If you’ve taken our quiz that helps people discover the best hawaiian island based on vacationing preferences, you may have noticed that all else being equal, we recommend Oahu for first time visitors. A big reason for that recommendation is all the historic and cultural sightseeing Oahu offers visitors. From Pearl Harbor and the US Army Museum to Iolani Palace, Queen Emma’s Summer Palace, Byodo-In Temple, and the remains of several Heiau (Hawaiian temples). Oahu also has the magnificent Bishop Museum, the largest museum in the state, and containing one of the largest natural history specimen collections in the world.

Bishop Museum

Bishop Museum features 5 main exhibit halls. The recently renovated Hawaiian Hall spans 3 floors and takes visitors “on a journey through the different realms of Hawaii.” Here you will learn about key moments in history, Hawaii’s kings, the fascinating area of Hawaiian mythology, and also learn about the connection that Hawaiian’s have with the ocean, land and nature.

The 2 story Polynesian Hall focuses on Hawaii’s Polynesian roots, while the Science Adventure center teaches about Hawaii’s unique geology and environment. Two other exhibits honor Hawaii’s Monarchy and athletes.

Bishop Museum also has rotating exhibits. On Display through January 3, 2010 is Dinosaurs Unearthed featuring life sized robotic dinosaurs, sure to be a huge hit with kids. In fact, many of the Museum’s exhibits have interactive components which children tend to find especially enjoyable.

It’s unfortunate that so many visitors to Oahu miss out on the best the island has to offer. Whether it’s the fabulous beaches of the east and north shores, or wonderful cultural experiences like Bishop Museum. Remember, you can’t spend the entire day out in the sun. And if you’ve taken your kids out of school to go on vacation (an excellent strategy to save money), taking them to Bishop Museum will surely make up for a lost week of lessons!

Bishop Museum is open Wednesday to Monday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Lauhala Weaving Annual Conference: Ka Ulu Lauhala O Kona
http://sites.google.com/site/kalululauhalaokona/

2009 Dates: May 13th -May 17th, 2009
2010 Dates: May 12th - May 16th, 2010
2011 Dates: Tentative dates will be in September - Kona Village is closed for repairs due to receiving some damage from the Japan Tsunami. The event will still be held on the Big Island but will be at another hotel.

In past years, the annual weaving conference was held at the beautiful Kona Village on the Big Island.

Check out Ohi Lauhala’s web site for lauhala weaving events and classes.

Lauhala weaving is the Hawaiian art of weaving using the leaves of the hala tree.

About Lauhala:

“The hala tree or pandanus is native to the Hawaiian and Pacific islands and has long roots. Lau is the Hawaiian word for leaf. The craft is essential to the history and culture of Hawaii, at one time being used to produce many of the things needed for life on the islands.

The natural color of finished lauhala products varies from light tan to deep brown, and it can also be dyed. This craft is quite versatile with everything from houses to pillows being produced. The leaves of the hala tree are de-thorned, washed, baked in the sun if green, although often stored in a moist environment if picked dead, and then rolled into coils.” Source: Wikipedia

“Legend says that the hala tree was a result of Pele’s rage. On her first landing ashore, her canoe got entangled in the roots and leaves. In her anger she ripped the trees in pieces and threw them across the island, the hala sprouted, happy and wise, wherever it touched the ground. Her anger was fortunate, because no other tree has been as useful to the Hawaiian people. From pollen to blossom to flower to fruit, from leaf to bark to wood to root, all parts had value.”

Look for classes at some of the museums or community centers to learn lauhala weaving. What you’ll learn depends on your kumu (teacher).

Here are some items/techniques you can learn:

Beginners – start with bracelets, mats, photo holder, decorations etc.
Intermediate – mats, fans, baskets, brick/trivet covers, purses etc.
Intermediate/Advanced – purses, hats, etc.