Totes

It is believed that the traditional hula, Kahiko, has been part of the Hawaiian culture since ancient times. Today it is much more common to see the contemporary hula known as ‘Auana. King David Kalakaua, revered as the Merrie Monarch, had a profound love and appreciation for the hula dance. He said, “Hula is the language of the heart, and, therefore, the heartbeat of the Hawaiian people.” Everything that one does when hula dancing means something. The face, the hands, the feet, and the hips all look or move a certain way, each playing a part of the larger story.

Academy award nominated director, Bruce Brown spent two years chasing summer around the world and capturing footage that set the standard for all future surf films. Surfers Michael Hynson and Robert August were lucky enough to get to search for the perfect wave off the coasts of Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti and Hawai'i. Screened to audiences in Southern California in 1964, and distributed world-wide in 1966, The Endless Summer would go onto generate over $30 million dollars at the box office, and take its rightful place as the king of surf videos.

Believe it or not, Hawaii does, indeed, have an interstate highway. Now, you ask, how can an island have an interstate highway? Well, U.S. law states that federal highway funds can be used as long as the proposed highway connects military bases. Oahu’s Honolulu Highway, known to locals as  “H1,” connects Pearl Harbor with Diamond Head, which used to be home to Fort Ruger. The first portions of the H1 opened in 1953, and over a half century later, H1 still enables locals and visitors alike to explore the beautiful island of Oahu. There are also interstates H2 and H3, which completed in 1997, has arguably some of the most beautiful views of any US highway.

Starting in 1927 with a vision, some single engine aircraft and a few trans-oceanic routes, Pan Am's emphasis on image and branding created the "jet-setter" lifestyle. On April 17, 1935, the S-42 Pioneer Clipper skimmed to the first ever landing in Hawaiian waters after a flight from Alameda, California that lasted 17 hours and 44 minutes. Offering luxury to both domestic and international travelers, Pan Am has left behind a legacy of comfort and sophistication that still resonates today.