A guide for new and future residents
Because of its distinctive island geography and its method of dividing land dating back to ali’i rule, Hawaii has some unique real estate terms. Before you start looking for a home on the islands, take some time to become familiar with these words that are commonly used in Hawaii’s real estate industry. ahupua’a (AH-hoo-poo-AH-ah) – … Read more
Thanks to Hawaii’s long history of immigration and ethnic diversity, its residents speak a unique form of English. You’ll hear words borrowed from Japanese, Chinese, Portuguese, and other languages. But the most prevalent non-English words you’ll hear are from the Hawaiian language, which is one of state’s two official languages (English is the other). Adding … Read more
When I wrote “35 Hawaiian Words Every New Resident Should Know” a couple months ago, I came up with so many words that I had to leave some out to keep the list to a readable length. It’s been a while since I wrote that post, so I figured you’re probably due for another dose … Read more
I’ve got a hankering for another word list. This time, let’s make a list of Hawaii foods. Notice I didn’t say “Hawaiian” foods, because not all the foods on this list are part of the traditonal, Native Hawaiian luau (although I’ve included those, too). Many are adopted from the cultures of immigrants who’ve settled here, … Read more
The official languages of the state of Hawaii are English and Hawaiian. But there’s also a third unofficial language, which is spoken by many locals in everyday conversation: Hawaii Pidgin English. Hawaiian Pidgin has evolved from the old plantation days, when immigrants came from different countries to work in Hawaii’s sugar cane fields. First came … Read more
