photo by luisa

Hawaii, “The Aloha State,” lies in the central Pacific Ocean. It is the southernmost part of the United States and the only island state, being a volcanic archipelago of 130 islands, islets, and shoals that extends for 1,600 miles. The eight main islands — Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe, Maui, and Hawaii (the Big Island)— each have distinctive landmarks and geology. The Polynesian explorers who originally settled the islands called them “the Land of Raging Fires.” Captain James Cook of England discovered them in 1778. By 1900 Hawaii was a US territory, and in 1959 it became the 50th state of the Union.

The capital and largest city is Honolulu, on Oahu. The second-largest city is Hilo, on the Big Island. Honolulu is 2,400 miles from the West Coast of the mainland. People from many different backgrounds live in Hawaii, including Native Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Samoan, Filipino, African-American, Inuit, Tahitian, Tongan, European, Puerto Rican, and Korean.

The islands lie just south of the Tropic of Cancer and the climate is tropical, cooled in many parts by trade winds or higher elevations. Aside from the urban center of Honolulu, and coastal developments such as Waikiki and Kihei, most of the state is an unspoiled natural paradise, and tourism is a vital part of the economy. A strong military presence and agriculture, especially pineapple and sugar production, also contribute.

The islands are a gentle place, with a happy atmosphere. Locals are relaxed, friendly, and hospitable. The traditional flower lei greeting is just the beginning. Hawaiians share the welcoming aloha spirit quite easily with visitors. Those coming from frenetic urban lifestyles have the hardest time acclimatizing to the pace. Akamai malahinis (clever newcomers) sit on a lanai (porch or veranda) and unwind with some ono pupus (delicious appetizers).