Hawai’i was an incredible and overwhelming experience. My very first morning involved waking up at 3AM to adventure to the top of Kīlauea to watch the sunrise over the active volcano. I was fortunate enough to stay with family on their wonderful farm on the Big Island where I collected chicken eggs, enjoyed shaved ice, and discovered the absolute delicacy of enjoying fresh papaya for breakfast. From there, I went on to explore Maui and O’ahu.

Waterfalls, crystal clear water, massive rainforest flora, bamboo forests, and countless wild chickens are some of the things that made my trip here so memorable. Maui was also the first time I had the opportunity to stay at a hostel, and it set the tone for how quickly great friends and travel partners can be found.