There are few places on earth where the people of a region literally love the land. I’m talking en masse – not just a few individuals but many, many people – and for a long period of time. In the case of Hawai’i – it’s been hundreds of years. Most visitors to the Islands of Hawai’i may not know why they “enjoy it so much,” or “love the experience.”

I believe it’s very simple – it’s because native Hawaiians respect the land (Aloha ‘Aina), the ocean, the waves, the inhabitants of the ocean, the sand, the trees, flowers, the animals, etc.  Most visitors do not understand why they feel better while there. They assume it’s because of isolation, the sand, roaring surf, cool Pacific breezes, a naturally slower pace, or a myriad of other factors  – each one personal and specific to an individual.  Truly it’s centered about a simple but very important word, “Aloha.” This word, meaning  breath of life, is the connection between native Hawaiians and  the land, ocean and sky. I liken it to the relational connection between a husband and wife.

I suspect it’s the reason that Hawai’i has the highest number of repeat visitors of any leisure destination in the world. Whatever the reason(s), please respect it – it’s the crown jewel of the Pacific.

Aloha and mahalo for reading my blog.