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Some time ago, I visited Honolulu for a work trip. I’d visited the island a few years prior but didn’t have the experience I expected. I’m not a fan of large group trips; however, I was able to share this moment with two of my best friends and to my surprise, was left with an experience I’ll never forget. A quick refresh During my first trip, I visited Pearl Habor, the North Shore, caught a few rainbows, and the Dole Plantation but wanted to go parasailing. I saw this trip as another opportunity and refused to squander my chance. But first, the International Marketplace! It’s my favorite place to visit and while it’s completely transformed, it’s still an amazing way to support local businesses, grab a few souvenirs, and get some henna art. Getting henna art is always one of my first activities on indigenous land as a means to ground and center, as well as adorn myself in a form of sacred feminine expression. Next, my colleagues and I did the usual stock up at the ABC Store, then hit the beach! We stayed at the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach (formerly the Pacific Beach Hotel) only steps away from the ocean and sand. Street so clean, we’d walk barefoot to and from the hotel lobby. Early morning tanning with a side of breakfast buffet or a crepe from the local vendor became our daily ritual. Afterward, we’d hit the ave to catch the sights and do what typical tourists do—shop. While there is plenty to fit any budget, you still gotta come strap with cash. Kalakaua Avenue is constantly evolving. About a mile and a half from the hotel, there’s a section called “Luxury Row” that’s nothing short of Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive. We spent our workdays at the Ala Moana Center and for us Jersey girls, the mall felt like a carbon copy of Short Hills. It’s always comforting to uncover parts of cities and towns that feel like home. Parasailing in Paradise By day three, we conquered Diamond Head and mastered the transit system, but my thirst for parasailing had to be quenched. No one had an interest, so I decided to take the journey on my own. My research led me to Hawaiian Parasail whose history spans more than 30-years. Between the hotel pick-up, the reasonable price and decent reviews, I booked my session and began to mentally prepare to conquer this challenge. Heights were never an issue for me but fear of falling kept me from riding rollercoasters and experiencing other forms of extreme sports. However, the thought of coasting through sunny skies overlooking Honolulu’s mystical landscape was too much to pass up. I had to face my fear and turns out, I didn’t quite have to do it alone. My suitemate, and best friend, accompanied me on the journey and while she didn’t sail with me, her presence and support were felt. You see, my godmother died days before I left for Hawaii. Before I knew about the trip, I’d been planning my family reunion with the dates already booked. Not only was I missing my godmother’s funeral, but I’d also be missing my family as well. The journey to Honolulu was bittersweet and I was determined to make the trip worthwhile. I had to go parasailing. So, I did. The day of, my anxiety was through the roof. Luckily, our driver was amazing, along with the staff and crew at Hawaiian Parasail. Even my sail mate from Japan made the experience unforgettable. From 300ft to 1000ft in the air, I grieved my godmother, let go of my fears and enjoyed the wonderful creation before my eyes. Though I had to keep my sail mate calm, we found our common ground. Even laughed hysterically from being dunked in the ocean. I’m sure I’ll never sail 1000ft in the air again, but I look forward to another parasailing adventure and similar experiences where I can challenge myself, release my inhibitions, and quiet my fears.