We have been in Hawaii for a week. We celebrated Hank’s birthday on the 22nd. Joana was serving us at the most amazing Orchid morning brunch. From now until the whales go back North all of the islands are very busy with tourists. Joana was so nice, I asked her, why is everyone so thoughtful and kind, “it’s a vibe—The Spirit of Aloha” it is just part of the culture. The diversity we have observed and enjoyed around the big island is refreshing. We have met people from Germany, France, Australia, America and many Asian visitors. Everyone but the omelet guy at the Orchid are friendly. The world could learn a lot from this “vibe”. The natives; those with Native Polynesian ancestry are called Kanaka ‘Oiwi and Kanaka Māoli. The white folks are “haole” but that name is not necessarily used in the pejorative.
We took a snorkel trip to Kealakekua Bay. This is the site of the Captain Cook monument and a unique under water State park. So many different fish, the coral is beautiful, and one very frightening eel, hiding in the volcanic caves. We all enjoyed the scenery. We saw a humpback whale and the spinner dolphins entertained us on part of the voyage,
In Hawaii, there is always a bit of a history lesson in each excursion and every dance.
Captain Cook came to the islands in 1778 and on a return voyage visited the Big Island.
He had claimed the Sandwich Islands for the Earl who financed his trip. The natives were friendly and did some trading with him. When Cook’s ship was damaged he was forced to come back to shore. The natives burned one of his longboats to get the nails, excellent fish hooks according to the historians. Cook kidnapped the then King and held him hostage for the return of other items and provisions. The King was killed and the natives overwhelmed the Captain and Crew and Cook died on Valentine’s Day in 1779. The man the natives thought was a God-Lano, made a very strategic error that cost him his life.
Humans again prove to be the most invasive species. As revenge for Cook’s death the crew dumped a cask of water contaminated by mosquito larvae in the river. The mosquito is the second most dangerous animal on earth, carrying and spreading multiple diseases. I understand some would like to forget the painful history of the infamous Captain Cook and his explorer ilk, not sure why he has a monument.
We swam with the Dolphins on Hank’s birthday-beautiful, brilliant, powerful and gracious creatures. We could learn so much from them and the Hawaiian 🌺 vibe.
Hope you had a Thanksgiving to remember. Mike