Please Help Solve the Monk Seal Mystery

It's a known fact that I am an animal lover.  When I read this story by the Associated Press today it just sickened me, as I have seen Monk Seals on the beach in all their beauty.  While I don't want to go into details about the cruelty these animals face, I do want you to read the story so you are aware of what's happening. These animals are on their way to extinction, and if people continue to kill them for no reason that day will be here sooner than expected. 

Photo courtesy of AP Images

Should I Start Blogging Again

Despite my schedule becoming more and more congested, I suddenly feel the need to kick this blog back into high gear.  Even in the last 12 months a lot of things have changed in Hawaii and I'd love to be able to share that with my readers as I've been to O'ahu five times in the last 12 months.  What do you think?  Is it a yes?  Opinions welcome!

Quick Waikiki Trip

I'm in Waikiki this weekend for a quick trip, primarily to get some sun and to reflect on my life as I know it.  One thing I do know is that Hawaii will always have a special place in my heart.  I've seen the area frequently change over the years, both good and bad.  Depending on where you stay in Waikiki I believe it can truly define the overall vacation experience.  I'm staying at a hotel that is not in my usual digs, and my experience is very different as a result.  I'll be doing some more blog posts on my trip over the next few weeks. It's nice to be back in paradise, if only for a few days.

Paradise in Pictures

I wanted to share a few of my favorite shots from my recent vacation to Hawaii - more to follow this week.

Lagoon and Diamond Head

The View from Diamond Head

Feeding the Penguins!

Hawaii Five-O - My Official Review

I had started a blog post about the new series Hawaii Five-O on CBS about 3 weeks ago, and I have to admit it was less than complimentary.  For some reason I never finished the post and now I am glad that I didn't publish it.  With the series now about 7 episodes in, I've changed my tune.  Alex O'Loughlin and Scott Caan star as Steve McGarrett and Danny 'Danno' Williams respectively, and have really found their groove as police partners on the show.  Initially, I felt like the show didn't reflect Hawaii as it really is (the first episode was focused on some kind of terrorist threat, which I don't believe has ever happened (nor is likely to happen any time soon).  And in this week's episode, there were locals drinking Blue Hawaii cocktails in the tropics bar at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, which again is not likely to be a common occurrence.  But the story lines are improving, the scenery is always a pleasure to absorb, and over 14.5 million viewers each week can't be wrong - it really is one of the better new TV shows of the fall. 

While the show is fun, take it with a grain of salt.  There are a number of scenes in the show that are not 100% accurate, and I feel like they misrepresent Hawaii in some of their episodes.  But overall, a pretty impressive job and let's hope that McGarrett and Danno stick around for Season 2.  If you haven't seen the show yet, enjoy this preview on YouTube and tune into CBS on Monday night for more.

Not Long Now Waikiki

My next trip to Hawaii has sprung up rather quickly.  Last night we were trying to figure out the final itinerary in terms of activities during the trip when it occurred to me that I definitely didn't schedule enough time in Hawaii before I make my way back to Sydney, Australia for a family visit.  We are booked solid for four days straight (although I did schedule pool time and beach time in there, thank goodness).  But between dining at Alan Wongs, catching up with friends, attending a luau and celebrating at Duke's Waikiki which is where J & I first met, there isn't going to be much time left. 

I think I need to book another trip for early next year just to relax from this trip.  While it does get cooler over Christmas and New Year, it still beats the nasty Seattle weather.  The biggest challenge is finding time on the schedule to actually go! I'm thinking June, but that just seems so far away.  Let's hope it is sooner than that.

Can't Decide on a Hawaii Hotel?

I listened in on a very interesting conference track yesterday at Blogworld hosted by John Forrest Ales, who leads communication strategies for Hilton Hotels and Resorts.  He explained some great dos and don'ts for travel bloggers who are looking to pitch travel brands, especially for free hotel stays and other activities as part of a trip you may be planning.  One key piece of advice I did like was to ask for something that you may not have otherwise been able to experience while on your trip, instead of expecting that a brand will comp your entire stay.  These companies still need to make money!

With that said, I am booked and heading to the Hilton Hawaiian Village in the next few weeks for vacation.  I always use my vacations to gather more content for my blog, and this one is no exception.  We are planning on attending the Waikiki Starlight Luau during our stay, and I have seen the penguins, flamingos and swum in the super pool so many times that I plan to email John Forest and find out what else I might be able to do during my trip.  Maybe there is some secret tour at the Hilton that I don't know about?  Or maybe I can get a room upgrade so I can have uninterrupted views of the crystal clear Hawaiian waters.  Stay tuned, I'm excited to hear what he says!

In any case, I will be doing a full review of our stay at the Hilton Hawaiian Village so watch this space for more information over the next couple of weeks.

Attend the World Premiere of Hawaii Five-O

Book ‘Em, Danno!

Save the date on Monday September 13 - Catch the world premiere of the new Hawaii Five-O at Sunset on the Beach. Score a spot on the sand early, grab some local grinds, and then watch as stars Daniel Dae Kim, Scott Caan, Alex O’Loughlin and Grace Park roll in.

When: Monday, September 13
Live entertainment, 5 p.m
Red carpet arrivals, 6 p.m
Premiere, 7:30 p.m

Where: Sunset on the Beach, Queen’s Beach, Waikiki

Although I can't attend the premiere I can't wait to watch on TV!  Are you excited for the new series?

September is Pineapple Month at Alan Wongs

The pineapple is a symbol of hospitality and while many people associate pineapples with Hawaii, the exotic fruit (like most residents of Hawaii and the United States), was once an immigrant. Historical records show that the pineapple was brought from the Caribbean to the New World by Christopher Columbus and eventually found its way to Hawaii in the 1770s.

The pineapple was the symbol of hospitality back in colonial America and still is today, especially to the millions of visitors who visit Hawaii.

To celebrate this wonderful fruit, Alan Wong has officially declared September to be Pineapple Month.  Join the Alan Wong's team at their Honolulu restaurant as they prolong the summer season with new pineapple specials added to their a la carte menu all September. Start with a refreshing new pineapple libation and end with a luscious pineapple dessert.

Libations
Pineapple "Margarita"
Experience a taste of 'ole Hawaii. Fresh pineapple, a heaping scoop of Okolehao, organic lime, and a pinch of sea salt on the rim of your glass.

Bully's Drink
The "Wong Way" Pineapple Martini - Infused Svedka Vodka with fresh island pineapples.

"Celebration of Pineapple"
Refreshing thirst quencher that captures the spirit of a "pineapple cooler." Fresh pineapple juice, pineapple wine and pineapple-infused Vodka.

Locavore Pineapple "Creamsicle"
A bee-licious blend of Naked Cow Dairy Yogurt, fresh Hawaiian Crown Pineapple from Kunia, and All Hawaiian Honey. A healthy non-alcoholic smoothie.

Entrees
Lobster, Kauai Shrimp and Octopus Ceviche on Frozen Pineapple "Tiger's Milk"
A Modern Day "Shrimp Canton"
Pineapple Glazed Smoke Pork Shoulder, Pineapple Honey Mustard Relish

Dessert
"Pineapple Upside-Down Cake"
Plantation Style Pineapple Ice Cream, Caramel-Dipped "Pineapple"

For reservations please call  (808) 949-2526 and for more information, visit http://www.alanwongs.com/. 

Hawaii Five-O - Casting Call!

Alohaupdate.com announced on their blog that this weekend, there is a casting call for the new CBS series Hawaii Five-O! Saturday August 28 CBS will hold an open casting call for extras to be on the show and fill the streets!  I want to go!

The casting call will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Aloha Tower Marketplace and the show is looking to cast people of all ages, races and backgrounds for upcoming shoots. Many of these roles will also be speaking parts!  OMG!

If you can bring a headshot photograph and a resume great, but its not a necessity - just be sure to bring your ID. According to the casting director, you don’t need a film or TV background to get cast. If they like your look, you will be cast!

Hawaii Five-O premieres on with a sneak preview on Monday September 13 at Sunset on the Beach at Waikiki. The CBS network premiere will be Monday September 20.

Hawaiian Party = Hawaiian Playlist

My friends over at Lei Chic Hawaii shared a great Hawaiian playlist yesterday in preparation for Admission day. Admission Day or Statehood Day is a legal holiday in the state of Hawaii and is celebrated annually on the third Friday in August to commemorate the anniversary of the 1959 admission of Hawaii into the Union.

Here's the perfect Hawaii playlist to celebrate; more info can be found at http://www.leichic.com/

1 . “Kihei Town,” by The Throwdowns

2. “HI-808,” by Blue Scholars

3. "Two Weeks In Hawaii," by Hellogoodbye

4. “Honolulu,” by The Deadbeats

5. “Hawaii,” by Meiko

6. “Honolulu,” by Tassho Pearce a.k.a. Emirc

7. “Hawaii,” by David Singer

8. “Chinatown,” by Black Square

9. “Hawaii (Brian Wilson),” by The Queers

10. “Hats Off To Hawaii,” by The Kung Fu Monkeys

A New Maui Luau

The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort & Spa on the south side of Maui is adding a luau to its plethora of activities. The “Te Au Moana” luau celebrates the island of Maui with contemporary songs and hula.

The luau show is to be held at the resort every Monday, Thursday. Friday and Saturday evening starting at 4:30 p.m, where guests will witness the unearthing of the imu, or underground oven, used to steam a whole pig for the traditional luau dish of kalua pork and be offered a buffet of luau staple. The hour long show will follow the dinner. YUM!

Kamaaina rates (rates for residents of Hawaii) are $75 for adults and $38 for children (6-12 years) with free admission for children under 5 years. Regular prices (for visitors to Hawaii) are $98 for adults and $53 for children (6-12 years).

A luau (in Hawaiian, lū‘au) is a Hawaiian feast, featuring food such such as poi, kalua pig, poke, lomi salmon, opihi, haupia, and beer and with entertainment such as Hawaiian music and hula. Among people from Hawaii, the concepts of "luau" and "party" are often blended, resulting in graduation luaus, wedding luaus, and birthday luaus.

In addition to this luau in Maui, O'ahu offers many different luaus, including the Waikiki Starlight Luau at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, which I am planning on going to later this year.  I'm looking forward to the food and to learning more about Hawaiian culture in general.  Another good Luau option in on O'ahu is Paradise Cove, although sources tell me it is not as authentic as others on the Island.

Anne Klein at Waikele to Close

A great place for outlet shopping on O'ahu is Waikele Premium Outlets. It's about a 30-40 minute drive from Waikiki but the shopping is cheap, and there are some great brands to choose from.  However, just announced is that women’s apparel retailer Anne Klein is closing its only Hawaii store at the Waikele Premium Outlets on August 27. This is part of a retail improvement plan for the brand, and is one of the 200 under performing stores that they are planning to close nation-wide.

Anne Klein has fewer than a dozen employees at the Waikele outlet store, and rumor has it that Waikele Premium Outlets is close to securing a new tenant for the soon-to-be-vacated space; let's hope it's an improvement on Anne Klein!  Any suggestions for what's still missing at Waikele?

Did Someone Say Coffee?

One of my favorite things in the world is coffee.  And thankfully, coffee is plentiful in Hawaii.  Did you know that Hawaii is the only state in the US that grows coffee beans?  If you get a chance, next time you visit Hawaii try and purchase some Kona Coffee - but only the bags marked 100% Kona coffee - there are many different coffee labels that claim they have Kona coffee in them, but many have 10% or less so you have to read the fine print.  The difference between 10% and 100% is substansial.

What's your favorite way to drink coffee?  I personally love espresso coffee, but there are so ways to prepare coffee, depending on your type of coffee maker. My husband prefers the drip variety, but in Australia, we are very spoiled when it comes to coffee, and drip coffee is not something that is a standard in most homes.

I just had my morning coffee from Starbucks (hey, cut the jokes, I like in Seattle) and am ready for a productive day thanks to the two shots of espresso I just ingested.  Yum!

Craft Brewers to Buy Kona Brewing Company

Craft Brewers Alliance Inc. announced on Tuesday that the company will acquire Kona Brewing Co., building on a long-standing relationship. Portland-based Craft Brewers is planning to pay $13.9 million for Hawaii's largest brewery.

At this stage, there are no major operational changes planned as a result from the most recent deal. Kona will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary and continue to own and operate its brewing facilities in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii.

More information about Kona Brewing Company can be found on their website.  If you haven't tried any of their fine beers, be sure to check them out - the Longboard Lager is my favorite.

Waikiki EDITION To Open in October

Another new hotel for me to check out! The first hotel under Marriott’s newest luxury boutique brand, EDITION, will open in Waikiki this October.

The Waikiki EDITION, a partnership between Marriott International and hotelier Ian Schrager, will open on the site of the former Yacht Harbor Tower wing of the Ilikai Hotel.

The 353 room Waikiki EDITION, designed by New York’s Yabu/Pushelberg, will also be home to a new restaurant by world-renowned Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto and an exclusive Crazybox nightclub, as well as a full-service spa, outdoor movie theater and ballroom.

No word yet on how much it will cost to stay at the hotel, stay tuned for more information!  It sounds like it will be something special!

Crazy Hawaii Volcano Images

There was a really interesting blog post on Engadget this week with a pretty intense photo and video! The United States Geological Survey's thermal camera recently captured some wild stuff over at the Kilauea volcanic caldera in Hawaii. The video has been sped up four times, and shows a 450 foot-wide vent which is usually obscured by gas fumes.The results are impressive and overwhelming. Check it out on Engadget!

More Visitors, More Money? Um...No.

I really wanted this to be a win/win story but please take from it what you will.  After what seems like FOREVER, it's been predicted that Hawaii visitor arrivals and spending will continue to increase throughout the rest of the year, marking a sure sign of steady economic recovery.  Hallelujah!

The Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) has estimated that total visitor arrivals to Hawaii are expected to climb 2.6% this year to 6.7 million based on stronger-than-expected international arrivals logged in the first quarter. With a combination of longer stays and higher average daily spending in the first few months of the year, this has boosted the state’s forecast for visitor expenditure growth by 4.9% to $10.6 billion in 2010, DBEDT said. 

With news like this, you would think that Hawaii residents would be rejoicing! But despite the optimistic visitor numbers, DBEDT expects hourly wage and salary jobs this year to lag behind economic recovery, not surprising really as wages in Hawaii have always been low, and many people work more than one job just to make rent each month.  Combine that with a very competitive job market (and a tough one to get into if you are not Hawaiian) and it still seems like there are many challenges ahead.

So, the good news is that more people are traveling.  Yay.  The bad news is that travel costs are likely to go back up (no more last minute cheap deals to Hawaii) and Hawaiian workers are not reaping much of the benefit as tourism starts to pick up in their backyard.  Ugh, supply and demand can work in strange ways.

The Last of the Lei at HNL International

It was announced late last week that the Hawaii Tourism Authority had cut the $450,000 it set aside for greeters at Honolulu International Airport.

Honolulu was the last of the state’s major airports to have the song and hula programs that were first introduced three years ago to make positive impressions on arriving and departing visitors, and now, the Tourism Authority has decided to allocate that money to its airline development program. It will use the money to support cooperative programs with airlines designed to sustain or increase air seats to Hawaii.

Reviews for the Lei greeting program have always been wonderful.  However, due to budget restrictions (isn't it always about the money), the Tourism Authority was forced to cut funding for greetings contractors at airports on Maui, Kauai and the Big Island last fall.

This is a real shame for Honolulu International Airport.  Some of my fondest memories in Hawaii are of arriving at the airport and being given a beautiful flower lei - although I must admit it was never a random greeter at the airport!  The good news is that the lei stands at the airport where you can purchase fresh leis are still going strong.  If you are picking someone up from the airport, be sure to check out the beautiful hand-made leis and surprise your guest with some Hawaiian tradition and a warm aloha.

Get Your DVR Ready for Hawaii Five-O!

There has been a lot of talk recently about a remake of the classic series "Hawaii Five-O" and on Monday the news was confirmed for real! CBS has picked up the reboot of “Hawaii Five-O” for the fall television season, and its one that will be on my must-watch list!

And great news for the Hawaiian economy - the new version of the network’s classic cop drama that ran for 12 years, from 1968 to 1980, will be filmed entirely in Hawaii.

When I hear that Aussie stars are cast in American shows it makes me a little nervous, purely from an accent standpoint (we have all heard Nicole Kidman and Sam Worthington mix up their voices from time to time). The show has cast Australian actor Alex O’Loughlin as detective Steve McGarrett and “Lost” alumnus Daniel Dae Kim as Chin Ho Kelly. The cast also includes Scott Caan from “Oceans Eleven” as detective Danny Williams, “Battlestar Galactica” alum Grace Park as Kona Kalakaua, and actress Jean Smart of “24” and “Samantha Who” as Gov. Pat Jameson.  If you need to get the deets on these actors, head to IMDb for the full scoop.

The news about “Hawaii Five-O” comes as ABC prepares to wrap up its series “Lost” with a two-and-a-half-hour finale on Sunday. The castaway drama, which filmed in Hawaii for the past six years, has had an economic impact on the state’s economy worth hundreds of millions of dollars.  I'm not a "Lost" fan but my husband is; and from the amount of "Lost" viewing to be had this weekend I may need to get out of the house for most of the evening!  Bye-Bye "Lost", hello "Hawaii Five-O"!