Flying high and a wedding in paradise

Yesterday we splurged and took a helicopter ride over Kauai -- my first such thrilling ride. The thrill was even greater because as you can see our helicopter had no doors.



As we soared over the rugged terrain of the island it quickly became apparent how little of the island is populated and how little is accessible by road.





After our helicopter touched back down, we drove up to Kapa'a where we feasted on Bubba burgers and onion rings. Then we headed out to try to find the Ho'opi'i Falls trail, always a challenge since none of the trails or beaches seem to be marked. We finally found a bunch of cars at the top of a red dirt path and decided to take it. Twenty minutes later we reached a beautiful waterfall with a family of jumpers.



Can you find us hiking along the trail through the green camouflage?



The real reason for our trip to Kauai was the wedding of the daughter of our long-time neighbors and good friends. Miraculously all the intermittent showers stopped and the clouds lifted for the ceremony that took place just before sunset on a bluff overlooking Hanalei.



Another shot after the ceremony.



After the wedding we all reconvened at the St. Regis Hotel for drinks to watch the sunset, followed by a delightful 5-course dinner.



A picture perfect day with a very happy ending and a new beginning.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Kauai