Flights to Honolulu touch down at the International airport, located very close to the city centre and recognised as one of the busiest in the United States; with three terminals servicing commuter, inter-island and main international Honolulu flights. Transport between terminals is via what are locally referred to as wiki wiki buses, with shuttle buses running regularly into the centre. Alternatively, there are many taxis, or if you are feeling extravagant there is also a limo option.

Cheap flights to Honolulu from Europe will arrive at the main terminal, where there are information booths, cafes, restaurants, gift shops, a clinic and even a post office. The Ohana hotel is just half a mile from the airport, for early or late connections, with excellent facilities and amenities.

As Oahu is relatively small, the task of getting around is not too challenging. Having found the airfare to cover long-haul flights to Honolulu, just a small additional outlay buys you a 4-day discovery bus pass, which allows unlimited travel throughout the island. The circular route is a great way of seeing the city and its surroundings. There are specific buses to take you to the resort areas of Waikiki and Kahala, together with a stream of taxis, always readily available. Prices are very reasonable, having been set by the city council; so there is no fear of being ripped off.

It is inevitable that flights to Honolulu will result in a visit to the famous Waikiki beach, where surfing is in its ascendancy. Take a trip out to the Aloha Tower, and sample the spectacular views from the 10th floor observation deck of this impressive lighthouse, but be aware that the only way up is via elevator. Panoramas include Diamond Head - the Volcano which is the City's most famous landmark, the Koolau mountains and a great vista of downtown Honolulu.

Of course, no journey to Hawaii's state capital would be complete without a poignant look around Pearl Harbor. The organized tours are very well presented and the time spent at the US Arizona memorial cannot fail to move even the hardiest of characters.

Many folk take local Honolulu flights to visit Ala Moana, the largest open-air shopping center in the world. Hundreds of shops of all descriptions, set amongst tropical landscaping, make this, without a doubt the most aesthetically pleasing shopping experience possible. There are pick up and drop off points throughout Waikiki at a minimal cost. There is a terrific food court situated at the heart of it, with cuisine from all parts of the globe. The waterfront market place at Aloha Tower is also well worth a visit for shopping and dining.

Honolulu has restaurants in abundance and although the night life is more subdued due to the laid back feel of the place, the Kalakana and Kuhio Avenues of Waikiki are quite lively, with bars, clubs and night spots offering plenty of entertainment, including the local dancers giving tourists a glimpse of the Hula.