The flames on the tiki torch dance in the warm, evening breeze while the thick, rich scent of island flowers fills the night air and gentle sounds of quiet waves lap the beach. Ahhhh . . . its paradise!

Ah, what can be better than the flames of a bamboo tiki torch dancing in the warm, evening breeze while at the same time its rich, thick aroma of island paradise is filling the nigh air!
If you are one of the fortunate few to actually live in the tropics by the beach then this is an everyday feeling for you. But for most of us we have to imagine being by the ocean hearing the gentile waves lap the beach and dream that we are living in paradise.
One of the best ways to capture this feeling is outdoor tiki torches. There are few items that are in fact better at setting this kind of mood. They are a perfect addition to any home or party you have in mind. What is a tropical paradise, real or unreal, without them. An outdoor tiki torch just makes everything come together so well. Whether you want to place them in your backyard garden, on your deck, surrounding your front patio, or have them line your entryway its a tiki torch that will make all of these things around your home complete.
Who knew how popular these items would become in our modern age when Europeans first came into contact with Polynesian people 200 years ago. These tiki torches were primarily used as a source of natural light for many on the islands. They were made from bamboo and fueled with oil. Their design is actually quite simple and one torch can stay lit for hours.
Now there are a lot more options available to the public. You can find tiki torches that are made from many different types of materials and there are about four different types of fuel you can use (citronella, propane gas, solar, electricity)
So are you convinced that you want to purchase one of these magnificent items? Here is how you start.
First, you need to decide which style you want. Some people have tastes that are more eclectic or art deco. In this case you would want ceramic tiki torches, which are usually pretty colorful. Just be careful because ceramic torches can break easily if not handled correctly and you want to use extreme caution when cleaning and storing them.
If you are a futuristic or green type of person you might want to think about solar tiki torches. These particular ones run on natural sunlight and store energy during the daytime to be used latter on at night.

Traditional person? Go with the classic bamboo torches which never has failed anyone. They are light, soothing, and very durable.
Second, another decision: do you prefer a traditional torch that goes in the ground, floor standing, table top, or deck rail attachments.
Third, as mentioned there are different fuel sources for you to choose from. Quite recently they have come out with ones that are battery powered with no flame. While I personally am not a fan of these, as I light the flame, they can be uses outdoors and indoors. If you have small children around a battery powered tiki torch many be a really smart option. You can also choose citronella oil (which keeps the bugs away), propane gas, solar power, and electricity (these must be professionally installed with the cord covered and out of the way).

No matter if you want to make a jungle theme or a ocean side beach theme tiki torches are exciting and fun for everyone. They can accommodate whatever mood you are in. They remind me of a really dependable and good friend who you can always be yourself around. Even if you think you are Tarzan, pounding your chest and swinging from your trees!
