Going to Heaven!

Finding peace in unexpected places includes a car trip to Hana on the Island of Maui. Join us!

Going Hana-side, as the locals say it, is a must do for anyone visiting the island of Maui. 34 actual miles of twists, turns, starts and stops, one lane bridges, all pass through the 'tropical paradise' that you envision as the tropics.

The road itself was built-by hand- in 1927! It was carved out of coastal cliffs, bridges across 57 gullies or creeks containing rivulets, streams, pools and raging torrents. The bridges are all one way with yield notices on both sides. Truly first come, first to go!

The road is a driver's delight--or nightmare!. It is mostly well maintained, but not meant for speed. 10-20 MPH is the average. Don't make the mistake of following the car ahead too closely, as unexpected stops occur frequently with picturesque waterfalls, botanical gardens, ocean and valley views, one lane bridges, roadside stands and other attractions occurring unexpectedly. Start with a full tank of gas, good tires, working windshield wipers and the ability to put the top up on convertibles. You will need all of these!

For the weak of stomach, take Dramamine before leaving Kahului or Paia. It will enhance your trip which incorporates up to 600 turns!

The road to Hana begins in the open sugarcane and pineapple fields which are sun drenched and wind whipped. Just past the colorfully painted town of Paia, the road begins tunneling through a tropical rain forest. There is no rainy season here...everyday is a rain day somewhere along the road to Hana. The moisture level in the air increases and the road side landscape is filled with plants you thought only grew in doctor's offices. Mother Nature cares for these specimens and they grow to mammoth proportions.

Split leave philodendrons have leaves the size of big screen TVs. Bird's nest ferns are as big as your living room. Every square inch of ground is home to a tree-hugging vine, flowering ginger and species of trees, bushes, and bamboo. It's a plant lover's paradise, a trip through a living Garden of Eden, and an invitation to observe, enjoy and learn more about the tropical rain forest.

Eucalyptus and Cypress trees clear the senses with pungent odors. Plumeria, various gingers, halyconia and even wild orchids scent the air. The smell of just washed air and damp rich soil waft up after the frequent rains. Wild mangoes ripen on trees and litter the ground, filling the air with a cloying sweetness. Mountain apple, passion fruit, noni fruit are other typical treats offered by the rain forest. Just behind the smell of fruit and flowers is the scent of salt spray that drifts up from the wave washed beaches below.

The Road to Hana demands to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Allow 3-4 hours for the trip--each way. Traffic flows TO Hana in the morning and FROM Hana in the mid to late afternoon. Tourist season is from November to mid-April, making the shoulder months inviting if you are crowd averse. Weather is still great. Drive you own rented car or take a guided tour.

I have done both the tour and the personal car. They each have their own appeal. I prefer a personal car as it allows you to stop where and when you want, and to stay as long as you want at a view point, or waterfall. The narration on tours can enhance your knowlege of the area and give you a chance to see it without having to navigate the twisty road.

Driving on your own allows you to enjoy many hikes that occur along the way, visit Keane Peninsula, and hike to Puohokamoa Falls. Refreshment and bathroom stops along the way are scattered, so plan ahead. Once you reach Hana, which is a small but quaint wide spot in the road, you can either stay in a prearranged hotel room, B and B, hostel or Air BnB accommodation. Plan ahead, accommodations are few in a small town. In town, visit the Cultural Center where history comes alive with artifacts, a friendly docent, and a photo record of inhabitants who have spent a lifetime enhancing the ambiance and life of Hana. They can also refer you to other places of interest including the Pools at Oheao, more waterfall and bamboo forest hikes and the local camp grounds.

Take plenty of film or space on your phone as photo ops are abundant.

Your visit to Hana will serve to remind you that life is often about the journey, and not necessarily about the destination. Here the air has a softness and a sensuality that must be felt to be believed. The scents are inspirational. Bird song will lift your spirits. The sound of rushing water and the clacking of the bamboo is nature's symphony. Views are mind expanding! The journey to Hana can be like the road to heaven. Take the time to enjoy it!

I hope you have found peace in this unexpected place. Please post a comment or 'Like' or email me at karenmac1999@hotmail .com to share your personal experiences.