Hawaii's Big Island is one of those places where you just can't find a bad view. It's incredible by the shore. It's so warm and welcoming in the towns. There's as many amazing things to do in-land as there is by the water. And, of course, it's pretty darn fantastic from above! Big Island helicopter tours show you a side to Hawaii that most visitors never see - say, like lava flowing from the Big Island's volcanos or show-stopping cliff-side waterfalls. This post talks about what we loved about our helicopter tour, plus gives you tons of information about other splurges that made our trip - like a gorgeous hotel room, an amazing mountain top, and an unbelievable foodie experience.

And when I say "splurge" - well, let's just say that most things are actually super reasonable. I just mean they're not my usual freebies! When people ask me what I write about, I always say "where to save and when to splurge". I know I cover the savings side of things - A LOT. (Case in point: Check out this piece on how I make Hawaii a truly affordable destination). But I really believe a well timed splurge is just as important. After all, what's the fun in being frugal all the time if you can't let loose every now and then? And Hawaii's Big Island is the perfect place to splurge! Here's what you should not miss.

I dare any traveler to come up with a better spa treatment than what I experienced in Italy. The country's polished marbles had nothing on my skin after a beautiful, yet breezy day at the beach in Finale Ligure. The salt spray, the repetitive layers of sunscreen and blown sand, finished with a hearty dose of sweat from climbing the 300 plus stairs up the hillside to my hostel made for the world's most powerful exfoliate. The hostel showers may have been humble that day but my skin has never felt so good!

I get why the issue of bathrooms and showers is a sensitive one to so many travelers. It's not just about being hygienic. It's also about the ritual of refreshment and relaxation that helps start and conclude a day. It can wash away a horrible day or, like my case in Italy, make a good day even better.  And it just feels darn nice.

And that's probably why so many of my readers who want to try staying in hostels or budget accommodations for the first time (or are interested in giving them another shot after a long hiatus) are sheepishly and nervously asking...."Um..... How do I shower in a hostel?"