9/27    Hawaii vacation question.  I'm planning a one week trip to Hawaii.
        I'm wondering if I'd get a better deal booking everything myself or
        buying one of those vacation packages.  Also anybody know of
        hide-away places few tourists go?  I'm NOT looking forward to the
        crowded beach on Waikiki.  Thanks.
        \_ If you're looking to avoid the tourist cattle herds, a vacation
           package is not for you.
        \_ Go into a travel agent wearing your flowered hawaiian tshirt, bad
           shorts, and white stuff on your noise and tell them you're tired of
           pretending.  You want the "Hairiest Chest Contest" cruise to
           Hawaii with 6 days and 7 nights of Guided Island Fun!
        \_ Went on one a few months ago. MAUI is definitely the place if you
           want less tourist. Or KONA (in the big island). Even better, try
           KAUAI. Find your own deal through the Web, my experience says it's
           better that way. Plus, package tour has a lot of restrictions.
        \_ My girlfriend and I went to KAUAI this summer and had a great
           time.  The island was beautiful and there weren't many tourists.
           We stayed at an ocean front condo for about $100/night.
           I booked the condo through Gloria's Bed & Breakfast (forgot the
           phone number but you can call information).  If you go to KAUAI
           you defintly need to rent a car.  I got one for $30/day at a
           local car rental place on the island.  Have fun. -emin