San Francisco & Hawaii

About the destination: San Francisco is a major, lively and cosmopolitan city in California. In San Francisco, history and modernity combine to give visitors an unforgettable experience. From Mission Dolores, the city's first stone building or the city’s legendary cable cars to the high-tech Financial District. A trip to San Francisco is bound to leave you with incredible memories. A boat trip is a great way to explore the “City by the Bay.” Explore Fisherman's Wharf, full of shops, galleries and restaurant offering delicious seafood. Stroll down the Golden Gate and admire the views over the bay and the Pacific Ocean, visit the various maritime museums, and , of course, no visit to San Francisco is complete without an excursion to Alcatraz, the island prison that once held some of the country’s most notorious criminals, such as Al Capone. If it’s a more relaxed environment you’re after, pass through the stately architecture and flowing lagoon of the Palace of Fine Arts. The Transamerica Pyramid has become the city's most famous landmark. The 260 metre high pyramid structure is situated in the heart of the Financial District. Located between three hills, San Francisco's Chinatown is the largest Chinese settlement outside Asia with pagodas, colourful bunting, decorated balconies and Chinese characters combining with the sounds and exotic aromas of this fascinating area. The Painted Ladies are charming Victorian wooden houses situated on the fringe of Alamo Square and the Haas-Lilienthal House is a well-maintained jewel of a bygone era. San Francisco thrives on variety and has a contagious energy. This city is magical and everyone should come here at least once.

About the destination: Honolulu is the county seat of the City and County of Honolulu. It is the state capital and the most populous city in the state of Hawaii. Situated on the island of Oahu, it is known worldwide as a major tourist destination. Honolulu is the main gateway to Hawaii and a major gateway into the United States of America. It is also a major hub for international business, military defence, as well as famously being host to a diverse variety of east-west and Pacific culture, cuisine, and traditions. The most important places to visit in Honolulu are: Kane'ohe, Polynesian Cultural Center, Bishop Museum and Planetarium, Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, Capitol District, Waikiki Oceanfront and Honolulu Academy of the Arts. Honolulu has sunny skies, crystal blue water, white-sand beaches, slack key guitars at sunset, and lots of hula dancing that represent the Aloha spirit.

About the destination: Maui, often called “The Valley Isle,” blends dramatic volcanic landscapes with lush rainforests and some of Hawaii’s most iconic beaches. At its heart rises Haleakalā, a massive dormant volcano whose summit sits above the clouds. Many visitors make the pre-dawn pilgrimage to watch sunrise from Haleakalā National Park, then explore the alien-like cinder cones and high-altitude trails that stretch across the crater. Later in the day, the park’s lower Kipahulu district reveals a different side of Maui, with waterfalls, coastal views and bamboo forests. Along the west and south coasts, golden-sand beaches frame clear, warm waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding. Kāʻanapali and Wailea offer full-service resorts, oceanfront paths and easy access to reefs where you might spot turtles and tropical fish just offshore. In winter, humpback whales migrate through the ʻAuʻau Channel, and boat tours from Lahaina or Māʻalaea Harbor bring you close to these gentle giants. As evening falls, beachside restaurants and traditional lūʻaus combine island cuisine with hula and live music. For a taste of old Hawaii, wander the historic streets of Lahaina (subject to ongoing recovery after recent wildfires; check current conditions before visiting) or head upcountry to the cooler slopes of Kula and Makawao. Here you’ll find farmers’ markets, ranch lands, local art galleries and small eateries showcasing farm-to-table ingredients. Food trucks across the island serve everything from poke bowls and shave ice to inventive fusion dishes, making casual dining a highlight of any stay. No trip to Maui is complete without driving at least part of the famous Road to Hāna. This narrow, winding route along the island’s northeast coast passes dozens of waterfalls, black- and red-sand beaches, and lookout points with sweeping Pacific views. Plan to take it slow, stop frequently, and respect local communities and fragile ecosystems along the way. Whether you spend your time hiking, surfing, or simply relaxing on the sand, Maui’s mix of adventure and tranquility leaves a lasting impression.