Maui is a great place to go if you're looking to learn more about Hawaii history and culture. In fact, legend has it that it was the demigod, Maui, who pulled the islands from the sea and lassoed the sun from the top of Haleakala. Travelers who are interested in learning more about island lore will have plenty of opportunities to do so: A visit to the scenic Iao Valley will offer a glimpse of the tumultuous era of tribal warfare, while a stroll through the small town of Lahaina will yield a glimpse of Hawaii's whaling, plantation and trade history.
Today, Maui is one of America's most popular vacation destinations — probably because it's so drastically different from any place on the mainland. Vacationers will find all the makings of contemporary luxury at the island's resorts, but outside the hotel areas, the relaxed "Aloha spirit" permeates. If you're looking to blend in with the locals, you simply need to loosen up: Pack T-shirts, shorts and flip-flops (as well as some light layers) for everyday wear and tone down the road rage (no honking here).
Today, Maui is one of America's most popular vacation destinations — probably because it's so drastically different from any place on the mainland. Vacationers will find all the makings of contemporary luxury at the island's resorts, but outside the hotel areas, the relaxed "Aloha spirit" permeates. If you're looking to blend in with the locals, you simply need to loosen up: Pack T-shirts, shorts and flip-flops (as well as some light layers) for everyday wear and tone down the road rage (no honking here).
Folklore still plays a large role in day-to-day life, with residents paying tribute to various gods and goddesses in a number of ways — most notably hula dancing. Although visitors to the island see hula performances as entertainment, they are also a type of prayer and should be respected.
Other cultural traditions continue to influence everyday life in Maui, one of the most noticable being language. Unlike many other states, Hawaii has two official languages: English and Hawaiian, which is a member of the Polynesian language family. Though you won't have any trouble finding English-speakers, you'll benefit from learning a few basic Hawaiian phrases; "Aloha" means both "hello" and "goodbye," and "mahalo" means "thank you."
The arts are a mainstay on the island, with numerous festivals — like the one held twice a month in Lahaina's Banyan Tree Park — showcasing works by regional craftspeople. And throughout the year, Maui honors its vibrant culture through events like the Maui Steel Guitar Festival and the East Maui Taro Festival (both held in April).
If you're more interested in discovering Maui's natural wonders than its heritage, you'll find plenty of places to do so — from flower-filled jungles to underwater reefs teeming with aquatic life. However, it's important that you leave the island as you found it. Resist the urge to collect living souvenirs or to have a one-on-one encounter with local wildlife, as these could result in hefty fines or even jail time.
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