When you think about Hawaii, the first things that probably come to mind are paradise, hula dancers, luaus, and leis, right? That does pretty much sum up the basics about Hawaii. As if these things weren’t enough, there is more to Hawaii than meets the eye.
Hawaii is filled with legend and steeped in tradition, as well. Here is a sampling of some interesting things you really don’t need to know about Hawaii, but are fun just the same.
It’s all relative
If you have moved to Hawaii from elsewhere and even lived there for a decade or two, you don’t get to hold the title of true Hawaiian. You see, it doesn’t matter how long you have lived there, it matters, however, if you have ancestry that dates back to your roots in order to be known as an authentic Hawaiian.
Kona and coffee go together like a hand and glove
If you love coffee, you can thank Hawaii for its contribution. The United States gets its coffee from its own country – right from Hawaii – as compared to the numerous other countries from which the United States must also depend on for its coffee supply.
Kona is one of the more expensive coffees and rightfully so – with benefit-rich soil to grow in thanks to the volcanoes, this coffee is a contribution on two levels – first in its taste and second that the United States has privy to it.
Hawaii pays homage to royalty every year
Although part of the United States, Hawaii is steeped in tradition and holds true to its beliefs. Every year, Hawaii pays homage to King Kamehameha, their king.
The Hula is not for women only
If you think about hula dancers, chances are that you envision women in grass skirts. However, men are and have been hula dancers, as well. Numerous legends report that both men and women performed the hula from the beginning in order to pay homage to the volcanic goddess Pele.
Regardless of who started it, you can still find both men and women performing the hula for spiritual reasons, for entertainment and for tourism.
Life expectancy is longer
While Disney may be the happiest place, Hawaii may be the place for longevity. Studies are showing that the life expectancy in Hawaii is longer and for good reasons:
- Fresh local fish
- Plenty of exotic fruits
- Fresh air and plenty of sunshine
- And a happy easygoing way of life and an equally cheerful attitude to go along with it
If you thought visiting Hawaii was a good idea before, now you have a list of more interesting and fun facts to be more charmed by all that Hawaii is.
