The Biggest Misconceptions about Hawaii

Posted By Phin Upham

awaii is an amazing tourist destination for anyone looking for time on a sandy beach, just don’t buy into the misconceptions. Try not to throw around colloquialisms like “aloha” and “mahalo.” You can spot tourists like that from a mile away, and if you don’t want a neon sign on your back announcing your touristy ways, take note of the cultural misconceptions before you touch down.

Not Everyone Surfs

Surfing is a great pass time for tourists, and a big draw for Hawaii. The waves are huge, and professional surfers come from all over the world to ride the curls, but the natives don’t necessarily join them. Don’t expect every bartender or waiter to have pointers for you on how to stay afloat.

Aloha Attire

The traditional khaki shorts and Hawaiian shirts you see? You’re the only one wearing them, and it makes you look like an out-of-towner. A Hawaiian print shirt isn’t totally uncalled for, but don’t overdo it.

Underdeveloped Islands

Another common misconception is that Hawaii is a bunch of seaside hotels. Nothing could be further from the truth, or dispelled as quickly. The reality is that parts of Hawaii are quite urban, and islanders have the same comforts as mainlanders.

Spelling

It’s actually spelled Hawai’I, and the “w” sounds a like a “v” or a “b” when pronounced. It’s a twist on what we’re used to, but that’s tradition for you.

About the Author: Phin Upham is an investor at a family office/ hedgefund, where he focuses on special situation illiquid investing. Before this position, Phin Upham was working at Morgan Stanley in the Media & Technology group. You may contact Phin on his Phin Upham website or Twitter page.