Tourism is hug in Hawaii and it’s no wonder when you consider they have stunning beaches, a rich history and many hiking trails. The islands are beautiful, the views amazing and there are so many things to do in Maui and places to see throughout the islands.Here are five things that is worth knowing before visiting Hawaii.
- Learning A Few Hawaiian Words Can Be Useful
Hawaii has two official languages – Hawaiian and English. Conditional on the airline you’re using, you may hear Hawaiian while on your way there. It is also spoken in banks, some schools and other institutions. English is the primary language, so you’ll be able to communicate once in Hawaii. However, it could be useful to know a few words in Hawaiian. Some Hawaiian words have taken the place of their English counterparts:
- Opala – means trash
- Wahine – restroom for women
- Kane – restroom for men
- E komo mai – is features on signs at various business and means welcome.
- Mauka – when locals give directions, this means towards the mountain, while,
- Makai – means towards the sea.
- Kapu – mean sacred.
- Island Time Is Not A Myth – So Loosen Up
Hawaiians drive a certain way. They don’t speed, honk their horns or rush from one destination to the next. When they drive, they let others out of their driveways, they don’t turn in front of others, and they definitely don’t cut people off. If someone takes a few seconds to start moving once the light turns green, they don’t blast their horns. This type of driving is called aloha, and if you rent a car from places like https://kailanitourshawaii.com, you must give it a try. Highway speeds are normally fifty-five miles per hour, and at some places it is even less. If you drive too fast, you will get pulled over.
- Being Respectful Of Sanctified Sites
With the deep respect that Hawaii’s occupants have for their cultural history and royalty, there are numerous sacred areas on the islands. If you notice a sign with the word Kapu, it is normally a site where royalty used to live or an ancient burial site.Many of the sites may look like a pile of rocks to us, however, they are sacred. You may also notice signs with the word heiau. This refers to Hawaiian temples. Some may be preserved, while at others there’s hardly anything left. Irrespective, whenever you notice heiau or kapu, it’s a sign of respect to don’t walk over these sites, keep your voice low, and don’t litter.
- Never Remove Anything From The Parks Or Beaches
According to the Hawaiian myth, Pele get’s angry if lava rock is taken from her. While you might be sceptical about this, there are numerous tales of people you have found themselves down on their luck once they’ve taken lava rock. Don’t remove shells, rocks, or sands from the islands either and leave the beach in the same way that you’ve found it.
- Take Off Your Shoes
You’ll notice shoe racks in from of homes and porches when visiting Hawaii. Many stores also have signs that ask customers to remove their shoes. If you are privileged by receiving an invitation to someone’s home, remember to take off your shoes before you enter the home and leave them outside. Removing your shoes is your way of showing your respect.
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