Post #233794 by Humuhumu on Wed, May 24, 2006 3:58 PM

I try to catch folks when they're right at the edge -- I've seen that look in someone's eyes, that they've stumbled across Tiki-Ti or Forbidden Island or a tiki event not quite knowing what the story is, and whether or not they're going to have a good time. I try to reach out and be friendly and welcoming. I don't like walking into a place and feeling like I stick out like a sore thumb, that I'm not welcome -- I imagine that's the impression some folks can get when they walk into a room and see a whole gaggle of us aloha-shirted folks together. I ask a series of questions about what someone's drink preferences are (sweet or tart? how do you feel about coconut?, etc.) -- the drink menus can be so daunting when you're not used to drinking tropicals, and if I can help someone connect with a drink they'll love, it can make all the difference. If they're interested, I tell them a bit of the background of tiki, and tell them how they can learn more, if they want (Tiki Central & the BOT are typically where I send them).

I also once gave a talk on Polynesian Pop at a scientific research institute. :) And I made a couple websites.

Basically, I try to do what I can as a patron to make my local tiki bars and tiki events be the sort of place I would feel welcome if I were new to it all.

Critiki - Ooga-Mooga - Humu Kon Tiki

[ Edited by: Humuhumu 2006-05-24 15:59 ]