HaveAlohaWillTravel

WE ARE ON A HIATUS — but we're back to tell you about our Summer 2024 issue! Read about our favorite beach towns in Hawaiʻi, where to eat local mango and which hike on Kauaʻi is editor Catherine Toth Fox's favorite.

Catherine Toth Fox, the editor of HAWAIʻI Magazine, answers your Hawaiʻi questions about everything from Maui's red-sand beach to whether you can eat strawberry guavas. Got a question? Email media@hawaiimagazine.com.

The HAWAIʻI Magazine team visits the Westin Maui Resort and Spa, now that it's completed a $160 million transformation. We talk about the new food offerings, the renovated rooms and a brand-new arcade-bar called Hana Hou that will be opening in mid-May. (And we apologize for the background noise!)

Love Spam as much as we do? (Hawaiʻi consumes the most Spam in the U.S. Fun fact!) This weekend the 20th annual Waikikī Spam Jam returns, with dozens of local restaurants serving innovative and creative dishes using the beloved canned meat. (Spam and rice ice cream, anyone?) We talk with the Spam Queen Barbara Campbell (president of the Spam Jam committee and foundation) about the event, which will be held on April 27, 2024 in Waikīkī.

Want to take better vacation photos? We talk with Maryrose and Reid Hicks, the power couple behind Wanderlustyle (wanderlustyle.com), a travel and lifestyle blog, about ways to up your photo game. BONUS: Get info on our annual Photo Contest, underway now. You could win a trip to Kauaʻi, courtesy of Alaska Airlines and Waimea Plantation Cottages.

Spring Break is here! And if you're planning to visit the Islands this month—or this summer—here are a few must-do activities that you. need to add to your itinerary.

Been and done Waikīkī? We feel you. There are so many other Oʻahu neighborhoods to explore, with lots of great shops, restaurants, hiking trails and beaches. We recorded this podcast from The Kāhala Hotel & Resort, a luxe resort less than 5 miles from the bustle of Waikīkī — a great option if you want a quiet retreat on Oʻahu.

The HAWAIʻI Magazine team answers your Hawaiʻi travel questions, from our favorite sushi spots on Oʻahu to our picks for hotels on Maui. Got a question? Email media@hawaiimagazine.com.

Lunar New Year kicks off on Feb. 10, 2024, ushering in the Year of the Dragon. Hawaiʻi-based foodie Melissa Chang joins us to talk about new year traditions, including what to eat. BONUS: We talk about cake noodle, an only-in-Hawaiʻi Chinese dish.

The HAWAIʻI team is in Hilo on Hawaiʻi Island this week, broadcasting from the eco-friendly SCP Hilo. We chat about our visit to a goat dairy in Honomū, the quick hike to ʻAkaka Falls and dining at Moon and Turtle. BONUS: You get a sneak peek at our Winter 2024 issue, on newsstands now!

Kevin says goodbye (again) as he moves on from HAWAIʻI Magazine to live in Japan. He talks with Cat about his favorite and most memorable stories, including a harrowing experience repelling down 40 stories of a Waikīkī hotel.

Cat and Emily, HAWAIʻI's digital media specialist, discuss their beach essentials and favorite Hawaiʻi beaches. Take notes! They give great tips for your next Hawaiʻi vacay!

Cat chats with Katrina Valcourt, a frequent visitors to the pod and executive editor of HONOLULU Magazine, about why winter may be the best time to visit Hawaiʻi. BONUS: We have gift ideas for the Hawaiʻi lover on your list!

On the 122nd episode of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast, Cat and Kevin get on the mic to discuss holiday shopping—and how to get something uniquely from Hawaiʻi—and the Kauaʻi Raceway Park.

Want to learn how to surf in Hawaiʻi, but don't know where to even get started? Then this is the podcast episode for you.

Cat and Kevin are back for the 120th episode—wow!—of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast.  This week, it's all about travel. Cat—along with ex-associate editor Grace Maeda—made her way over to the Valley Isle to scope out some hidden finds for our upcoming issue of HAWAIʻI Magazine. Meanwhile, Kevin kicked it at home on Oʻahu and checked out a town close to his heart, Wahiawā.

For a fruit that's not from Hawaiʻi, locals and visitors alike sure do love pineapples.  A staple fruit in the Islands for centuries, the pineapple—which originated from South America—has become intrinsically linked with Hawaiʻi. And there aren't a lot of people who know more about the subject than Darren Strand, who joins Cat and Kevin on this episode of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast. A self-proclaimed "pineapple nerd," Strand has been in the pineapple farming business for decades, and currently helps run and operate Maui Gold Pineapple Company.

Cat and Kevin are back to talk about HAWAIʻI Magazine's upcoming print issue on this week's edition of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast. From visiting a cat sanctuary on Lānaʻi to chatting all about Hilo on Hawaiʻi Island, this issue is chock-full of fantastic stories about the Islands. And its main feature, where we invite readers to meet four unique Hawaiʻi makers and crafters who have started their own businesses, is a big topic of discussion on this week's HAWT.

It's a confusing time to be a visitor with travel plans to Maui. The discourse on social media has made it even more confusing too, with influencers and locals saying to "stay away." However, while not affecting areas like Lahaina and certain parts of Kula is definitely the call, the rest of the island—and its many businesses that are reliant of visitors—still need to pay the bills. To shed more light on the topic, and to help travelers make the right call through these tragic times, Kevin and Cat and joined by the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority's chief brand officer Kalani Kaʻanāʻanā to discuss this sensitive topic.

There's really no way to get around talking about Maui at the moment, the situation there is too immense and too tragic. Cat and Kevin discuss a few important aspects of the Maui wildfire disaster, as well as the initial timeline of the fire, that's been unfolding for the past few weeks, which has left hundreds—thousands—without homes, businesses or jobs. And the number of casualties continues to rise.

Kevin is joined by Calvin Canha, Evan Hawkins and Brady O'Rear from reggae band Through the Roots on this episode of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast.

This week, Cat and Kevin are joined by Lena Haapala, a Kokonut Koalition volunteer, hiking activist and co-founder of Aina Lani Hikes.

Editors Kevin Allen and Catherine Toth Fox discuss their recent trips to Lānaʻi and Kauaʻi — with tips for your next trip to the Islands.

Obon season has arrived in Hawaiʻi.  Throughout the Islands' summer months, bon dances occur on almost every weekend at different buddhist temples around the state. Featuring great local food stalls, traditional obon songs and energetic dancing around the yagura—a large wooden tower where taiko drummers perform—Hawaiʻi bon dances are a favorite annual event to attend amongst locals and visitors.

Back for another episode of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast, Catherine Toth Fox and Kevin Allen talk story before diving into a few topics on today's episode.

If it's your first vacation to Hawaiʻi, the planning process can be a little intimidating. Which island do you visit? What's the best time to book flights? What do you pack? All of these questions, and more, are answered on this week's episode of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast, where your Cat and Kevin talk at length about helpful tips and knowledge perfect for first-time Hawaiʻi visitors.

Local food blogger Melissa Chang is back — for the fourth time! — to share her favorite new restaurants and Hawaiʻi snacks on a special live episode of the podcast with editor at large Catherine Toth Fox.

Lei Day is here, and so is the newest episode of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast. Cat and Kevin dig into Lei Day, reminiscing on their own memories of the annual event, talking about how and why the Islands celebrate it every year.

From seeing the historic Mauna Loa eruption and visiting the Islands' top resorts to just talking story at Matsumoto Shave Ice, Grace Maeda shares her favorite stories and experiences working at HAWAIʻI Magazine on her final episode.

HAWAIʻI Magazine's most popular issue is available now! The co-hosts give a sneak peek and glimpse into the making of the magazine.

Powered by HAWAIʻI Magazine, episode 105 of the "Have Aloha Will Travel" podcast welcomes Chef McKenna Shea. The Pacific'o chef recently took the crown on Food Network's "Chopped."

Podcast co-hosts Kevin Allen, Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda welcome Ryan Kalei Tsuji, co-owner of The Lei Stand, to discuss his new cocktail lounge and to dish on his favorite spots in Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown.

Tomorrow isn't just Feb. 21.   It's Fat Tuesday, also known as Mardi Gras. In Hawaiʻi, it's more commonly known as Malasada Day; a day to indulge in the popular deep-fried, sugar-dusted doughnuts.   To celebrate one of sweetest days of the year, Kevin Allen, Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda unpack their go-to indulgent dishes in the Islands—and argue what foods constitute as indulgent—on episode 103 of the “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast.

On episode 102 of the “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast, co-hosts Kevin Allen and Grace Maeda welcome Dane Lam. The conductor is making history as the Hawaiʻi Symphony Orchestra's first music director in its 10-year history.  In this newly established position, Lam will not only lead the 84-member orchestra, but also ensure HSO continues its commitment to enrich Hawaiʻi through live music and serve as a premier provider of symphonic art forms throughout the Pacific. In this role, Lam will oversee HSO's performance repertoire for each concert season, organize performances by guest artists and conductors and also shape the artistic identity of the orchestra both on and off the stage.

Have Aloha Will Travel EP101: Get a Sneak Peek of Our New Issue by HaveAlohaWillTravel

The gang is back to celebrate the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast turning 100! This episode was recorded live last week and was streamed out to our Facebook page, where you can watch the video version. Listeners tuned in to answer trivia questions, give comments and enjoy a beautiful Hawaiian day with us at Deck at the Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel.

From Christmas beach days to all of the biggest New Year's Eve events, Kevin and Grace blab on about some of their favorite things to do during the holiday season.

The crew brings on Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park interpretation and education program manager Benjamin Hayes to talk about the recent historic eruption.

On this week's episode, Kevin, Grace and Cat talk about Hawaiʻi-made gift ideas and possible presents for loved ones coming into the holiday season.

On episode 96 of the “Have Aloha Will Travel Podcast,” Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda welcome Meli James back to the show. The Mana Up co-founder made her first appearance in episode 29. Her company provides an extensive mentorship program to local businesses looking to develop their stories and products. From organic beauty and beach apparel to locally crafted food and cocktail mixes, you can find an incredible variety of businesses that have graduated through the Mana Up program—many of which you know and love.

The crew at HAWAIʻI Magazine always loves having a new face around, and this week they're introducing Emily Smith to the HAWAIʻI ʻohana. Smith is HAWAIʻI Magazine's newest digital media manager and loves toy poodles, astrology and more. Cat, Kevin, Grace and Emily also share some of their favorite things about fall in Hawaiʻi. From Cat's love of pumpkin patches to Emily's fondness for the Hawaiʻi International Film Festival, the gang covers a lot on what to do and see in Hawaiʻi during the fall season.

Kevin, Cat and Grace are back on the air to discuss some of their most recent trips to Maui and Kauai. From hiking through Kokeʻe State Park to getting surf lessons and more, Cat and Grace filled their travel itineraries to the Garden Isle to the brim, and have some great tips to share for those headed to Kauaʻi. Kevin spent time in the Wailea and Wailuku districts of Maui, and at the very least has a ridiculous photo of himself doing aerial yoga that's sure to make you laugh—you'll have to watch the video version of the podcast on our Facebook page for that content.

The gang is back—in person—to tackle some Hawaiʻi-specific trivia questions and flex their knowledge of the Islands in a trivia quiz. If you think you know all about the Rainbow State, then feel free to play along with Cat, Kevin and Grace as they ask each other questions that may leave you stumped. If you got all of Cat's questions correct—easily the toughest of the bunch—email kevina@hawaiimagazine.com and we'll shout you out on the next episode.

Gliding blissfully under the sea's surface, manta rays are some of Hawaiʻi's most fascinating and beautiful underwater inhabitants. And to coincide with World Manta Day on Sep. 17, the Have Aloha Will Travel crew has invited Keller Laros on to discuss everything manta. Famously known for his YouTube video documenting a bottlenose dolphin asking for his assistance to remove fishing line from its wound, which has garnered over 22 million views, Laros's true passion is observing, recording and getting to know the mantas that call the Hawaiian Islands home. Starting the Manta Pacific Research Foundation in 2002, the nonprofit's main goal is to study manta rays in their natural habitat, conduct scientific research, provide education programs for the public about manta rays and the marine environment and to establish and promote global manta ray conservation.

It's Q&A time, as we've got a whole round of new questions to be answered by the hosts of the Have Aloha Will Travel podcast. If you ever wanted to know how to get a lei to your friends and family on the Mainland, or need clarification on the hours of Diamond Head State Monument, then this is the episode for you.

On the momentous 90th episode of the “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast, Kevin Allen returns, joining Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda. The crew welcomes Kevin back, catching him up on the making of HAWAIʻI Magazine's Summer 2022 issue.

On episode 89 of the “Have Aloha Will Travel,” co-hosts Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda are reporting from Hilo. From trying the most unique loco moco to exploring ʻAkaka Falls and Volcanoes National Park, the co-hosts have a jammed-pack itinerary for travelers.

On episode 88 of the “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast, co-hosts Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda welcome HAWAIʻI Magazine's editorial intern, Mia Anzalone. Like Cat, Mia was born and raised on Oʻahu, so we decided to test the two on all things Hawaiʻi.

On this episode of the “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast, co-hosts Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda sit down with expert wedding planner Tessa Gomes and professional wedding photographer Joseph Esser. From gathering inspiration and creating mood boards, to keeping guests under control, Tessa and Joseph provide valuable insight and tips on how to get hitched without a hitch.

Co-hosts of the “Have Aloha Will Travel” podcast, Catherine Toth Fox and Grace Maeda discuss what they are most excited about this upcoming summer. They also play a little game naming their top picks. Listen and play along and let us know your answers to the questions.

In honor of World Oceans Day on June 8, we welcome the Maui Ocean Center's general manager, Tapani Vouri. He shares expert advice on how to help the ocean and its marvelous marine species.