A world apart from it all in heart of the Pacific Ocean, the Hawaiian archipelago constitutes the southernmost state in the US. Known for perennially comfortable temperatures and warm waters that teem with surfers in the winter months, Hawaii sees very little change between seasons. Originally discovered by intrepid Polynesian explorer-colonists, Hawaii was revealed to the Western world by the 18th-century exploits of Captain James Cook.

The archipelago of Hawaii holds eight major islands (seven of which are open to visitors). Oahu is home to the capital city, Honolulu, where you'll find the greatest variety of amenities and shopping outlets as well as the world-renown Waikiki Beach. Maui, while less cosmopolitan than Oahu, receives a large portion of the state's tourists with its scenic highway and picturesque countryside. Meanwhile, Kauai and the Big Island are less developed, with an emphasis on natural beauty and rustic living.

Visitors arriving in Hawaii by air are likely to be routed through Honolulu International Airport. As a gateway into the islands, Honolulu Airport is well-connected to neighbouring islands through a network of inter-island connections. In fact, tourists flying between islands may find that they must briefly layover in Honolulu (even if Oahu is out of the way) before continuing on to their destination.

Banks: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday; 09:00 to 12:00, Saturday
Post Offices: 08:30 to 17:00, Monday to Friday; 08:30 to 12:00, Saturday
Government Offices: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday
Business Centres: 09:00 to 17:00, Monday to Friday
Shops: 10:00 to 21:00, Monday to Saturday; many open on Sundays