Hawai'i 101

Here is some basic info about Hawaii for you!

First off, I live in Hawaii, the state, on Hawaii, The Big Island. Subtle but distinct difference. There are eight islands.

I live in Waimea. (Northern bit of the island. Right in the middle.) It's chilly, windy and rainy. Typically about 15 degrees colder, more or less, than the coast. Hour drive to Kona (West coast. middle).

Hawaiian Language-

Aloha- Pretty much anything positive. Greetings, love....all that jazz.

Mahalo- Thank you

'ohana- family. Like Lilo & Stitch

keiki- children

honu- sea turtle

Mele Kalikimaka- Merry Christmas!

It is custom to remove your shoes before you enter someone's house.

Adults are more often referred to by children as Auntie or Uncle, rather than Mr. or Mrs.. The receptionist at my school is Auntie Lani, and the custodian, who I love very dearly, is Uncle Hapi.

POG

Passion Orange Guava Juice. It's pretty much everywhere. And it's to die for. Seriously, go buy some right now. Most grocery stores carry it.

Shaka - pretty much an "all good" greeting gesture. You might think you're being insulted, but you're not. You will see it everywhere.

Another traditional greeting/farewell/thanksgiving gesture is a hug and kiss on the cheek.


Flip-flop sandals are called slippers. Or slippahs, if you want to sound authentic and cool.

That's it for now! Any questions?