In 2002 I had the pleasure of visiting with our friends Gordon and Mieke. Jean stayed at home as she thought that the journey was just to far for her. Two Border Collie pups went at the same time, although by a different route.
When I landed in Honolulu I was nearly knocked over by the heat as we left the airport, I remarked to Mieke that it seemed a strange idea "to have industrial heaters outside", she smiled and said no industrial heaters Jimmy, this is the normal temperature. I had to laugh but I don't think that I will ever forget that remark. We stayed overnight in Honolulu but due to the pups flight being delayed I flew on to Hilo while Mieke stayed until the following day. I was met in Hilo by Frances who took me to Mieke's home and got me settled in.
I was overwhelmed by the views, scenery, hospitality and friendship of everyone that I met while on the Big Island. Gordon, Mieke, sons Ben & Aaron were the perfect hosts along with Frances who was a mine of information about the fruits, flora and fauna that is in abundance around the Island. Far too much information for my mind to take in. The Volcanos are awesome, the people great, Hilo is a wonderfully relaxed place, Kona,on the other side of the island is completely different in style, more of a tourist/fishing resort, if you get over to that side, as you must, then I have to recommend a trip on Captain Beans Cruise.
This trip was an experience that I will never forget and will hopefully
repeat one day. If anyone who reads this ever gets the chance to visit
this wonderful Island, please do, you will not regret it. I was lucky in
that I also had the company of several Border Collies and other breeds
to stop me getting homesick for the three weeks that I was there.
Please contact Camelot Farms For information about the dogs on this page.
Volcano Click here to visit the volcano, updated regularly.
This is a fantastic view from the aircraft window as we were landing at Hilo, it shows the Mauna Kea Observatory.
This was my home for the time I was there.