Hawaiian culture and food come together at a Luau and when you're in Hawaii it's a wonderful place to get to know more about the native Hawaiian culture. A luau is a Hawaiian party with a feast accompanied by entertainment and it is a popular activity when you're in Hawaii.
The Marriott Hotel's luau offering is one of the newest on the island starting in June There are discounts for military and Hawaii residents or Kamaaina. VIP seating gets you a seat at the first couple of long tables although you will want to arrive earlier than the allotted time to ensure that you get the best seats at the front.
They've also got raised platforms in the centre of the dining section for performers so that non-VIP diners also get a view of the performers. We hear the sounds of the band playing mele or songs as we round the corner to the luau. Upon arrival every guest receives a beautiful fresh orchid lei and a welcome Mai Tai plus drink vouchers for a range of cocktails.
Once everyone has taken a seat to they offer people the chance to visit the stands at the front where you can have a fresh orchid bracelet put on your hand. Next to this you can join the queue to get a temporary tattoo drawn on your arm or wherever you please. My artist asks what I would like: a flower, turtle or fish and I pick a flower. He skillfully draws a gorgeous frangipane freehand with a sharpie with two octopus tentacles at each end.
He shows me his octopus tattoo and explains that the octopus is scared to his people and is considered powerful and intelligent. I leave a tip in the tip basket and go back to the table excitedly showing Mr NQN my tattoo.
