Aloha Spirit
The Hawaii airport lei greeting is one of the most treasured Hawaiian customs, conveying much cultural significance through the “Aloha” spirit. It is not just a form of welcome but has more profound connotations of adopting a way of living based on loving and respecting fellow human beings. Many other emotions are conveyed when two leis are exchanged between people who desire to express love, hospitality, appreciation, and festivity. In addition, orchids are used to represent wealth, love, and beauty, which further adds meaning to the act.
Custom Steeped in History
The traditional Hawaii lei greeting extends back in history to when glamorous visitors first arrived by cruise ship and were greeted on land by native Hawaiian maidens. Dubbed the “Journey of Memories,” this ceremonial welcome invites you to immerse yourself in a rich Aloha culture, where warm welcomes await you, as with thousands of others for generations past.
Types of Lei Greets
Experience REAL—living aloha, with our exquisite lei greeting options or Hilo airport flowers. Choose from our Standard, single strand or Deluxe, double strand lei greeting option to best suit your preference. Each lei is delicately handmade with the freshest flowers, breathtakingly capturing the essence of Hawaii. Upon arrival at the baggage claim area, your personal greeter will present you with your handpicked lei, welcome you home, and brighten your eyes with a gleaming Hilo greeting “Aloha.”
Available at Multiple Airports
Our services are available at various airports in the following locations within Hawaii:
- Honolulu (Oahu-HNL)
- Kahului (Maui-OGG)
- Lihue (Kauai-LIH)
- Kona (Big Island, Hawaii-KOA)
Significance of Lei Greetings
It’s what happens on arrival in Hawaii, much more than getting off the plane, that it’s being met from the outset by the spirit of Aloha. The traditional lei greeting reflects the warmth and hospitality of the Hawaiian Islands, wrapping you in the spirit of aloha so that worries fade, and you’re left with a lasting impression upon arrival in the islands of Hawaii.
The Cultural Significance of Lei
The lei is an ancient tradition that has found a niche in the rich tapestry of Hawaiian culture and history over many generations. It finds its roots among the early Polynesian travelers with varied materials having gone into the construction, including flowers, leaves, shells, seeds, nuts, feathers, and even bones and teeth. These gorgeous garlands didn’t only decorate the ancient Hawaiians’ outfits. They used them to signify the standing of the wearer in society and even as a way of respect. Of all lei types, the Maile lei held the biggest meaning. It would largely influence peace treaties and forge alliances between sworn enemy chiefs.
Modern-day Lei Greetings
This quaint tradition of presenting leis as an act of greeting is deeply rooted in the culture of Hawaii and has grown over time into a very firm gesture of hospitality, warmth, and respect. Colorful and fragrant leis present arriving visitors with the spirit of warm Aloha. This nice gesture says much about the enchanting beauty and vast cultural heritage of the Hawaiian Islands. More than anything, it is a classic representation of the age-old traditions of love, respect, and togetherness in Hawaiian culture.
The Etiquette of Being Lei-d
There is, however, some cultural etiquette attached to this wonderful gesture when you are being lei-d. A lei symbolizes love and acceptance, so you should always offer to accept one graciously. If you decline the offer of a lei, you are also declining the wholesome attitudes of the person presenting it to you. The proper way to wear a lei is to slip it over the shoulder so that the flowers tumble down on both the front and back sides. If, for some reason, you need to remove the lei, do not do so in the presence of the person who has given it to you. If at all possible, remove it discreetly when he or she is out of sight.
The Lei in Special Occasions
Lei giving is a part of Hawaiian culture and a practice. These are given during special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, graduations, among other special events, to the celebrant or honoree. It is quite common to see a graduating senior laden with so many leis that his or her face becomes hidden, which underscores the significance given to lei in special events and transitions in life in Hawaii.
The Lei and the Spirit of Aloha
The Aloha feeling so typical of Hawaiian culture represents much more than a concept used for salutations. The term Aloha means love, compassion, and deep respect for peace toward others and the world. The deep philosophy, though expressed in one word, is really an expression representing a way of life that is intrinsic to the very fabric of the Hawaiians.
Probably one of the most recognized and endearing customs in Hawaiian culture would have to do with lei giving. The lei itself, more often made from bright flowers, shells, or other natural materials, becomes a manifest of Aloha. Provided it is given with a lei, then it all is these smiles: warmth, acceptance, hospitality. This priceless act of giving and receiving your lei is what makes up this very strong manifestation or representation—for that matter—of the values or spirits which encompass aloha.
Every flower, every knot of a lei brings the spirit of aloha—all reminders that speak to the great, selfless regard and love the Hawaiian people hold toward each other and their visitors. It is symbolic of bonding, community feeling—so basic in the way of life for Hawaiians.
In other words, lei-giving not only speaks Aloha but radiates the intrinsic warmth and sincerity of the people of Hawaii. The custom is a really beautiful expression of the Aloha—that spirit which reminds all of love, peace, and hospitality that signifies Hawaiian culture.
Plan Your Trip to Hawaii
As you plan for your trip to the Hawaiian Islands, consider starting just right by first throwing in a proper lei greeting. Beautiful and significant, this can really set the tone for many of the other vacation activities—the simple act of being awarded a warm welcome that envelops one with true hospitality and generosity. This will make your holiday truly special, be it for the first or fifth time visiting the islands.
Exploring the Islands of Hawaii
Hawaii is a beautiful paradise that addresses the interests of nature lovers, culture seekers, and adventure seekers all at once. These captivating Hawaiian Islands hold numerous experiences that invite visitors to lose themselves in the alive urban pulse of Oahu, luxuriate in peaceful romance on Maui, or discover the unknown beauty of Lanai and Molokai. Each island will provide them with the opportunity to view magnificent landscapes: tall volcanoes, huge canyons, falling waterfalls, and unforgettable beaches. Besides, it will reveal to them native Hawaiian culture, arts, and history, thus both enriching and memorable.
Popular And Demanded Places of Visit
The popular travel destinations demanded by tourists in Hawaii include:
- Honolulu: Known for its vibrant food scene, gorgeous beaches, and adventurous hikes.
- Kauai: With its green landscapes, beautiful beaches, and dramatic landscapes, it is almost a paradise.
- Maui: This island is for everyone. It offers great beaches, excellent snorkeling spots, and amazing whale watching.
- Big Island: It’s laid back, with volcanoes and the chance to snorkel or dive with manta rays.
First Time Traveler’s Tips
If you ever plan to take your first journey to Hawaii, then here are the major things you need to keep in mind:
- Knowing their distinct geography will help in ensuring you get the most out of your visit through deciding on destinations that best suit your purposes and needs.
- Get this feeling of adventure; explore more than one place, try different landscapes, meet other people, and enjoy the many attractions in Hawaii.
- Relish the varying tastes of Hawaiian cuisine brought about by several culinary influences.
- Be enriched with the diversified culture of Hawaii with easy trouble and patience to learn local customs and traditions so as to perfect the appreciation of the beauty of the islands.
Welcome to your Hawaii adventure with a lei greeting, the classic expression of Aloha that defines warm hospitality and captures the friendly essence of the islands. From first-time visitors to returning guests, a lei greeting instantly sets a tone for a truly memorable and treasured Aloha State experience.
Ready To Experience The True Essence Of The Big Island?
Begin your Hawaii adventure with a lei greeting at Hilo Airport—a perfect way to immerse yourself in the spirit of Aloha from the moment you arrive. Whether you’re exploring the volcanoes or soaking in the serene beaches, make your trip extra special with a vacation package that includes all the best of Hilo and beyond.
Secure your Hawaii trip package today and let the Big Island welcome you in style!
