Derek Hamel doesnʻt miss a spot when getting ready to surf with friend Christopher Raymond.
Now, I’m sure those of us who have traveled and live in Hawai’i have heard stereotypes about our beautiful islands that are out of this world. But then again, there are those that are true and those that are kind of true. Let us know your thoughts, have you heard some stereotypes that just blow your mind, or some you find yourself happy with?
Here are the Top 10 stereotypes of Hawai‘i:
10. Tiki’s, plastic leis and toucans
Found throughout party stores across the nation, on commercials and even in our state, itʻs easy to find luʻau supplies, such as fake flower leis, toucans to stick in your lawn and tiki cups. But there is far more that goes into a luʻau. We actually have real flower leis and real Hawaiian food. Depending on if you’re going to a family luʻau or one that’s meant for commercial entertainment, youʻll always be in for a surprise, just not one with plastic tiki cups.
9. Do we have paved roads?
In fact, we do. Much of Honolulu is paved. There are also buildings made from cement, houses made of wood and several shopping malls.
8. How do we get around?
Well, how everyone gets around. Drive, walk, take the bus. Whichever method you please or prefer, we’ve got it covered. You just might not see too many horses and carriages heading down the street.
7. Do we wear clothes?
I certainly do! We wear clothes from Sears, Gap, Local Motion, even H&M. And women don’t wear coconut bras on a daily basis either, or walk around in grass skirts.
6. We’re laid back.
People in Hawaiʻi do have a more laid-back look on approaching situations and life. It’s a good place to go about your work and be in a more peaceful state of mind. It’s more like everyone has their own pattern of getting things done.
5. If you’re from Hawaiʻi, you’re native Hawaiian.
This is a tricky one: native Hawaiian, Native hawaiian or Native Hawaiian? Little “h” or big “n?” Which one do you use? I had to have my dad explain this to me. Native Hawaiian is also considered “kanaka maoli,” or original person. but if youʻre born in Hawaiʻi, you will be considered native hawaiian, though your bloodline may say different. That’s just the gist of it.
4. “Do you surf?”
I’ve been to the mainland, and one of the first things people ask me is, “Do you surf?”
I don’t surf, I’d love to surf, but I don’t have as much time as I’d like to spend at the beach. But, it is true, a lot of people in Hawaiʻi surf and are very skilled. In the islands, you’ll find people who have many different interests.
3. Throwing a pineapple onto something doesn’t make it “Hawaiian.”
Like pizza. Pineapple and ham is a “Hawaiian” pizza. But is it really Hawaiian? Pineapple’s aren’t native here. It only became a major crop here, so it is associated with Hawaiʻi.
2. Does everyone live in a grass shack?
Nope. Parts of the islands are highly populated with people and buildings. We’ve got a nice selection of homes, if anyone is interested in moving here. Places are a bit on the pricey side, but overall it is a beautiful place to set up house.
1. We’re friendly people.
Yes! As a matter of fact, people in Hawaiʻi are friendly. We’ll say “Hi” if we pass you walking, whether we know you or not.