Hawaii - Luau at Paradise Cove

Late Saturday afternoon the bus picked us up from the hotel for the drive to Paradise Cove on the south west coast of the island. When we arrived we were presented with shell leis, shown where we would be sitting for dinner and then had free time to wander around looking at the various presentations on offer.

Four of our group had been selected by Cousin Mo, the guide on our bus, to take part in the hauling in the nets ceremony which he was to supervise.

And what a smart mob they were in their grass skirts.

Before sunset the ceremony took place at the cove - very colourful and noisy.

Other activities available were spear throwing, hula dancing, short rides in an outrigger canoe and Polynesian body art.

We wandered around and also investigated the gift shop where I purchased a Hawaiian Christmas decoration.

There was also music to listen to

plus photo opportunities.

Before the buffet dinner we watched the ceremony for the unearthing of the roasted pig.

During dinner there was a stage show with music and dancing from Hawaii and neighbouring Polynesian countries. There was also a Samoan fire dancer performing at the end of the evening. It was a good night's entertainment, even more so as it did not rain while we were at Paradise Cove.

The best entertainment of the evening, however, occurred on the ride home in the bus when Cousin Mo decided to mime two Diva songs including 'I will always love you' with all the actions. Best entertainment in ages.