Growing up in Rhode Island, I loved watching Magnum PI. Not sure if it was his Ferrari, mustache or the beautiful scenery of Hawaii. But one thing is for sure – I loved his short-shorts and aloha shirts!
The Aloha shirt is an international symbol of Hawaii and recognized around the world. Over the years it has evolved from its’ humble beginnings in the 1930’s to become a beloved uniform for the aloha state and those seeking the relaxed island lifestyle.
The modern Aloha shirt was devised by Chinese merchant Ellery Chun. Chun began sewing brightly colored shirts for tourists out of old kimono fabrics he had leftover in stock. The newspaper was quick to coin the term “Aloha shirt” to describe Chun’s fashionable creation. Local residents, especially surfers, and tourists couldn’t get enough. Within years, major designer labels sprung up all over Hawaii and began manufacturing and selling Aloha shirts.
The popularity of the Aloha shirt boomed in the United States after WWII as major celebrities sported the Hawaiian wear. President Harry Truman wore Aloha shirts regularly, as well as John Wayne, Duke Kahanamoku, Elvis Presley, Jimmy Buffet and Burt Lancaster.
I still smile when I see someone wearing that signature red Aloha shirt made so famous by Tom Selleck. It now lives in the Smithsonian Institute. All would agree that no matter what color or style – the Aloha shirt still represents the feel of the islands and a dream of paradise. The good news is that no matter where you live you can always embrace your Aloha spirit and wear an Aloha shirt. From my experience they look best when accompanied with rubber slippers and a mai tai. (Posted by CM & Images Web).
May 6th, 2008
One of the best ways to learn about our amazing ocean and all its beautiful creatures is to take a trip to the Waikiki Aquarium. While the aquarium is small, it is a little gem right on the shores of the Pacific. Over one hundred years old, the Waikiki Aquarium has been leading the way in ocean education and appreciation for both Hawaii residents and visitors.
I headed over to the aquarium Saturday afternoon and was delighted to be greeted by their highly attentive volunteers and staff as they welcomed me. The aquarium itself – is an open air structure playing to the natural beauty of the ocean and the surrounding landscape. Included in the price of admission, are “audio wands’ that are a cross between a TV remote and mobile phone. These information wands, allow you to take a self guided tour of the site at your own pace.
On site, visitors can see an amazing variety of marine life from the tropical Pacific Ocean and Hawaii. It is educational, granting you up-close views of reef sharks, corals, endangered Hawaiian monk seals, jelly fish and my favorite - the giant clam.
The aquarium is a great way to spend an afternoon for a family outing or even a casual date! Located in Queen Kapiolani Park (ocean side of course) at 2777 Kalakaua Avenue on the Diamond Head end of Waikiki, it is within walking distance to many of the hotels. This convenient address makes it an easy activity to incorporate after a day at the beach. It is opened daily from 9 - 4:30pm. The Waikiki Aquarium truly proves that big things come in little packages. (Posted by CM & Images CM & Web).
May 6th, 2008
