if you live in Hawaii, where do you vacation? (Hilo: restaurants, shop)

[Joliefille]

A completely frivolous post, but one that I think about often. We have vacationed in the EU annually for the last decade or so
and while I love touring the various countries and enjoying the food and culture, I find the effort to get there exhausting. We have been to most states on the mainland. Do you go East? Or head South to South American? We tend to avoid beach vacations as we have yet found any to compare to what we enjoy daily here in HI.

Where do the well traveled amongst you go?

[Tiger Beer]

I remember a similar topic a few years back on city-data, and Las Vegas seem to be the #1 choice for most people in Hawaii.

But well-traveled, the choices might be different. Looking forward to hearing the discussion that follows.

[Joliefille]

Having had the misfortune of covering Vegas as part of my territory for many years, you couldn't pay me enough to waste my vacation is such a sinkhole, to phrase it nicely. I truly pity anyone who thinks they are seeing the mainland when they visit Vegas.

Similar to enjoying the historical accuracy of Disneyland. Spend a few more shekles and see a real castle!

[McFrostyJ]

I have a friend who lives on the Big Island that loves to vacation in Vegas. I have asked why and she says it is because Las Vegas is the opposite of Hawaii. I'd have to agree with her. However, I have suggested that if the opposite is what she is looking for, then she should try visiting Fairbanks Alaska in January! That suggestion got me a REALLY dirty look.

[whtviper1]

There are only 2 states with no gambling whatsoever, Utah and Hawaii. So, for many in Hawaii, Las Vegas is a huge draw.

I pop over to Vegas for long weekends, not vacations. For an extended trip - I usually head to Australia or Japan.

[Leslie4Sun]

Las Vegas is more than just gambling. I love the shows, the restaurants, the desert and all the other fun things to see and do. The only gambling I do when I am there is dropping spare change in the slots on my way back to the room.

[Pikake]

I'll take a "trip" to Hilo.

[stan4]

When I was there, people told me they love to go to Vegas.

Cheap, lots to do and see in one location, etc.

[Dthraco]

+1 on Vegas. Lots of inexpensive places to eat really good food. Shows, people watching, shopping, rides, etc. All of that stuff is fun.

Other than Vegas, most of my vacations are to see family.

[HawaiianJohnKaluna'sHeart]

i like vegas it fun but i like going back in time to my hanabata memorys.