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Palaka in Paradise
Before there were aloha shirts, there was palaka. The plaid-print cloth from England had been sewn into work shirts for plantation laborers, quickly becoming synonymous with this time in Hawaii’s history. Farmers, ranchers and plantation workers liked that the material was both comfy and durable, especially when working under the hot Hawaiian sun. Not to…
Read MoreKakaako Kitchen Puts a Healthy Spin on Plate Lunches
The word “plate lunch” often brings on a negative connotation for the health-conscious consumer. That’s because a typical one is usually packed with high-caloric foods, like chicken katsu, mac salad and loco moco with gravy all over. However, there’s a place in Honolulu that puts a healthier spin on plate lunches called Kakaako Kitchen. The…
Read MoreAvoid the Crowds in Hawaii
The Hawaiian Islands are far from a secret; every year, millions of visitors call this place their “dream getaway.” And while you’re probably thinking, so much for the “getaway” when you’re also sharing it with other people, there are still ways to find solitude in paradise. 1- Stay off the beaten path. There’s more to…
Read MoreLeave Lava Photography to the Professionals
Taking pictures of lava has become a special niche for photographers around the world, especially in Hawaii where Kilauea Volcano has been actively erupting for decades. It is a risky endeavor that often puts them within arm’s reach of Madame Pele, the Hawaiian fire goddess. Ask any of these professionals, and they’ll quickly tell you…
Read MoreTree Tunnel Kauai: All About This (Short!) Scenic Drive
Tree tunnel Kauai: have you ever experienced the wonder on this short stretch of road? Of course, Hawaii is full of scenic drives and gorgeous surroundings, but the tree tunnel feels extra special because it’s so easy to stumble upon. In fact, you may not even have heard of “the tree tunnel Kauai” – maybe…
Read MoreTurtle Nesting in Hawaii
While summertime in Hawaii means longer days and beautiful weather, it also marks nesting season for green sea turtles. The honu, as they’re called in Hawaiian, choose specific beaches throughout the islands to lay their eggs. And because most of these beaches are frequented by humans, it is especially important that we show some respect…
Read More‘Stinging Seaweed’ in Hawaii
Have you heard of Stinging Seaweed? If so, you may wonder if it’s a danger during your Hawaii vacation. Let’s find out! Lyngbya: The Hawaii Stinging Seaweed Venturing into Hawaii waters soon? Hopefully you know to exercise caution in the picturesque Hawaiian shorelines. But, do you know about the dangers of Stinging Seaweed? Lyngbya, a…
Read MoreBarside at Keoki’s Paradise
Keoki’s Pardise reminds me of Duke’s in Waikiki. It’s got a very tropical vibe with breezy outdoor seating and a menu of popular local dishes and specialty drinks. While Keoki’s doesn’t overlook a beach, like Duke’s does, this restaurant has a very secluded feel surrounded by live plants and a waterfall-pond. We usually come here…
Read MorePeace + Tranquility at Hoomaluhia
Although it may have a difficult name to pronounce, Hoomaluhia is far from anything difficult. (Pronounced: ho-OH-mah-loo-HEE-UH). The botanical garden on the windward side of Oahu is filled with all kinds of wonderful things in nature, easily living up to its name, which translates to “peace and tranquility.” Hoomaluhia is a 400-acre oasis sandwiched between…
Read MorePoi to the World
Along with the chocolate-covered mac nuts and Kona coffee that visitors might bring back as Hawaiian souvenirs, it is very likely they will be taking home poi, too. The mashed-up taro paste can be a tricky thing to travel with because – while it comes in a bag – it is neither a liquid nor…
Read MoreWhat Happened to Bella Mia?
Sadly, my favorite Italian restaurant went from Bella Marvelous to Bella Missing in what seemed like a matter of months. We returned to the cute Kaimuki eatery after a short hiatus, only to find that the lights off and door closed. A sign on the gate said that the restaurant was for sale. Bummed and…
Read MoreMokulele to Fly to Waimea
It will be easier to experience the simplicity of Waimea with a new direct route from Kahului, Maui. The route will be via Mokulele Airlines, with a recently-awarded federal contract providing service from Kahului Airport to Waimea-Kohala Airport. The four-year, $1.76-million contract has been deemed an essential air service contract, according to a release. Mokulele…
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