To say the least today has been rather interesting and adventurous. Since I spent little time around the property today, I would like to take the opportunity to report on other venues here on the Big Island.
First, I must report that the quaint town of Waimea has lost its great dining establishment. Earlier today I was saddened to see that Edelweiss is no longer opened for business. Weeks prior to arriving the thought of their duck in green peppercorn sauce was enough to make my mouth water. I shall truly miss having dinner there.
Daniel Thiebaut - Restaurant
2 out of 5 Stars (that's pushing it)
WARNING: RUN AWAY FROM AT ALL POSSIBLE COSTS! Not quite sure what all the hype is about this place but it has been ages since I last walked out of a restaurant. Their menu appeared to be slightly appetizing....and I mean slightly. If you have any dietary issues, especially food allergies, do not expect to find anything edible on their menu especially since their chef is inflexible and unwilling to do anything remotely accommodating. Otherwise they have warm and welcoming staff, which earned them the two star rating.
The Canoe House at Mauna Lani Bay Hotel - Restaurant
4 out of 5 Stars
By far one of the best restaurants on the island! The view is exceptional and the food is to die for. Try the Hawaiian style BBQ ribs, they have a kick but are the best appetizer on the menu. The Canoe House also features an excellent wine list, though I would recommend one of their delicious cocktails. Make your reservations days in advance since they book up quickly, request a table on the patio or in the front of the dining room.
Mauna Lani Bay Hotel and Bungalows
Duration of Stay - Walkthrough
3.5 stars out of 5
To say the least it is no longer the 5 diamond property it once was nor is its 1980's ambiance aging well. The property is in dire need of a management shake up and suffers from the character flaws as The Fairmont Orchid. Do not expect a welcoming white sand beach but rather a rocky shore. The majority of rooms do not have an ocean view and tend to be dated. With this being said, if you can afford the bungalows...go for it. Offering exceptional individualized service and the ultimate in hideaway privacy, the bungalows are worth every penny.
The Fairmont Orchid
Duration of Stay - Walkthrough
3.5 out of 5 stars
The multi-million dollar resort that never made it. Now under Fairmont Hotels and Resorts management, it is essentially a Ritz-Carlton property in drag. The Orchid lacks three main important ingredients that are necessary at any "fine" island hotel: a beach, ocean view rooms, and quality service. If your idea of a beach is a rocky out cropping with un-swimmable waters and jagged coral then this would be the place for you (don't expect the prefect white sand crescent beach you would find at the Mauna Kea). The majority of their rooms do have ocean views, if you lean way out beyond the railing of your balcony and crane your head at an uncomfortable angle. Service is questionable and unreliable at best. There is a serious issue when an employee has to instant message their coworker, who is standing next to them, when unsure of an answer. If you are going to spend money on luxury accommodations, look elsewhere.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
For me, visiting the national park is one of the main reasons for visit the Big Island. How often to you get to witness a volcano in action creating the newest land on earth? Plan on spending a whole day here and be prepared for all the elements. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park encompasses the majority of Kilauea (the youngest of the islands 5 volcanoes) and large portions of Mauna Loa (the largest mountain on earth). The visitor center is a good place to start but the Jagger Museum is even better. Though the Jagger has looked better, its perch on the side of the caldera makes it a memorable moment. Due to recent volcanic activity certain areas of the park are closed indefinitely but do not let this persuade you. If you are looking for accommodations inside the park, check out Volcano House or camp at one of the many campsites. There are to many amazing features at the park to describe so I would recommend visiting their website, www.nps.gov/havo
If you are interested in the recent volcanic activity occuring at Kilauea visit the Hawaiian Volcano Observatory website at http://hvo.usgs.gov
Town of Hilo
If you are looking to experience old Hawaii, look no further. Hilo is a town that time left behind... essentially nothing has changed much in the last 40 years. Shops and museums in the town close early, so plan on visiting here during a dedicated day trip or while en-route to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. If you are in dire need of inexpensive Hawaiian goods to give as gifts, pop into Hilo Hattie (you will get a free shell necklace just for walking in!). On Monday's there is the local farmer's market offering all kinds of produce and goods held in the center of town.
To really experience to culture of Hilo, walk along the main street (which somewhat runs along the waterfront). If time permits, the Pacific Tsunami Museum is worth a visit. The museum sheds light on an important issue that has impacted the culture of not only Hawaii but the entire pacific rim.
**Looking to experience old Hawaii without the tourists? Check out North Kohala and the town of Hawi.
Volcano Golf and Country Club - (on-site Restaurant)
4 out of 5 stars
If you are in need of food while at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this is the place to visit. Located just outside the park's main entrance it is the only place in the locale that offers decent food. My suggestions for lunch would be the chili bowl or the double burger, both are simple but hit the spot after a long day of hiking. Watch out for the Nene and other wild animals in the area (already saw one get run over today, please do not add to it). If you are brave enough, check out the Volcano Winery just up the street from the country club, I have heard interesting things about it.
More to come....
--Jaguar
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