Boasting a formidable career spanning twenty years in newspapers, magazines and television, Paula Joye is one of Australia’s most well-regarded journalists turned digital publisher of TheJoye.com.au.
But what you may not know about this columnist, style commentator and mother of two is that she is also a raving fan of Hawaii, having spent many holidays soaking up the Aloha Spirit. This time, Paula was paired with local blogger and stylist, Lindsey Higa, and headed to Oahu for the ultimate girls’ trip.
How does Hawaii compare to other overseas destinations you’ve visited?
I’ve been travelling to Hawaii since I was three years old. I’ve visited the islands upward of ten times staying on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii. It’s such a special place – full of its own incredible history and culture with just a sprinkling of America over the top. As a destination it never gets tired. I always find something new to fall in love with every time I visit.
In your eyes, what makes Oahu different to the other Hawaiian Islands?
That’s easy. Waikiki and Pipeline. Oahu is home to two of the most iconic beaches in the world. Both have been immortalised in film, music and surfing. Multiple times. They’re names everyone knows and places everyone should visit.
Who would you recommend should travel to Hawaii and Oahu in particular?
For Australians Hawaii is a no brainer. So close (9-10 hours is nothing on a plane for Aussies), and there’s only a three degree difference in temperature all year round. Oahu is great because it’s one plane ride – no island hopping – but really, this is the island that gives you the best of both worlds. You can shop, eat and do the glamour thing on the South Shore in Honolulu and then go a lot more chilled up on the North Shore with surf and countryside.
On your most recent trip to Oahu you were joined by local stylist and blogger, Lindsey Higa. How did this enrich your experience?
Travelling with a local was amazing because it gave me a totally different experience to see the island through the eyes of someone who lives there. Lindsey took me to Chinatown – an area I’d never been before – and I fell in love with the architecture which is very 1920s deco. We also drove the east coast which is utterly stunning. I’d done this road trip before but strangely had never stopped at Halona Beach Cove which is where the famous scene in the film ‘Here To Eternity’ was filmed – I wouldn’t have known it was there if not for Lindsey.
Eating with Lindsey was also unreal. You can’t go past a local’s recommendation for food – the Pig and the Lady and its sister restaurant Piggy Smalls will remain two of the greatest meals of my life.
What was the highlight of your latest trip to Oahu?
Swimming with the sea turtles. Such a beautiful thing to do. Also having the opportunity to spend quality time with my girlfriend. As you get older it’s harder to find large amounts of time to spend with your girlfriends – life gets in the way – so it was such a luxury to be able to hang-out, laugh, eat and swim in the beautiful sunshine.
What makes Oahu a perfect destination for a holiday with your girlfriends?
Again, it’s so close to Australia. The short flight maximises your actual holiday time. It’s the perfect place to do the whole girl thing: shop, eat, sleep, swim, snorkel, sun bake, spa, surf and then shop some more. And it’s safe which I think is really important when you’re travelling.
What are your three absolute, must-dos on Oahu?
- Eat at the Pig and The Lady in Chinatown: Seriously the most incredible modern fusion of Vietnamese cuisine I’ve eaten anywhere in the world. Including Vietnam. Book well ahead.
- Visit Waimea Bay, Pipeline and Sunset on the North Shore: Make sure you visit the botanical gardens that house the Waimea Falls (it’s about a half hour hike in and you can swim at the other end) and then stop at a shrimp truck (Romy’s) for lunch.
- Doris Duke’s Shangri-La: Only newly open to the public. This estate was built in 1937 as the Honolulu home of American heiress and philanthropist Doris Duke. Shangri La was inspired by Duke’s travels throughout North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia and reflects architectural traditions from India, Iran, Morocco and Syria.
What criteria comprise your perfect holiday and why does Hawaii tick all the boxes?
Hawaii ticks all the boxes for the perfect holiday because you can do as much or as little as you like. I like to be in the water and by the beach – happy to spend endless days doing the same thing: swim, read, repeat. But at night-time it’s nice to have the option to be able to go out to dinner or shop after hours.
I like the long endless days in Hawaii.
You’ll never run out of things to do or places to visit. You can do beautiful nature walks in the morning and then be shopping at Prada by sunset. Hawaii is ALL things and that’s why I love it.
What are your three suitcase essentials for a Hawaiian holiday?
Camera, rash vest (because you must try surfing) and a black day-to-night sundress.
What are your top style or beauty tips to take you from the beach by day to cocktails at night?
I don’t wear much make-up and even less on holidays but all you need to amp up your look for evening in a hot climate is a bright lipstick, a shimmery body cream (you can use this on your face for highlighting too) and black water-proof mascara. Slick your hair back and keep it simple. Finish it all off with a white flower fragrance or my favourite, a scented coconut perfume oil.