Hawai’i & American Samoa

For two and a half weeks, I traveled among four of the Hawaiian Islands and made a quick side trip to American Samoa. While the main objective of the journey was undoubtedly to see and document the avifauna of the islands, I sought to learn more about the delicate ecosystems in these Polynesian locations and to experience the local culture.

I should add that I began writing this recap approximately one week after returning from the South Pacific. I had wanted to write a short blog every day while I was there, to jot down my observations and post my photos after many unforgettable experiences. As it often happens with me on every trip, I am too tired by the end of the day to do anything other than wind down and sleep. Fortunately, I kept a detailed itinerary of my trip on Wanderlog, so I have been able to track everything from restaurants and shopping to hikes and museums. Even after returning to reality, recounting my journey to Hawai’i and American Samoa has become easier.

While editing my photos, I made the unfortunate discovery that many of my bird photos taken on the Olympus OM-1 were lost. These include those shot during my entire stay on the Big Island and the first couple of days on Kaua’i. Photos from my TG-7 and iPhone, however, are unaffected. I will do my best to narrate my journey and provide a written account without these visuals.

Without further ado, let’s begin.

Please enjoy!