Hawaiian words and names are used frequently in street and place names. The Hawaiian language is very easy to get used to. To pronounce a word begin by sounding out one syllable at a time. (Aloha= A-lo-ha) Aloha means hello, goodbye, or love. Mahalo means thank you. When directions are given Mauka means towards the mountains and Makai means towards the ocean. Kama'aina means Hawaii resident. Malahini means visitor to the islands. Hawaii Vacations
When going to the rest room look for Wahine for women and Kane for men. If some one asks you if you are pau, that means are you finished. A shaka sign is when you stick your pinkie and thumb out and fold your other three fingers down. This is a form of greeting and also means the same as a thumbs up. A flower lei can be given on any day as a symbol of love and friendship. A flower worn behind the left ear means you are taken, behind the right means you are available. A Luau is a celebration where friends and family gather and lots of food is served. Birthdays and graduations are popular reasons for a luau. Hawaii Vacations
It is customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home. Rubber slippers are a popular and practical footwear in the islands. Hang Loose is a popular local phrase that means just relax and take things slow, no worries. Pidgin is a local dialect spoken in the islands. It is like slang English with a heavy accent. It takes getting used to to be able to understand what is being said. Hawaii Vacations