30 Things Tourists Should Never Do in Hawaii

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Respect the Elders

Source: https://www.catholiccharitieshawaii.org/

Hawaiians give high esteem to their elders. In Hawaiian tradition, there is great respect for elders (kupuna) which surpasses any feelings of individuality. Kupuna were respected as keepers of wisdom and knowledge. As a tourist, it is best that you show deference and make an effort to do so as well. All the older people go in front of you and hold the doors open for them. Show respect to everyone you meet and greet them by saying “Aloha.”Aloha, is a Hawaiian word used when greeting or parting from someone. However, it holds a deeper meaning for native Hawaiians. As Herb Kane, artist, writer and co-founder of the Polynesian Voyaging Society, defines aloha the following way: “An unquestioning friendship and desire to share, developed within the ‘ohana (family) but extended to all persons of good will, aloha has been variously defined as affection, compassion, mercy, sympathy, civility, kindness and charity. It is given without restraint or ulterior motive, and it is expressed with a geniality which springs from one who is secure in his society and his environment.”