Post #592038 by Club Nouméa on Fri, Jun 3, 2011 4:27 AM

Part 8: Alameda

Alameda is a wondrous island that stands apart from the rest of the Bay Area. Crossing over from Oakland is like travelling to another country; a strange place where things seem more civilized than what surrounds it. It has long been a hub for shipping and naval operations departing for and arriving from the South Seas, so it is little surprise that, for example, it is the only place in the US with a New Zealand tavern, where you can dine on real mince pies, although at a price that would be alarming in their country of origin.

Alameda was to be the last stop on my Tiki Tour of California, ending in style at Forbidden Island's Tiki-lypso New Year's Eve Party:

The soundtrack that evening was provided by DJ Tanoa, who spun hits from the 50s through to the (shudder) 80s and 90s, and there was live music from the duo Apocalypso Now:

The smorgasbord food was very tasty and filling, as were the drinks. After 3 or 4 of Forbidden Island's superb drinks, admittedly, the quality of my photography started suffering:

I do however recall meeting Suzanne, our host for the evening, and presenting her with a tiki calendar.

So my trip came to an end, with great sadness and some regrets. There were many places I missed (I didn't even get to San Diego), but nonetheless, my expedition in quest of the beating heart of Californian tiki culture turned out to be successful.

To close, I offer big thanks to Ms. Nouméa for putting up with me, and without whom none of it would have been possible.

CN