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 Kris Kindschuh, our Hilo Station Manager what the Spirit of Aloha means to them, as well as some of their favorite things about the Big Island.
Hi, Kris! How long have you been here with us at Poly Ad?
I’ve been a part of the Poly Ad ohana for over 3 years.
What is your favorite thing about the Big Island of Hawai’i?
The reason we moved to the Big Island is the people. After a few weeks, we started running into people we knew. We were treated like family almost immediately and no one is a stranger here. We go to the beach and get invited to share in the family meals and all the amazing delicacies and treats. We have been consistently treated with so much love and respect. Ohana really is more than a word – it IS a way of life here on Big Island. Beyond the amazing people we call our neighbors we really love Pohoiki – it’s our favorite beach. It’s also the world’s newest black sand beach! Created in 2018 during the eruption – it is truly breathtaking.
The Aloha Spirit is the welcome you receive when you enter a place. It is the little kindnesses that are shown by helping someone who needs information, or just taking the time to talk story with someone that is lonely.
Who are some of your favorite Hawaiian story or legend?
Pele’ and removing lava from the island is bad luck. Pele’ is said to curse those who remove lava rocks from the island without her permission. Seeing the large pile of stones returned to the Volcanoes National Park from tourists that took rocks from there is awesome haha.
