Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The honey business becomes a springboard to the philosophy of organic farming, the
state of the world, and life in general. Most amazingly, Richard manages to pull it off.
For those with more than a passing interest, two B&B rooms should be open by time of
publication; check the website for details. For everyone else: an 8oz jar of Rare Hawaiian
Organic White Honey with Hawaiian Lilikoi is $18 and worth every cent. Reservations
required. Don't miss Motta Ceramics next door.
Hawaiian Vanilla Company
FARM
(
776-1771;
www.hawaiianvanilla.com
; PaŹ»auilo; 1hr farm tour per adult/child under 13 $25/10,
luncheon $29; farm tours 11:30am & 1pm Mon-Sat, luncheon 12:15pm Mon-Fri)
The first com-
mercial vanilla operation in the USA, this family-run farm is a model for how agri-tour-
ism can be done. For those wanting to taste as well as tour, the Vanilla Experience
Luncheon features a gourmet, vanilla-infused meal, an informative presentation and a
walking tour of the plant.
There's also an Upcountry Tea (11am Saturday, adult/child under 13 $39/15). A gift
shop (10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday) offers vanilla-scented everything. Reservations
required for all events.
Motta Ceramics
CERAMICS
potter, Gordon Motta knows a few things about throwing clay on the wheel. He also of-
fers a free tour of his ceramics studio, located next to Volcano Island Honey. The unvar-
nished workshop is chock full of high quality porcelain stoneware at all stages of produc-
tion, including finished gift items.
Time and weather permitting, visitors can also enjoy a brief guided tour of the 5-acre
grounds. Call for reservations.
Mauna Kea Tea
FARM
(
775-1171;
www.maunakeatea.com
; 46-3870 Old Mamalahoa Hwy, Ahualoa; 60-90min tours for
2/3/4 people, per person $30/25/20, under 18 free)
If you're into tea, organic farming
and philosophical inquiry, tour this small-scale, family-run plantation. Their green and
oolong teas are intended to represent the inherent 'flavor' of the land, not artificial fertil-
izers. Check out the website for insights into tea cultivation and to make required reser-
vations. Internship and volunteer opportunities available.
Festivals & Events
