Welcome back to the Big Island

Today is the last time waking up on Maui and the island continues to bid us farewell with tears. Suddenly, a huge rainbow appears directly over the ocean - a dreamlike sight and we enjoy it to the fullest, knowing that on the Big Island, the rain that is so rare here is more likely to be a daily occurrence.

Then the last things are packed in the suitcases and we say 'Goodbye' to the Kaanapali Villages, which have been a dream home for us for the past week. One last time, I visit the Lahaina Pool while Mom strolls through the streets of the town. The lifeguards regret our departure and are already talking about seeing us again next year - it's somehow nice to be so beloved there.

Even though the vacation is far from over for us, the 'first' goodbye is hard. We have also grown fond of our VW Beetle - unfortunately, we won't be able to drive it again on the Big Island, as there are no Volkswagen rental cars here.

The journey to the airport and the return of our red speedster go smoothly, so we have plenty of time at the airport. Since we are flying again with our small propeller plane (the same pilot from last time is in control), the usual security check for larger airplanes is not necessary and flying is almost as relaxed as driving a car, but of course without traffic.

And the flight is more like a private helicopter flight, as there are only two other passengers besides us, which means that we are only taking the flight with 6 people including the pilot and co-pilot. Despite strong gusts of wind, the little machine is safely on course and we stick to our window seats and enjoy the fantastic view. In fact, the flight route takes us directly over the Haleakala volcano, we fly right over the crater (3055 m high) - mind you, you can also book a separate helicopter flight for this, which we simply had included here - a true spectacle.

After about 45 minutes of flying, we land on the 'big island' - here's a short video for you.

https://vimeo.com/363083603

Let's quickly pick up the new rental car - this time a Ford Mustang for us, because as mentioned before, there are no Beetles available, and then off to Kona. Even on the short drive, we encounter several cyclists and runners. First, we want to stop by the swimming pool for a quick greeting to the old acquaintances there, but when we arrive, the pool is unexpectedly empty. Then we see the notice on the facade: the pool has been closed since March 1st due to faulty filters - two alternative swimming pools are listed for triathletes. We can't believe it at first - I wanted to find some German triathletes here...

So, we'll just drive to our apartment for now - where, as almost expected, it's raining... Accordingly, we only unpack a few things here and then head back to Kona to watch the sunset. It's spectacular and almost more beautiful than all the sunsets on Maui.

Now we're looking forward to the first real day here tomorrow and for now, we say 'good night'!