Cardiff Bay Cruise

On a slightly overcast day, we drove down to Cardiff Bay to stroll around the re vamped docks area. Rob remarked how much the area had changed since he started his apprenticeship in 1975.

We then hopped on a pleasure boat that took us around the bay and up the River Taff.

Robin and Johan's visit continues

 While Robin and Johan visited us we took the chance  to take them them down to Ninian Park to watch the football game between Cardiff City and Crystal Palace.

  Mandy then took the boys up to the Alton Towers Theme Park to try out the hair raising rides.

Our Cardiff Wedding Party.

 On our return from Hawaii we organised a party to celebrate our Wedding in Cardiff so that our Family and Friends could attend.

The party was held at the Canton Liberal club in the Canton area of Cardiff.

We were thrilled with the amount of people who turned up, member of Mandy's family travelled down from the Midlands,  her sons, Robin and Johan, flew in from Sweden and a  crowd of Rob's ex work mates turned up . A Good night was had by all.

Our wedding day in Hawaii

 Our Wedding at the Kaka'ako Waterfront Park in Oahu, Hawaii, set the perfect backdrop for the ceremony.

 Mandy and Rob arrived in style, stepping out of a sleek black limousine. The vehicle's polished exterior gleamed under the Hawaiian sun, reflecting the vibrant colors of the park around them. As the door swung open, Mandy emerged first, a vision in her elegantly flowing wedding gown that danced lightly in the warm breeze. Her smile radiated joy.

They were joined by our friends Ghattas and Noami in the Limo for the drive to the service. Naoami and Ghattas were actually on honeymoon of one of the other Hawaiian islands and flew over to join them for the ceremony and wedding dinner.

As the sun dipped toward the horizon in 2004, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park in Oahu, Hawaii, became a breathtaking canvas for Mandy and Rob's wedding. The sky was awash in hues of orange, pink, and purple, casting a warm glow over the gathering. The soothing sound of waves crashing against the shore added a rhythmic backdrop to the heartfelt ceremony.

Standing before their guests, Mandy and Rob exchanged vows with the vast Pacific Ocean stretching out behind them. The palm trees swayed gently in the evening breeze, their silhouettes dancing against the colorful sky. Mandy radiated beauty in her flowing wedding gown, which caught the light and seemed to shimmer with every movement. Her hair, adorned with delicate flowers, framed her glowing face as she looked into Rob’s eyes, filled with love and devotion.

After their heartfelt ceremony, Mandy and Rob stepped away to capture the magic of their wedding day with photographs at Kaka'ako Waterfront Park. The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm, golden light that enveloped everything in a soft glow. The backdrop was stunning: the Pacific Ocean stretched endlessly, waves crashing rhythmically against the rocky shore, while palm trees swayed gently in the evening breeze.

As the photographer positioned them, Mandy and Rob took a moment to soak in the beauty around them. Mandy’s gown billowed slightly in the wind, its fabric catching the last rays of sunlight, creating a halo effect around her. She smiled brightly, her joy palpable, while Rob looked at her with adoration, his eyes sparkling with happiness.

After the service we posed for a few photo's before heading to a Lovely restaurant  set high above the city with beautiful views of Honolulu for our Wedding meal with Naomi and Ghattas.

A trip to Hawaii 2004

 After the buzz of Las Vegas with its bright lights, endless entertainment, and neon-lit Strip, Mandy and I were eager for the next leg of our adventure—a flight to Hawaii, promising a tropical paradise after the desert city’s dazzling intensity. The sun was already starting to climb higher in the sky as we arrived at McCarran International Airport, bags packed with swimsuits and a sense of anticipation.

As our flight ascended over the Mojave Desert, Las Vegas quickly became a distant shimmer. The sprawling sands and mountains of Nevada gradually melted into the horizon, and we settled in for the long journey. With the hum of the engines and the air of excitement in the cabin, we watched the ever-changing landscape unfold below us. It was a spectacular journey, but nothing could prepare us for what came next—a flyover of one of the most iconic structures in the world.

As the plane began its descent toward the San Francisco coastline for a brief stopover, we spotted the Golden Gate Bridge below. It stood in stark contrast to the rolling fog that hugged the bay, its international orange towers piercing through the misty backdrop. The view from above was breathtaking. The famed suspension bridge appeared both massive and intricate from our vantage point—an architectural wonder straddling the waters of the Pacific Ocean and San Francisco Bay.

As the plane descended through the clouds in 2004, we caught our first glimpse of O‘ahu, Hawaii, from the window, and it felt like a dream slowly coming to life. The deep, endless blue of the Pacific Ocean contrasted with the lush green mountains rising in the distance.

We landed in Honolulu on the Island of O'ahu where we met our local Rep who presented us with Lei's, garlands made with fresh flower before being driven to the Mirimar Hotel.

 The island was fringed by golden beaches, with a mosaic of small towns and the striking skyline of Honolulu taking shape as we approached.

Upon landing at Honolulu International Airport, the air felt different—warm, fresh, and filled with a subtle floral scent, as if the island had welcomed us with an embrace of tropical blooms. After disembarking, the terminal was a unique mix of modernity and the island’s laid-back charm, with open-air corridors allowing the island breeze to flow through.

Mandy and I found ourselves soaking in the timeless charm of Waikiki Beach, and there was no better way to embrace the spirit of O‘ahu than indulging in cocktails at the legendary Royal Hawaiian Hotel.

This iconic pink palace, nestled on the shores of Waikiki, seemed to radiate its own aura of tropical luxury, its façade glowing against the brilliant blue backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. As we strolled along the beach toward the hotel, the sound of soft waves caressing the shore was our constant companion, a perfect prelude to what was to come.

The Royal Hawaiian's beachfront bar, with its classic thatched roof and open-air seating, welcomed us warmly. We settled into a pair of comfortable rattan chairs, the warm breeze gently rustling the palm leaves overhead. The scent of saltwater mixed with the faint sweetness of plumeria blossoms, creating an atmosphere of laid-back island elegance.

Mandy opted for a signature Mai Tai—a drink that’s synonymous with Hawaii. It arrived in a frosted glass, garnished with a slice of pineapple and a cherry, a dark rum float dancing atop the golden liquid. I, on the other hand, couldn’t resist trying a Lava Flow, a mix of rum, strawberries, and coconut cream blended to perfection, resembling molten lava trickling into the glass.

As night fell and tiki torches flickered to life around us, casting warm shadows on the sand, we felt completely at peace. The Royal Hawaiian had offered us more than just cocktails; it was a sensory experience, a moment of pure Hawaiian bliss.

Leaving the beach that night, with the lights of Waikiki twinkling behind us, we knew that this memory, like the flavors of our drinks, would linger long after we’d left O‘ahu. Aloha, after all, is more than just a greeting—it’s a feeling, one we carried with us from that unforgettable evening at the Royal Hawaiian.

The following day we caught the local bus into the town center and obtained our marriage license. We then wandered over to the Aloha tower before enjoying lunch at The Sheraton surf rider on the outdoor terrace.

 Mandy and I found ourselves immersed in the vibrant tapestry of the Aloha Festival on the stunning island of O‘ahu, Hawaii. This annual celebration, held to honor Hawaiian culture and traditions, was a feast for the senses, blending the island's rich heritage with the warmth and spirit of the local community.

As we arrived at the festival grounds, the aroma of delicious Hawaiian cuisine filled the air, inviting us to explore the many food stalls

We made our way down to Bishop street to watch the Aloha Festival. Lots of local bands on various stages and a host of stalls.

As we arrived a Military band struck up with the theme from Hawaii five O.

The next day we walked down to Waikiki beach to watch the Floral Street Parade.

This was a  huge parade with marching band and flower covered floats.

One of the highlights of the festival was the grand parade, a lively procession that showcased the island's diverse culture. Floats adorned with colorful flowers and traditional Hawaiian symbols paraded through the streets, accompanied by dancers and musicians. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, joy, and a sense of community that brought everyone together.

We then went over to the terrace at the Moana lounge where we met some of the parade organisers and chatted to them about the history of the parade.

We made our way over to Wiakiki beach to watch the surfers and the sunset.

As the day began to wane on that unforgettable evening in 2004, we found ourselves strolling along the stunning shores of Waikiki, captivated by the vibrant hues painting the sky. The sun, a blazing orb of orange and gold, descended slowly toward the horizon, casting a warm glow over the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean.

We settled onto the soft, powdery sand, feeling the gentle caress of the ocean breeze against our skin. The rhythmic sound of the waves lapping at the shore provided a soothing soundtrack, perfectly complementing the picturesque scene unfolding before us. The beach was alive with activity; families built sandcastles, couples strolled hand in hand, and surfers took one last ride on the rolling waves, silhouetted against the vivid sky.

As the sun sank lower, the colors deepened, transforming the sky into a masterpiece of purples, pinks, and fiery reds. The clouds, like brush strokes, added texture to the canvas, reflecting the sun's brilliance. We couldn't help but grab our cameras, eager to capture the beauty of the moment.

In the late afternoon of our trip to O‘ahu in 2004, we found ourselves drawn to the shimmering waters of Waikiki, the golden rays of the sun beginning to dip towards the horizon. With the gentle hum of the city behind us, we embarked on a catamaran adventure that promised both excitement and tranquility.

As we boarded the sleek vessel, the crew greeted us with warm smiles, ensuring everyone felt welcome. The catamaran was adorned with colorful sails, billowing softly in the light breeze that carried the scent of salt and the promise of an unforgettable experience. Settling into our seats, we watched as the boat pulled away from the harbor, leaving the bustling beach scene behind.

Once out on the open water, the expansive views were breathtaking. The turquoise waves danced under the sun, creating a shimmering pathway leading to the distant horizon. Surrounded by the majestic backdrop of Diamond Head, its iconic profile bathed in golden light, we couldn't help but feel the magic of the moment. As the catamaran glided through the gentle swells, we were treated to the sight of surfers catching the last waves of the day, their silhouettes framed against the vivid sky.

With the sun beginning to set, the crew served refreshing drinks, enhancing the experience. The atmosphere was relaxed and jovial, as fellow passengers chatted and laughed, sharing in the beauty of the moment. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant colors—hues of orange, pink, and purple swirling together as the sun dipped lower, casting a warm glow over the ocean.

In 2004, while soaking up the sun in Waikiki, we decided to venture beyond the tourist hotspots and experience the local flavor of O‘ahu. With the soft ocean breeze whispering tales of adventure, we hopped on a local bus bound for Kailua Beach, eager to discover what this hidden gem had to offer.

The bus ride itself was a delightful experience. As we settled into our seats, we were greeted by the friendly smiles of the locals. They chatted easily among themselves, sharing stories and laughter, and we couldn’t help but feel welcomed into their community. The journey offered a glimpse into everyday life on the island, with vibrant neighborhoods whizzing by and palm trees swaying gently in the breeze. Each stop added to the anticipation, as we moved further away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki.

Arriving at Kailua Beach, we were instantly captivated by its stunning beauty. The beach stretched out before us like a pristine postcard, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The sun shone brightly, casting a golden glow on the landscape, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore provided a soothing soundtrack.

We quickly found our spot on the beach, laying out our towels and kicking off our sandals. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, with families picnicking nearby and children building sandcastles under the watchful eyes of their parents. We joined in, dipping our toes into the warm water and reveling in the refreshing waves that lapped at our ankles.

We headed out to Pearl Harbour Memorial

 During our unforgettable journey through O‘ahu, we made a poignant stop at the Pearl Harbor Memorial, a site steeped in history and emotion. As we approached the memorial, we were greeted by a sense of solemnity that hung in the air, a reminder of the events that unfolded on December 7, 1941.

The memorial stands majestically above the sunken USS Arizona, a battleship that became a symbol of sacrifice and bravery. We boarded a ferry that took us across the serene waters of Pearl Harbor, a stark contrast to the chaos that marked that fateful day. As we drifted toward the memorial, the stark white structure came into view, seemingly floating above the water, its design echoing the fragility of peace.

Once we arrived, we stepped onto the memorial, where the haunting silence was punctuated only by the gentle lapping of waves against the structure. The names of the 1,177 sailors and marines who perished on the Arizona are etched into the marble, a somber tribute that moved us deeply. Standing there, surrounded by visitors from around the world, we couldn’t help but reflect on the profound loss and heroism that this site represents.

The exhibits within the visitor center provided a deeper understanding of the events leading up to the attack. Artifacts, photographs, and survivor accounts brought history to life, painting a vivid picture of that day. We spent hours absorbed in stories of courage, resilience, and sacrifice, each account echoing the bravery of those who served.

Our visit to the Pearl Harbor Memorial was not just a journey through history; it was a profound moment of reflection on the impacts of war and the importance of remembrance. As we departed, we carried with us not just the memories of the site, but also a renewed appreciation for peace and the sacrifices made to protect it.

Leaving Pearl Harbor, we felt a deep connection to the stories of those who came before us. The experience was a poignant reminder of the past and the enduring lessons it holds for future generations. Our visit to this hallowed ground was a highlight of our O‘ahu trip, one that we will carry with us always.

 Diamond Head national park 

Mandy and I embarked on one of our most memorable adventures in O‘ahu—hiking up the iconic Diamond Head crater. This extinct volcanic cone, with its distinctive profile rising above the island’s southern shore, beckoned us with promises of stunning views and a sense of achievement.

We set off early in the morning, eager to escape the heat of the midday sun. As we arrived at the entrance to Diamond Head State Monument, the air was already filled with excitement and the sweet scent of tropical flora. The sun cast a warm glow over the landscape, illuminating the lush greenery and rugged terrain. We paid our entrance fee and began our ascent along the well-marked trail.

The hike itself was a mix of paved pathways and steep, rocky sections, providing a bit of a workout. The trail wound its way through the crater, surrounded by walls of volcanic rock, remnants of the ancient eruption that formed this natural wonder. Along the way, we paused to take in the vibrant flora, with hibiscus and plumeria blooming around us, their colors vibrant against the backdrop of the blue sky.

 Standing at 760 feet above sea level, we were rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views. The vast ocean spread out endlessly, and the distant outline of other Hawaiian islands added to the majesty of the scene.

We took a moment to soak it all in, feeling a deep sense of accomplishment. The feeling of standing atop Diamond Head, with the world stretching out beneath us, was an unforgettable experience. It was a reminder of the beauty of nature and the joy of adventure.

On our final day in Honolulu, Rob decided to try a first, a visit to the local Gun club, he said the power of the weapons he used were quite frightening.

Honolulu Memories