LTPD Travels from home to Hawaii

Known for its lush green mountains, blue waters, palm trees and island breeze; Hawaii captivates its tourists, bringing them back time and time again for the "Hang Loose" vibes and relaxed atmosphere.

Follow along as we bring Hawaii to you while LTPD Travels from Home to Hawaii.

What to See

Grab your surfboard! Or a beach chair and watch the locals catch some waves! Take a hike to Diamond Head, an extinct volcano and one of Hawaii's most popular State Parks. Or travel the scenic "Road to Hana" on Maui. You'll catch some breathtaking views and maybe a few waterfalls! You absolutely cannot miss a traditional luau while in Hawaii. The one I attended while visiting was at the Polynesian Cultural Center on the north shore of Oahu. Click here for a sneak peak.

Hawaii has eight major islands, all unique in their own ways. Click on this link for the "Top 10 Reasons to Visit Hawaii", which shines light on the most popular things to see and do on the islands.

The Big Island is the largest, but youngest, of Hawaii's islands. It has beautiful scenery and so much to explore! Click Here to see the black sand beaches, history and green jungles that the Big Island has to offer.

Movies to watch:

50 First Dates (2004)

The Descendants (2011)

Soul Surfer (2005)

Jurassic Park (1993) & Jurassic World (2015)

Pearl Harbor (2001)

What to Cook

You can't visit Hawaii without indulging in fresh pineapple or drinking a few cups of Kona coffee. To me, nothing beats desert!

Haupia Cake, pronounced "how-p-ahh", has been popular at local gatherings and luaus in Hawai'i since the 1940s and is used at weddings as a topping on white cake. The main ingredients used are coconut milk and cornstarch which makes the Haupia Cake resemble a pudding with the consistency of gelatin, often called "Hawaiian Coconut pudding".

COOK TIME15 min ADDITIONAL TIME1 hr 30 min TOTAL TIME1 hr 45 min

Ingredients

• 1 can coconut milk

• 5 tablespoons cornstarch 

• 4 tablespoons sugar

• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Mix cornstarch and water in a small bowl. Mix till the cornstarch is completely dissolved. Set aside.

2. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the whole can of coconut milk and sugar. Whisk together, and keep whisking until it's just about to boil.

3. Slowly pour in the cornstarch/water mixture while whisking.

4. Turn the heat to low, and keep cooking for 10-15 minutes. You'll want to stay at the stove at this whole time, and whisk pretty frequently. You'll know the haupia is ready when it gets much thicker (almost "gluey") and starts to pull away from the side of the saucepan when you whisk.

5. Pour into a greased (or parchment paper lined) 8x8 pan. Let cool at room temperature for 15 minutes. Then cool in the fridge for 1-2 hours until set. Cut into squares and enjoy chilled.

Notes

1. For best results, use full fat coconut milk. Not light coconut milk.

2. Increase the cornstarch if it you prefer the haupia more firm set. Decrease the cornstarch if it you prefer it more loose/pudding-like.

Haupia can be served alone or with many other deserts! Like on top of brownies, ice cream, pies, cakes or with strawberries!

Read the full article here: https://onolicioushawaii.com/haupia/

What to Wear

Pull out your grass skirt, coconut top and lei! Gentleman, a Hawaiian shirt will fit in just fine too!

The Lingo

Hello/Goodbye - Aloha (ah-low-ha)

Thank you- Mahalo (ma-ha-low)

How's it going?- Howzit

Shaka hand sign - Hang Loose

I hope you enjoyed your visit to Hawaii from the comfort of your home! Look out for more travels from home with LTPD Travel by subscribing to our blog!

LTPD Travel is a travel program through Lockport Township Park District offering day and overnight trips from Lockport, IL.

Check out our website at Lockportpark.org !

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