Honolulu

Introduction

Aptly named "The Gathering Place," Oahu is the hub of the Hawaiian Islands, and Honolulu is the heartbeat of Oahu. Most of Honolulu is settled in a narrow shoulder on the south shore of Oahu, nestled between mountains and the Pacific Ocean, and surrounded by fields of sugarcane and pineapple, ranch lands, and farms. One of the most ethnically diverse cities in the United States, more than 75 percent of the state's multicultural population reside there. The economic and entertainment capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is a sophisticated metropolis with a plethora of activities, attractions, and events; however, the city also enjoys a tropical atmosphere and magnificent natural beauty. Much of Hawaii's culture is preserved in Honolulu, in its many museums, churches, national memorials and monuments, and the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace in the United States. Perhaps all of these are reasons why 70,000 travelers from around the world visit the island each day.