Hawaii!
Just about every American dreams of going their at least once in their lives. The amazing pictures that flood travel pamphlets, websites, and films and TV shows just beckon to every viewer with tantalizing images of a tropical paradise. The sandy beaches, the wind-blown palm trees, drinks served out of pineapples and coconuts, dancers bedecked in flower leis and floral clothing, massive golf courses, and luaus with bonfires and roasted pig almost seem like another world altogether.
I've been working around the islands over the last year, and I took time where I could to study the culture and the ports we visited. Is Hawaii as magical as it seems?
Let's find out!
A Brief Synopsis of Hawaiian History
The Hawaiian Islands were originally uninhabited when they were formed by volcanic activity. They were eventually colonized by Polynesians venturing out to explore the islands throughout the Pacific. The individual islands were each their own kingdom until King Kamehameha I unified the islands as the Hawaiian Islands.
And then...the English came.
For a more information regarding the history of the Hawaiian islands, check out this informational site.
The Main Islands
Hawaii is comprised of dozens of minor islands, islets, and its major islands of Ni'ihau, Kaua'i, O'ahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, Kaho'olawe, and the Big Island of Hawaii, bringing the number to approximately 137 total. The capitol city of Honolulu is on the island of O'ahu, with its previous capitol of Lahaina being on Maui. The most active volcano in the world, Kilauea, is on the Big Island, and when it erupts, the lava flow causes the island to grow in mass.
Each island is tropical but does have its own form of uniqueness. The four main islands, O'ahu, Maui, Kaua'i andHawaii, the Big Island, are the ones tourists will most likely be visiting. Here's my overview of each of these main islands.
O'ahu
As stated earlier, O'ahu is the island most people wind up visiting due to Honolulu also being the main hub of air transportation between the islands. Of all the islands, O'ahu is the most metropolitan with Honolulu looking very similar to many major US cities with the exception of Waikiki Beach. If you're looking to stay here, most of the hotels and lodgings are in the Waikiki area.
Other major cities on this island include Pearl City, Waipahu, Kailua, Kaneohe, and Mililani Town. This island has the best balance between urban setting and natural beauty, working best for travelers who want to start the day exploring the landscape and end it with shopping and great dining.
Recommended Must-Sees
Diamond Head - the iconic volcanic crater that can be seen from Waikiki includes an amazing view and short hike. There are entry fees and you need to make a reservation to visit, but it's a quick adventure for all ages to enjoy.
The Punchbowl - another nearby crater that won't take much time to visit. Also recommended is the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific nearby when you can pay your respects to victims of Pearl Harbor. Either place will offer spectacular views of Honolulu.
Pearl Harbor - the site of the infamous WWII attack that brought the US into the war. One of the most popular tourist attractions in the state, you will want to bring Kleenex or handkerchiefs with you.
Waikiki Beach - though the beaches and all the parking spaces tend to be completely full, it's the most popular beach in Hawaii and worth spending some time at. This area also has some of the best hotels, shops, and restaurants on the island.
Koko Crater Rim Trail - a difficult 2.5 mile hike that was converted from an old military rail. From the recommendation of a local, it's a great place to watch the sunrise.
The Polynesian Cultural Center - another activity highly recommended by locals, it's an immersive experience into the Polynesia culture, including tours, shows, and even a luau! It's nearly a full day's visit and an hour drive outside of Honolulu, but a one-of-a-kind experience.
Kualoa Ranch - want to check out Jurassic Park? Kualoa Ranch is one of the primary filming locations for the Jurassic Park films, and offers a plethora of activities to choose from!
The North Shore - not only are some of the world's biggest surfing competitions held here, there are also glorious beaches and waterfalls to check out. It is a good spot on the island that balances adventures and relaxation.
Maui
Maui has the most diversity with its towns. This is the one island I've explored the most of, and most of that is thanks to its bus system. The island's largest city, Kahului, is a mostly industrial city that is notable for its focus on food trucks and its central bus terminal at the Queen Ka'ahumanu Center. You can go to just about anywhere from here for only $2 each way or only $4 for a day pass (cash only, though for the time being the routes are free)!
Maui is the windiest island as it is in the direct path of trade winds coming from the northeast, which makes it one of the best places on the islands to go kite or windsurfing. It is called the "valley island" with the west side of the island is the West Valley Mountains, and on the east is Haleakala. Despite this, it is also the island with the least amount of rainfall, so there are almost desert-like areas here as well. Maui may be less urban than Oah'u, but it makes up for that in its unique landscape.
In recent news, the historic city of Lahaina has tragically been destroyed due to fires. If you would like to donate to aid relief efforts, please go to United Maui Way.
Recommended Must-Sees
The Road to Hana - the locals may know this road like the back of their hands, but take a bus up this ridiculously winding road for some incredible views. Buckle up and hold on!
Snorkeling in the Molokini Crater - snorkeling is a popular activity among the islands, but none so popular as the Molokini crater. It is a submerged dormant volcano that is home to scads of marine life that makes for an astounding experience!
The Barmuda Triangle - if it's night life you're looking for, Kihei is the best place for it. The Barmuda Triangle is a center with bars, dancing, and live music for the travelers who want to party into the night.
South Maui Gardens - these gardens are open 6 days a week and have a dozen food trucks. Come over here to try some delicious street food in the shade of some lovely landscapes. There's even a tortoise that calls the gardens his home!
Paia Fish Market - if you like hippie-style beach towns that has local shops instead of catering toward tourists, Paia makes for a wonderful little layover. Everyone will recommend the Fish Market, one of the best places to try seafood throughout the islands. My personal recommendation: the calamari!
Haleakala - this being the highest peak in Maui, it offers some of the most incredible sunrises and sunsets in the world! But if you go to either, keep in mind that this is one of the coldest areas in the islands, so bundle up and bring a windbreaker, because you are gonna freeze!
Iao Valley Monument State Park - this beautiful, lush area of the island offers history, incredible short hikes, waterfalls, and wildlife. Cloud cover is common in this area, but still bring the sunscreen. Reservations are required for non-HI residents.
Ululani's Shave Ice - Hawaii's #1 shave ice joint has multiple locations across the islands and now the mainland, but has most of its locations in Maui. Be ready to experience one of the best local dessert experiences around!
Maui Ocean Center - an amazing aquarium and museum that offers so much more than just showing off various kinds of fish. You'll get to see sharks, turtles, and a one-of-a-kind 3D film about humpback whales that will blow your mind (see this one before any of the other exhibits!). There's also a shopping center immediately adjacent that has some decently-priced restaurants.
Hawaii the Big Island
It may be the biggest island, but most of the cities are spaced are more remotely. The biggest cities are Hilo and Kailua-Kona, the latter of which was also a former capitol city. Hawaii has just about every type of climate you can think of, even snow! Hawaii is home to two of its main volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, both of which are at high enough altitudes to receive a decent dusting of snow in the wintertime.
Speaking of Mauna Loa and Kea, the other three major volcanoes are Kilauea, Hualalai, and Kohala, the latter being the only one that is not currently active. Mauna Kea and Kilauea recently had some eruptions, and due to their activity, the surrounding areas aren't populated due to potential lava flow. It makes for a beautiful yet deadly landscape.
The volcanic activity can sometimes make travel to this island hazardous, but it's worth checking regardless. The waters on the western side are a deep, unique shade of blue that is referred to as "Kona blue," and is crystal clear for you to see fish and other wildlife. If you're going to snorkel on any of the islands, do it on the western side of the island.
The eastern side of the island is among the wettest places on the earth. Some days it can downpour all day, while others can see a sprinkling at random times and sun or partly cloudy skies the rest of the day. Regardless, bring an umbrella and wear appropriate shoes wherever you go here.
Recommended Must-Sees
Downtown Hilo - a historic area that is almost a picture of what life on the island was like in the 1950s. There are shops, museums, and another one of the best shave ice joints, Kula. It is also renown for its farmers and flea markets with local produce and small businesses. And avocados the size of melons.
Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden - these botanical gardens are the best on the island. It may take a while to go through them so have a few hours reserved when you come by here.
Rainbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and the Boiling Pots - Hawaii is known for having incredible waterfalls, and here are some of the best they have to offer. Located outside of Hilo, Rainbow Falls and the Boiling Pots (also called Pe'epe'e Falls) are within walking distance of each other, while Akaka Falls is more remote but easily the best waterfall of the three. There are other waterfalls nearby, and the link will give you more information if you would like to see those as well.
Big Island Candies - located in Hilo, the main factory of this candy shop boasts some of the best sweets. Whether it's chocolate covered macadamia nuts, dipped shortbread cookies, or coffee you're looking for, they have plenty of unique treats to tickle your taste buds. There's also the Manono Marketplace across the street that is fun to check out too. If you can't make this location, there's another in Honolulu at the Ala Moana Mall.
Kailua-Kona - Kailua-Kona is a beautiful seaport with the clearest waters in the US and some of the tastiest coffee you'll find. This city has incredible shops, the Kona Brewing Company, and some of the best snorkeling adventures you can seek out. And the airport is one of the only open-air airports in existence!
Kealakekua Bay - this bay can only be reached by sea, and is another one of the best snorkeling areas in the world. This particular grotto was used as inspiration for the Great Barrier Reef design in Finding Nemo. It also has the Captain Cook Monument that can only be viewed from the sea.
Volcanoes National Park - want to see lava tubes and volcanic activity? You'll get to see both Mauna Loa and Kilauea up close and personal!
Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park - a preserved ancient grounds that served as a refuge for wrongs either done to them or that they had done. It provides a very interesting view of how the Hawaiians dealt with justice back in the day.
Green Sand Beach - there are black sand beaches across the islands that are worth visiting, but a green sand beach? How does that happen? Come drop by this beach town at the Ka Lae (south point) of the island to experience this unique feature!
Kaua'i
The Garden Isle, as it's also known, is the most rural of the main islands and is most often used by Hollywood for filming locations. Also one of the rainiest places in the world, this lush island is home to incredible mountain views and canyons, creating magnificent waterfalls in the process. This is the place for adventurers who want to be enveloped by the natural beauty first hand by hiking throughout the scenery.
Most of the cities are located along the coast with roads going around most of the island, until the Na Pali Coastline is reached. This location is unreachable and impassible by car, but can be hiked or sailed to. The largest city is Lihu'e, home to the only major airport on the island. Most of the other towns around here have small shopping centers and food trucks for everyone to enjoy.
With so much space between the towns, local public transit isn't the best, and ride shares are expensive. Renting a car is not only the best time saving option, but also preferable as there are scenic overlooks on many of these roads that offer spectacular views that are often overlooked by tourist companies.
Recommended Must-Sees
Waimea Canyon - dubbed by Mark Twain as "the grand canyon of the Pacific," this breathtaking location is well worth the time to visit. The most visited area is the overlook, where you can take panoramic pictures, or you can hike the canyon and see it up close. It's not to be missed!
The Na Pali Coastline - briefly covered earlier, this world wonder should not be missed either. No matter how many times I've seen it, it consistently takes my breath away. Though able to be reached via hiking trails, the best views are from ship or by helicopter. If photography is a hobby of yours, then this is the view for you.
Fern Grotto - another hidden area, it can be reached by a boat or a canoe ride up the Wailua River. The ride itself is lovely and the grotto is incredibly beautiful. It is also a quick visit, so don't expect to spend too much time there.
The Kauai Museum - located in Lihue, the Kauai Museum is $15 for general admission and has extensive information on the history of this amazing island. There's more to Kauai than just the scenery, so come here to find out about its chieftains, religion, lifestyles, and more. It is recommended that you stay for 2 hours as most of these exhibits include substantial descriptions.
Ke Ala Hele Makalae Multi-Use Path - starting in Wailua, this path goes along the coast before merging into local roads, then becomes a coastal path again in Kapa'a. The route takes visitors past fancy resorts, shopping centers, and sublime beaches with outstanding views. Walkers and cyclists both utilize this path.
Tahiti Nui Luau - this family oriented luau has been active for several decades. Held in Hanalei, attendees are introduced to Hawaiian culture with a Tahitian flare.
Kauai Plantation Railway - a small railway that takes guests around the old sugar plantation grounds. Not only can you visit the manor on site, but you can also attend Luau Kalamaku for an exciting evening. Plus, there's an open bar that serves Koloa rum!
The McBryde and Allerton National Tropical Botanical Gardens - located in the south of the island, these gardens can take all day to go through. Full of endangered plants and garden art, the nature lover in you will have nearly unreachable standards after visiting.
Awa'awapuhi Trail - listed amongst many websites as one of the best hikes throughout the Hawaiian islands, this beautiful yet difficult trail is said to kick your butt but with opportunities to see the Na Pali Coastline up close, provided the trail hasn't eroded at all.
Hanalei Scenic Overlook - a blink and you'll miss it turnout, this incredible overlook will show you a small valley full of taro fields and untouched forests that perfectly encapsulates what Hawaii should look like.
Kauai Beach Boys Catamaran Cruise - a sunset cruise out of Nawiliwili that takes you up the Hulei'a River to view incredible mountains, historical sites, and filming locations for several movies. The cruise ends with a sunset viewing in Kalapaki Harbor. And there's an open bar! (Try drink #2)
The Minor Islands
Of the four minor islands, only three are accessible to visitors. Most tour companies don't offer as many trips to the other three, though brochures are available for day trips or excursions.
Ni'ihau
YOU AIN'T GOING HERE.
Ni'ihau is the "Forbidden Island," and nobody who visits comes back alive. This island was purchased in the 1800s by the Scottish Sinclair family who wanted to preserve the Hawaiian culture during the height of colonization. The result is Ni'ihau only being inhabited by full-blooded native Hawaiian-speaking locals who absolutely will not allow trespassers on their land. There's no electricity, no other languages spoken, and no coming back. (Source: A Peek Inside Ni'ihau)
Anyone who tries to visit is shot on sight. Seriously, don't even try going here.
Moloka'i
This history-filled island was once the location of a leper colony. In the 1800s, the King Kamehameha V banished those who were afflicted with the disease to this island, but in an odd twist of events, the colony wound up thriving and creating their own community. Molokai has a population of over 8,000 people today and is available for day tours. The locals are very welcoming to the point that Molokai has earned the nickname of "The Friendly Island." (Source: A Brief History of Moloka'i)
Molokai also has an incredible cliff range that is not as grand as Na Pali but still magnificent. The cliffs are also only accessible by helicopter or boat.
Lanai
The "Pineapple Island" was once the home of the primary Dole Pineapple Farms. Not as promoted as the other islands, this smaller Hawaiian island is mostly used for agricultural purposes. Visitors are still able to make arrangements to tour the island. (Source: Lanai History)
Kaho'olawe
The island that has the longest proven history, it was used for bombing sites by the US following WWII. Prior to this, the island was used for raising livestock. In the years since the military interference ended, efforts have been made toward restoration efforts. (Source: The Conversation: Oral History of Kaho'olawe)
Things to Do While You're Here
Travelers come to Hawaii for the beaches, the surfing, shopping, luaus, and food. There are other activities I covered such as hiking and snorkeling, but what are some other things you can do? Here's some musts!
Visit a Volcano
There aren't many places in the world where you can see volcanic activity safely. The ability to see such spectacles in such a beautiful terrain is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Zip Lining
Whether it's at a ropes course or going over the jungle, this is one of the best ways to see the local flora.
ATV Rides
There are several places where you can rent an ATV and go over the rugged terrain. Embrace your inner adrenaline junky and attack the landscape!
Filming Locations
Jurassic Park isn't the only movie that has been filmed here, there have been dozens of other films and TV shows that have used the Hawaiian Islands as their landscape. Drop by at least one to see what the magic behind the scenes looks like.
Try the Shave Ice and Dole Whips
A cold, refreshing dessert is definitely a good way to relax in the Hawaiian heat. Shave ice is often confused as the same thing as sno cones, but they very different. Shave ice is ice that is sheared to the point that it is practically a giant snowball, and flavored syrups of your choice are added to it. Sometimes they can be served with ice cream in the center, or topped with coconut or sweetened condensed milk.
Dole Whips are fruit-based desserts that are whipped to the point that they reach the consistency of soft serve ice cream. Disneyland may sell these, but you can't beat the originality of the Hawaiian whips. The most popular flavor is pineapple, and other flavors including coconut, guava, raspberry and strawberry can be found depending on the location. Try all the flavors!
Eat the Spam Musubi and Loco Moco
The food out here is delicious, but there are two dishes you should absolutely try. The spam musubi is essentially a spam sushi roll with the meat marinated in teriyaki sauce and wrapped in seaweed. It's an appetizer, but they can be addicting if you wind up liking them.
Then there's the loco moco. This is hamburger meat cooked with an egg on it, served on a bed of rice, and doused in gravy. It is a heavy duty entree that you will probably leave you needing to go for a jog after eating. But it's an absolute must over here, so try it at least once before returning home.
Learn to hula!
It's common to see hula dancers performing on beaches, in city centers, shopping malls, and luaus. Very often the dancers will open their stage to people who want to learn the basics. Take the opportunity to learn and move those hips in a way that you've never known before!
Things to Keep in Mind
One of the unique features about Hawaii is that it was a foreign country that became part of the US, therefore it has an almost equal blend of feeling like the mainland while also being different. Thus, you should do your best to respect the culture that they share without outsiders. The Hawaiians have a beautiful culture that embraces the land and family. Here are a few things you should know if you plan on staying a while.
It's Expensive!
Hawaii is one of the most popular vacation spots in the world. Being an island country, they rely on imports and trade, so most products, foods, and lodging tend to be incredibly high priced. It is definitely worth paying, but be ready to bring more cash or to spend more money than you are planning on.
No Mainland Banks
All of the banks here in Hawaii are specific to the state. You will not find any ATMs or brick-and-mortar buildings associated with any mainland banks. If you need cash, you will find standard ATMs in public areas, but the withdraw fee is high. The only other way to is do cashback from grocery stores.
Limited sidewalks
O'ahu is the island that has the most mobility in regards to walking, public transit, and bike rentals. The other islands mostly have sidewalks in their city centers, so if you are visiting a more rural town, you will likely be taking bike lanes, or needing to stay off the road entirely. Watch what routes the locals are taking and follow those, and be aware that pedestrians don't always have the right of way.
Also, don't jaywalk. They really don't like that out there, especially in Maui where you can be fined.
Tattoos
Tattoos have extreme cultural significance here in Hawaii to the point that most native Hawaiians have them. These tattoos tend include flowers, weaves, and other tribal symbols, all of which have personal meaning. If you tell one of the locals that you don't have a tattoo, they're genuinely shocked!
It's common for tourists to come here for tattoos, but if you want one for yourself, don't go for the tribal symbols. They are sacred to the locals here and are seen as taboo for people who don't fully understand what they represent.
Sunsets
Hawaii has some of the most spectacular sunsets you will see in the world, mostly because the islands are so remote. You'll be able to see the full sky and sea with all the brilliant colors due to lack of pollution. If you are a photographer, make sure to bring your most state-of-the-art camera equipment.
Endangered Species
Hawaii is a wildlife habitat for thousands of animal species, especially birds and turtles. These animals are under extreme protection laws to the point that touching them or even getting too close to them can earn you a fine up to $20,000 or more. You can take pictures as long as you maintain that distance, but don't go more than 10 ft. If you come across any of these animals and they are in need of assistance, contact the right parties to come and tend to it. Don't get close to these creatures, don't take pictures or video with them, and don't post pictures of the situation to social media, because you WILL be found.
But beware of those turtles, not only do they look a bit like sittable rocks when they're chilling on the beach, but I think they know humans aren't supposed to come near them and will often times try to approach you if you're trying to get away from them. Speaking from personal experience here, these suckers are sneaky!
Reef Friendly Sunscreen
Sunscreen sold on the mainland has chemicals as part of their ingredients that aren't harmful to humans, but do cause harm to coral reefs and sometimes even the undersea life. Make sure that the sunscreen you bring to the islands does have that stamp of being reef friendly, or wait until you arrive to buy the local products like Sun Bum and Hawaiian Tropic. They may be more expensive, but they do offer splendid coverage.
Also keep in mind that Hawaii is closer to the equator, and has a blessed lack of pollution, and therefore has more UV rays than the mainland. Have that sunscreen on hand at all times, and maybe even a hat. The top of your head will bake without it.
Rain
As mentioned, Hilo and the island of Kauai are some of the wettest places on the earth. If there are clouds in the sky, it's likely to rain. You will notice that a lot of locals wear flip flops, Crocs, and plastic sandals everywhere because they work well with the wet environment.
Depending on where you are, it may rain all day, or it may have a downpour for about 20 minutes and then be dry for the rest of the day. The rain is unpredictable, so do as the locals do and don't be afraid to go out in sandals instead of regular tennis shoes. And carry an umbrella or poncho, or have a waterproof purse or bag and just walk through the rain as is.
Leis
Back in the day, people arriving by plane would be welcomed with fresh flower leis. Unfortunately, as the years went on and thousands of people would be arriving every day, this became a supply and demand issue and the airports weren't able to accommodate the numbers. Nowadays, most leis are given to tourists at luaus. Otherwise, you can buy your own from a local stores. From grocery to gift stores, you'll find fresh flower, silk flower, ribbon, kukui nut, shell, feather, or alcohol leis, to name a few.
Now graduation is one of the highlights of the Hawaiian culture, and during that time, the families of their graduates will completely cover their grads with leis, so flower leis are a little harder to find between the months of May and June. If you do find them, they are ridiculously priced.
There's also the tradition of throwing leis into the ocean. A legend says that if you throw a flower lei into the ocean, and if it came to the shore, you would return to Hawaii, but if it went out to sea you wouldn't return. It's a cute tradition, but the string used for the lei is bad for the wildlife and can cause animals or fish to choke on it. You can cut the string and toss the flowers into the ocean for the same effect, but the string in the ocean will once again get you fined.
And one other thing:
DON'T TOUCH ANOTHER PERSON'S LEI.
This should be common sense, but many people, both men and women, don't realize that if you reach out and grab someone else's lei to look at it, that you are groping that person. Many leis hang down the wearer's front, and reaching out to touch it means you're also touching that person's chest. This is not okay, regardless of your intent. If you want a better look at the lei, ASK the person if you can see it. They will most likely oblige.
You may think people would know better, but many don't get it. Don't grope people who wear leis!!!!!!
Chickens
Whoever coined the term "chicken" as meaning coward clearly never came to Hawaii. The wild chickens that are mostly found on Maui and Kauai are vicious! They may scatter from you, but if they feel threatened at all, you are at their mercy.
If you're not used to being around chickens, just remember that they're everywhere and don't take so many pictures of them. Out here, nothing will make you stand out as a tourist more than stopping somewhere to take pictures of the chickens. Taking one or two pictures will be all you need.
They also tend to get a little friendly if you have food. Watch out for that because they can start swarming you if you toss them a few morsels. They get enough food already so don't fall for their antics.
Lava Rocks
Lava is sacred in the islands to the point that it is considered taboo to remove any such rock from the islands. If the locals traverse over lava rocks, they will thoroughly clean their shoes to make sure none are stuck in their shoes. Lava rock bracelets will often be sold in stores at flea markets, but the stones are all imported from other countries.
Trying to take any Hawaiian lava rocks can also result in a fine. Leave the magma where it hardened!
No Gambling or Duty Shops
Gambling is illegal out here! Not only are there no casinos, but there are no scratchers, lottery machines, betting on sporting events, or even bar bets. The Hawaiians take this very seriously out here, so don't ever put money on events.
Also, duty shops are not a thing at airports for domestic flights. International, yes, but if you want to bring home a bottle of Koloa rum from the airport, it won't be possible. However, it is possible to buy alcohol and store it on your stow-away luggage, though sometimes that luggage is searched and alcohol may be confiscated. If you want to chance it, don't bring too much with you.
Red and Yellow Color Schemes
It's common to see the colors red and yellow together, especially with items made up of feathers. This is because wearing red and yellow was meant to symbolize that you were royalty, as they were the official colors of the royal family. By displaying them, it is considered honoring the royal family.
Hawaiian Shirts and Dresses
What better way to show that you're on vacation than to wear amazing Hawaiian print outfits, sometimes matching? You'll find those outfits everywhere in just about every shop.
However, once you've been to about a dozen of these shops, you'll start to realize that there are the same 4 or 5 patterns all put with different color schemes, sizes, and styles. They are all beautiful and you should definitely pick one out. Despite this, they also tend to be crazy overpriced.
Hawaii is an expensive place to visit, so the quality of these outfits is not really worth paying more than $25 dollars or more for. If you come across a shop that has more unique patterns, then they are from local vendors and are worth paying the higher prices. If it's the most traditional look you're going for, check your local Ross or Wal-Mart. Most Hawaiian print dresses for women are one size fits all.
The Aloha Spirit
You know that line from Lilo and Stitch, "ohana means family?"
It's 100% relevant out here. Ohana and the family unit is part of the "aloha spirit," which is the spreading of kindness and harmony amongst all people and nature. Family and aloha is taken seriously out here and to reject that concept is a dishonor to that spirit and to the people. Remember that the Hawaiians have a long and sad history with the U.K. and U.S. Visitors should be respectful of this concept wherever they go.
Book That Vacation!
Convinced? Come to Hawaii and check it out! Right now is a contested time for vacations because the locals are torn between needing the money for the economic recovery, or want tourists to stay away to allow relief efforts to continue within any issues. Booking a trip later than sooner may be more prudent to allow the Maui recovery to progress.
Just remember that Hawaii is a culture deeply rooted in its historic roots. Make sure that you have the respect for the land and the people when you come here, because it's so much more than just the beaches and incredible landscapes. It is the Land of Aloha, and the spirit of aloha is alive and well on all of the islands.
Gifs courtesy of Giphy. All pictures were taken by me or my device and are not to be used without permission.
