O'ahu, the island now my home, is perimetered with tassel-haired surfers and timeless tourists, but from the pineapple scented suntan lotion to the indoor galleries, the decorative leis to the store front men in suits, the large dining portions to the fitness fixation, and from the tropical downpours to the fluorescent rainbows, it is the most fantastic and irresistible mix - the perfectly balanced lifestyle.
The glass skyscrapers reflect the sunset; the surfboards silhouette against the horizontal skyline; the businessmen are in flower shirts and the businesswomen formal as can be but with a fresh flower tucked behind their ear; the street crowds range from performer to holiday-maker to care-free local to Gucci capitalist; the food from seafood to fast food to health bar; and the vibe and venues from formal to casual to hippy. But there is one consistency - the 'Ohana' philosophy - treating everyone as family. Hence, the melting pot doesn't bubble over.
Crazy, hectic and expensive as living in Waikiki might be, it is an inspirational and magical experience I am so lucky to be living.
Over the next few months I will share with you my island life. I will blog on attractions, restaurants, beaches, hikes and various other spectacles. I will also include plenty photographs in the hope that for those who cannot visit you may feel, enjoy, taste and possess little pieces of paradise.
