Hawaii holidays

Hawaiian cuisine is a reflection of the country's rich history. Indigenous civilisations laid the foundations and introduced the dishes we eat today, where all the flavours complement and influence each other, which explains why Hawaii is a gastronomic wonderland.

Luau feasts are a delightful exploration of Hawaiian cuisine. Expect a delicious spread featuring traditional dishes like poi, a traditional staple and filling, which comes in the form of a thick taro root paste (a bit like a potato) usually served with meat and rice. Another must-try dish to complete a traditional Hawaiian meal is Laulau, succulent pork wrapped around layers of taro leaves, cooked on an underground hot stone, leaving the meat juicy and tender. Other popular dishes include roasted Kālua Puaʻa pork, Lomi Lomi salmon, Poke (bite-sized cubes of raw fish) and Hawaiian fruit such as pineapple for dessert.

Hawaiians have always had a genius for engineering and creating integrated water systems to grow crops such as kalo (taro), uala (sweet potato), mai'a (banana), 'ulu (breadfruit) and kō (sugarcane). Traditional Hawaiian cuisine has been influenced by many chefs: Sam Choy, Philippe Padovani, Roger Dikon, Gary Strehl, Roy Yamaguchi, Amy Ferguson Ota, Jean-Marie Josselin, George Mavrothalassitis, Beverly Gannon, Peter Ellman, Peter Merriman and Alan Wong. As you can already guess, their revolution was a great success!

Aloha! Get ready to sip your way through paradise with Hawaii's vibrant cocktail scene. These refreshing and colourful drinks are the perfect complement to soaking up the island vibes.

First up, there's the legendary Mai Tai, a Hawaiian must-try. While the original recipe remains a closely guarded secret, variations often feature a delightful combination of rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup (with its almond flavour), and a touch of Curaçao. This creates a refreshingly sweet and tangy concoction that will tantalize your taste buds.

Rum aficionados won't want to miss Trader Vic's take on the Mai Tai. Made with their signature rum blend and served in an old-fashioned glass with crushed ice, it's a taste of Tiki tradition that promises a smooth and flavourful experience.

For a visual and taste sensation, look no further than the Blue Hawaii. This captivating cocktail lives up to its name with a vibrant sapphire colour that evokes the beauty of the tropical seas. The fruity blend is perfect for sipping poolside or enjoying a relaxing afternoon under the Hawaiian sun.

Of course, Hawaii offers more than just classic Tiki cocktails. Margaritas and martinis with a tropical twist are popular choices, ensuring there's something to quench every thirst, no matter your palate.

Feeling adventurous? If you're looking for a show-stopping drink with a touch of fun, then the Scorpion Bowl is for you. Often found in Chinese and Polynesian restaurants, this flaming masterpiece combines rum, fruit juices, grenadine, gin, and vodka, all served in a communal bowl adorned with a (harmless!) plastic scorpion. 

The rhythmic pulse of Hawaii goes beyond its beautiful scenery. Music here is a vibrant tapestry woven from the islands' rich cultural heritage.

Traditional Hawaiian music, often called Jawaiian (similar to reggae), resonates with the sounds of percussion, song, and storytelling. It blends harmoniously with the influences brought by generations of immigrants, creating a unique musical landscape. 

Hula, more than just a dance, is a cornerstone of Hawaiian culture. These graceful movements tell stories of history, mythology, and everyday life. Watch dancers adorned with vibrant skirts and adornments sway their hips and tell tales through hand gestures and facial expressions.

The rhythmic chanting that accompanies hula adds another layer to the experience, transporting you to a deeper understanding of Hawaiian traditions. Many luau feasts incorporate hula performances, allowing visitors to witness this beautiful art form firsthand.

The spirit of music comes alive year-round with a variety of festivals. Immerse yourself in the prismatic sounds of the Lost in Paradise Music Festival on Oahu. Held in July, this two-day event features a vibrant mix of dance, hip-hop, techno, and rap.

For a more classical experience, the Hawaii International Music Festival is a must-attend. Held annually in August, it celebrates the beauty and artistry of orchestral music.

Craving a dose of electronic dance music (EDM)? Head to the Wonderland Hawaii festival, also held in the summer months. This high-energy event attracts some of the world's biggest DJs, like Skrillex and Afrojack, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Hawaii isn't just a paradise for sunbathers – it's a playground for adventurers of all stripes! From the legendary waves to the lush green fairways, this archipelago offers endless opportunities to get active.

Water sports are part of the Hawaiian way of life. With its endless blue waters, the region is the birthplace of surfing and paddleboarding, so you can enjoy these two sports and more in breathtaking settings.

One of Hawaii's oldest sports, outrigger canoe racing, is a sport which you can watch or take part in; The Queen Liliuokalani Canoe Regatta is a renowned event where you can witness this cultural treasure on the Big Island.

Tee off on championship courses sculpted from dramatic lava landscapes such as Nanea Golf Club on the Big Island. 

Take on the challenge of the Iconic Ironman Triathlon in the autumn, or watch international soccer, tennis and basketball competitions, another reason to visit this magnificent archipelago.

Hawaii is a shopper's paradise, offering a unique blend of local crafts, international brands and duty-free bargains. Oahu is perhaps the best-known city for shopping, with Honolulu being an upmarket destination full of department stores and elegant beachfront boutiques set amid swaying palm trees. Overall, the best places to shop on Oahu are Waikiki and Ala Moana Center. For those who want to discover top brands at discounted prices, head to Waikele Premium Outlets. In the markets you'll find arts and crafts, jewellery, beautiful souvenirs and fabrics adorned with Hawaii's captivating floral designs.

While Oahu shines for shopping, each island has its own treasures to discover.