Hello Kindle Fire!

Timeout!  Let me stop for a moment since I want to introduce to you the new Amazon Kindle Fire. For only $199 with FREE Shipping... WOW.  Can this compete with iPad? Only time will tell.

What People Are Saying

"	The Fire gives me the features I want at a price point that's less than half of the iPad 2. I can check my email, browse the Internet, maybe play a few games, most importantly, I can read magazines in color on a Kindle." - Gizmodo
"	At $199 the Fire is less than half the price of the Apple iPad, which starts at $499. It is the first tablet from a major company to seriously undercut the iPad in price." - New York Times
"	Consumers will see the iPad and Kindle Fire side-by-side... and simply ask 'why does the iPad cost at least $300 more?' They will look at the features - the comparable amount of content, the Kindle's million e-books, streaming TV shows - and pick the Fire." - Extreme Tech
"	The Kindle Fire is the tablet you need at the price you'll be willing to pay." - Technology Review
"	Amazon’s Kindle Fire is likely to be the first successful tablet not sold by Apple, and there are several good reasons for it: the low price of $199, the convenient, portable size of 7 inches, and a rich catalog of books, movies and music offered through Amazon’s Web-based services." - Ars Technica
"	The Fire is the real deal and it’s going to disrupt the equilibrium of the existing market for media devices." - Chicago Sun Times
"	There’s a new mayor in Droidville. But this guy didn’t roll into town with pomp and circumstance. He strolled down Main Street and simply offered more than any other candidate, extolling a plan based on down-to-earth sensibility and affordability. Meet the Kindlile Fire." - Seeking Alpha   Click on the the picture for more information.  What do you guys think?  iPad Killer?  Post comments as I want to hear from you

All Time Favorite Chicken Katsu

Today I will introduce you to the local all time lunch favorites the Chicken Katsu. For those of you unfamiliar to Hawaiian cuisine… it is time to get familiar! Hawaiian food is very unique in that the cuisine is truly a melting pot..A fusion..A fantastic blend of Asian food (Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Chinese, etc.) And American food with the occasional island twist. A Plate Lunch usually consists of a couple scoops of rice, a meat dish (teriyaki, Korean BBQ, katsu, etc.), And a side of Macaroni salad. Chicken Katsu is Japanese style fried chicken and is most often served with Tonkatsu sauce. Tender pieces of boneless chicken coated with special seasoning and deep-fried. Either you order a regular or a mini plate, this chicken will really melt in your mouth.  Some restaurant serves this dish over rice smothered with curry sauce.  Post some comments if you have try this fantastic dish or if you want to know the recipe. Wait for my next menu. Mahalo

Oahu's Diamond Head

Want to see Waikiki from up above? Try to hike the famous Diamond Head Crater.  It is located between Makapuu and 18th Ave. on the south shore of Oahu. It is right on the coast southeast of Waikiki. The unique profile of Diamond Head (Le'ahi) sits prominently near the eastern edge of Waikiki's coastline. Hawaii's most recognized landmark is known for its historic hiking trail, stunning coastal views, and military history. 

Diamond Head State Monument encompasses over 475 acres, including the interior and outer slopes of the crater.  The hike is about 55 minutes long for me since I’m not physically fit, you can probably do it in 45 minutes or less.  My recommendation is to bring lots of water, a good pair of sneakers and a flashlight (you need it inside the tunnel). Be aware that the only restroom is at the bottom and I would recommend using it. There is no visitor center, only a stand where you will pay and get a brochure.

Here is some of the great view up above Diamond Head. As you can see the beautiful shot of Waikiki Beach.

If you've been to Oahu and hike Diamond Head before, please post some comments as I do want to hear from your personal experience.  Shakas

USS Missouri Battleship "The Mighty Mo"

To commemorate Veterans Day, I would like to show some photos of the USS Missouri Battlehsip. When you are on Oahu, consider touring the USS Missouri, also known as the Mighty Mo. The USS Missouri has a deep history and now proudly resides in “battleship row” near the USS Arizona and the USS Bowfin in Pearl Harbor.

Probably one of the greatest events in Mighty Mo’s history is that it hosted Japan’s official surrender to the US and marked the end of World War II. When you visit the Mighty Mo, you will see a plaque that commemorates the historic spot.

Just how big is the Missouri? If you could stand the ship on end, it would be 332 feet taller than the Washington Monument. The nine 16-inch guns are the Mighty Mo’s trademark feature. Each gun barrel is to  approximately 67 feet long, weighs an incredible 116 tons, and can fire a 2,700-pound shell 23 miles in 50 seconds — with pinpoint accuracy. The Missouri was the last U.S. battleship to be launched and the last to be decommissioned. She was also the most formidable.

On this Veterans Day, I urge everyone to spend some time to thank those who have served our country in uniform. Thank You

The Magic of West Oahu

Since it's APEC week, I want to talk about Ko'Olina Resort west of Oahu.  Leaders from APEC member countries will have a front row sit of these fantastic view. The four man-made lagoons are perfect for swimming at any time of the year. Rock barriers provide protection from the ocean and high surf. The lagoons are sandy beaches surrounded by grass and shaded picnic areas. These lagoons are called: Kolola, Hanu, Nai'a, and Ulua.

 Ko Olina has all the makings of a good beach, with a few lavish amenities thrown in. You’ll find excellent showers, restrooms, picnic areas and beach shops throughout the resort. If you’d like to splurge a bit, treat yourself to a luxury spa at one of the hotels or dine at one of the upscale restaurants. On the beach area, lifeguards are on duty throughout the season and will gladly keep an eye on your kids.

Definitely one of the best beach in the island of Oahu but watch out for the slippery rocks that separate the four lagoons. These rocks can be dangerous to climb and have caused more than a few accidents.

The Best of Kalihi

For all you seafood lovers this one is for you, Nori-wrapped Crab Stuffed Ahi with Wasabi sauce from Monarch.  Each plate lunch is serve with brown or white rice and a side of their salad, with their homemade dressing. The dressing compliments really nicely with their greens, and is just the right amount of sweetness. They get really busy during lunch time so call ahead for your order. Don't procrastinate and think for a late lunch since they close at 2pm. One major problem here is parking. On to my next post.  Aloha