By Alyona Ivanova

Graphic design by Josip Petrusa 

As the winter season began to set in, I was lucky enough to escape the cold and spend a week in Hawaii attending the Annual Meeting of the Society for Neuro-Oncology. This year, neuro-oncologists, scientists, students, and industry professionals gathered in Honolulu—the capital and largest city of Hawaii.

What immediately strikes the first-time visitor is how happy and welcoming Hawaiians are. The slower pace of life, year-round warm and sunny weather, stunning natural surroundings, a deep sense of community—all these factors contribute to a high quality of life. “Aloha” is not just a commonly used greeting; it is also a way of being that fosters harmony between people and nature. It signifies “the presence of breath” and deeply represents a philosophy of love, peace, compassion, and affection. The “Aloha Spirit” is a foundational Hawaiian philosophy of life that guides people to live with kindness, respect, and care for others and for nature. 

Nature on the island of Oahu is truly mesmerizing. From dramatic volcanic mountain ranges, lush rainforests, to scenic white-sand beaches bordering the turquoise Pacific Ocean, Oahu truly feels like a paradise. I highly recommend hopping on a Grand Circle Island Tour bus that will take you around the island’s iconic landmarks. Prepare to be amazed!

Hawaii is known as the Rainbow State (ānuenue in Hawaiian). Its ideal weather conditions make it one of the best places on Earth to see rainbows. They are so common that they even appear on vehicle license plates. 

One of the most memorable experiences during my time in Hawaii was watching a monk seal haul out on the beach to rest as the sun was setting, so be sure to watch out for wildlife along the shores.

Dining out in Hawaii can be expensive due to high produce import costs. However, trying new things while traveling is a must! Hawaiian cuisine offers a unique and delicious blend of Polynesian, Asian, and American influences. Surrounded by the ocean, Hawaii has an abundance of fresh local seafood. One traditional dish invented by Native Polynesians is poke. It consists of raw fish (most commonly tuna or salmon) marinated in soy sauce and sesame oil and served over rice with various toppings. Hawaiian tropical fruits also deserve special recognition. I recommend visiting farmers’ markets to try exotic fruits like dragon fruit, lychee, papaya, or the famous blue bananas. If you have extra time, a trip to the Dole Plantation is well worth it for their fresh and flavorful pineapples and the iconic Dole Whip. 

Finally, be sure to explore Hawaii’s incredible outdoor activities, from snorkeling to hiking. And if you’re feeling adventurous, sign up for a surf lesson and embrace the waves!