Shangri-La

The term Shangri-La is often used in a similar context to Utopia to represent a paradise hidden from modern man. It is sometimes used as an analogy for a lifelong quest or something elusive that is much sought after. It originates from James Hilton's Lost Horizon, written in 1933.

On my trip to Hawaii this last week, I had the great pleasure of visiting Honolulu's own Shangri-La--that belonging to the late Doris Duke (as in Duke University). While her back story is very interesting, I wanted to share some images from the beautiful property. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take pics of the interior, but I did get some of the verdant grounds. For more info about Doris Duke, you can go here.

(Above) The front entrance: understated and private

    

 

         The front door                                                    A view of the interior from the front

 The back veranda

A mosaic arch leads to the Moon Garden, while on the other end is an amazing view of the ocean

           

A spectacular view of Diamond Head                                       The pool and guest house    

 

An overlook to the passageway outside Doris Duke's bedroom.

 The other side of Ms. Duke's bedroom. This is a lawn that overlooks the ocean.
Overall it was a memorable tour and I would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Honolulu!

"Gentlemen, I give you a toast. Here's my hope that

 Robert Conway will find his Shangri-La. 

Here's my hope that we all find our Shangri-La" 

-Lost Horizon the movie, 1937