Exploring the Aloha Spirit: Travelling with a Baby to Hawaii and San Francisco 🌴👶🌉

Travelling with a baby is an adventure in itself, but when the destination is as captivating as Hawaii, the journey becomes even more exciting. Let me take you through our unforgettable experience of exploring the beautiful islands of Hawaii with our little one, Alice.

Why Hawaii? 🤔🏝

Let's address the elephant in the room – Hawaii isn't known for being budget-friendly. Choosing Hawaii as our destination wasn't a decision we made lightly, especially considering the costliness of travel in the USA, with Hawaii being among the priciest states. The idea was born during a somewhat mundane journey to Northumberland, where I stumbled upon reasonably priced tickets to San Francisco with Virgin Atlantic. Despite initially planning to explore California by car, we couldn't shake off the desire to visit Hawaii, especially since our previous attempt was thwarted by the Covid pandemic. Hence, we forwent the idea of hiring a car for our California adventure and redirected our focus towards the idyllic Hawaiian Islands.Our cancelled plans resulted in vouchers for flights to California and onward to Hawaii with Hawaiian Airlines, both valid for a year. After utilizing the first voucher for a holiday in Corfu, we found ourselves seeking an extension from Hawaiian Airlines. Despite missing the initial deadlines, the airline kindly agreed to renew our voucher, prompting us to seize the opportunity to finally visit Hawaii.

Preparation and Departure ✈️🧳

Travelling with a baby requires careful consideration, especially when it comes to flights and transportation. Virgin Atlantic provided a bassinet on the plane upon request, offering Alice a comfortable space to rest during the long journey. When it came to luggage, we opted for practicality and convenience. With the airline's allowance in mind, we packed two small hand-in luggages for ourselves, along with a small bag for our baby and a stroller.

On the day of departure, excitement mingled with anticipation as we set off for Heathrow airport. We opted for Bee parking, which proved to be a convenient choice. Navigating through check-in procedures, we decided to leave two of our small luggages at the check-in counter, opting to carry only a backpack filled with Alice's essentials and the stroller. This decision not only lightened our load but also facilitated smoother transitions throughout the airport.

Throughout the journey, Alice slept soundly for the majority of the flight, thanks to the comforts provided onboard. However, occasional disturbances from passengers using the restroom served as gentle reminders of the realities of travelling with a baby.

Exploring San Francisco 🌁🚃

Upon arrival in San Francisco, we wasted no time in arranging transportation to our first hotel, Orchad Garden Hotel. It's worth noting that car seats are compulsory even in taxis in the USA. Unlike in the EU, where taxis are exempt, the USA follows stringent regulations regarding child safety in vehicles. Some information from the internet suggested that you could request an Uber with a car seat. However, this wasn't the case. We then tried booking transportation through Booking.com, and utilized the "Special Requests" section to inquire about the availability of a car seat for our travels. To our surprise and delight, one of the transportation providers actually fulfilled this request, providing us with the convenience and peace of mind of having a car seat ready upon our arrival.

During our three nights in San Francisco, we immersed ourselves in the city's iconic landmarks and attractions. From witnessing the majestic Golden Gate Bridge to riding the iconic cable cars and exploring the historic Alcatraz Island, each experience was unforgettable. Navigating the city was made easy with the MuniMobile app, offering affordable public transport options and convenient access to all the must-see sights.

When it comes to dining in San Francisco, be prepared to indulge in a culinary adventure. It's worth noting that breakfast is no cheaper than lunch or dinner. As for baby food, we found better quality pouches priced at around 5 dollars. Despite the higher cost, the variety and availability of baby food options were commendable, offering a convenient solution for feeding Alice during our outings. Another aspect we encountered during our dining experiences was the lack of changing areas for babies in restaurants. Unlike in the UK, where changing facilities are commonly available, we discovered that finding a suitable place to change Alice could sometimes be a challenge.

Our visit to Alcatraz was a highlight of our time in San Francisco. Despite encountering some challenges with online ticket purchases due to EU rule changes, we were able to secure tickets at the kiosk the day before our visit. Exploring the historic prison grounds and hearing the captivating audio tour provided fascinating insights into its storied past.

During our time in the city, we were fascinated by the sight of driverless cars navigating the streets, offering a glimpse into the future of transportation. Although available for booking as taxis, we didn't seize the opportunity to experience this innovative mode of travel firsthand.

Overall, our time in San Francisco was filled with memorable experiences and discoveries. And as we bid farewell to the City by the Bay (for now), we eagerly anticipate the next leg of our adventure in the enchanting O’ahu island. 🌴👶🌉

Hawaiian Adventure 🏝🌺

Our journey to Hawaii began with a sense of anticipation as we boarded our morning flight to Honolulu on the 4th of March. Despite uncertain weather forecasts, we were eager to explore this enchanting island paradise. Arriving at our destination, we opted for the convenience of an Uber ride to our hotel, the Hotel Twin Fin. Our Uber driver assured us of fantastic weather by Waikiki beach, contrasting with frequent rains on the other side of the island, dominated by mountains.

Nestled perfectly along the main strip and overlooking the beach, Hotel Twin Fin offered us a prime location for our stay. Although some areas of the hotel could benefit from updates, we found overall satisfaction with our accommodations. One standout feature was the breakfast, boasting a breathtaking view. Priced at around 55 dollars per room, it proved to be a great deal, prompting us to indulge twice during our stay.

Our time in Hawaii was nothing short of magical. The island's beauty captivated us, and we relished in its clean and baby-friendly environment. While Alice delighted in frolicking in the sand and swimming in the pristine waters, we also embarked on a few excursions to enhance our experience. One such adventure took us to Kualoa Ranch, where we embarked on the Hollywood Movie Sites Tour. As we explored sites featured in iconic films like Jumanji and Jurassic World, our knowledgeable tour guide regaled us with fascinating anecdotes and background stories.

Kualoa Ranch's offerings extended beyond its cinematic allure, with a working farm and a delightful canteen serving up delicious fare. We couldn't resist indulging in some of their products, including food pouches that Alice adored. Transport to Kualoa Ranch from Waikiki beach was a breeze, with the option to pay an additional 30 dollars per person for a bus ride to and from the ranch.

Another memorable excursion took us to Pearl Harbor, where we had the opportunity to pay homage to history at the USS Arizona memorial. While tickets typically need to be booked eight weeks in advance, we were fortunate to secure last-minute tickets for a nominal fee of just 1 dollar. As we reflected on the somber reminders of past conflicts, we couldn't help but feel a sense of poignancy and the importance of learning from history's lessons. 🛳️🌺

Among the highlights of our time in Hawaii was undoubtedly our dining experience at Tanaka of Tokyo restaurant. Renowned for its master teppanyaki chefs who skillfully prepare and present the food, this culinary gem promised an unforgettable evening of gastronomic delight. Each dish was meticulously crafted before our eyes, with the chefs' flair and finesse elevating the art of teppanyaki to new heights. As we savored each mouthful, we couldn't help but marvel at the culinary mastery on display. Tanaka of Tokyo restaurant was more than just a place to dine; it was a culinary journey that left an indelible mark on our Hawaiian adventure. 🍣🥢

On our final evening in Hawaii, serendipity graced us with the chance to partake in the Honolulu festival—a vibrant celebration of the fusion of Asia, Pacific, and Hawaiian cultures. It was heartwarming to see Alice embracing the diverse cultural tapestry at such a tender age, reaffirming the richness of travel experiences in shaping young minds. 🎉🌴

Final Days in San Francisco 🌉🦁

As our Hawaiian adventure came to an end, we returned to San Francisco. Our last four nights were spent at the Warwick San Francisco, nestled conveniently by Union Square amidst the bustling main shopping facilities, including popular spots like Target and the outlet store Ross. From shopping at Union Square to visiting the San Francisco Zoo, farmers markets at the Fisherman's Wharf and admiring the iconic Painted Ladies, we savoured every moment of our time in the city.

A visit to the San Francisco Zoo proved to be a delightful surprise, with its sprawling grounds offering a tranquil escape from the city bustle. Unlike the crowded zoos back home in the UK, we found the San Francisco Zoo to be beautifully spacious and wonderfully serene. 🐘🌳

Another highlight was observing the playful antics of the sea lions at Pier 39. As we strolled past the array of shops, we were captivated by the sight of these majestic creatures basking in the sun, mere steps away from the bustling pier. 🦭🌊

Our exploration in San Francisco took an unexpected turn when we stumbled upon a coffee shop where our drinks were prepared by a robot. It was a fascinating glimpse into the city's tech-forward culture, with innovation seamlessly integrated into everyday life. 🤖☕

However, amidst the excitement and wonder of San Francisco, we couldn't ignore the city's stark contrasts. While Union Square boasted high-end shops and bustling activity, the adjacent Tenderloin district painted a different picture, with a visible presence of homelessness. The stark juxtaposition between wealth and poverty was impossible to overlook, and it served as a sobering reminder of the city's social challenges. While the homeless population did not actively approach us for money, witnessing individuals struggling with addiction and basic necessities cast a shadow over our otherwise enjoyable time in the city.

Reflecting on our stay, we couldn't help but feel a tinge of regret that we hadn't allocated more time to our Hawaiian getaway. While San Francisco offered a wealth of attractions and experiences, we found ourselves longing for the tranquil shores and laid-back vibes of O'ahu. 🏖️🌺

Homeward Bound 🛫🏠

As our journey drew to a close, we found ourselves aboard our final flight, homeward bound towards Heathrow airport. It was yet another overnight journey, and while our little one, Alice, had been a model traveller on the previous three flights, this leg proved to be a bit more challenging. Despite her evident exhaustion, sleep seemed to elude her, and we spent a restless 20 minutes trying to lull her to slumber.

The 10-hour time difference seemed to have taken its toll on all three of us, leaving us feeling drained and fatigued. Nevertheless, as we ventured to pick up our car, we remained hopeful that a return to our familiar routines would soon restore our energy levels.

As we reflect on our unforgettable adventure, we can't help but feel grateful for the countless memories we've made along the way. From the sun-drenched beaches of Hawaii to the vibrant streets of San Francisco, each destination has left an indelible mark on our hearts.

We hope you've enjoyed following along on our journey and perhaps gleaned some useful insights for your own travels. Be sure to stay tuned for our upcoming adventures! Next on the horizon is a family celebration in Slovakia, followed by a getaway to Cape Verde in June. ✈️🌍🎉

Lessons from Our Travels and Tips for Future Journeys

1.     Finding the Right Balance Between Destinations:

One of the key takeaways from our journey was the importance of balancing time between different destinations. While we could have easily spent another week exploring the beauty of O'ahu, we discovered that 3-4 nights in San Francisco provided ample time to visit all the main landmarks and indulge in some shopping. Planning the duration of each stop can help optimize your travel experience.

2.     Making the Most of In-Flight Amenities:

When traveling with a baby, in-flight amenities like bassinets can be a game-changer. However, it's crucial to choose the right location for maximum comfort. During our flight, the bassinet assigned to us happened to be located right behind the toilets, which proved to be distracting for our little one. For our next journey, we made sure to request a bassinet away from the restroom area, resulting in a much more peaceful experience for both baby and parents. If you're traveling with an infant, don't hesitate to communicate your preferences regarding bassinet placement.

3.     Navigating Public Transport in San Francisco:

Getting around San Francisco can be a breeze with the right tools. We highly recommend downloading the MuniMobile app to access affordable rates for all public transport options, including the iconic cable cars. With user-friendly features and cost-effective pricing, this app proved to be invaluable during our time in the city. Whether you're exploring the famous landmarks or venturing off the beaten path, efficient transportation can enhance your overall travel experience.

4. Navigating Transportation with a Baby:

When it comes to traveling with a baby, transportation logistics can pose some challenges. One aspect we encountered was the availability of car seat-equipped Ubers, which didn't always align with our needs. To mitigate this issue, I highly recommend planning ahead by either bringing your own car seat or purchasing one upon arrival. We discovered that car seats are more affordable in the USA compared to the UK, making it a practical investment for your travels. By ensuring your baby's safety and comfort during rides, you can enjoy peace of mind while exploring new destinations.

5. Pearl Harbour:

If you find yourself unable to secure tickets in advance for the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbour, don't despair. Extra tickets that remain unsold are released at 3 pm the day before the visit.Make sure to set an alarm to avoid missing out, as these tickets tend to sell out quickly.

Price Breakdown

Flight Tickets and Hotels	£
Heathrow - San Francisco (2 adults + infant)	854
San Francisco- Honolulu (2 adults + infant)	used £243 voucher + 152
Orchad Garden Inn (3 nights)	421.01
The Twin Fin Hotel (7 night with partial ocean view)	1591.79
Warwick San Francisco (4 nights)	514.53
Transport
Airport-Orchad Garden Inn (return)	62.41
Airport- The Twin Fin Hotel (return)	49.63
Airport- Warwick San Francisco (return)	73.79
San Francisco public transport day ticket (x2)	20.82
Excursions
Kualoa Ranch Hollywood Movie Sites (2 adults + Transport)	134.88
Pearl Harbour- boat to USS Arizona (2 adults)	1.57
Alcatraz (2 adults)	72.43
Other
Car park with drop off (15 nights)	85
Food and Drinks (approx.)	2000