We were sadden to find out that the International Market Place was closing it's doors to be replaced by a three story high end shopping mall. The market was located in the heart of Waikiki set underneath a large Banyan Tree encircled in Tiki Huts, Aloha shirts, psychics, woodcrafts and surf stores. It was fun place to haggle with local vendors while enjoying the sites and sounds of the open air market.
Some people would probably describe the market place as run down and cheesy but to me it had its charm and an old nostalgic Hawaiian feel to it in the midst of modern ever changing Waikiki.
Beautiful Chica posing as a hula girl
We really enjoyed our evening walks to the market to witness the many street performers. The best was watching Bobo the Amazing Guinea Pig drive his sports car down the side walk and perform his tricks.
Once you navigate pass the many street performers you will noticed the welcoming International Market Place sign and start to smell the sizzling of garlic shrimp, fresh coconut and hear the sounds of Hawaiian music from the Hula Show.
Garlic Shrimp and Lobster Tail
Enjoying Garlic Shrimp and Lobster Tail with a Guava Hawaiian Sun drink
Chica enjoying the Market
For me the International Market Place offered a different kind of an experience other than what you usually get visiting a shopping mall. Sure some of the souvenirs where cheap and probably made in other countries but there was also lots of crafts and cuisine made by local Hawaiians.
Enjoying Fresh Coconut Milk
Call me crazy but why would anyone fly all the way to Oahu just to shop at high end fashion mall to buy Luis V? By loosing the market Waikiki is loosing the one thing that made it different besides the amazing beaches.
More Coconut
I am not against high end shopping malls but it is nice to have both like we have in Charleston. There is the market that allows locals to sell their crafts and then there is the shopping district on King street for Luis Vuitton.
I guess the reality is that most people do fly to Oahu to shop or they wouldn't be shutting down the International Market Place. As for me I would much rather walk around the market while sipping fresh squeezed Guava juice and hearing the sounds of Hawaiian music and listening to customers bartering for cheaper prices than to walk through a boring shopping complex filled with over priced Luis V.
In my view nothing beats a steaming hot bowl of gumbo on cold damp winter day to stimulate the senses. Besides providing an intense rich smokey flavor it is a delicious hearty comfort soup. For this reason I decided to share a few things I learned while making my Gumbo.
Making Gumbo is nothing to complicated but I believe there are two main keys to make really awesome gumbo. The first is to add saute smoked Kielbasa to the Gumbo. This will give it that smokey flavor and provide the kick. The second is to add Okra or to make a Roux to provide the proper thickness Gumbo requires. I never make a Roux but instead I just add Okra to thicken the Gumbo. It is important to make sure not to add to much Okra or it will cause the Gumbo to be kind of runny instead of thick. I try to add no more than 6 Okras to give it the required Gumbo thickness. I also recommend catching your Shrimp live or if you are from Cajun Country, substitute with Crawdads. Gumbo Ingredients Saute kielbasa smoked sausage Okra Bay Leaves Corn on the Cob Onion Garlic Carrots Rice Saute Shrimp Clams Celery Bell Peppers Tony Chachere's Gumbo Mix or Louisiana Cajun Gumbo Mix Swanson Chicken Organic Broth or Seafood Stock Marie Sharps Hot Sauce Grapefruit pulp Habanero Pepper Sauce
I start by heating olive oil and adding some sea salt and garlic to shock the olive oil for good luck.
Next I chop up the holy trinity of Cajun Cooking (Celery, Peppers and Onions) and add it to the pot to heat until tender.
Then I start to saute the shrimp, clams, sausage and crab legs as well as add some white wine and old bay seasoning to provide some extra flavor.
Then I add all the ingredients and Cajun seasoning to the pot including the Okra to thicken the gumbo.
Next saute the Shrimp and smoked Kielbasa on the side and then when ready add to the pot. After all the ingredients have been added I will add in my Seafood or Chicken Stock with my Gumbo Mix and gently stir. Once it looks like it is done I give it a quick taste test to see if it needs more seasoning or if it is ready to go.
The beauty of Gumbo is you can mix in whatever you want, usually the more ingredients you add the better the Gumbo. When I have the opportunity I like to add Blue Crab, Stone Crabs, Clams, Oysters and Lobster to give it even more flavor. Good cooks always find innovative ways to improve their recipes so don't be afraid to add new ingredients to your Gumbo. I hope this has been helpful and will lead to lots of awesome Gumbo in the future.
The Kalalau Trail is the hikers ultimate hike, located along the Na Pali Coastline on the North Shore of Kauai. The trail traverses lush valleys, rugged towering cliffs, picturesque waterfalls and plenty of Guava and Mango to quench your thirst on while hiking.
Hiking the Kalalau Trail is the closest one can get to hiking through Jurassic Park minus the dinosaurs. The hike is approximately 11 miles stretching from Ke'e Beach to Kalalau Beach. The first section stretches 2 miles to Hanakapi'ai beach. After reaching the beach you can take a much more strenuous 2 mile trail that leads back to the refreshing Hanakapi'ia waterfall or continue the rest of the way to the Kalalau Valley. If you decide to continue to Kalalau Valley you will need a permit so make sure to purchase one in advance before you arrive. The following link provides a brochure with lots of important information about the Kalalau and how to obtain a permit.
I swear I could smell the Aroma of fresh coffee in the air while hiking the trail.
Hiking the Kalalau Trail
Guava Trees along the trail
Guava
You can find fresh Guava along the way to quench your thirst
Hanakapi'ai Waterfall 4 mile hike
Enjoying 300 foot waterfall after long hike
It felt so refreshing to swim under a 300 foot waterfall after the 2 mile strenuous hike from Hanakapi'ai beach back up into the valley to the Hanakapi'ai waterfall.
Chillin next to the Waterfall
Crossing the river to Hanakapi'ai Beach
Be cautious crossing this river sometimes it gets flooded and there is no safe way to cross.
Finally made it to Hanakapi'ai beach
Hanakapi'ai beach
Hiking back to KE'E Beach
Fresh Coconuts waiting at the end of the long hike
Nothing beats a refreshing coconut after 8 miles of hiking the Kalalau.
Hiking the Kalalau is more difficult than most the trails I have hiked in Hawaii but well worth an amazing journey into paradise. The Na Pali Coast on North Shore of Kauai is the jewel of Hawaii and Kauai is the oldest and most lush of the Hawaiian islands. Hopefully I will return one day to complete the full hike to the Kalalau valley.
I wasn't really sure what to expect taking my first trip overseas to visit Lima Peru. Mainly when it comes to Peru, Machu Picchu and Llamas tend to be what stands out in my mind so I felt this would be a great opportunity to visit, explore and to learn as much as possible about the city.
Arriving in Lima from South Carolina was like arriving on another planet. The whole place was buzzing with heaps of energy and there really are no words to describe the scene arriving at the airport. Leaving the airport was even crazier and the drive through Lima felt like I was in a demolition derby. It took a little time to get used to the intensity of honking horns, people yelling and the insane traffic but after drinking my first Peruvian beer, I was able to sit back, relax and enjoy the ride through the streets of Peru.
I found everything in Lima to be extremely interesting, whether it was amazing cuisine, the people, the crazy traffic or the many must see tourist attractions we visited. Hopefully I can give a small taste of what a remarkable City Lima is and to show there is so much more to Peru than just seeing Cusco and Machu Picchu.
Larcomar Shopping Complex
The first place we visited was the Larcomar Shopping Complex located in the Miraflores District. This engineering marvel is a multilevel modern entertainment shopping complex built into the side of a cliff overlooking the sea. The Larcomar Complex includes a movie theater, pool hall, bowling alley, and there are numerous restaurants to enjoy while admiring the breathtaking views.
Peruvian Charcoal Chicken
While at the Larcomar Shopping Complex you must try Peruvian Charcoal Rotisserie Chicken at Pardo's. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, paprika, oregano, olive oil and various other spices from all over Peru. Then it is placed inside of a giant charcoal rotisserie oven to slowly cook and marinate, allowing the flavor and juices to sink into the meat.
Enjoying the Awesome Peruvian Chicken
Enjoying our night out eating some Peruvian Charcoal Chicken, Fried Yuka and drinking Inca Cola (Taste like Bubblegum) at Pardo's Chicken located in Larcomar Entertainment Complex in Miraflores.
Homemade Civechi
Peru is situated on the Pacific Ocean and is well known all over the world for it's amazing seafood cuisine. The Civechi is the most popular seafood dish that is made many different ways using a variety of seafood including, shrimp, octopus, clams and fish. The origin of Civechi may be disputed, although it is very probable that the dish originated in Peru. To make a Civechi you take a fresh raw fish and marinate it with a mix of hot peppers, and lime juice thus altering the fish from a translucent state to a pinkish white state. The purpose of this marinade is to not only add flavor but to sterilize the fish so that it is safe to eat. You must not leave Lima without trying this mouth watering dish.
Tiger Milk
The Tiger Milk is the citrus based Peruvian marinade made from the runoff of the Ceviche. This runoff contains the lime juices, onions, chili peppers and parts of the fish. The Tiger Milk is brought out in a nice little decorative cup with lime and sometimes shrimp garnishes. I suggest chasing this drink with a nice cold Cusquena to help regulate the tangy mouth watering burn you will experience while drinking this crazy concoction thus activating taste buds and senses you never knew existed. Make sure not to forget to have a cold Cusquena on standby to chase the Tiger Milk.
Anticuchos
Anticuchos aka street meet is a very popular food that originated in Peru dating back to Inca Empire. Usually they are made with Beef Hearts but can also be made with Steak or Chicken. These strongly flavored skewers are seasoned with garlic, cumin, vinegar and red chili peppers and taste amazing. I recommend eating the Anticuchos with a nice cold Cusquena or an Inca Cola.
Pisco Sour
Pisco Sour is the national drink of Peru and is made from a variety of South American Grapes. Apparently this drink is so amazing that Peru and Chile are practically at war over which country created the cocktail. As an American I have to lay my claim to this awesome drink since according to Wikipedia the cocktail was invented by an American Bar Tender back in 1903 working in Peru.
Chica Chillin in MiraFlores
Tourist will enjoy visiting Miraflores which is a very safe upscale touristy district in Lima known for its amazing walkways, gardens and views along the coast.
El Beso Statue Miraflores
If you are feeling brave for a small price you can paraglide from the cliffs of Miraflores. Unfortunate for me there was not enough wind the day I tried to go. Hopefully next time I am in Peru I will have a chance to complete my Paragliding mission. If this is not your thing then there are many hotels and shopping areas including the Larcomar Shopping Complex to enjoy.
Punta Hermosa
If you are a surfer or bodyboarder you have to visit Punta Hermosa, located just south of Lima(1 hour drive by car). Punta Hermosa is a small beach town, extremely popular on weekends during the summer months(December-May). The swells here are among the most consistent in the world and the wind is typically offshore. You will find every type of wave here from reef breaks, point breaks, to long lefts and powerful hollow beach breaks to satisfy all your surfing desires. Strolling around the surf town you can enjoy excellent meals while taking in Peru's world class surfing scene.
Paddling out at Punta Rocas
The Punta Hermosa district contains many consistent spots all in a short distance from one another. The waves at Punta Hermos are typically large swells and winds are generally offshore.
First Wave at Punta Rocas
Punta Rocas is located about 1 mile from the Surf Hostel is one of the most consistent breaks and is the location for the international surfing championships and many other contests over the past years.
Punta Hermosa
The beaches at Punta Hermosa contain lots of amenities including baby pools, showers, food, ice cream, drinks and music. I really enjoyed the beaches just south of Lima, it was a nice break from the gloomy melancholy grey skies that tend to shroud the City of Lima.
Ice Creme
Tourist will notice these brightly colored Peruvians selling delicious fruity ice cream bars on the side of the road (Another must try).
JFK Park
Another must see is to visit the JFK park located in Miraflores named after President Kennedy. We enjoyed walking around the park and checking out the gardens.
The Bohemian Barranco District
The Barranco District is a nice little seaside resort town developed back in the 19th century overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This used to be a popular location for artists, writers, sculptors and poets. We really enjoyed walking along the bohemian streets and watching the sunset over the town.
Bridge of Sighs
This bridge of Sighs aka Puente de los Suspiros is well known for a couples first date to bring them good luck. Legend has it if you walk across the bridge holding the hand of your loved one while holding your breath, you will have a successful love life.
Bridge of Sighs
This bohemian walkway is bordered on both sides by extremely colorful buildings, houses, restaurants and churches. One popular legend of the bridge goes that a wealthy man’s daughter living in one of these colorful houses fell in love with a lowly street sweeper. Her father forbade the union, and she lived out her days as a spinster, waiting at her window for a glimpse of her beloved. Those who walked across the bridge could hear her plaintive sighs. Barranco is a very romantic place to walk around and enjoy with your love one.
Fisherman's Church
The fisherman's church is a very colorful structure. The legend has it the church received its name from the fisherman that would pray for successful catch before going fishing.
Wild Dog
Barranco is a great place to walk around to enjoy the many restaurants, take pictures and purchase local arts and handcrafts.
Downtown Square Lima
We really enjoyed walking around the Plaza Mayor observing the many intricate balconies, vibrant colors and magnificent terraces. The Plaza Mayor is located in the historical center in the downtown Lima square. During the day you can visit the Presidential Palace to witness the changing of the guard. The Spanish colonial style of the surrounding buildings are very impressive and demonstrate the historical importance of the Spanish Monarchy.
Despite its wealthy areas there is still considerable poverty clearly seen through Lima and in the Shantytowns around the city. I recommend to anyone visiting Lima for the first time to keep their guard up and be observant while walking through the city.
Lima Beach
The beaches in Lima are actually rocky instead of sandy and the coastline is extremely rugged.
La Herradura
We really enjoyed the drive down the rugged coastline from Miraflores to La Herradura. There are many places to stop along the way to admire Peru's unique rugged coastline and eat fresh Civechi.
La Herradura
La Herradura is arguably the best left point break in Lima. The wave tends to be a steep-faced wave breaking on the cliffs of the south end wall. You will find top Civechi restaurants lining the beaches to satisfy your hunger after a hard day of surfing.
Desert Time
Juane
Juane is a typical jungle food that is made from rice, egg, spices and chicken wrapped in a banana leaf. This typical dish is prepared for festival occasion such as the San Jan festival.
Amazon Fish
Lucy's mom brought us fresh fish from the Amazon Jungles of Iquitos. I love the way she prepares the fish and adds the salsa on top of the fish to provide that extra flavor.
More Civechi
More Civechi
Wild Bore from the Jungle of Iquitos
First time trying Wild Bore and have to say it is awesome.
Magic Water Circuit
The Magic Water Circuit is a great place to take the family to enjoy the many water fountains and light shows, which is reported to be one of the largest outdoor light shows in the world.
Huaca Pucllana Ruins
When it comes to Peru and ruins most people think of the Inca Ruins at Machu Picchu and don't realize that the city of Lima has many well preserved ruins mixed within the city streets offering a glimpse into Peru's rich history. The picture above are the Huaca Pucllana ruins, located in Miraflores, a suburb of Lima. The ruins at this site were originally constructed by the Lima culture. The Lima culture was pre-inca sophisticated culture that flourished from roughly the years 100 AD to 650 AD.
Larcomar Complex at Night
View from Larcomar Complex
Cuscquena Beer
Cusquena is most important must try for all tourists visiting Peru. This has to be my favorite beer.
Chased in by a Bloody Injured Sea Lion
While surfing I noticed a creature popping its head out that look like some sort of sea monster until I realized it was an injured Sea Lion. It look like its head was bashed in and was bloody. I am not sure what happened to the poor guy but I guess it was struggling to get out of the heavy surf current.
Youtube Video: Pro Peruvian Bodyboarder César Bauer:
My GoPro Video: Sites and Sounds of Lima Peru
My GoPro Photos:
GoPro Pic of Punta Rocas Surf Break
Punta Rocas Break located in Punta Hermosa
GoPro Shot of the Love Park in Miraflores
GoPro Video of Peru
Thanks to Lucy's family for all their hospitality and showing us Peru. I truly enjoyed my first trip overseas and was a great experience to see such a remarkable country
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