Bhutan could be on many travel destination lists this year, but John Wehrheim was first drawn to the country as a hydropower engineer in 1991. As Wehrheim traveled extensively through the kingdom, the Kaua'i writer and photographer began documenting the country and its people, resulting in his newly released book "Bhutan: Hidden Lands of Happiness."

Tonight, Wehrheim will read passages from his book before a screening of his new film, "Bhutan: Taking the Middle Path to Happiness."

Maui film director Tom Vendetti with Robert Stone, Wehrheim and musician Paul Horn have created a beautiful film on this little-known country in the Himalayas where GNP is replaced with "Gross National Happiness." 5:30-7:30 p.m., Cupola Theater, second floor, Honolulu Design Center, $10, doors open at 5:45 p.m. Reservations: info@honoluludesigncenter.com, 237-5362.

WAIKIKI

HELP THE MOANA CELEBRATE ITS 107TH BIRTHDAY IN A STYLISH WAY

Celebrate the Moana Surfrider's 107th birthday at "A Time for Music, Memories and More," 1-2 p.m. March 9, in the Moana's Banyan Court. Hawaiian storytellers recount the history and the restoration of the gracious Waikiki resort and its famous guests; there'll be a birthday cake, of course, Hawaiian music and keiki hula dance. Visitors get a peek of the newly restored Banyan Wing guest rooms, new lobby spaces and the resort's new Beachhouse restaurant. Free hotel tours are offered 12-1 p.m. and 4-5 p.m.

The Moana's 107th Birthday Package includes a two-night minimum stay in the Banyan Wing for $315 per night just for the March 9 weekend (check in March 8 and out March 10). Reservations: www.moanasurfrider.com/107years, 921-4640 (ask for rate code MSBDAY).

SAN FRANCISCO

NORTHERN CALIFORNIA'S BIGGEST FLOATING PARTY HAPPENS IN APRIL

Opening Day on the Bay, on the last Sunday in April each year, officially opens Northern California's sailing season with more than 150 boats parading across San Francisco Bay. Dating to 1917 and organized by the Pacific Inter-Club Yacht Association (there are 96 yacht clubs in Northern California alone), the flotilla sails from the shadows of the Golden Gate Bridge to just past Pier 39. All vessels can take part as long as they register beforehand, including tugboats, clean-up boats and tour boats — with visitors and spectators wanting to be part of the parade. Festive maritime decorations for boats and sailors are de rigeur. The parade starts at noon. It's a great sight ... unless the fog closes in, of course. www.picya.org.