8 Things to Know Before Going to Hawaii

Even though U.S. citizens don’t need a passport to visit Hawaii, going there is almost like going to a different country, which is a beautiful thing. Not only is the food different and the way people dress different, but there are also languages and cultural differences that have been around for hundreds of years. Here are some etiquette tips for people who are going to Hawaii and like to jump right in.

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Learn to respect the time in Hawaii

The people who live there have gotten so good at relaxing that it’s part of everything they do. Don’t ever expect someone to show up when you said they would. Even though Hawaii has the worst traffic in the United States, this idea still works on the road. People think that honking is very rude and shouldn’t be done. It’s probably best to just chill out and let yourself experience the islands’ real, easygoing vibe.

Things to Know Before Going to Hawaii - Travel Pixy — Refreshing Times | © Alex Perez / Unsplash

The sun isn’t kind.

Don’t be fooled by all the people crowding Waikiki Beach. The sun isn’t as nice as it looks. Hawaii is way out in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, so the sun is much stronger here than in other places. The trade winds that blow across the islands make the heat and sun seem less intense. Those who don’t take steps to avoid getting sunburned will quickly realize their mistake after a day at the beach. It’s much better to stay safe when you’re outside and save money for aloe vera bottles later.

Don’t rebel.

Hiking trails have signs for a reason. Even paradise has its own natural dangers, so it is important to take precautions. If you’re not sure where to go or what to do, don’t be afraid to ask a local. They care about their land and animals just as much as surfers do about their perfect waves. You wouldn’t want to hurt the feelings of Hawaiian gods like Pele.

Honor the land

Taking care of the land is a very important part of Hawaiian culture. For people who live there, especially those who are descended from native Hawaiians, the land is something they borrow and do not own. Because of this belief, Hawaii has been able to keep its famously green and beautiful scenery. Don’t throw trash on the ground or you’ll be judged harshly and maybe even fined.

Shoes are up to you.

The idea behind “Casual Friday” came from Hawaii’s “Aloha Friday,” which was a good idea. With such a laid-back vibe, you’ll see people walking, biking, and boarding barefoot along the beaches and in the surrounding areas. Once someone crosses a threshold, the flip-flops come out, but being inside is overrated when the weather is so nice every day.

People speak more than just English.

Versions of the Hawaiian language have been passed down for a long time, and it is still spoken today. It’s a sign of good manners to learn how to say “aloha” and “mahalo.” Getting to know other, more complicated Hawaiian phrases will show the locals that you are trying to learn about their culture. It might even give you an advantage when you’re trying to get a table at a busy restaurant.

You should also try to get a general understanding of “pidgin.” This slang language started on sugarcane plantations, where native Hawaiians and people who spoke English, Japanese, Filipino, Portuguese, and Cantonese had to find a way to talk to each other. But, unlike Hawaiian, it’s best to just try to understand pidgin instead of trying to speak it.

Food to go is always the best.

Most of the time, the best food on the islands of Hawaii is not served on white tablecloths in Waikiki’s fancy restaurants. It takes a real foodie to go out and try the food in a new place. With a little bit of curiosity, it’s not hard to find the best local food in Hawaii. On the beaches and in the markets of the islands of Hawaii, you can find unique food trucks and stands, each with its own tasty food. The hard part is trying all of them.

Figure out how to do the “shaka”

The “shaka” started in Hawaii and has spread to every surf town in the world. It’s not clear where it came from, but most surf historians point to a Hawaiian fisherman who had an accident and lost his three middle fingers. The shaka can be used almost any time two people talk to each other. There is never a wrong time to use it, whether you are saying goodbye to your best friend or thanking the clerk at the 7-Eleven. The shaka can be used everywhere, just like Visa.

Topic: 8 Things to Know Before Going to Hawaii

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