Hailed as one of the most anticipated restaurant openings of 2022, I was so excited to find out that Chez Noir Carmel would open not long before. Better yet, I was able to secure a reservation on our first night in Carmel. Unfortunately, my experience with them was a complete letdown. … [Read more...] about Disappointing: Chez Noir Carmel
Destinations
My Preferred Waikiki Marriotts
Recently, I completed my Ultimate Guide to Marriott Hotels in Waikiki, which is something that's been years in the making. But now, I want to go over my preferred Waikiki Marriotts split up by different stay styles. … [Read more...] about My Preferred Waikiki Marriotts
Review: Noods Ramen Bar Kaimuki
I've been on a bit of a ramen bender lately, seeking redemption for my disappointing experience at STIX Asia. The latest stop on my ramen adventure is Noods Ramen Bar Kaimuki - someplace I've actually been eyeing for a while now. … [Read more...] about Review: Noods Ramen Bar Kaimuki
Iao Valley Will Require Reservations
As the final round of land stabilization and renovation wraps up, officials warn that Iao Valley will require reservations to visit. That will make Iao Valley State Monument the fourth state park to implement such a requirement. … [Read more...] about Iao Valley Will Require Reservations
The Amazing Hawaiian Vinegar Company
I'm a huge proponent of supporting local businesses - doubly so when the business sets out to do better. And that's exactly what the fine folks at the amazing Hawaiian Vinegar Company are doing by taking ingredients that would have been wasted and turning them into incredible products. … [Read more...] about The Amazing Hawaiian Vinegar Company
Review: Kamakura Ramen Hawaii
Recently, needing a bite to eat in Ala Moana Center, I ended up deciding to check out Kamakura Ramen's Hawaii shop in the Center's Lanai food court. It's a supposedly different type of ramen that's healthier but still tasty. While I think it's healthier than what I normally eat, I don't think I'd choose it over others. … [Read more...] about Review: Kamakura Ramen Hawaii
Keep Away From Wild Animals in Hawaii
This is getting old. Despite numerous news stories and warnings in many forms, people aren't getting that they have to keep away from wild animals in Hawaii. This is especially true of virtually all aquatic wildlife and endemic birds since they're nearly all threatened or endangered. … [Read more...] about Keep Away From Wild Animals in Hawaii
Review: Hyatt Carmel Highlands
After checking out from our positioning hotel - Hotel Citrine -, we started the one-hour half-plus drive to our next hotel, the Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Overlooking Big Sur. After reading several of Matthew Klint's reviews over the years, I was excited to finally check this place out. … [Read more...] about Review: Hyatt Carmel Highlands
When Will Japanese Tourists Return?
Yesterday, I covered the current state of the visitor industry in Hawaii, which isn't looking so hot this year. Of course, the big question, then, is when will Japanese tourists return? Unfortunately, there's no clear answer to this question. … [Read more...] about When Will Japanese Tourists Return?
Summer 2023 May Be Slow for Hawaii
While tourism in Hawaii has been a bit soft, January and February were pretty good. However, summer 2023 may be slow for Hawaii, at least looking at the booking activity we're seeing now. … [Read more...] about Summer 2023 May Be Slow for Hawaii