Hawaii, the most recently incorporated member of the United States, is a captivating blend of diverse cultures, awe-inspiring landscapes and rich history. Situated about 2,000 miles from the U.S. mainland, it occupies an iconic status as the only American state outside North America and the singular state comprising entirely of an archipelago. Spread across a vast 1,500 miles, it’s a scenic sprawl of 137 volcanic islands, with eight main islands that are the lifeblood of Hawaii’s enchanting appeal.

The enchanting Hawaiian land, dotted with paradisiacal beaches and backed by an impressive coastline—the fourth-longest in the U.S.—, came about due to the vigorous volcanic activity causing it to seamlessly fit within the Pacific Ring of Fire. This trove of natural splendour teems with biodiversity, hosting numerous endemic species, although it also stands threatened by the challenges of isolation and human impact. Above all, Hawaii maintains a robust emphasis on environmental stewardship and reciprocity, a testament to its rich cultural heritage.

Few places rival the compelling historical context of Hawaii. Its first settlers—Polynesians—claimed the virgin lands between the 10th and 12th centuries, establishing unique chiefdoms. In 1810, Hawaii consolidated as a kingdom, enduring until its usurpation by American and European magnates in 1893, following a brief period of increased foreign influence triggered by European explorer James Cook's arrival in 1778. The archipelago was subsequently annexed by the U.S in 1898. Amongst its significant historical moments, Hawaii's attack by Japan in 1941 is unforgettably etched in world history, thrusting America into World War II.