Big Island
For the holidays, I opted to spend a week on the Big Island. I haven't spent this much time on one island in a very long time. Hopped on United Airlines for this trip and was able to get a substantial voucher for downgrading myself from business to economy on the return leg. I had an opportunity for a voucher on the outbound flight but my companion didn't want to be left behind. With the new COVID rules in place and the islands having implemented the protocols for awhile, I felt that they were much more prepared to zip people through. Because of staffing shortages, United wasn't able to pre-check the COVID tests/vaccination status at point of departure. I was able to grab the rental car quickly after landing in Kona Airport. With staffing shortages, most of the rental companies have consolidated and lots are operating multiple brands at the same time. Budget was operating both Avis and Budget reservations. Lodging Hilton Waikoloa Village - originally, I was going to stay