Ask Endora

Dear Endora,

Several years ago I visited Volcano National Park and remember it quite vividly. I am planning a return visit and hear they have a boat tour that will take you to see the lava flow into the ocean. I am curious what are things I can see on this trip that I won’t find elsewhere?

Grace – Conneticut

Dear Grace,

I am thrilled to hear you will be returning to Hawaii and go on such a fabulous adventure. I know for a fact that our clients have witnessed Pele’s hair being formed as the lava entered the ocean – crackling and instantly forming Pele’s hair and black sand as well. You will see lava bombs (they float on the water), and the entire climate (air and water) changes once you are within yards of the lava.

Should be an adventure you will never forget!
   Endora

Dear Endora,

What is the first tree that will grow in lava?

Glenn

Dear Glenn,

The sturdiest of trees in Hawaii is the Ohi’a Lehua – Ohi’a is the tree, the blossom is called Lehua. However, the two are one in the same as without one the other does not exist. These trees are abundant in Hawaii but found nowhere else in the world.

And darling if you are one who believes in legends then you will understand that this tree is sacred to Pele the fire goddess of Hawaii. The blossom produces a wonderful nectar which is an important food source for the endemic Hawaiian honeycreepers.

Best regards,
   Endora

Dear Endora,

I hear that Hawaii has no quarantine on bringing dogs into the islands. Is this true?

Petra

Dear Petra,

Absolutely not true at all – Hawaii’s quarantine is actually 120 days, however, you can qualify for a 5 day or less quarantine if you follow the tremendous amount of rules set forth by Hawaii’s Department of Agriculture, and the list gets even longer if you wish to visit any island other than Oahu.

The rules are so strict since Hawaii does not have rabies, who can blame them.

If traveling to Hawaii on vacation there are only a handful on hotels on Oahu that will take pets, so it might be best to leave Fido home with a reputable pet sitter.

For more information follow this link for details on bringing a pet to Hawaii: http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info

Best wishes,
   Endora