One of the many great things about living in the tropics is the weather and in Hawaii we love our outdoor space. This outdoor tropical living is most reflected in home furnishings and décor.

In addition to the traditional chain furniture stores, Hawaii boasts a large selection of smaller custom stores that feature Asian and Pacific style home décor. Due to its unique location, Hawaii is an ideal place to pick up pieces from Southeast Asia and the Pacific that reflect the island vibe in their designs and fabrics.

If you are looking for the ultimate honeymoon spot – it is here in Honolulu! In all the world of luxury, the Vera Wang Suite at Halekulani is truly one of a kind. Halekulani and Vera Wang represent the most refined and exclusive pedigrees of taste, style and sophistication. Immersed in understated elegance, this one-bedroom suite features 2,135 sq. ft. of interior space, plus a 642 sq. ft. oceanside lanai.

I must admit, Bastille Day is not that popular here in Hawaii. In fact until I looked it up, I was not sure what it was commemorating. The Fête de la Fédération of the 14th of July 1790 was a huge feast and official event to celebrate the uprising of the short-lived constitutional monarchy in France, and what people considered the happy conclusion of the French Revolution. That said I am all for a huge feast and any excuse to indulge in delicious French food and wine!

Living in the middle of the Pacific Ocean has advantages and one of them is the mixing of cultures we have here in Hawaii, and nothing reflects that more than our local food scene. Honolulu has many famous chefs, Chef Chai Chaowasaree, Chef Alan Wong, Chef Roy Yamaguchi, and Chef Sam Choy. However everyday is not a five course experience, in fact most meals in Hawaii are rather casual in atmosphere but high on quality. True local eateries in Honolulu, are informal and often allow you to bring your own wine and beer with no additional fees.

Liliha Bakery has been in business for over half a century. If you have a serious sweet tooth, this landmark bakery is a “must do” for anyone looking to explore local cuisine while in Honolulu. I would like to add, if you are on a diet, one visit to Liliha Bakery and you could be in trouble! But what the heck, if you are going to cheat – this is the spot to indulge!

Hawaii is well recognized for its surf, hula and beaches, but less known for a little gem housing some amazing art. It is the Contemporary Museum of Art. I would encourage a visit to explore one of Hawaii’s most historic homes and stroll along its breathtaking garden courtyards that surround the Academy’s 30 galleries, offering panoramic views of Diamond Head.

Hawaii has been long on the map as a world class surfing destination with famous brakes like Pipeline and Sunset; hosting the major surf competitions each winter featuring pros like Kelly Slater and Andy Irons. But lately there has been a new sport that has been very popular with residents and celebrities on their Hawaiian vacation – the sport of Stand Up Paddling (SUP).

Today the Mercer Report announced the findings from their annual Quality of Living Survey. The annual survey produced by the global consultancy firm assesses the quality of life in 221 cities around the world by measuring them against New York, which is given a base index score of 100. Vienna was rated the best place to live on the planet and not surprising Baghdad was rated as the least desirable spot. Living conditions in the cities are analyzed according to 39 factors in 10 categories such as political and social environment, socio-cultural environment, schools and education, and natural environment.

In Honolulu, the summer months bring the South Shore Swell with great waves to ride in town and also festivals and events. Top on my list is the KCC Farmer’s Market. The Hawaii Farm Bureau Federation is a private, non-profit organization supporting the economic viability of Hawaii’s farmers and ranchers. While the Farm Bureau hosts many markets on Oahu, one of the biggest with the greatest diversity of products is at the Kapiolani Community College on Saturday mornings.