Hawaii is a chain of islands in the Pacific Ocean that make up an archipelago of eight major volcanic islands, several atolls and numerous smaller islets, all of which are physiographically and ethnologically part of the Polynesian subregion of Oceania. By the end of the 18th century, Hawaii's native population decimated as an influx of European and American explorers introduced multiple diseases. A century later, Hawaii was annexed by the United States as a strategically valuable territory. All this—together with present-day globalization, rampant capitalism and real-estate, and rising tourism—has gradually contributed to the undermining and decline of the once-isolated indigenous population and its distinct culture, and it's putting the pristine beauty of nature at risk. Sadly, our detrimental actions will continue to shape the world, therefore it's imperative and our sole responsibility that we minimize our impact as tourists. Traveling with a big group of people is always challenging, as it requires greater planning and organization, and Hawaii was no exception to the rule. Luckily, everything worked out smoothly. My trip to Hawaii is by far one of the most amazing outdoor experiences I lived through: from hiking Haleakala Crater through clouds at sunrise, to watching the sunset on Mauna Kea’s summit; from observing Kilauea’s fumes and volcanic activity at night, to walking on vast lava fields in broad daylight; from stepping on black, red and green sand beaches, to snorkeling on coral reefs with turtles, octopi and fish of every imaginable color. Every second in Hawaii was as magical and surreal as a dream, and just like dreams, it went by in the blink of an eye.