16 December 2015

Luau Oahu For A Traditional Feast

By Evelyn Walls


Oahu is one of the eight major Hawaiian islands. Geographically it is the third largest, but it is by far the most densely populated. Well known for its hospitality, Oahu is commonly called the gathering place. What better way to gather friends and family than with a luau Oahu. Thanks to the welcoming nature of the native islanders, you will feel right at home.

There are several business that offer luau packages, so you can choose which looks the most appealing to you. Most of these services offer luau packages priced to suit your budget. From the basic to the deluxe, whichever you choose this will be real Hawaiian fun for all.

There are packages that are strictly for the luau feast. Other packages include island village tours, canoe rides and more. These are all day packages that are topped off with the luau festivities. The prices for all packages are more reasonable than you would expect, so be sure to include this in your travel budget.

If this will be your first luau you can expect some the the following features. The food will be traditional Polynesian such as poi, fish, sweet potatoes and pork from a pig cooked slowly for hours in the ground. Naturally you can expect Hawaiian music from local entertainers. The festivities would not be complete without hula dancers. There will be professional dancers dressed in traditional hula skirts with flowers in their luxurious long hair. Some of the guests will try to learn the hula just for fun. The kids will be served punch made with native fruits, and the adults can choose from an assortment of fancy cocktails.

The feeling is one of togetherness and celebration. Historically, luaus were held to honor some milestone in the lives of islanders. They have never been considered as just a gathering for mealtime. Luaus have always been held in the spirit of unity, gathering friends and family to participate as one group. Long ago all the guests sat on the ground on a mat made of lauhala leaves from the hala tree.

The number one attraction on this island is the Oahu Polynesian Cultural Center. The Center has packages that include the traditional island feast. Luaus are one of many ways for tourists to really learn something about this land that for many is heaven on earth. There are iconic sights that you will not want to miss. Take a tour to Diamond Head, visit Pearl Harbor, or reserve one of the guided tours to a volcano. Stay as long as you can because there is so much to see and do.

It is very interesting to learn what the island was like before the Western influence. Oahu was once a monarchy with a pronounced hierarchical society. When the Christian missionaries came in the 1800s they strongly influenced the existing culture. The Christian influence was just the beginning of outsiders coming to the island. The existing culture is rich in diversity with the coming together of many cultures.

In 1959 the Hawaiians islands became a part of the United States. Even though your travel to Ohau will not require a passport, you will feel like you are in an exotic island paradise. The beauty of the islands and the beaches is remarkable. Enjoy this paradise with the traditional island feast.




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