Hawaii (the Big Island), United States

 

 

Few tourist destinations in the United States have been hurt during the current recession as badly as Hawaii. As hotels and resorts struggle to come up with smart deals, we're looking beyond the lei-wrapped packages this year to the islands' most quintessential Hawaiian destination -- especially to Hawaiians. In place of vacant beach-front high rises visitors are greeted by a wealth of options for water sports, hiking, cycling, diving, and golf. It's an island of extremes, from its size (the biggest of the chain), to its age (the youngest), to its population (the smallest), to its natural wonders (highest peaks, most active volcanoes, glacial lakes, and snow). The beauty isn't of the white sand beach variety (the sand is black here after all), but rather the look of a destination that's survived relatively untouched --just the way it should be. "From an erupting volcano to the state's most dramatic underwater world, this exotic island offers adventure, relaxation and an experience of Old Hawaii." -- Jeanette Foster, author Frommer's Hawaii