by Elsie Parker

Created on: May 04, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

Hawaii is one of the world's most exotic holiday destinations and one which has a distinctive culture which has been preserved as part of the island's history. You know that people will meet you with smiling faces, saying Aloha, and will put flower garlands round your neck. This is the iconic cultural image of Hawaii but there are many physical activities to fill your time on the islands which have sometimes overshadowed the artistic, creative side of island life.

You can go to the beautiful beaches and relax, you can re-energize and get exhilarated by the many water sports on offer and of course you must try surfing. You can set sail in glass bottom boats and enjoy sunset cruises, see the islands on horseback or by plane. You might like to trek inland to see the magnificent national parks and marvel at the grandeur of this paradise on Earth. You can go to see volcanoes and feel the power of the earth flowing upwards into the light.

There seems to be no end to the natural beauty and there will be a tendency to want to take in everything at once for fear of missing a new marvel. However, if you want to take the slow lane for a while, the islands of Hawaii have given a special gift to the native people who inhabit this Eden - the resources necessary to develop a rich and unique culture. Classes are often held in hotels and in cultural centers to enable holidaymakers experience the creative side of ancestral Hawaiian life.

The Lei that was hung around your neck on arrival represents a craft that dates back to the earliest days of mankind. Leis have been made out of many different natural materials such as shells, bone, seeds, nuts as well as flowers and materials were chosen for their beauty, healing powers and symbolism. The fresh flower lei is probably the best known symbol of Hawaii, used to welcome visitors to the islands but many different leis are made to commemorate special occasions, such as weddings and graduations ensuring the craft will survive long into the future. Lei making classes often include storytelling as part of the process.

The Hula began as a sacred ritual, a form of worship in religious ceremonies traditionally danced by men accompanied by drums and percussion instruments. Later the dance became secular and was mostly performed by women, associated with graceful movements and as always on Hawaii, with beautiful flowers. Every movement has a specific meaning and the dancers can weave intricate stories. You can learn not only how to hula but

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