c'est la vie de laura

Yesterday we saw the whole island of Hawaii - circled it in the Jeep - through tropical rainforest, lava wasteland and rolling prairie.

First we stopped at Volcanoes National Park,


Where we hiked 5 miles across this crater, caused by a collapsed volcano.


Proof- the view from the other side.

Then, we drove through Hilo to the Akaka waterfalls. It cascade height is twice that of Niagara Falls!


We also saw approximately 53 kinds of fern and walls of orchids- yellow, white and purple. On the way out, we stopped for a coconut and watched with admiration as the girl selling them hacked each one open with a two different machetes.


Before heading home, we stopped at Waipio Lookout and Beach. The most unworldly and beautiful place I've ever seen: black sand, blue water, huge trees and enchantingly green vines. Note- it's only accessible via a twisting one-lane road with 45 degree slopes! Good this we have a jeep.





- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone