We took the local bus service just outside the dock for $1 to Diamond Head and did some walking - climbing to the top for spectular views. Bus back (again $1 - seniors rate $2.50 for adult). Best way to see the island.
We hired a car here again .. it was good but we were disappointed with the volcanoes. All we could see was some distant steam rising. But we did a drive north of Hilo later and it was an off beat tourist stretch and it was fabulous. Terrific waterfalls, tropical walks .. not to many people either.
Kona was a tender port .. nothing to do at Kona but Walmart (free bus) and look around town and shop. Internet cafe was poor .. did not open until 11am and then needed proding. This was the first place we found internet service. Next time I take WiFi.
We took 2 one day tours from a fellow just outside the gate .. and they were exceptional. http://www.hawaiian-eyes.com/ if you want a traditional tour and half the cost and smaller buses ... a personal touch ... this is the tour for you. We had a great time singing and getting the islander view of things. Get Ricky to sing as well .. he is GOOD.
This was OK but we had a date booked on our ticket for this and they were reluctant to change it when we got there to fit in with our days. But we used it anyway and it was good.
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As part of our Fire and Ice cruise package we had some days in Vancouver with Travel the World. We stayed at the Rennainsse Hotel .. terrific location and the Hotel was best we could have had. Service was good. Rooms were great. Internet was free in lobby. Nearly always no wait. The bus around town was quite good .. hop on hop off. Stanley park was well serviced.
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