Likes: We appreciated the excellent service from our host, building security, proximity to 5-star hotels, recent renovations, provided beach supplies, and the convenient location near the beach, stores, and food. Extra bonus with the shaved ice stand just downstairs.
Dislikes (out of host control): Waikiki traffic was a nightmare; the area was more crowded and had more homelessness than expected, extending to Honolulu and the beaches. Parking was challenging, with only outdoor spots if the garage was full, which wasn't ideal for the price paid. We understood that we would be staying in the city, however, all windows were old glass slats and there were no drapes to cut out the light and noise. Sleep was often interrupted with next door parking alarms, garbage trucks at 6:30 in the morning, ambulances late at night, honking, and early morning deliveries to the stores below. Light/Noise canceling drapes would have been helpful to limit this.
Dislikes (within host control): We would have preferred the cable maintenance not to occur during our stay, disrupting our plans. Clear instructions on where to stop on the busy one-way street upon arrival would have been helpful, considering the limited space. The overall size of the condo was much smaller than anticipated, especially the shower. A better description would have been helpful.
Overall, we discovered that venturing to the east and north sides of the island provided a welcome escape from our lodging. The areas from Kaaawa to