The islands of Hawai'i are known for beautiful weather, stunning views and amazing local culture, which is why it’s also no surprise that Hawai'i is one of the most visited destinations in the U.S. over 9 million people traveled to the islands in 2022. But when wildfires began to sweep the island of Maui in August 2023, the island life and aloha spirit many visitors come searching for was instead replaced by fear and heartbreak.
In Hawaiian culture, a lei is never expected. “It’s always a gift, and it’s an adornment,” said Lahela Spencer, Hawaiian culture specialist at Hilton Waikoloa Village, the host resort of our Meetings Today LIVE! Hawai'i event April 19-22. “It’s not there to match your clothes. It’s not an accessory. It should never be, ‘I’m going to Hawai'i, where’s my lei?’ But because it’s been a part of the industry for so long, it’s become an expectation.”