Da Kine & Hawai’i’s Best Food – Jamie Barut

The Spirit of Aloha

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 Jamie Barut what the Spirit of Aloha means to her, as well as some of her favorite things to do, see, and eat on the islands of Hawai’i.

Hi Jamie! What are some of your favorite things about Hawai’i?

So many things!

I love our Spirit of Aloha and how everyone here is so respectful and helpful. I love the beauty, and uniqueness of all the places we have, especially the ocean and mountains. I love that we have a mixture of ethnicities – it makes us a well rounded group of people both in culture and practice.

hawaiian palm tree at sea and sunset summer background

What does the Spirit of Aloha mean to you?

“Aloha” can be packaged as a gift, or experienced as a Hawaiian way of living. Its more literal definition is one of love, compassion, peace, and affection. We use it to say hello and goodbye, but, to us, its a way of living in Hawai’i. We saw it especially during the good ‘ole days when our grandparents would spend their time making leis or playing Hawaiian music. So much aloha in their every step and gestures. Today, we still carry on these traditions but sadly not all of us do it on a regular basis. Its become more of a hobby that we often fit into our busy lives. I guess what I am saying is, ALOHA means a lot of things to a lot of different people it’s up to you to decide what it means for you. The meaning of aloha for me is what I live for today and in my everyday life.

What is your favorite Hawaiian saying?

Da kine…it means you know Da Kine….Da kine came and visited…I ate Da kine…

Best part is as a local we all know what Da Kine is without being specific with details.

What is your favorite local food?

Way too many to name but:
Saimin – it is similar to a ramen and we eat it as a comfort food here in Hawai’i.
Chop Steak – thinly sliced pieces of beef fried with onions… YUM!
Poi, Lomi Salmon and Kalua Pig is the perfect plate combination!
Spam Musubi – great for on the go and you can get them anywhere here even at our 7-11’s!
Shaves Ice just takes you to a different place! Take it to another level by adding Mochi with red beans or peanut butter YUMMY!

I am so “ono” to eat of these today!

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