We take a break from the usual programming today to feature a guest post from an American reader, who would like to share a DIY cocktail recipe and restaurant recommendation from her experience in Hawaii. She is travel expert Kendra Thornton, who has often been featured as an expert in family, luxury and adventure travel for FOX News, ABC, CBS, NBC, and CW networks as well as quoted in the news about seasonal travel trends and destinations all over the United States.

With the Chinese New Year holiday period coming up, why not try making this different, fun and refreshing beverage for your guests!

DIY Honolulu Cocktail
by Kendra Thornton

When it’s impossible to visit Hawaii on a moment’s notice and soak in the beautiful scenery and impeccable weather, you can still bring a little bit of the culture into your own home to remind you of paradise.

After visiting the beautiful islands of Hawaii, I knew I couldn’t head back home without something to remind me of everything I saw, and tasted! I have a delicious Mai Tai cocktail recipe that I wanted to share with all of my wonderful friends back on the east coast. Consider it a yummy way to experience paradise without ever leaving the comfort of your home.

Halekulani Mai Tai Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

– 1/3-Ounce Orgeat Syrup
– 1/3 Ounce Orange Curaçao
– 1/3-Ounce Rock Candy Syrup
– 3/4-Ounce Bacardi Gold Rum
– 1/2-Ounce Bacardi 151 Rum
– 1 1/4 Ounce Fresh Lime Juice
– 3/4 Ounce Bacardi Select (float)

METHOD:

– Build over crushed ice and float with 3/ 4 ounce of Bacardi Select Rum.
– Garnish with lime wheel, sugar cane stick, mint leaf, and Vanda orchid.

This easy to make cocktail reminds me of the ambiance in Honolulu and how everything is too beautiful to put into words. When I taste this cocktail, it’s a way to relive everything I experienced during my stay and it’s my gift to you in hopes that you can experience the same part of Hawaii that I fell in love with! I first tried this drink at the Halekulani’s House Without a Key and I knew I couldn’t leave without the recipe!

The “Mai Tai” is yummy enough to make for your family or friends, or for a party you’re hosting in the warmer seasons. Try sticking a piece of fruit in it or a tropical umbrella to decorate it and keep it looking decadent. There is no need to stay in one of the top hotels in Honolulu just to get this tantalizing drink, make it in your own home and be the life of the party with the easy recipe!