Are Hawaii residents that crazy for milk? (Pukalani, Waimea: to buy, costs)

[OpenD]

Originally Posted by KauaiHiker

If you go to the smaller farmer's markets that aren't frequented by tourists (and you no longer look like a tourist), the prices are significantly cheaper than the stores. If you go back regularly and get to know the vendors, then you get the deals (the extra produce added to your bag after paying).

Is there any phrase as sweet as "For you Uncle, here's what I can do..."?

[whtviper1]

Are farmers markets really frequented by tourists all that much - aren't they nicely tucked away in the hotel?

[SkyBob]

Originally Posted by whtviper1

Are farmers markets really frequented by tourists all that much - aren't they nicely tucked away in the hotel?

What? Farmers markets? No, they're usually in a field under a tent.





just kidding around ...

[HiloDiver]

Originally Posted by KauaiHiker

This is an interesting thread with many facets.

With all due respects, DebbieDiver, even if you don't drink milk it seems a little odd to keep claiming you didn't know how prevalent milk was in US culture.

That's DebbyDiver. Wow, you sure like typing! Holy crap!

I opened this thread with "This is really a lighthearted post." I figured it would go two, three posts at most and I'd get my answer. I am dumbfounded at how seriously people are taking this!

[KauaiHiker]

Sorry, maybe I was getting your named confused with another Debbie I know. As for writing a lot and this post getting out of control, it's the internet, what did you expect.

whtviper1 wrote: "Are farmers markets really frequented by tourists all that much?"

On Kaua'i they are, especially Kapa'a and Hanalei. And why not, they're a great way to get an authentic taste of Hawaii. But the influx of tourists is not without consequence: in Kapa'a, the prices closer to the parking lot are noticeably higher.

[McFrostyJ]

Originally Posted by KauaiHiker

On Kaua'i they are, especially Kapa'a and Hanalei. And why not, they're a great way to get an authentic taste of Hawaii. But the influx of tourists is not without consequence: in Kapa'a, the prices closer to the parking lot are noticeably higher.

I agree and Kaua'i has some WONDERFUL Farmer's Markets! I really like the one up past Hanalei on Tuesdays!

[HiloDiver]

Originally Posted by KauaiHiker

Sorry, maybe I was getting your named confused with another Debbie I know.

No sweat.

We've been reading about the Hilo farmer's market as we will be moving to that side of the island. We're really looking forward to being regular customers; although there's no doubt they market the place to cruise ship passengers.

Just like at our farmer's market on this island, we'll figure out which vendors have the best stuff and best prices.

[OpenD]

Originally Posted by DebbyDiver

Just like at our farmer's market on this island, we'll figure out which vendors have the best stuff and best prices.

I love shopping at farmers markets, and do a substantial part of my food shopping at them. There are several farmers markets in Hilo, and several more within a short drive. Each has a different flavor and feel. The one you mentioned is the biggest, with the most variety, and yes, it is the most touristy, and the most crowded. It's open Wednesday and Saturday. The Mamo Street Market is smaller, and open every day. The Kinoole Market in South Hilo is less touristy, more local farmers, open Saturdays.

Then a short drive away are small markets at Keaau, Pahoa, Hilo Coffee Mill, etc. Each is interesting in its own way, and each has specific vendors I've come to look forward to dealing with. Overall I prefer the smaller markets because they tend to be local growers. At the larger markets you find more vendors selling imported produce, and a few are less than forthcoming about that. Don't assume that what you see is local produce, if that is what you're looking for. I've learned to look under the tables and in back of the booths for boxes and crates marked "Pineapples from Costa Rica," "Mangoes from Mexico," or whatever.

Following is a list of farmers markets for the whole island. Sometimes things change, so if you're traveling to a new one it's a good idea to check ahead to verify location and hours, etc. For instance the Volcano market actually starts at 6am on Sunday mornings (not 7 as listed), is very popular with locals, and is already starting to wind down by 8:30.

http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/add/farmers-m...g%20Island.pdf

[HiloDiver]

Fun stuff, thanks OpenD! We will definitely have the time and inclination to be exploring the entire island and will spend time (and $) at each one of them.

[Tiger Beer]

Maybe it's mainlanders who are crazy for milk They are moving there, and most concerned about it.

When I first moved to Korea....I recall some of my students NOT liking the idea of milk, cheese, etc. They thought it was a very 'western' thing to do. Why would anyone want to eat or drink or process the milk of a cow?

Of course for younger Asians, they are into pizza, and some other cheese products. But, most Pacific Asian foods are not very milk or cheese-based.