OT - My Holiday in Maui

[snapdragen]

10/17/05

Arrived in Lahaina, with my usual first day “I want to go home” feeling. Walked around a bit, it’s bloody hot and humid.

I decided I don’t like driving in Lahaina, the car will probably be parked most of the time. I’ve signed up to go to Molokai on Thursday – I think I’ll enjoy it bunches. I like the idea of the history of the island.

Had dinner at the bar and grill downstairs – Pretty decent Lemon Drop. Coconut shrimp, served with fresh baby spinach and rice, with a chili sauce. Very good. Dined with a very small gecko, running up and down one of the posts.

I’m exhausted, and it’s only 7:00.

Oh! The birds! My room looks out on the Banyan Tree, and this evening the birds came in to roost. The singing and calling was absolute madness – it’s great. I wish I had a way to record it.

10/18/05

Today is the second day of “Boat Day”. There are two cruise ships out in the harbor, and what seems like millions of gray hairs and no hairs; some mobile, some on wheels. I overheard one lady on the phone “Aloha! Well, I’m in Hawaii, I’m not sure where” her friend whispers “Maui”. “Oh yeah, we’re in Maui”.

I walked down to 505 Front Street – didn’t seem to be much of interest except Pacific ‘O restaurant. The local kids are all in school; I passed a Catholic school on my walk. I like the Hawaiian version of the school uniform – shorts and a t-shirt with Hawaiian flowers across the front.

Drove to Kaanapali today to see Whalers Village. So discouraging, condos have sprouted up everywhere. Whalers Village may as well be another Westfield Shoppingtown. On the way back I stopped and had lunch at Aloha Mixed Plate. What a cool place, they make you feel right at home. I had the Hawaiian mixed plate – Kalua Pork and Cabbage, Lomi Salmon, Rice, macaroni salad and poi. I liked it all except the poi. Pretty boring – but at least I tried it! Also had a Mai Tai – now I remember, I don’t like rum.

Next stop was near a parasailing site. I found an old cemetery, and took a couple of pictures. Hope I wasn’t breaking any rules – old cemeteries are fascinating.

I went to see Warren and Annabelle – what a great show. First you go into Annabelle’s parlor. She is a ghost, and entertains you by playing the piano, while you eat and have cocktails. Our server was great, a NY transplant; she also sang a couple of times. The main show was Warren, a magician and extremely funny guy; so far the high point of the trip. I've yet to figure out how he got two bowling balls into a hat.....