First Annual Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival at the Royal Kona Resort.

First Annual Don the Beachcomber Mai Tai Festival.

WHERE: Royal Kona Resort.

Festival includes: Farmer’s Market, food from the Big Island’s finest restaurants, music and crafts, and seminar from world renowned BEACHBUM BERRY on the History of the Mai Tai.  

Additionally, bartenders from all over the globe will compete for title of Best Mai Tai and the $10,000 cash prize! The award winning Hawaiian super-group HAPA will perform that evening.  

Enter your favorite Mai Tai recipe, using Bacardi Rum, and compete to win top honors and the GIANT Cash Prize.  A panel of judges will score the recipes based on various factors that will include flavor and presentation.  24 Finalists will be chosen out of all of the registrations who will be required to travel to the Royal Kona Resort for the final ‘Mix Off’ competition.  All recipes must use Bacardi Rum.  The winning ‘Mixologist’ and their recipe will also be featured in printed material after the competition.

There will be a small fee to register your Mai Tai Recipe and to participate in the competition. Please submit your contact information and we will contact you with a Registration form.

Special hotel room rates are available for competitors as well as guests and non competitors...
package information will soon be available…mahalo!

Here's the link for registration:

http://www.hawaiihotels.com/Main/Index.cfm?ID=381&Ref=TA&Val=0

http://www.hapa.com/

[Don the Beachcomber] [mai tai] [tiki events] [tiki travel] [tiki drinks] [tiki recipes] [contests]

Visit The Forbidden Island Tiki Lounge and R

source: Forbidden Island

Location
1304 Lincoln Ave.
Alameda, CA 94501
Map & Directions

PHONE

(510) 749-0332
Hours
Tue-Thu 5pm-12am
Fri-Sat 5pm-2am
Sun 3pm-10pm
Closed Mondays

Located in the heart of Alameda’s historic Bay Station Shopping District, Forbidden Island features a wide array of classic and contemporary gourmet cocktails, served in an exotic & fun tropical atmosphere.

Forbidden Island is a classic tiki bar interior evoking the legendary tiki lounges of the 1950s and ’60s, with bamboo huts, waterfalls, and much more.

We serve vintage tropical drinks and modern cocktails made right: perfectly balanced, with fresh-squeezed, seasonal juices and premium ingredients.
Enjoy our lush, outdoor island patio.

Forbidden Island has been receiving rave reviews on its ambience, service — and of course its world-class cocktails — from all four corners of the bay, and points further flung as well.  

“If you imagine a tiki bar in your dreams, you’ve seen Forbidden Island.” -Don Spiro, Bachelor Pad Magazine #8 

Forbidden Island is the brainchild of owners Michael Thanos, Emmanuel Thanos, and Martin Cate, who are dedicated to bringing back the classic look & feel of an authentic 1960s tiki lounge, complete with bamboo huts, waterfalls, and more.

“We’re proud to be opening Alameda’s first tiki lounge - a place for people from Alameda and around the Bay Area to meet, have fun, and enjoy top-notch cocktails in an exciting environment,” says Michael Thanos. Brothers Michael & Emmanuel Thanos are long time tiki-enthusiasts and part-owners of the hugely successful Conga Lounge in Oakland, now celebrating its third year.

Martin Cate is an organizer of the San Francisco Bay Area Tiki Weekend, an annual four day celebration of all things tiki that each year brings hundreds of people from around the world to the Bay Area. He is also a former Trader Vic’s bartender and member of the United States Bartenders Guild. “We want to remind people of how good tropical drinks can be - with fresh-squeezed juices and premium spirits, showcasing seasonal ingredients and modern mixology,” says Cate.

Frequently Asked Questions!

Do you have food?

Yes! We have a small menu of tasty fried appetizers and snacks- things like spring rolls, Crab Rangoon, and our famous sweet potato fries. Perfect for soaking up all that rum and fruit juice!

Can I bring the kids?

No! We are strictly 21 and over only. We are licensed as a bar only, not a restaurant. We don’t have a kitchen, just a fryer. Please note that the parking and patio are also 21 and over only, and this includes private events. And yes, babies count as well, even if they (probably) won’t order a Mai Tai.

Can I at least bring my dog?

Dogs are welcome on our patio, but not inside the bar (except service dogs)- please bring them through the gate on the side. Please note that we currently operate a one-strike dog policy: the first dog to fight with another dog or attack a patron will cause dogs to be permanently banned from Forbidden Island. Please make sure your dog is sociable and “plays well with others”.

Why does the patio close so early?

The patio out back closes at 9:00pm each night as we are surrounded by residential property on all sides. We close it early out of respect for our neighbors and we ask that our patrons please smoke out front after 9:00pm. In addition, when going to you car or leaving for the night, we kindly ask that you leave quietly out of courtesy to the rest of the neighborhood. Also: Please do not block any of our neighbors driveways when parking! Mahalo!

And why can’t I get any service out here?

One more thing about the patio: Because of the terms of our liquor license, we can’t have servers on the patio to take drink orders or deliver drinks or food. We really wish we could, but I’m afraid we can’t. Head back to bar for your orders, and we’ll drop the food and drinks on the end of the bar- remember to check back in before the chow gets chilly!

Why do I have to wait outside?

On weekends, we will usually start a line to get in. This is to comply with fire code regulations, but also to make sure that the bar stays comfortable and not too crowded inside. We want you to enjoy your experience, be able to get to the bar for a drink, and let our servers get through to the tables as well!

Where’s the Grey Goose?

We take pride in featuring locally made wines, beers, and spirits. That’s why we’re proud to offer Alameda’s own Hangar One vodka as our sole premium vodka. Fortunately, it’s outstanding vodka. We also offer Alameda’s own Rosenblum Cellars as our only wine, and feature select microbrews from around the Bay Area. In addition, look for other great Bay Area brands, such as 209, Sarticious, and Junipero gin, Charbay Rum, St. George spirits, Qi Liqueurs, and more.

Do you really squeeze your own juice?

You bet we do. We’re the only tiki bar in America that juices its own lemon, lime, orange, and grapefruit juice fresh in-house every day. There’s just no substitute for the flavor of fresh juice. You’ll never find sour mix, Rose’s, juice from a gun, or frozen concentrates at Forbidden Island. We also make our own syrups and grenadine with pure cane sugar- never corn syrup. Our cranberry juice is naturally sweetened pure cranberry juice (not cocktail) from Oakland’s own Voila Juice. And yes, even the maraschino cherries are naturally colored and flavored and contain no sulfites. We take this pretty seriously.

What’s with the dollars on the ceiling?

It started as a local tradition soon after we opened, and has been going strong ever since. In WWII, sailors shipping out to the Pacific would leave a dollar at their local bar to get a drink when they got back. Don’t forget to leave a message on them! Please note that they are not tips, and you should leave your tips on the bar for our hard working staff!!

How do I book a private party?

Forbidden Island is available for private parties outside of regular business hours. This means Tues-Saturday 2-5pm, Sunday 12-3pm, or anytime on Mondays. You may bring a caterer or outside food, but note that we have no kitchen or prep area. We have great ideas for caterers that we’ve worked with in the past who can help make your event perfect. You may bring your own music, and we can accommodate small bands inside only. Fees are based on the size of your party- email us for more information! Forbidden Island is a venue your guests will never forget!

OUR HOUSE SPECIALTIES

Neptune’s Garden

Before it was Neptune Beach, it was known as Neptune Gardens- Alameda’s legendary playground by the sea. Celebrate Alameda’s rich history with this tropical rum delight that sparkles blue like the waves of the Pacific.

China Clipper

On November 22, 1935, the world’s first transpacific commercial flight left from right here in Alameda bound for the Far East. Taste the enchanting flavors of our house made five-spice syrup, skillfully blended with fine rum and fresh lemon juice.

Forbidden Island

Our signature drink is a hearty grog, filled with lime, pineapple, and our secret mixture of rare spices and liqueurs. The tiki mug is yours to keep.

Fugu for Two

Named for the deadly pufferfish, ours is decidedly more friendly, and served to you in a custom Munktiki Fugu mug.

TROPICAL COCKTAILS

Painkiller

From the Soggy Dollar Bar on the tiny island of Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands comes this world-famous creamy blend of pineapple, orange and coconut with a hint of spice. Made the authentic way with Pusser’s Navy Rum!

Leilani Volcano

A popular favorite from the Polynesian Village Resort at Walt Disney World, this sweet treat is a perfect blend of pineapple, guava, and coconut.

Chamborlada

A classic piña colada with a float of luxurious black raspberry Chambord.

Suffering Bastard

A refreshing concoction from The Shepheard’s Hotel in Cairo, featuring lime and ginger ale fortified with bourbon and gin.

Banana Mamacow

Somewhere between the banana cow and the banana mama lies…The Banana Mamacow. A creamy blend of fresh bananas, coconut, cream, and silver rum.

Fog Cutter

The legendary libation from Trader Vic himself. A potent swirl of brandy, gin, sherry, and rum with a hint of almond makes it hard to find your way off the island.

Hurricane

The original recipe from Pat O’Brien’s in The Big Easy. Lemon juice, passion fruit, and dark rum form a robust elixir.

Boo Loo

A smooth blend of pineapple and honey, but beware its quiet strength.

Coronado Luau Special

From the Hotel Del Coronado’s long lost Luau Room in San Diego, this inviting mixture of lemon, lime, orange and select rums tantalizes with a hint of Grand Marnier.

Headhunter

This formidable creation mixes peach & papaya nectars with a deadly assortment of fine rums.

Classic Mai Tai

The most famous tropical drink in the world, and it was invented only 8.5 miles away at the old Trader Vic’s in Oakland. This is the original formula, made as it was the first time in 1944 with aged Appleton Estate rum from Jamaica. Lime juice, orange curaçao, orgeat, rum, and nothing else- you’ll see why it’s still popular today.

Island Mai Tai

For those who prefer a more Hawaiian-Style Mai Tai, the addition of pineapple juice and a dark rum float will take you to a warm night in the islands.

Missionary’s Downfall

By the legendary Don the Beachcomber, this light and refreshing cocktail is a frothy mix of fresh mint, lime, pineapple, and a dash of peach. Give in to temptation!

Sidewinder’s Fang

The house special at the gone but not forgotten Lanai restaurant in San Mateo. Enjoy this celebrated cocktail of lime, orange, and passion fruit with fine dark rums.

Royal Hawaiian

A fragrant libation from the 1940s featuring gin and pineapple juice, served up.

Don’s Caribbean Punch

A recently unearthed gem from 1937, featuring premium rums & exotic spices with lashings of sarsaparilla.

Coconut Kallaloo

Coconut, lime, and amber rum whipped to perfection.

Zombie (Don The Beachcomber)

Don The Beachcomber’s most famous creation, this lethal combination of rums and juices is one of a kind.

Macadamia Nut Chi Chi

Vodka, pineapple, coconut, and macadamia nut liqueur make for a sweet delicacy!

Monkeypod

Flavors of tamarind, coconut, and lime join together for a unique flavor experience in this original cocktail from the Monkeyman.

The Combover

Passion fruit and guava nectars are highlighted in this “stylish” cocktail from tiki mixologist Ran Mosessco.

Nui Nui

One of Don the Beachcomber’s greatest, featuring our housemade allspice liqueur and cinnamon syrup, perfectly balanced with fresh citrus- a tribute to the master.

THE GROG SHOP

Grog was invented in 1740 by Admiral Edward “Old Grogram” Vernon of the British Royal Navy when he ordered that the sailors’ daily ration of rum be mixed with water, because “…the pernicious custom of the seaman drinking their allowance of rum, and often at once, is attended with many fatal effects to their morals as well as their health … besides the ill consequences of stupefying their rational qualities …” He even went so far as to suggest that the sailors mix it with lime and sugar, thus perhaps creating the world’s first tropical drink. Over the years, grog has come to refer to a drink with a robust, spicy flavor, and an ample helping of rum.

Captain’s Grog

Take command with a tankard of this rich brew, full of lime, grapefruit, vigorous spices, and three kinds of rum.

Navy Grog

Ahoy! Get your sea legs with this classic from Don The Beachcomber.

Pirate Grog

Arrrrr! There’s buried treasure at the bottom of this full-flavored grog, featuring spiced rum.

BOWLS

Scorpion Bowl (for four)

All hands on deck for this famous mix of juices, rum, brandy and sparkling wine.

Mystery Bowl (for four)

Put yourself at the mercy of our expert mixologists, and let them create a unique taste experience that you’ll never forget.

SUMMER COCKTAIL SPECIALS!

Savage Delight
(Lara)
Spicy yet sweet and tangy too.  This cocktail features Hanger 1’s special batch Chipotle Vodka, maple syrup and fresh lime juice.

The Count of RONtecristo
(Susan)
Our staff called on one of our greatest rum muses, Kill Devil member Ron Roumas, to help inspire this cocktail.  A variation of an Old Cuban this cocktail features Montecristo 12 year and Montecristo Spiced rum, a house made pomegranate molasses syrup, and champagne.

Rising Lotus
(Amanda)
A treat for your taste buds!  This vodka special is creamy and tart and features Chai Tea as you’ve never tasted it before.

Manbrolada
(Melissa)
A subtle variation on one of our most popular cocktail creations.  The rich flavors of Cruzan Blackstrap rum are subbed for Chambord in our more “manly” version of the Chamborlada.

Raza Cabana
(Michael)
Fresh muddled raspberries highlight this refreshing cocktail that features premium cachaca, fresh cranberry juice, cherry brandy and orange curacao.

ALSO INTRODUCING THESE TASTY NEW FOOD ITEMS:

Guacamole and chips $5

Boneless chicken wings
(Regular or spicy) $6

Parmesan crusted artichoke balls $7

Zucchini sticks $5Cheers!

[forbidden island] [tiki lounge] [tiki bar] [tiki travel]

Tiki Luau Nights at the Egyptian Theatre. Tiki movies and Luau.

Enchanted Tiki Luau Blow-Out

Tiki Luau Nights at the Egyptian Theatre.

An Egyptian Theatre exclusive!

If you are going to be in California at the end of july

near the LA area your should check this out.

Tiki movies, a California luau and a weekend

of tiki fun!  Check it out if you can.

Tiki feature films & clips, vendors, food and music bring the exotic allure of tropical paradises to Hollywood! Films include old-school island musical romancePAGAN LOVE SONG (starring Esther Williams and Howard Keel), hot-blooded Hawaiian soap operaDIAMOND HEAD (with Charlton Heston) and the volcano-singed adventure THE DEVIL AT 4 O'CLOCK(starring Spencer Tracy and Frank Sinatra) -- all of them in sumptuously saturated color. Join us in the Egyptian's Courtyard for a Royal Southern California-style Luau with exotic musical entertainment from King Kukulele and The Friki Tikis and the Polynesian Paradise Dancers, plus vendors and other surprises and special guests on July 25 from 1:00 PM until well after the sun kisses the ocean and disappears beneath the gently lapping surf.

SOURCE: egyptiantheatre.com

Tiki Travel and Tropical Destinations: About the Hawaiian Islands

Tiki Travel and Tropical Destinations a Free Article. For fans of Tiki and tropical culture.

About the Hawaiian Islands

Author: Don Guy
The Hawaiian Islands are one of the most sought-after travel & vacation destinations in the world. Hawaii has 6 major islands consisting of Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and the largest island of them all, Hawaii... more commonly called the Big Island. The big Island of Hawaii is about the size of Connecticut and is also the youngest of the islands, approximately 800,000 years old.



Planning a Hawaii Vacation



When planning a Hawaii vacation, more and more travelers are choosing to stay in a privately-owned vacation rental home for both comfort and price effectiveness. However, whether you choose an ocean view hotel, oceanfront vacation home, or a cozy villa tucked away in the countryside, you'll find your Hawaii vacation totally refreshing with a myriad of opportunities for adventure, sightseeing, discovery and relaxing. You will also find that each of the Hawaiian Islands has a unique personality. Three of Hawaii's beaches made the top 10 list of TripAdvisor in the U.S.: Oahu (#3) Kailua Beach Park for powder white sand beach. kauai (#6) Tunnels Beach for remarkable snorkeling and outstanding views. Oahu (#10) Waimea Bay Beach Park for its calm, clear water during the summer. With that said, let these award-winning locations be a guide when planning your Hawaii vacation.



Hawaiian History



To fully appreciate Hawaii and its heritage, travelers are encouraged to learn a little about Hawaii's history prior to (or during) their Hawaii vacation.



In 1778, Captain James Cook landed on the island called Kauai at Waimea Bay. He named the archipelago the "Sandwich Islands" in honor of the Earl of Sandwich. Captain Cook was the man responsible for opening the doors to the west. Unfortunately, he was killed just one year later on the Big Island of Hawaii in kealakekua Bay.



The state of Hawaii was admitted to the Union on August 21, 1959, making Hawaii the 50th state of the United States of America. This group of islands was formed from past and current volcanic activity. Current volcanic activity can be found on the Big Island of Hawaii, while all volcanic activity on all the other Hawaiian Islands has been dormant for thousands of years.



At about 1,860 miles (3,000 km) from the nearest continent, the Hawaiian Island archipelago is the most isolated grouping of islands on the planet. The entire Hawaiian archipelago chain is 1,500 miles long with the oldest of the Hawaiian Islands disappearing beneath the ocean's surface due to millions of years of erosion.



Hawaii Vacation Activities



The Hawaiian Islands are a scenic paradise with a rich colorful history and a vast variety of activities and sightseeing for travelers & vacationers. As many already know, Hawaii is the birthplace of surfing and the infamous Hula dance. Vacationers can take a helicopter ride over steep cliffs and canyons, visit Pearl Harbor to view the USS Missouri and Arizona Memorial, take surfing lessons, outrigger or scuba lessons, or simply bask in the warm sun on the infamous Waikiki Beach. Hawaii abounds with water sports, golf, museums, art galleries, shopping, a zoo, aquarium and downtown nightlife. One hot spot in particular for vacationers is the active volcano K+lauea on the big Island of Hawaii, which offers a memorable helicopter adventure your family never forget.



Weather in The Hawaiian Islands



The warmer, dryer months in Hawaii are April through October, during which Hawaii has temperature ranges of 75-88 degrees Fahrenheit. A Hawaii vacation during the winter months is a pleasant 68-80 degrees. Some islands, like Maui, are relatively dry, while Kauai is the wettest island of them all. Year-round trade winds make for an entire year of great vacation months.

About the Author: Don Guy is a travel writer and co-founder of http://www.MrVacation.com, a vacation rental directory offering vacation rentals and vacation homes for sale. When planning a Hawaii vacation, consider searching MrVacation.com for the perfect Hawaii vacation rental home, condo, or villa your entire family will enjoy.  Article Source: ArticlesBase.com - About the Hawaiian Islands

Article Tags: Travel, Vacation, Hawaii, Vacation Rentals, Hawaii Vacation Homes, Vacation Homes, Hawaii Vacation, Hawaiian Vacation, Hawaiian Islands, Hawaii Vacation Rentals.

[Tiki Travel] [tiki hut] [hawaii travel]

10 Great Tourist Destinations You Can Go to in the Bahamas. Tiki Travel.

OVERVIEW: The Bahamas is well known all around the world as one of the greatest travel destinations, and one of the main reasons is because of its pristine beaches and natural wonders. At the Bahamas, you can spend your vacation at the beach sipping tropical drinks or you could dive and discover the marine life that abounds near its shores. Whatever the reason, the Bahamas is sure to offer travelers everywhere a well deserved time for rest and relaxation, and here are 10 places you could go to when visiting this island paradise.

10 Great Tourist Destinations You Can Go to in the Bahamas
By Jonathan Williams

The Bahamas is well known all around the world as one of the greatest travel destinations, and one of the main reasons is because of its pristine beaches and natural wonders. At the Bahamas, you can spend your vacation at the beach sipping tropical drinks or you could dive and discover the marine life that abounds near its shores. Whatever the reason, the Bahamas is sure to offer travelers everywhere a well deserved time for rest and relaxation, and here are 10 places you could go to when visiting this island paradise.

1.) Beaches in Bahamas

These are the two most popular beaches in the Bahamas. More than two miles long, Cabbage beach is dotted with tropical trees such as coconut, casuarinas and sea grape. Paradise beach near Atlantis resort is also a great beach destination for tourists, especially for those staying at the hotel. Other popular beaches here are the Gold Rock Beach, Xanadu Beach and Lucaya Beach.

2.) Lucayan National Park

In this park, tourists can enjoy a myriad of activities. The activities include spelunking or cave exploration where you will see the interesting rock formations in the caves and kayaking down a mangrove lined creek. Swimming in the beaches lined with coral sands is, of course, the most popular.

3.) Andros Island

In this island, you can go snorkeling and diving to see the abundant and diverse marine life in its shores. In fact, the island boasts of one of the largest barrier reefs in the world. In this reef, you will see elkhorn corals and other coral formations stretching out more than 100 miles.

4.) Blue Lagoon Island

The Blue Lagoon Island located in Nassau showcases dolphins that you can swim with, play with or ride. For the less courageous, there are docks where you can relax while watching these wonderful animals. You also get to enjoy the beautiful scenery this offers.

5.) Paradise island Outdoor Aquarium

This popular tourist destination has 11 exhibit lagoons where tourists can see 200 species of different marine animals. The Acrylic tunnels that undermine the sea creatures' habitat enable tourists to see piranhas, lobsters, jellyfish, green eels, sharks, giant groupers. You can see many other creatures as well in their natural habitats.

6.) Pirates of Nassau

Prepare to be enthralled and fascinated by the life of pirates in this venue located at the heart of downtown Nassau. Here, tourists are taken into an educational program that educates people about the life of pirates through interactive programs. This is a great way to get to know Bahamas' culture more.

7.) Bahamas Historical Society Museum

This historical museum showcases exhibits that show the island's history from the time of Columbus to the present. Here, you will see scores of Lucayan-Taino-Arawak artifacts. The artifacts here give tourists a glimpse of the lives of the people in the distant past.

8.) The Pompey Museum of Slavery and Emancipation

This museum located in Vendue house was once the place where slave auctions and sales of goods from shipwrecks were held. Today, the place serves to educate people on the rich history and culture of the Bahamas. Artistic works of famous Bahamian artist Amos Ferguson is also showcased in this museum.

9.) Crystal Cay

This place is an aquarium and a zoo spanning the whole of New Providence Island. Here, you can view the fascinating animals either by going up the 100 feet high observation towers or go down a staircase for a view of the corals, tropical fishes, sponges and other marine life. You can reach this island through Nassau docks or through Arawak.

10.) Fort Charlotte

Fort Charlotte is a military site located in West Bay Street and Marcus Bethel Way in Nassau. It was built sometime in the late 18th century and was named after George the Third's wife. Here, you can take a scroll and see the waterless moat, dungeons, drawbridge and ramparts.

Jonathan Williams is the travel writer for Destination Guide TV - the place to share travel videos Visit http://www.destinationguide.tv/bahamas to view or share Bahamas travel videos  Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jonathan_Williams

http://EzineArticles.com/?10-Great-Tourist-Destinations-You-Can-Go-to-in-the-Bahamas&id=961750