The word “aloha” is the most recognized of all Hawaiian words. In its simplest use, it means “hello”, “welcome”, or “goodbye”. But the word, to many Hawaiians, can also be used to convey a much deeper and richer feeling, one that encapsulates a way of living, being, and most of all, treating others. This Spirit of Aloha inspires us to do what we do and influences every facet of every tour we offer at Polynesian Adventure Activities.
We wanted to delve further into this particular meaning of Aloha, so we asked Juan Lugo, what the Spirit of Aloha means to him, as well as some of his favorite things to do, see, and eat on the islands of Hawai’i.
Hi, Juan! How long have you been a member of the Poly Ad Ohana?
Hi! I’ve been a tour driver on the beautiful Island of Kauai since 2005. Well, that’s my official title, “Tour Driver” but I like to refer to myself and everyone on our extraordinary team at Polynesian Adventure as, “Handler’s of Dreams”! I am constantly amazed over the number of guests who exclaim “this has been my dream for so long!” “We are finally celebrating our “Honeymoon!” and, my favorite, “This is a dream has come true.” It is emotionally overwhelming when they embrace us, shedding tears of joy, snapping photos – then we become “Ohana!”
That is so beautiful & amazing Juan! Besides being a “Dream Handler”, what is your favorite thing about Hawai’i?
The strong Spiritual power that Hawai`i possesses of us. There is a place inside each and every one of us that is called our “Po”. It is your special place that only you have access to; not your mother, father, brother sister, husband or wife. This your special place! Kauai and Hawai`i to me embodies that magical space!
How do you describe a beautiful sunrise or sunset, the look of love in a mother’s eyes for her children? One cannot describe that feeling. It is with aloha. One simply belongs and knows that in the very essence of one’s heart. The Spirit of Aloha is living in the moment being one with everything around you – fully embracing the gift of life: “The “Ha”.
What is your favorite off the beaten path place to enjoy?
A special beach that only a few on Kauai know. It is filled with magical shells that surround the sands. We keep that place a secret. It can be found only on Kauai!
