Many might say that there is no place like Waikiki, and they would be right. Waikiki is not only known around the globe for its beautiful beaches and surfing history, but also for its world class hospitality. In this 5 To Try, I revisit 5 different Waikiki hotel experiences and explore my favorite aspects from each hotel, from iconic views to unforgettable dining experiences. Alohilani Resort: An Aloha Chic Experience In 2016, the then Pacific Beach Hotel underwent a massive $100+ million redevelopment. The hotel was rebranded and reimagined as the Alohilani Resort. What can you expect? A mode ..read more

Located in the heart of old Hilo town and just off of Kilauea Avenue is a tiny shop in an old building known for selling small, but tasty mochi confections. Two Ladies Kitchen is artisanal mochi, without the attitude that tends to come with artisanal things. They don’t need a website (they have none), or an active social media presence. The lines that form outside of Two Ladies Kitchen is all that they need to tell their story. They make great, handmade muchi, and probably the closest that you can get to the mochi that you would find being sold by street vendors in Japan’s Tsukiji Market. You ..read more

In search for an impromptu brunch spot on a rather slow Sunday, we decided to forego busy Waikiki, for a laid back experience at Mud Hen Water. Mud Hen Water is located in one of my favorite little neighborhoods on Oahu: Kaimuki. As they say, Keep It Kaimuki. Ed Kenney is the mind behind Mud Hen Water. He runs a few other restaurants just a walking distance away, including Town and Kaimuki Superette. Also, confused about the name, Mud Hen Water? The restaurant name is the English translation of Waialae, the name of the main avenue that runs through the cozy town of Kaimuki. Imagine stopping ..read more