Hilo, Hawaii
May 2007


The Tourist Thing


Hosted by Tony V


Next: Big Island Film Festival

 

We began the day by heading in to Hilo, approx. 30 minutes from my place.

We arrived at Hilo Hattie, probably the most famous store for buying keepsakes from Hawaii, late in the morning. The place was packed with tourists that are dropped off here by the tour buses that circle the island.

We eagerly awaited our turn to get lei'd by this attractive young door greeter.

 

As I already mentioned this place was packed with easily 100 people. Whenever a clerk makes a sale a bell rings and they say, "Allooooohaaaaaaa."

Hans was thrilled that we got to see this free hula show above and actually got up on stage and did a little hula with the wahine in the yellow grass skirt.

 

No shortage of aloha at Hilo Hattie. These kane (male) dancers were performing the traditional hula kahiko in Hans honor.

We didn't buy anything but had a great time window shopping for aloha shirts and souvenirs.

 

The Hilo Farmer's Market is located in downtown Hilo and operates primarily on Wednesday and Saturday, which is most popular.

 

Tropical flowers were abundant! Hilo and Puna receive lots of rain which makes growing just about anything a snap. Rain, sunshine & volcanic soil!

Hans couldn't resist the opportunity to pose with these beautiful anthuriums & orchids.

 

Banannnannas. Yep...there are no shortage of these tasty fruits in Hawaii. Since banana plants grow like weeds it seems silly to pay for them!

 

The farmer's market also features many other types of vendors. From flowers to fruit, souvenirs to palm readings.

Hans refused to let go of his handful of flowers so we weren't able to get a reading.

 

Hilo is well known for it's massive Banyan Trees. The one in the background is near Rainbow Falls in Hilo.

This waterfall is the easiest access on the island. Just park and walk over to the overlook. This is another favorite location for tour bus stops.

 

We lingered here at Rainbow Falls for many hours. I explained to Hans & Freddy that we hadn't had much rain lately and the falls are generally more beautiful and powerful.

(Photos: Tony V./ Dialogue: Tony V.)

Next: Big Island Film Festival

 

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