Destination:
Maui
Article Source: Copyright © 2012 by Fodor’s Travel, a division of Random House Inc. All rights reserved.
Considered the best luau on Maui, the Old Lahaina Luau is certainly the most traditional. Immerse yourself in making kapa (bark cloth), weaving lauhala (coconut palm fronds), and pounding poi at the various interactive stations. Sitting either at a table or on a lauhala mat, you can dine on all-you-can-eat Hawaiian cuisine, including pork laulau (wrapped with taro sprouts in ti leaves), ahi poke (pickled raw tuna tossed with herbs and seasonings), lomilomi salmon (rubbed with onions and herbs), and haupia (coconut pudding). At sunset, the historical journey touches on the arrival of the Polynesians, the influence of missionaries and, later, the advent of tourism. The talented performers will charm you with their music, chanting, and variety of hula styles, including kahiko, the ancient way of communicating with the gods. You won't see fire dancers here, as they aren't considered traditional. This luau sells out regularly, so make reservations before your trip to Maui. www.oldlahainaluau.com.
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