Category: Hawaii Accommodations & Dining

Mandoo is a popular food in Hawaii that you’re sure to encounter on your vacation here. But what should you expect if you see these at markets or restaurants? Here’s our quick intro to Mondoo (and where to find the best in Hawaii).  What is Mandoo Mandoo are Korean dumplings that can be boiled, steamed, […]

Hawaii claims nine spots on a new ranking of America’s Best Beach hotels. While they are all expensive resorts for Hawaii vacations , it is possible to enjoy the same views and many of the amenities for far less. The ranking is from readers of Travel + Leisure Magazine. The June edition lists the top […]

View of the Hamakua marsh from the lanai at Big City Diner, Kailua. When I’m not sure what I want to eat for breakfast, I head to Big City Diner. The menu includes mainland favorites like pancakes and eggs as well as local Hawaii touches like Loco Moco and Kimchee Fried Rice. On weekends, the […]

A luxurious beachfront hotel located in the center of Waikiki, the Moana Surfrider offers high-style accommodations with a price tag to match. Fortunately, I recently discovered a unique and fun way to experience an afternoon of luxury at the Moana Surfrider without breaking the bank. For a little over $30 one can enjoy a lengthy […]

Whether you want to try Kava at home or are thinking of stopping by a Hawaii Kava bar, there’s a lot to know about this ancient therapy. Finding Serenity Anywhere Just a photograph of our beautiful Hawaiian Islands can put you in a relaxed state of mind and cause you to dream of a Hawaii […]

The Polynesian Cultural Center allows you to experience Hawaii in context, along with sister islands like Tahiti and Samoa. A new hands-on activity demonstrates how to cook traditional Samoan foods in an umu — an above ground oven. Guests are invited to help build the oven, then to prepare and cook traditional foods such as […]

I recently went to the Paradise Cove Luau in Hawaii and wanted to share all about my experience. After all, there are dozens of luau to choose from on Oahu, and you want to make sure you visit the right one.  There is a lot to love about Paradise Cove Luau, but also some things […]

Save money on food by eating like a local on your Hawaii vacation.* You might expect generous portions at a place called “Fatboys” and you’d be right. You’ll also find food that’s popular with locals and yet accessible for first-time visitors to Hawaii. If you want to stay with familiar food choices, there is a […]

Bao buns are having a moment – it seems like they’re appearing all over the mainland at all different kinds of restaurants. But Hawaii has long treasured these treats, so much so that we have our own version, called Manapua.  A Manapua is a soft roll with a savory filling. Char siu pork is the […]

Vacationers and locals agree: a Hawaii malasada is the ultimate treat.  A malasada is a pastry treat, similar to a donut without a hole. It is very popular and best eaten while still warm. You may find malasadas in bakeries, coffee carts or even as a dessert in restaurants. The Evolution of Hawaii Malasada in […]

If you’ve spent any time in Hawaii, you’ve heard of Kalua Pig. This local food is a staple at most parties, luau, and restaurants. But what exactly is it? And why do Hawaii residents love it so much? Let’s learn all about this popular dish! What is Kalua Pig?  Kalua Pig is roasted pulled pork! […]

A tea ceremony with roots in sixteenth century Japan lives on in Hawaii. Visitors may experience the elegance of Chao, the Way of Tea, in public demonstrations. Small group sessions are held twice a week in a tea room and garden tucked in between towering Hawaii hotels in Waikiki. The foundations for Chado were laid […]