Over the years it became a tradition to spend a large part of December on the Islands. My trip to Hawaii is surf-motivated so I keep it on Oahu most of the time. Sure, I've also seen the other major islands of Hawaii, Kauai and Maui.

The 'El Nino' Winter of 97/98 saw a late arrival of classic conditions on the North Shore. On the first good swell many of the pro surfers took many a good rides. Todd Prestage had little luck in the competition but he goes great when The Door is open!

What always amazes me the most is the contrast in weather, in landscape, in ocean and in mountains. Most exciting, the buzzing of Honolulu and ten minutes into the mountains perfect silence. Or rainforrests and lush vegetation and a drive around the corner drops you in a desert. Only the people are always friendly and encharming with true aloha!

Back from the beach, Waikiki '97

After Aloha, it's the asian influence which makes the difference from mainland America. An overwhelming percentage of locals on Oahu have japanese or chinese ancestry. But the modern day jet-age visitor from Asia comes with other motives in mind. The japanese ladies on a shopping trip are already a piece of local culture - the strong Yen attracts them in Jumbo-Jetloads. Product-mania of the winter 97/98 were G-Shock watches ... made in Japan.

Hello Kitty visits Sunset Beach '97