A heart of fresh roses for a romantic Valentine’s Day

Rose in the language of flower, is often associated with love. No wonder why this beautiful flower is largely sold on Valentine’s and Mother’s Day. If you feel a bit creative, there are many ways you can organize the traditional dozen of roses to create an arrangement with a dazzling effect.

The arrangement I am presenting today is easy to make thanks to the use of a heart shaped box that is more easily found in Art & Craft stores than heart floral foams. Moreover, the box will also have the purpose of retaining water, giving the arrangement a longer life. If the container you find is not in the appropriate color, you can always spray paint it. This design is also appropriate as a table centerpiece or a buffet decor for a wedding event.

For this arrangement, I used a dozen of gorgeous spectacular roses in lavender color, as well as a heart shaped container that has been spray painted in a creamy tint. The choice of color gives this design a vintage allure, however, feel free to be creative in your choice of colors to develop a composition that will reflect your personality. You may also be inspired in doing a heart shaped design using carnations, which will drastically decrease your costs.

An accent ribbon can complete the design

Heart of fresh Roses 

1 heart shaped box
Spray paint, color of your choice*
1 brick of floral foam
12 roses
Moss
3’ of golden ribbon*
1 small wooden heart*
* Optional, available at Art & Craft stores

Prepare your container by spray painting it if needed. Make sure you let it dry for a couple of hours before using it. You can also spray paint the small wooden heart in gold to have them match with the accent ribbon.

Soak your floral foam and shape it to fit the container. Bevel the foam so that it won’t get any higher than the edge of the box.

Place your roses straight, making sure the stem is deep enough (1 ½ inch) but still does not touch the bottom. If your roses are a bit tight, you can gently reflex the petals to make them look bigger.

Continue the design by concealing the foam with some moss. To finish the arrangement, secure the accent ribbon by picking it into the foam with a pen or a long stick and place the small wooden heart.

One day in Honolulu - Part 1: Morning of exploration

Follow L'esprit Sud Magazine as we venture in Honolulu for a day full of exploration and culinary experiences. We have a lot of beautiful places to share through our photography as well as useful tips that will help you make the most of your stay in Honolulu. This article, A morning of exploration, is the first one of a series of three. We hope you will enjoy your visit of this culturally rich and naturally amazing Hawaiian city. Aloha kakou! - Greetings to all of you!

Our day starts very early with the visit of the The USS Arizona Memorial, located at Pearl Harbor. This National Historic Landmark marks the resting place of 1,102 of the 1,177 sailors killed on the USS Arizona during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 by Japanese imperial forces. The memorial, inaugurated in 1962, is visited by more than one million people annually, making it one the top attraction of the Island. Because of the limited spaces available every day to visit the memorial, it is advisable to be there at 7h30 am, when the Visitor Center opens to get your tickets. This will limit your waiting time to almost nothing, and allow you to plan other activities for the same day.

Before boarding the shuttle that will bring you to the USS Arizona Memorial, you will have to watch a 20 minutes film that gives a really good description of the events. If you have extra time, we also recommend the self audio tour through the museum that details the history of the attack on Pearl Harbor, and which should take about 45 minute to complete.

Accessible only by boat, the memorial is a floating bridge that crosses above the middle of the sunken hull of the battleship without touching it. On a clear day, you can really see well the ship resting under the water. As you look over the edge, you will see the rusting remains of the USS Arizona. It is quite a disturbing feeling to know that 1,102 sailors are buried just under our feet.

As you walk along the bridge, you can't help but notice the strong smell present in the air. Oil is still bubbling up from the sunken ship, almost 70 years after it went down. In a National Geographic Magazine feature published in 2001, concerns were expressed that the continued deterioration of the USS Arizona's bulkheads and oil tanks from saltwater corrosion could pose a significant environmental threat from a rupture, resulting in a significant release of oil*.
*The National Park Service states that it has an ongoing program closely monitoring the condition of the submerged vessel.

The two hours and a half we spent at the USS Arizona Memorial were really worth the early wake-up as they gave us a better insight of the event that precipitated the US into W.W.II, and also a cultural understanding of the Hawaiian Islands.

Only by visiting the USS Arizona memorial can we grasp the size of the tragedy that happened on December 7th, 1941.


Arrival to the USS Arizona Memorial, a floating bridge above the sunken ship that can accommodate up to 200 persons.


The contrast between the peaceful and timeless architecture of the memorial designed by Honolulu architect Alfred Preis, and the rusting remains of the sunken ship is striking, and induce contemplation.


The USS Missouri Battleship, here viewed from the USS Arizona Memorial, is also part of the Pacific National Monument and can be visited.


The Visitor Center where you will find 3 exhibits explaining the attack.


Many photographs taken before the tragic event are exhibited at the Visitor Center. They really have an interesting cultural meaning as they describe how life was in O'ahu during the 40s.


Life goes on in Pearl Harbor ... A couple of zebra doves and their young

After a first part of the morning dedicated to history and remembrance, you may want to change your mind and get closer to Mother Nature. Just 15 minutes away from Waikiki Beach, you can literally loose yourself in a lush tropical rainforest and see a pristine natural waterfall. Nestled deep in the rainforest, the Manoa Falls Trail has been a long time favorite among tourists and locals alike for its incredible biodiversity and refreshing appeal.

Through only a 0.8 mile long (1.3 km), the path passes though so many different ecosystems that you will feel being in an arboretum. On your journey to the waterfall, you will travel through a lush rainforest of giant ferns, wild gingers, guava trees, and a bamboo grove. Expect also some tall and unique tree formations as well as some plant and flower species only found here. Your camera is definitely required!

This hike is often muddy and slippery because the Manoa Valley gets a lot of rain. The hike to the falls is classified as "easy" but on some parts of the trail, you will be walking on boulders and tree roots, so wear shoes with firm soles and take care not to slip in those areas.

If you do not have a lot of time in Honolulu but still want to experiment the beautiful Hawaiian rainforest, the Manoa Falls Trail is the perfect solution. In less than 2 hours, you can access Oahu's tallest accessible waterfall, and be back to the city for lunch.

This moderate hike is great for adults and kids. It only takes 30 to 45 minutes to reach the idyllic Manoa Falls, and even less to come back.


The beginning of the trail crosses though a grove of Eucalyptus trees before gradually ascends though the lush rainforest.


As with anything in life, the hike is more about the journey than the destination.


If you have seen Steven Spielberg's movie "Lost World: Jurassic Park", you have actually seen the trail and its prehistoric landscape as it was featured in many scenes of the movie.


This forest of giant bamboos was a nice treat on our way to the waterfall.


When you take the time to look around, you will discover native flowers that can't be found anywhere else on the planet.


The waterfall, called waihi in Hawaiian, is approximately 150 feets (45 meters). The amount of water depends on the rainfall. There is always water in the falls, but during the summer month, the fall is thin.


The trail can become challenging in certain areas, especially during the rainy season. It rains more often here than in Waikiki and along the coastline, so a word of caution is advised for novice hikers.


When visiting Hawaii, you cannot but notice all the chicken roaming freely along the side of the roads. We saw this cute family on the parking lot of the Maona Fall Trail. What a sweet surprise!

To read Part 2 of this article.

For more information

Pear Harbor - Pacific National Monument

Visitor Center is open 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, seven days a week except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Years Day

Price: The parking and tour program of the USS Arizona Memorial is free. You can rent an audio tour for $5 (English, Japanese, Spanish and French) which is highly recommended for those waiting for their tour to begin as waiting time can be up to 3 hours during high season. If you want to make it a day event, three other exhibits are also available: the USS Bowfin Submarine ($10), the USS Missouri Battleship ($16), and the Pacific Aviation Museum ($14). If you want to visit all four of Pearl Harbor's main attractions, the admission fees will total about $40.

Note: Scheduled tours vary due to visitation, but generally begin every 15 minutes from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. During busy summer and winter holiday periods, it is highly recommended that you arrive at the Visitor Center as early as possible as, often times, all tickets are given away before 12 noon. Strict security measures prohibit purses, handbags, fanny packs, backpacks, camera bags, diaper bags, luggage and/or other items that offer concealment. Visitors may only bring a camera and cam-recorder. A storage facility is available in the immediate area of the entrance to the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center. There is a nominal storage fee of $3/bag. The storage facility is in operation daily 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Address:
No. 1 Arizona Memorial Place,
Honolulu, HI, 96818
USA
Tel: (808) 954 8777

For more information, consult their Website.


Manoa Falls Trail
Open everyday from sunrise to dawn

Price: The Trails and falls are on State land so access is free. For parking, hikers have two choices. 1) Parking in the Paradise Park lot for a fee of $5.00 or 2) Park in the lower neighborhood for free.

Note: Because of the tropical nature of this location, mosquitos do abound so we strongly recommend the use of insect repellents. If you don't have any on hand, the little shop Rainbow's End Snack Shop located at the Paradise Park lot sells insect repellent in travel size wipes, as well as bottled water. During the rainy season (January through March), the trail can become very muddy, so hiking boots would be more appropriate than sneakers. Finally, visitors to the falls should be aware of another potential danger: leptospirosis, a debilitating disease caused by bacteria present in many inland bodies of water on the island. Swimming or taking a dip in the pool is not recommended.

Direction: Located close to The University of Hawai’i Lyon Arboretum and Botanical Garden. Head out West Manoa Road which is just north of Honolulu and west of pacific cemetary. Drive to the end and you will find the starting and ending point.

For more information, consult the State of Hawaii Trail and Access Program's Website.

Interactive map

Check out our interactive map of Hawaii to see where I took all the pictures featured in this article.

Halekulani, landmark of luxury on Waikiki Beach

Along the busy hotel strip facing the pristine water of Waikiki Beach, is where you will find the legendary Halekulani hotel. Originally built as a private beachfront estate by Mr Lewers in 1883, Halekulani has welcomed travelers from around the world since 1917. Halekulani which means "House befitting heaven", is working hard to deliver its promise. From the beautiful floral arrangements to the attentive service and details, you will be wrapped with style in luxury.

The story of Halekulani is in many ways the story of Waikiki itself. It begins just after the turn of the 20th century, with the construction of a small residential hotel called Hau Tree, consisting of a simple beachfront home and five tiny bungalows. In 1917, Juliet and Clifford Kimball purchased the hotel and gradually expanded the operation, establishing it as a stylish resort for wealthy vacationers. They named it Halekulani and the story began... Surviving the devastating effects of the Great Depression, as well as the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Halekulani has evolved over the decades into a chic destination with the great help of a booming jet industry.

The golden era of Halekulani started in the 1950s with the visit of personalities such as Clark Gable, Rosalind Russell, and Richard Egan. France's top models and Fashions appeared also at Halekulani in spring 1956 in the first show of its kind on American soil. The black-tie event featured designs by renowned fashion houses such as Christian Dior, Lanvin, Pierre Balmain, Jean Patou and Ricci.

The current face of the hotel came in 1984, when it officially reopened after many months of major renovations and construction. Today, Halekulani is considered to be a world class hotel while still retaining its island charm and rich tradition of warm Hawaiian hospitality.

All the gorgeous flower arrangements displayed in the resort are created by Mrs Tanga Kamemoto, who studied under Hiroshi Teshigahara, Grand Master of the Sogetsu School of Flower arrangement in Japan.


Floral arrangements at the entrance of Orchids restaurant.


Every evening, a new little gift will be waiting for you on your bed.


Photo courtesy of Halekulani Hotel - Photo credit: Barbara Kraft

Halekulani hotel has been for decades, the most popular place to enjoy spectacular sunsets. Its casual bar - "House Without a Key" - entertains its guests every day from, 5:30pm to 8:30pm, with authentic Hawaiian songs performed by local bands under the century-old Kiawe tree*. The mood is definitely mellow as the sun's last rays dance through the branches of the Kiawe tree, casting a red-orange glow upon Diamond Head, and highlighting a sparkling ocean.
* The Hawaiian meaning of Kiawe is: To Sway

Once owned by retired Sea Captain Brown, this tranquil spot is world-famous thanks to Charlie Chan, the inscrutable Honolulu detective who always got his man and frequently coined "old Chinese proverbs". Chan's creator, novelist Earl Derr Biggers, is said to have conceived the series while staying in a nearby cottage in 1925.

His first Charlie Chan mystery - called "The House Without A Key" - focused on the keen-eyed detective's solution of a cunning murder of a former sea captain. Site of the murder was a home on this precise spot in the late 1800s. Today's House Without a Key was rebuilt in 1983 as part of the new Halekulani, in tribute to the famous Chinese detective, who is as much part of the hotel's folklore as is the great kiawe tree which has sheltered visitors on Waikiki Beach for more than a century.

The Hawaiian band: "Sunset Serenaders" (Wayne Shishido, Mahealani Stillman and Baron Bento) are playing every Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at sunset.


Hula dancer Kanoe Kaumeheiwa Miller, a former Miss Hawaii, complements the music with her graceful and traditional hula.


House Without a Key is reminiscent of a time when Hawaiian homes needed no locks.


Late afternoon light over Diamond Head, a former volcano that participated in the creation of the Island of O'ahu.

For a more refined experience, Orchids is Halekulani's casually elegant oceanfront restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is located in the Main Building originally designed by Island architect Charles Dickey, and completed in 1932. The building, previously known as Lewers House, is still regarded even after some major renovations, as one of O'ahu's landmark due to its rich history. The building is crowned by the refurbished and distinctive South Pacific high-pitched roof (known today as the "Dickey" roof) which keeps the interiors cool.

Orchids is considered one of the most beautiful restaurants in all Hawaii. Boasting lovely views of Diamond Head and an abundance of signature flowers, this celebrated restaurant seems to do everything right. The focus is on seafood from the Big Island. Chef Darryl Fujita is well known for his large selection of sushi and sashimi, as well as his seafood feast for two featuring island sourced Kona lobster, Onaga and Kahuku shrimp steamed with kaffir lime leaves and served with a trio of aïolis (saffron-garlic, harissa and miso). We also enjoyed a very nice seared foie gras at dinner time, so the menu is catering to all types of palates.

During the week, the restaurant serves a traditional American breakfast that comes with an exceptional selection of teas and freshly squeezed juice. On Sundays, Orchids' famous brunch served from 9:30am to 2:30pm, is called legendary and was voted "Oahu's Best Brunch" in 2009 by Honolulu Magazine. The elegant buffet style event is complemented by classic music performed by a duo of harpist and flutist. Because of the incredible scenery, we would recommend to ask for a table on the beachside patio when you make a reservation.

Both restaurants Orchids, on the main level, and La Mer, on the first floor, are located inside the historical Main Building.


Elegant breakfast at Orchids - the perfect way to start the day.


Yellow orchids, the restaurant signature flowers, can be found on each table.


Halekulani popovers - an island favorite since 1917, served with Guava jam and whipped butter.

If you are looking for a gastronomical experience, La Mer (which means the sea in French), is exactly what you are looking for. Celebrated as Halekulani's finest and Hawaii's longest, consecutively ranked AAA Five Diamond Restaurant, La Mer offers a neoclassic cuisine developed by French Chef Yves Garnier, who cooked at La Coupole in Monaco for 20 years as well as at The San Francisco and Palm Beach Ritz Carltons. Chef Garnier has been running the kitchen since 1995 and has recently stepping down but is still involve in the operations.

Fresh local ingredients form the foundation of Garnier's dishes, but they are prepared with traditional French techniques. We enjoyed a nice fish soup that chef Garnier used to cook in Monaco, as well as some local fish that definitely sound exotic if you do not live on the Island. The food was well prepared and elegantly presented. The service was very attentive, and the breezy view overlooking the Pacific was quite enjoyable. La Mer also features an impressive wine list as well as a nice selection of wine by the glass, and to start your evening in style, you will receive a complementary glass of champagne on your arrival.

La Mer restaurant - The lounge inside the Main Building.


La Mer and executive chef Yves Garnier, who formerly owned a one Michelin star restaurant in Monaco.


Elegant flower decor at La Mer's lounge.


La Mer restaurant - Photo courtesy of Halekulani Hotel - Photo Credit: Barbara Kraft

Thought I'd already been to 'Heaven' until I came to Halekulani ...
Eugene Cernan
Last Apollo astronaut to walk on the moon

For more information

Halekulani hotel
2199 Kalia Road
Honolulu, HI, 96815
USA
Tel: (808) 923 2311
Website

Rates

Standard room with garden courtyard view starts at $470 per night that includes free WIFI, and a plate of fresh fruits and chocolates on your arrival. Overnight parking is $22 a day.
If you are a AAA member, you are eligible for a discount, so inquire when you book.
Our review: Being a AAA member, we were offered a discounted room at $423. At our arrival, we were upgraded for a "partial ocean view", which we greatly appreciated. On the downside, we found the room a little bit outdated for our taste, and we were directly facing the second tower of the hotel which meant that privacy was a bit limited. On the plus side, service was impeccable. We enjoyed the private registration in our room, and found the staff to be genuinely professional and friendly. If your budget allows, we would recommend to upgrade for an ocean front room.

House Without A Key (Casual bar and restaurant)
Open everyday from 7am to 9pm (Breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Live music every day from 5h30pm to 8H30pm.
First come first served, so plan to arrive early to enjoy sunset cocktail as this is one of the hot spots of Honolulu to enjoy the sunset.
Our review: We enjoyed every bit of our happy hours spent at House Without A Key. The music, the hula dance, and the very affordable drinks and side food, makes it our favorite place in the hotel for a true Hawaiian experience.

Orchids (Casual elegant restaurant)
Open everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Reservation recommended: (808) 923-2311
Day Service: Resort Attire
Dinner Service: Collared shirts and slacks for gentlemen, evening attire for ladies.
Price for two guests (Excluding alcohol, taxes & gratuities): Breakfast $50 - $70, Lunch $70 - $100 (Executive lunch offers three courses for $34), Dinner $130 - $150 (Degustation menu offered at $65).
Our review: We paid $135 at dinner time for 2 starters, 2 entree, 1 dessert, bottled water, taxes and gratuity. On average, we paid $60 for breakfast. We did enjoyed our breakfasts more than our dinner because of the amazing view and fresh vibe that were present in the first hours of the day. The food was decent, the service attentive, but the scenery is definitely stealing the show.

La Mer (Gastronomical restaurant)
Open everyday for dinner (6pm to 10pm)
Reservation required: (808) 923-2311
Long-sleeved collared shirt or jacket required for gentlemen. La Mer restricts patrons to adults and children 8 years and older.
Price: Three courses menu $95, Four courses menu $125, Six courses menu $140, Degustation menu $165, A la carte.
Our review: We paid $280 for 2 three course menu, 2 glasses of Whispering Angel rosé, Evian, taxes and gratuity. We enjoyed our food at La Mer, as well as the beautiful scenery and the excellent service. However, we found the meal to be really overpriced. If you do frequent regularly Michelin star rated restaurants, you may have to lower you expectations while still having to pay the same price. Overall, La Mer is worth giving a try, especially if you want to impress your date and don't mind the price tag. You will have a very romantic soirée.

Interactive map

Check out our interactive map of Hawaii to see where I took all the pictures featured in this article.