Posts by Blaine Ashley

Haute Secrets Hawaii: Brad Packer

As the director of public relations for the Four Seasons Hualalai and Bora Bora, Brad Packer splits his time jetting between his West Hollywood base, the Big Island of Hawaii, and Bora Bora for work among other places for pleasure. Packer’s passion is all things travel. And, considering Hawaii as his second home, he’s an expert on the best the islands have to offer. Check out Brad Packers insider scoop to the secret gems found here in Hawaii.

With a Twist: The Top 5 Martini Menus in Hawaii

Classically, the martini is made with gin and vermouth, and garnished with an olive. But, over the years, the martini has grown in stature and due to its popularity, has given rise to all sorts of innovative interpretations. Hawaii has made its own contribution to the canon of martini. Check out my picks for The Top 5 Martini Menus in Hawaii.

Haute Timepieces: Patek Philippe

“You can’t always get what you want…” The infamous line in the song by the Rolling Stones is oh-so true. When you don’t get what you want, you want it even more. Like that ice cream carton you dug into when you were little after your mom forbade you, the hot girl that wouldn’t give you the time of day despite your persistence, or that coveted Hermes bag your budget wouldn’t allow yet you insisted on breaking the bank for.

Haute Sommelier: Jason Castle

He sniffs, he swirls, he sips and he pours. Easy-to-spot in a restaurant with his trademark fedora and throwback suspenders, Jason “Cass” Castle hasn’t always been a wine-o. While studying for his LSATs nearly a decade ago, Castle was working as a wine steward to save his pennies for his pending law school plans. Not too long after learning just a bit about the industry, he decided to say “see ya” to suits in favor of a life filled with wine.

Haute Weekend Happenings

It’s a foodie’s paradise this weekend across the island chain. Try fresh fish dishes under the starry sky at Turtle Bay Resort’s Annual Seafood Festival. And, celebrate the official openings for star chef restaurants, Morimoto Waikiki at the new EDITION Hotel and Roy Yamaguchi’s, The Tavern at Princeville in Kauai. Chow down Hawaii!

Neat or on the Rocks: The Top 5 Scotch Bars in Hawaii

I’m pretty much a poser when it comes to scotch. I consider myself fairly well-versed in world of wines, libations and fine liquors, yet when it comes to this stiff drink, I’m certainly no aficionado. However, I do know there’s nothing like a warm whisky on a cool night or a Hot Toddy to kick a cold. So, here are my selections for the best scotch spots in Hawaii.

Haute Secrets Hawaii: Erika Kauffman

Former Miss Hawaii Erika Kauffman not only bears the looks of a beauty queen. She’s undeniably intelligent, ultra motivated and boasts impeccable style. Kauffman is the new unit publicist for the highly anticipated show, “Hawaii Five-0,” a PR expert and power-girl on the rise to mega success.

Brewski Time: The Top Five Beer Lists in Hawaii

Craving a cold one? My favorite way to enjoy a beer is after a surf session on a sandy beach. There’s nothing better than a Longboard Island Lager paired with ahi poke. But, Hawaii certainly has its fair share of beer bars including Yardhouse on bustling Lewers St. and Gordon Biersch at Aloha Tower. With the rise in popularity of craft beers and locally brewed options I focused on these select Hawaii bred bars for Brewski Time: The Top Five Beer Lists in Hawaii.

’Tis the Season at Hawaii Four Seasons Resorts

Calling all Kama’aina aka locals with a Hawaii ID! It’s that easy to take advantage of this sweet deal. Four Seasons Hualalai at Historic Ka’upulehu is offering exclusive rates starting at just $325 per room per night. Through Dec. 17, lucky local residents will enjoy this 45 percent savings and earn a $100 airfare credit for inter-island travel.

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