In the native Hawaiian language, the word "Honolulu" translates into "sheltered bay" or "place of shelter." With close to sixty percent of the residents being of Asian decent, Honolulu offers a hybrid of culture, language, and cuisine that make it a unique place to visit. It boasts the only official royal palace in the entire country, which is known as the Iolani Palace. The national landmark was built in 1882 and was home for the monarchy at the time, King Kalakaua and his sister, Queen Lili'uokalani. Beautifully and carefully restored, this attraction, in the heart of downtown Honolulu, serves as a gorgeous landmark that allows visitors to understand Hawaii's elaborate heritage and experience the state's history firsthand. In addition to the urban culture that the city offers, there is also a part of Honolulu, known as Waikiki, that allows travelers to escape the "hustle bustle" activity of the city and immerse themselves into one of Hawaii's most well-know sandy beaches. Waikiki Beach is an amazing two-mile surf and sand locale that is the most-developed tourist attraction in all of Hawaii. On any given day, one can find the beaches flooded with surfers and the streets lined with visiting families and locals alike. Kalakaua Avenue, named after the aforementioned infamous King of Honolulu, is lined with fountains, quaint cafes, and historical information about the city posted on signs made out of actual surfboards. The Asian population speaks to the local cuisine, which encompasses everything from cute noodle shops to fancy Pacific Rim restaurants. The range of casualness and elegance that is integrated into their cuisine selections make this a great place for a quick-bite or a fine dining experience for the most sophisticated foodie. The beauty and variety that Honolulu offers, including urban attractions, long sandy beaches, historical culture, and Asian cuisine easily make it one of the most enticing travel spots in all of Hawaii, and in all of the western United States. Aloha Honolulu!