Hey Mike. From what I've heard, Kona Coffee and Tea on Hwy 19 between the airport and the city has the best to offer in coffee, while Lava Java on Alii way has "espresso". I spent a few days with Miguel Meza of Hula Daddy Coffee, and we got to cup the first "official" batch of comercially Natural Processed" Kona, which was a treat to say the least. Also, over in by the black sand beaches about an hour and half out, I spent the day with Lorrie Obra on her farm, who is experimenting with dry pulp fermentation techniques. I'm leaving tomorrow morning at 6, otherwise I'd love to meet up with you and show you around. Good luck finding decent coffee in Kona, and enjoy the beautiful weather!

Hi there, hows it going?

sorry for the delay...glad u guys enjoyed the coffee. I will have to try and send u guys better samples and not so many blends. Let me know when ur ready for them.

Hey Mike, got the pdf via email, thanks for that. Will read through it over the next day or so and for sure give you a buzz back via email.

Hi Mike, I am sorry to say it but yet again I can not download the file. Its probably due to the slow connection speed my end I suspect. Could you email me at alun@merdekacoffee.com? Cheers

thanks for the comments, Mike. Yeah, it will be a challenge, but I've worked in the F&B and hospitality industry for many, many years. Also, I took a great course from Matt at the ABC school that helped immensely. Definitely send your sister by once I open... I'll be sure to let EVERYONE know when that happens!

The competition starts the week of 10/20 and the winners will be announced 10/24. The results will be posted on our page and on this blog (in development) http://fairtradecuppingcompetition.blogspot.com/

I don't think its to hard to get a work permit. I have an immigration company doing all the work, so its been real easy for me.

My internship was with Mike Roberts in Panajachel Guatemala. Check out his site and there's a section on internships. http://www.crossroadscafepana.com/
I rented my own little apartment that was about $10 a day. I ate almost all of my meals with Mike and his family, they are very generous and have a great sense of hospitality. Check out the site, email him, and you can work out something to fit your needs if you're interested. I personally had a fantastic experience and think it was worth every penny.

Good luck. Maybe I can help you one day soon.

Mike,
For whatever reason if you're in Sacramento, gimme a ring and I'll show you whats up!

Wow, did you get a chance to have a beverage? We had mixed emotions about turnout but still had a lot of fun. If you did stop for one can

Wow, did you get a chance to have a beverage? We had mixed emotions about turnout but still had a lot of fun. If you did stop for a bev, what did you think?

It was great talking with you guys this weekend. I don't know if you had a chance to make it by the shop or not, if so, hope the offerings are tasty. Now that I know where your blog is, I'll have to track your adventures!!!

Hey mike, can you check the link you posted- cant get it to open. Might b something missing off the /coffeeresume ending?? Cheers

Gidday Mike, seems that there is sometimes a problem with computers with a different version of flash player- thats what the IT guy told me anyway. Pity you can not open the site- we have a lot of info there. Flick me an email with your resume, I will email back with more details re the position. Cheers

Thanks man. It was a good topic. What shop or company do you working for or own?

Ah, my pleasure Mike. I love "slow" coffee. cheers

Mike- your right I do need more friends, thanks for offering your hand and I will take you up in your offer. when our paths cross we can talk.