Category: History

The Ukulele: Made Famous by Tiki

Originally, the ukulele was brought to Hawaii from the West. However, it was Hawaii and Tiki music that actually made the ukulele a mainstream instrument, and an instrument synonymous with Tiki music. When we think back of Hawaiian music, it is hard to imagine this music without the cheerful sound of the ukulele. This is …

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Experience the Beautiful Hawaiian Language

Because of the recent Tiki resurgence, there is also a renewed interest in the Hawaiian language. And, with Southwest Airlines adding direct flights to Hawaii from Los Angeles, it seems the interest in Hawaii and all things Tiki has been felt in the corporate world even affecting recent travel to the Islands. The Hawaiian language …

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Is the Tiki Kitsch Craze Innocent Fun or Exploitation of Culture?

When Trader Vic invented his now famous Tiki cocktails in fun whimsical Tiki head souvenir glasses with curly straws and tons of rum, there was not any thought as to sensitivity to the Hawaiian culture that might exist if it were today. Think of it like this. What if a bar were started with a …

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Those Mini Umbrellas!

Ever since I was a little girl, I have been fascinated…no I LOVED those little mini umbrellas that go on top of fancy drinks. Not that I had fancy drinks. But one time I went to a little birthday party at a neighbor’s house and the mom and grandma put little mini umbrellas on top …

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Tiki and the Love of Dance

Yes, even the discount aisle at Target now carries Tiki products. For $1 to $3 this month you can buy everything from Tiki head containers to little planters, signs, and other Tiki décor to complete your party plans or your Tiki collection. In the midst of this resurgence of the Tiki trend, let’s continue to …

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