Submitted by Zane Fracek on the 2022 winter session program in Hawaii sponsored by the Alfred Lerner College of Business & Economics…
Only a few days into my trip, coming here was worth it. All the inconveniences (hunger, delays, middle seat) disappear when you see the first palm tree and feel the warm January air. I am glad I have taken to photography as if it were my full-time job on this program. Otherwise, there would be too many exciting details to remember. I usually don’t even care for taking pictures. Some highlights from my first week include beautiful scenery, soft sand, and rocky adventures.
Hawaii is visually spectacular. Our tour guide realized how he had taken for granted living on Oahu his entire life. When you see it everyday it must feel less amazing, like Delaware to me. Twice someone has joked that a particular place looks like Jurassic Park, just to learn that it was used in the filming of the movie. The group has been great: outgoing, friendly, and adventurous. I knew everyone’s name before the end of the first day on Oahu. However, at times they are indecisive and would take a long time to decide what to do. I realized that this is my trip so I will plan things I want and if people want to join that is great. Surfing worked out this way, and I ended up with a group of four guys who had never surfed before. Our instructor was worth every cent because we immediately were able to ride in waves for long runs.
Some differences I have noted:
- Locals seem to take social distancing, masks, and vaccination more seriously than in Newark.
- Chickens, cats, and mongoose are as common as rabbits, squirrels, and foxes at home.
- Li hing powder is everywhere!
- I thought that the hang loose hand symbol and floral patterns would not be as prevalent as they are.
One of the most impactful things I learned about culture on Oahu is the idolization of Eddie Aikau. He was an impressive big wave surfer who earned a spot on a boat to Tahiti. Just 12 hours into the voyage, the boat capsized. Thinking they would never be rescued, Eddie bravely set off alone to go back to land on his surfboard. After he left, all the crew was saved, but Eddie was never found. His heroism sparked a saying “Eddie would go.”
