Hawaii

For the past three years, the Obamas have eschewed Chicago snow and opted for Hawaiian breezes. And really, who can blame them? As much as we all may dream of a white Christmas, isn't white sand a better alternative to white snow? In 2008, 2009, and now in 2010, the Obamas have spent their Christmas holiday at the upscale Paradise Point Estates on Kailua Bay. The five bedroom, five and a half bath home features high level security (of course) for its exclusive clients. A center courtyard includes a secluded lagoon-style pool pavilion with tropical waterfalls and an island spa. Nature lovers will enjoy the ocean lanai and garden lanai, which showcase ornate landscaping and stunning views. The home itself is a standout thanks to the etched windows, stained glass, natural stone tiling, and African mahogany carvings. Other amenities include a zoned alarm system, championship golf courses, a health club and spa, and concierge services. Take a complete tour when you read more

Hawaii is still the land of poke and poi, but come 2011, don't expect to find shark fin. On Friday, governor Linda Lingle passed a bill prohibiting the possession, sale, or distribution of shark fins come July 1, 2011, making Hawaii the first U.S. state to ban the commodity. Shark fin is considered a delicacy in certain Asian countries, particularly in Chinese cuisine, where it's been served in opulent dishes since the Ming Dynasty.The practice of shark finning has long been the subject of animal rights activists, who cite that sharks are being killed for their fins at a shocking rate of 89 million per year, disrupting the ocean habitat. I'm torn on this issue. On the one hand, I understand the delicacy's environmental repercussions; on the other, I believe such laws are unlikely to reform Asian palates. Where do you stand? Do you see other states following suit?

Source: Flickr User avlxyz

Growing up in Hawaii, I was sort of spoiled. In my backyard we had papaya, avocado, coconut, and passion fruit trees. The best part? They were there when we moved in! And in a tropical climate like Hawaii, these trees need little in the way of cultivation — they just kind of hang out and take care of themselves.

Even though I've moved away from Hawaii, my favorite fruit is still passion fruit, except now it's more of a delicacy than a mainstay. If you've never experienced this sweet, fleshy fruit, now is the time to try it. It grows in abundance this time of year and can easily be found at most grocery stores. (I was able to pick one up from Safeway just the other day.) The purple fruit is antioxidant-rich and full of vitamin A, iron, and vitamin C.

Look for ones that are about the size of a lemon with slight indentations in the skin — this means they're ready to eat. I usually just slice one open and eat the pulp — seeds and all — with a spoon. The fruit has a really sweet, floral scent and a sweet-tart flavor. What will probably be unusual to most people is the texture. On top of being really juicy, the pulp has an almost jelly-like texture and consistency.

If you're not into the texture, passion fruit is great for juicing or as an ingredient in a cocktail, dessert, salad dressing, or a sauce. I also love making jam out of it too. Have any of you tried passion fruit?

Source: Flickr User geishaboy500

This post comes to us from our community member lauren.

On a recent trip to Hawaii, I went on a hike with my husband in one of the national parks and happened across this lovely peacock! Luckily, he stood still for a little photo shoot!

See another pic fully-feathered when you read more

Singer-songwriter, actor, director and record producer Cher, as it turns out, also boasts interior design as one of her skills — and you can see it for yourself. On January 18, the entertainer will auction off her 8,821-square-foot, 6-bedroom, 6-and-2-half bath home on the Kona-Kohala Coast on the Big Island of Hawaii. The property, which she personally designed in traditional Balinese style, is part of the elite Four Seasons Hualalai community, and is estimated to sell for $8 to $12 million. In addition to a main residence, the residence includes five free-standing guest bungalows, four with bedroom suites and one with a media room and bar — sounds perfect for entertaining. Oh, and did I mention the pool, hot tub, terrace, and ocean and golf course views? Take the full tour.