 06:20 sharp.
The Bus Chronicles: Adding Flavour to the Journey
Picture this: a minibus already buzzing with chatter from three other couples, and then we swoop in, making it a jolly quartet before scooping up another duo from a different hotel. Amongst the mix were an American duo marking their 25th year of marital bliss, a Canadian couple still in the honeymoon glow, another American pair on a two-year postponed honeymoon, a Spanish duo from the vibrant streets of Barcelona, and yours truly, celebrating the belated 50th birthday of Michele and my upcoming 60th in just nine days.
Breakfast Pitstop at Safeway: Fueling Our Adventure
Before embarking on our journey, a quick detour to Safeway was in order (yes, they do exist here in Maui!) to stock up on breakfast essentials. Coffee? Oh, absolutely! Can’t start a day of adventure without a caffeine kick.
Motion Sickness Woes and Banana Bread Bliss
As we hit the road, our guide, the fabulous Malia, inquired about motion sickness, prompting a few hands to reluctantly rise. But fear not, we came prepared with our trusty medication. After a hearty breakfast, it was full steam ahead. The twists and turns of the Road to Hana unfolded before us, with Malia playing the role of our knowledgeable narrator, pointing out scenic spots and cascading waterfalls. Our first pitstop led us to Aunty Sandy’s abode, renowned for her delectable banana bread and even graced Gordon Ramsay’s television screens. The verdict? Hot and utterly delicious!
Waterfalls, Beaches, and a Chance Encounter with a Monk Seal
Back on the road, we made a splash at a waterfall where brave souls could leap and swim. Michele and I opted for a more leisurely paddle. Next up, Wai’anapanapa State Park, where the sands are as black as the night sky. A quick dip in the ocean to cool off, followed by a serene stroll along the beach, turned into an unexpected wildlife encounter. A shout from above jolted me, and lo and behold, I found myself mere feet away from a majestic Monk Seal basking in the sun. Talk about a close encounter!
Bumps, Bruises, and the Beauty of Desolation
As our journey continued, we ventured onto what can only be described as the bumpiest road known to man. Potholes? Child’s play compared to this rollercoaster ride. With each mile, the landscape transformed, revealing the remnants of ancient lava flows, painting a picture of desolate beauty.
Sunset Serenity and Seal Sightings
Back at the hotel, weary but triumphant, we ventured out for a well-deserved meal and a few cold ones, all while basking in the glory of yet another breathtaking sunset. And as luck would have it, another Monk Seal graced the beach with its presence, surrounded by a protective cordon.
Balcony Bliss: Reflections on a Day Well Spent
And here we are, dear reader, perched on the balcony, basking in the tranquillity of the evening, reminiscing about the day’s adventures and eagerly anticipating what tomorrow has in store.
