Exploring Manoa Valley

Located on Oahu, Manoa is a residential valley neighborhood. It is approximately 3 miles inland from downtown, close to Waikiki and Ala Moana. While it may not be on the list for tourists, it is a worthwhile spot to check out offering a look into one of Oahu’s older communities.

I learned that in 1825, Manoa was the site of the first sugarcane and coffee plantations in Hawaii. The word “Manoa” is a Hawaiian term translating to “thick, solid or vast” perhaps a reference to the valley itself. The valley receives a high amount of rain, keeping it lush and green so don’t be surprised if you see a rainbow.

The Manoa area is home to the University of Hawaii’s main campus and some of Hawaii’s most historic homes.  One such building has been converted into a charming brunch spot called the Waioli Tea Room. Manoa Marketplace is the central shopping area and features a farmer’s market several days a week. It is a great opportunity to mix with residents and support the local flower and produce farmers.

Close by is Manoa Falls, an easy 3 mile round trip hike. The waterfall features a vertical drop of about 150 feet into a small pool. Please note that the water is not safe for drinking. The trail is well worn and travels through an amazing bamboo forest and features some unusual native plants. Another area to stretch your legs is Lyon Arboretum.  This 200-acre botanical garden features beautiful trails and views of Manoa Valley. The Arboretum is open to the public on weekdays from 9 - 4 PM and admission is free. I encourage you to make the trip to Manoa Valley and see for yourself why it is one of Oahu’s most charming communities. (Posted by CM – images Wikipedia)

Add comment March 10th, 2008

Mai Tai Magic?

I started out on a quest for the history behind the Hawaii’s magical Mai Tai. This popular rum and fruit juice concoction has two very interesting men claiming ownership of its creative recipe. 

The well-known Mai Tai cocktail was purportedly invented at Trader Vic’s Polynesian themed restaurant in Oakland, CA in 1944. Trader Vic’s amicable rival, Donn Beach claimed to have created the Mai Tai first in 1933 at his own bar in Hollywood called Don’s Beachcomber.

It is unclear who really created the drink. Legend has it that Trader Vic created it one afternoon and tested it on some friends who were visiting from Tahiti. One of them tasted it and cried out "’Mai tai roa ae!" Translating to "very good, out of this world, the best”, morphing to become what we call the Mai Tai. 

After World War II ended, Donn Beach settled in Waikiki where he opened his second Polynesian Village establishment, entertaining his celebrity friends. Beach also went on to later develop the International Marketplace in Waikiki. In 1953, Trader Vic made his way to Hawaii claiming to have introduced the Mai Tai to Waikiki at the Royal Hawaiian and Moana Surfrider Hotels. 

While we may never really know who was the true creator of this famous concoction with the Tahitian name, all can agree that is one tasty cocktail that will be forever synonymous with Hawaii. (Posted by CM)

Add comment March 10th, 2008