Our island days are imperceptibly stretching longer as summer sets in with much to celebrate as we approach the solstice. Right about the time this 16th-anniversary issue hits the stands, our island keiki are celebrating the end of their school year with more beach time ahead, and the rest of us will probably be rejoicing at the ability to cross town with less traffic.

Did I just quietly slip in that this is HILuxury magazine’s Sweet 16 issue? Yes it is! And we are all blushing at the thought of having the honor of bringing such a diverse cross section of interests to these pages for that long. It might be said that the printed pages are the destination, but the journey to get there is equally enjoyable for our team.

We have the honor of actor and martial artist Hiroyuki Sanada gracing this issue’s cover. He brings decades of experience in a variety of roles to every character that he portrays on screens and stages of all sizes. His adaptable nature puts him in the enviable position of being chosen for a variety of roles, such as his appearance in the final season of LOST, filmed here on O‘ahu, all the way to more recent roles in shows and films including HBO’s Westworld, Bullet Train and the latest installment of John Wick. Read more about him in “The Making of a Hiro” on page 76.

Variety also rules the day when it comes to our indulgences, from food to spirits and more. We are fortunate to have an ever-evolving food scene in Hawai‘i, and the bar just keeps getting raised by the likes of chef Vikram Garg, who just opened his latest venture, UMI at Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani. His culinary oeuvre draws from myriad influences and marries unique local flavors and ingredients as he delights palates with a new menu featuring dishes like … fish and chips (like none you’ve ever experienced). Find out more in “Mother Ocean” on page 108.

Rounding out this sweetest of summer issues are looks at a few hidden gems, from Kaua‘i waterman and photographer Mike Coots’ new book honoring sharks and their graceful beauty (“Deep Dive,” page 40) to an amber-tinged look at some exquisite — and sometimes difficult to acquire — bourbon bottles that are waiting for a sip as we enjoy the golden glow of dusk (“Top of the Barrel,” page 116). Enjoy the summer months!

Aloha,
Margie Jacinto, Publisher