The Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii

Col Morris Reese Turner, currently a Support Division Chief at the Army’s Human Resource Command in Fort Knox Kentucky, has nearly three decades of experience serving in the United States Army. Early in his career, Col Reese Turner was stationed at Schofield Barracks in Hawaii. While there, he enjoyed many of the beautiful sites and the magnificent culture of our nation’s 50th state.

Hundreds of years ago, Polynesians from the Marquesas Islands and later from Tahiti settled in Hawaii. As time marched into the 20th century, Mormon missionaries David McKay and Matthew Cowley recognized that Polynesian culture was becoming diluted and forgotten. In an effort to preserve these beautiful cultures, they started an annual production called “Polynesian Panoramas” on the island of Oahu, which showcased elements of many of these island cultures. In 1963, with the purchase and development of land on the North Shore, the annual shows became an important tradition of the new Polynesian Cultural Center.

The Polynesian Cultural Center offers visitors an opportunity to experience the unique traditions of six islands in the South Pacific: Tonga, Tahiti, Hawaii, Fiji, Aotearoa, and Samoa. When exploring each of the six islands’ historical villages, visitors can experience each culture by listening to music, learning history, and participating in traditional games and activities.

Guests of the Polynesian Cultural Center can also participate in the award-winning Ali’i Luau. At the luau, guests witness a royal celebration of Hawaii’s heritage. Delicious, authentic Hawaiian food such as steamed tropical fish, shoyu glazed chicken, and teriyaki marinated strip loin are included on the menu.

The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of Hawaii’s most popular attractions and gives visitors rich and authentic insight into the cultures of the Pacific.

When to Visit Jamaica

Col. Morris Reese Turner is a dedicated United States Army officer and has held various staff and command positions over the course of nearly three decades. He has earned several awards and decorations such as the Combat Action Badge and two Bronze Star medals. An avid traveler, one of Col. Reese Turner’s favorite places to visit is Jamaica.

Although temperatures in Jamaica hover between the 70s and 80s throughout the year, the country still has high and low tourist seasons. High season generally lasts from January through March. During these months, temperatures are breezy and warm. Hurricane season is also over by this time, so rainfall is at its lowest. Due to the popularity of visiting during this time, both crowds and costs are large.

Much of the rest of the year sees fewer tourists and cheaper prices, but weather can be a strong deterrent depending on the month. From July to September, rainfall steadily increases and many attractions and hotels close. However, rates are often lowest during these months because tourism follows a steep decline. Between April and June the country also experiences increased rain. However, it is often more manageable, so most hotels stay open and offer extra deals.

Perhaps the best time to visit Jamaica is from October to December. Although rainfall normally reaches its peak in October, the Caribbean hurricane season begins to calm down during these months. Most resorts maintain low prices because of the continued risk of rain, but the risk is quite low and many travelers enjoy clear skies and average temperatures during this time. Unfortunately, some hotel services are reduced and hotels may be undergoing repairs.