Researching hotels through travel books and the internet, I found the Aqua Bamboo, a small boutique (feng-shui) hotel which has the reputation of being "a gem", and which sounded like the perfect place for a peaceful two weeks, yet located in Waikiki near the beach. When I arrived, I was stunned by the beauty and atmosphere of the lobby - which also had a large flat-screen TV showing ever-changing landscapes of Hawaii. There were various comfortable places to sit and a spacious outer courtyard. No photos or descriptions could possibly translate the actual experience. As a woman artist traveling alone, wishing for a retreat near the white sand beaches and inviting waters of Waikiki, and where there is a fabulous bus system so I wouldn't even have to drive a car, and wishing for a hotel that would be quiet, safe, and with a Hawaiian atmosphere, I couldn't have found a better place to be. My room was amazing. I had a balcony with sunrise on one side, a large lanai with the sunset on the other side, and a to-floor window, I looked down on the inner courtyard (with pool, jacuzzi, spa building, big wooden chairs, tables & lounges, a thatched Hawaiian shelter to one side, a waterfall over lava rocks, jungle-like plantings all around), and, looking out above it, I could see the gentle incoming waves and surfers. In the room, the art was varied, all deeply spiritually Hawaiian, the colors relaxing, and there was a flat-screen TV which showed more than a few programs of Hawaian musicians and vistas of Hawaii. Every morning in the courtyard or lobby, there were warm and friendly Hawaians serving a continental breakfast of juices, fruit, coffee and assorted muffins. The staff at the Aqua Bamboo are full of information and always helpful and friendly, with true Aloha spirit. As you can see, I am always ready to recommend this hotel for a peaceful home-away-from-home, and, speaking for myself, - I didn't want to leave! Enjoy your stay! - Marlina Rinzen







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