In the heart of the Pacific Ocean lies the archipelago of Hawaii, composed of 6 main islands with names like Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanaio, Maui, and the island of Hawaii, all of which have a touch of paradise. Honolulu, located on the island of Oahu, is the capital of the State of Hawaii, which is one of the 52 states of the USA. The blend of lifestyles from the United States and the local Hawaiian culture makes Honolulu a unique and diverse destination for a language study program. The fine sandy beaches bathed by the turquoise waters of the Pacific contrast with the city's skyscrapers, giving Honolulu an urban and coastal appeal.
337 300 inhabitants
Seaside, Volcanoes, Forests
20 hours 00 minutes from Geneva
Honolulu is located on the southeast coast of the island of Oahu, off the coast of Mexico, in the county of Hawaii, of which it is the capital. The city enjoys a sunny tropical climate, often considered very pleasant as it is less humid than other similar climates. There are generally two seasons throughout the year, with little difference in temperature and climate: hot and sometimes humid summers, and mild winters where temperatures rarely drop below 18°C. This means that the annual sunshine hours are quite generous. The surface water temperature also shows little variation, ranging from around 25°C in winter to 27°C in summer.
British Captain William Brown was the first European to explore the area that is now Honolulu in 1974. He established a stopover port for ships traveling between North America and Asia, which contributed to the rapid growth of the city. However, it was the dynasty of the Kamehameha kings that had the greatest influence on the development of Honolulu: the first of them conquered the island of Oahu, while Kamehameha III made it the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii in 1845. After the fall of the monarchy, the city remained the capital of the state of Hawaii and continued to do so after its annexation by the U.S.A. in 1898. It was also near Honolulu that the Japanese carried out their attack on the Pearl Harbor naval base during World War II.
Between your English classes in Honolulu, explore its lively downtown area and visit fascinating historical sites like Pearl Harbor. Immerse yourself in the warm and welcoming culture of Hawaii's population. Take advantage of the particularly pleasant climate of the archipelago to relax on the sandy beaches, such as Waikiki Beach, whether basking in the sun or lounging in the shade of coconut trees. Try your hand at surfing and other popular water sports in this dream destination, or simply admire the breathtaking landscapes from the top of Diamond Head Mountain. Discover the marine fauna and flora of the Pacific Ocean by diving in Hanauma Bay. Don't miss the Annual Honolulu Festival if you're staying in Honolulu in March!
During your language trip to Honolulu, transportation will be provided by "TheBus," the local bus company that also serves the rest of Oahu with 107 routes. The region is also very pleasant to explore on foot or by bike. The cost of living is reasonable, with an average meal for two in a mid-range restaurant costing around 38€ compared to 52€ in Paris. You'll find a multitude of shops where you can find souvenirs in Honolulu, such as shark tooth necklaces and shells with incredible shapes and colors. However, the prices of clothing and souvenirs can sometimes be quite high, with an average summer dress costing around 52€ compared to 35€ in Paris. While you're there, be mindful of sunburn, ocean currents, and the local flora and fauna, including jellyfish and sea urchins.
Honolulu Tourism Office:
1801 Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States.
Phone: +1 808 973 2255.
MENU
