The next day, after breakfast, I immediately headed to the car rental company. I told them about the flat tire, the four-hour wait for
a mechanic, and how the tire pressure had been off from the start. They showed no sign of surprise. Realizing further discussion was futile, I asked for a different car and left.
Looking around, I noticed several returned cars with triangular cones on top, humorously labeled 'flat tire.'
To change our mood, we decided to drive north. The concierge had advised this, considering the weather.
In this island's unpredictable rain, today's clear skies made for a safe mountain drive. She told us to call if anything happened.
We discovered that 'Hanalei' was the furthest town reachable by car. Would we have to walk from there?
Today's car, another Nissan, offered a comfortable ride. Hanalei, a small town, seemed to move at a leisurely pace.
There was no rush; we felt at ease.
Hanalei Bay, Kauai's largest, is a famous Hollywood filming location. We decided to quietly stay there for a while.
Next, We aimed for the Kilauea Lighthouse, the northernmost point of the Hawaiian Islands. We stopped in Kilauea for lunch.
At a restaurant labeled 'Fresh Fish,' We ordered garlic shrimp and a poke plate. We learned that 'Ahi' is the local term for tuna,
and 'Poke' refers to diced tuna, making a 'Poke Bowl' essentially a tuna bowl.
It was delicious. Enjoying good food is the best.
During a comfortable drive, We took a break at a cafe. The coffee at a Kauai Starbucks was quite mild, just right for me.
The day passed without incident, which was nice.