How are you feeling?!

Since I've arrived, one of the first questions that my friends ask me is... How are you feeling?

To be honest, I am not exactly sure.  I have been quite emotional recently, probably for the last couple of weeks.  Wresting with the idea that my backpacking days are over (for now), and going back to work (it's been over a year) and the first time since 2010 that I'll be working a 40 hour work week - crazy, right?

Besides the emotion caused by the logistics of moving back, other emotions, such as humbled, joy, lucky, blessed, also pop into mind.  

It's kind of crazy - most of you already probably know that I am doing a cycling event - from San Francisco to Los Angeles to raise money for HIV and AIDS related NGOs.  Crazy part is I am so amazed who is supporting me.  Friends from all over the world (who do not get the tax deduction), from Australia, Spain, Canada, Guatemala - I mean, how lucky am I to have the support of these awesome people.

On the flip side, I've only raised $700, and that is a long way to go until $3,000.  Considering that the first round of donations are the easiest - the last $2,000 is going to be a bumpy ride, but that's ok, I have some fundraisers planned pretty soon! 

Well besides fundraising, there is also the issue of getting back into shape - which will probably be a completely separate blog.  I have partied hard this summer and I've gained about 15 pounds, which isn't that big of a deal, my weight normally yo-yos, but getting started is always the hardest.

That and not having enough for a bike, which is actually no longer the problem since I sold nearly all of my high-end electronics.  I sold two of my laptops (Alienware M18X R2 and a MacBook Pro 13 Retina), and 2 phones (iPhone 6 64GB and Huawei P8 Lite). 

Great thing is now I have money for a bike, bad thing is here in Hawaii, it is really overpriced.  I kind of wished I had an extra day in San Diego to go shopping for a bike.

That leaves me to the fact that I do not have transportation at the money, so I'll be walking about, which isn't a big deal for me, since I don't work that far from home, but it would be nice to already have a bike or also a car, but that's not going to happen until I have finished the 2016 AIDSLifeCycle.

Another thing right now is not having the space and things right now to properly organize.  I have to help my roommate clean out some things, which I don't mind, but I kinda wish I could just do it all and get it done.  Speaking of which, if you know anyone who wants this huge entertainment center - let me know.  Letting it go for free, just need someone with the manpower and a pickup truck to haul it away!

Shopping is also an issue too, I don't want to spend that much money on things right now, so the pantry is quite limited, but I'm alright with that too...

 Well, I am getting tired, sorry for the randomness which are my feelings, but the lack of sleep and natural light maybe too hard to overcome...zzzz. lol

YouTube: http://goo.gl/0vks5e 

Mahalo for reading. 

Until next time.

TravelTalk - California Rock & Roll Sushi - Ward - Honolulu, Hawaii

I seriously have been eating out way too much, but eating out here in Hawaii (probably like most places around the world) a very social experience... It's not just eating, its also hanging out with friends, chatting, talking story, and being able to share an experience.

I wasn't sure where I was going to eat last night, I was running errands - last to do list and called up +Sonnie Kerr and +Michelle Morales and next thing you know we're meeting up at Ross and the only thing I could think of that was nearby and good was California Rock and Roll Sushi...

Needless to say it was epic good.  Miso butterfish - OMG. Chicken Karaage - SUPER ONO.

Spicy Edamame - perfectly spicy and salty.  Oyster shooters (pass) lol.  Firecracker (sushi) hells to the yeah.

Thanks for hanging out and if you're in Oahu - you have to try this place, not traditional, more modern, not super cheap, affordable and great place to eat.  Probably really busy Friday nights and weekends!

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

Flying with Allegiant - My experience.

Your experience with Allegiant can be a good one if you get to know the airline's policies.  

Allegiant flies all over the U.S. including Honolulu, Hawaii.  I found a ticket from HNL to LAX roundtrip for $332 (including taxes), which is a great deal considering the other airlines were charging about $580.  

Tip #1 - Download the app or Print your boarding pass

The old school way of heading to the airport and using the machine to obtain your boarding pass will cost you $5 - per person.  So if you don't do it before you arrive - try downloading the app, you'll need your confirmation code and your last name.  

PS. Take a screenshot of your boarding pass (from the app), in case you go somewhere without reception and what not, it's all there!

Tip #2 - Buy something to eat and drink

This may not be a big deal for the shorter flights, but from LAX to HNL (or vice versa), it's at least a five hour flight - and guess what?  Allegiant does not give away anything for free - not even water.  Water bottle will cost you $2, but you'll need to use a debit or credit card.  

The menu is also limited, but if you bring your food, you'll be fine.

Tip #3 - Don't pay for luggage

Well, I pack super light on this trip and I only had a personal item (a small backpack) and yeah... people were bringing in HUGE bags (in between a carry on and a checked in bag) - without any problems... 

If you do have a bigger bag and you're not boarding group #2 (the back of the plane seats - which boards first after priority boarding), you may want to pay the $5 for the early boarding - just to get your luggage in, but to be honest you'll probably be fine.

Tip #4 - SEATS DO NOT RECLINE

This isn't a big deal for me, I am only 5'6", but if you really have to have reclining seats or more legroom for a long haul flight - you may want to consider paying for a bulkhead seat or another airline altogether.  

Tip #5 - Enjoy your flight!

I was lucky and had a whole row to myself - WHAT WHAT?!  When was the last time that happened!?  I was laid out completely and passed out!

The staff was super nice and you know what?  I'd fly Allegiant again!

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

Island Tour with Spaniards and new OnePlus One

One of my favorite things to do when I am back in Hawaii is to drive around the island.  However on this trip it was a little different... it was with Spaniards! HAHA.

Long story short, I met 2 Spanish guys (who are on vacation) and next thing you know - I'm giving them an island tour with their rented convertible.  #awesomesauce.

**All photos taken with +OnePlus One** for all the mobile nerds!

Our tour had many stops, from lookouts, hikes, food, food (and more food), even playing in the waves and yes - me and my Spanglish at its best... 

Shoutout to new friends +Javier G +Jesus Burriana.

This is one of my favorite mini-hikes... it's perfect for a jog, a brisk walk... did I mention the view?  Always breezy, this hike is awesome if you have an hour to spare and do something outdoors.

This may look a little crazy, but its one of my favorite things to eat.  Imagine, you just finished swimming, you're starving and thirsty and you have about $3.00.  Or you're on your way to work, you're hungry, you're running late, you need to be able to eat and drive!  Well, Spam musubi is just for you... It's the perfect combination of childhood nostalgia, salty goodness and size!

I know this is going to sound crazy, but my favorite thing about Hawaii (Oahu in particular) is the view of the mountains... Yes, I know there are beautiful beaches and such, but for me the mountain here in Hawaii are unique and just #awesomesauce

+OnePlus One Selfie!  #oneplus #summershots

After snorkeling - I introduced the guys the plate lunch... #nomnomnom

BBQ short ribs, chicken katsu and mahi mahi... 

Garlic shrimp - guess from where?!  #onolicious

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

Another day... #luckyme

Special thanks to that guy on the bus last night who was rocking out to his own music.  Your sheer love of metal music and lack of public shame, made me laugh hysterically (and a bit jelly).

**Still looking for a roadbike, if anyone has one they're not using**

It has been an awesome couple of days, my left ear finally popped yesterday - conforming that my best diving days are probably behind me.

Yesterday was pretty cool.  Nothing super exciting, but awesome nonetheless.  One of the most surprising things about my travels that people don't realize is that I normally spend a lot of time alone - yes, even in Hawaii.  Most people are working and stuff, or I guess assume I'm busy.  

Well, funny how random stuff works out too.  Yesterday, I went to see Guardians of the Galaxy in 3D, OMG it was $15.50, but completely worth it, seeing a 3D movie on a huge screen and proper 3D was amazeballs.  

Before that I was at one of my favorite beaches.  Ala Moana beach park.  It normally gets a bit crowded on the weekends, but on this Monday afternoon it was perfect.  I swam for a bit (of course forgot my goggles), and my pictures of myself didn't turn out that well, but hey, its still super.

Got to hang out with one of my BFFs just walking around Walmart - I know, right?  I was trying to see if they had a computer I wanted (of course, they didn't), we also had some Jamba Juice - what what?!  Acai bowl.  Yes, I know it's not the best place to get it, but hey my first Acai bowl in over year, k.  lol try relax. 

Oh yeah, this is what I had for breakfast yesterday.  I had to get my license renewed (which only took 2 hours BTW - kinda good since it was a Monday).  For the peeps overseas, this is corned beef hash, with fried rice and 2 over medium eggs (I really wanted pancakes, but then I'd need a lot of toast for the beef and eggs).  

Speaking of breakfast - gonna go eat.  I forgot what else I wanted to say.  o_O

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

First 24 hours back in Hawaii

The first 24 hours back on the island have been quite a mixture of emotions, everything from sheer joy to complete exhaustion.  The trip itself to Hawaii wasn't too bad, I was able to sleep for most of the three flights, just wished I had more access to water.  Sat next to friendly people on all of the flights, but just the journey itself kinda messed up my system this time around.  I have a runny nose - completely clear, and my left era hasn't popped - yet!  I swear I am going to be running and I'll just topple over once this decide to blow.  

The travel time was approximately 25 hours, add into the mix a 12 hour time difference, and a schedule which normally includes eating dinner at 7pm (or earlier), then I'm just all kinda messed up.

Did I mention I didn't get to take a nap?!  OMG. lol

Anyways, even with all of these crazy things going on, I still managed to go for a morning run...  check packages, go grocery shopping (OMG greek yogurt here is butt expensive), go to the beach (2 actually), meet up with some besties for dinner and another dinner at the house!

This morning, I didn't sleep well, I've been up since 4am, I'm sure one of these days, I'll crash and I'll be able to sleep properly, until then - Starbucks!  hahaha.

First picture back - 0611am.

New Reef slippahs my fav!

Morning Jog

Waiting for the bus

Nap time

#yum

Unagi. 

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

Hawaii Presentation... May 06, 2014

Yikes, I am crazy behind on blogging and YouTube videos!  

Today, I gave a presentation about Hawaii.

It's really hard to talk about one of the most awesome places in the world in just 1 hour.. 

Anywho, here is the video I showed in the presentation and a link to the presentation as well...

Don't forget to subscribe!

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

 Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

European Readers - 2014 Hawaiian Calendar Giveaway!

Aloha everyone!

Christmas is right around the corner, so I'll be doing a couple of giveaways!

First up: 2014 Hawaiian Calendar (yup, all 12 months!)

To Enter:
1) Leave a comment on this blog or any of my YouTube videos from now, until Wednesday, December 11) OR RT this tweet 
2) Be a resident of Europe.
3) Winner will be announced on Wednesday at midnight.  You will be contacted via email or via YouTube.
Prize will be mailed on Friday (if you win, I need your address by Thursday).

There will be a separate giveaway for US followers!

CHECK OUT MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS HERE: 

http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos 

Mahalo for reading. Until next time.

TravelTalk – A hui hou, Hawaii nei.

I can't believe almost a month has passed. 

Moments like this makes me realize about cherishing life. While I'm blessed to travel and see many things,  it's cherishing the moments, whether it is raining, or stuck in traffic with your best friend or just enjoying one of most beautiful sunsets which Hawaii has to offer.

Being back in Hawaii has been quite overwhelming, a month isn't even enough to see everyone, do everything and eat everything (hahaha).

Don't forget to check out my YouTube page and see videos of Hawaii. I probably could have taken more, but you should see it for yourself.

Special thanks to my BFFs and making this trip unforgettable.

A hui hou,  Hawaii nei. A hui hou.

TravelTalk - Hawaii - Flowers, flowers, flowers

Here in Hawaii, there are my flowers that can only be found here. I am not a flower expert, but I did want to share some pictures of flowrrs that I have taken.

Most of these are near my neighborhood, I just take pictures during my run.

I hope you enjoy. (sorry so short, blogging from my phone).

TravelTalk - FoodTalk - Food, Food, Food and more Food (Hawaii)

One of the great things about Hawaii - besides the beaches, the weather and the sites - is the food.

Hawaii is home to many, many nationalities and with it you can find nearly every type of food on the islands.

Here are just a few of my favorite.

(don't forget to check out my YouTube videos!: http://www.youtube.com/user/hawaiiinsomniac/videos)

Japanese food - While most people only think of sushi when it comes to Japanese food, there are actually many different types: donbury, ramen, soba/udon, yakinikku, kaiseki, shabu shabu (yum), teppanaki, and more.  My favorite udon place on the island of Oahu is Marukame Udon, which use to be the Jack in the Box on Kuhio St.  This place is super great, everything is super fresh and be prepared to wait about 15-30 minutes to eat - if not longer during busy hours!

 

 

  

  The following pictures are from Raging Crab - located on Keeaumoku street (across from WalMart).

If you're craving seafood with creole seasoning - this is a pretty good place!  I haven't been to any other ones in Oahu, but I really liked the food (though stay away from the crawfish).

 

 

Now we move on to Thai food.

One of my favorite places for Thai food in Hawaii is Maile's Thai Bistro in Hawaii Kai.

Official Website: www.mailesthaibistro.com/‎

For those of you who love spicy food, Thai food is one of the great types of food that are made to handle any level of spice, from mild, to Thai spicy! 

Thai Tea

My favorite things to eat at Maile's are below... (pictures of actual dishes I ordered)

Dessert - Mango with sticky rice

Yellow Curry with Tofu - spicy (order with sticky rice!)

Next is Chinese food.  I love Chinese food.  Everything from modern fusion, to dim sum.

One of my favorite places in Hawaii for Chinese food is Little Village.

Official Site: http://www.littlevillagehawaii.com/

I love this place because the food is just delicious, the service is great and they are very friendly.

My favorite dishes are the Honey Walnut Shrimp (pictured), lettuce wraps, salt and pepper porkchop and any of their seafood dishes!  

  

Singapore Rice Noodle (yum): Rice noodles stir-fried with shredded char-siu, vegetables, shrimp and bean sprouts and served with a special curry sauce.

 

Honey Walnut Shrimp:

 Large shrimps tossed in a garlic and green onion cream sauce.  Topped with honey walnuts. Crispy   

 

California Pizza Kitchen 

CPK is one of those places that I can go to on a weekly basis.  The food is comforting, yet there is enough variety to keep it interesting.  The service is beyond superb (special shout outs to Keisha and Molly at CPK - Kahala).  Check out a few of my favorites:

Asparagus + Arugula Salad:

Tossed in housemade lemon vinaigrette with sun-dried tomatoes, toasted almonds and shaved Parmesan.

 

 

Butter Cake - Enough said.