Touched by the People of Hawaii

Sure, Hawaii is paradise. We all know this. A ka-billion tourists arrive in the islands each year and love the sand, sun and swaying coconut trees. But do the tourists meet the real people of the islands?

Who are the real people and where do they live? What do they do? A tourist friend once looked at my photos and then asked me, “Where do the natives live?” as if to suggest that the “Hawaiian Tribe” was tucked away in some inaccessible remote valley where dinosaurs still roam. The truth is, Hawaiian people are just about the friendliest, warmest, most outwardly loving folks you will ever find on this planet. From the four-year-old hula girl who will approach you with a kiss on your cheek, to the massive “local” man who might intimidate you just by his size – the island culture is based on family, respect, honor, giving, and trust.

Never be shy to approach a Hawaiian. Your own sincerity and smile will be reflected back to you with aloha.