The stay in Waikiki has been very low key - I must say I didn't do anything tourists are supposed to do. This is my... 6th time in this island. Being in Oahu is like going home (in Japan, that is) - it is the most Japan-ized island of all. Signs, foods, language you hear in every corner. You can even use Japanese yen pretty much at any store in Waikiki. During my 3 day stay here every year, I stuff myself with as much Japanese foods as I could. The best place to go? The food court at Ala Moana Shopping Center. It used to be one of the largest malls in the US - not only the brand names you see at malls in the main land, there are all major French / Italian brands for Japanese tourists. Japanese women love spending money and love holding paperbags from Prada, Cartier.... one of those odd things is that almost all Japanese women walking along Kalakaua Avenue carry purses from Le SportSac. I don't know how many of you have heard of this brand but it is not a French brand. Made in USA. Hmmm.
Speaking of odd things, here is a list of a few strange "ads" I encountered during my stay in Waikiki -
"Funnel Cakes, Nails, and Spa" - this place serves all at one location. I didn't check out the inside but I wonder if they serve funnel cakes while ladies are doing facial and pedicure?? Just a funny image to think of.
"Adults Only - Korean BBQ and #1 Strip Club Tour" - you see a flood of ad publications along streets in Waikiki. It is like in Vegas. The flyer this guy was handing out at International Market area says it. Japanese executives need stamina before heading to see exotic dancers or what.... I don't know if ladies would appreciate men who just had garlicky BBQ and kimchee.... And not to forget one more thing - the flyer also says "popular among Japanese celebrities" Yeah right....
"Seaweed & crab cream croquet curry" - the menu item I found at a restaurant specializing Japanese style curry.... I will stick with pork cutlet curry.....
Loving the quirkiness of Hawaii...
No comments:
Post a Comment