Hawaii Flower Leis

The Hawaiian flower lei is one of the islands’ most meaningful gestures of welcome. Offered by natives or hotel staff, the lei symbolizes fresh beauty and friendship and is traditionally worn around the neck. Originally brought to Hawaii by Tahitian visitors who arrived in canoes, the lei came to represent peace offerings and remains a friendly symbol of affection and friendship. If someone presents a lei to you, try to avoid removing it in their presence, but if you must, do so carefully to avoid offending the giver. Most often worn for luaus or other celebrations, the lei can be made of many different types of floral arrangements and even of non-floral substances like shells or nuts, so today’s visitors can choose from many designs and styles. An orchid lei comes with the popular scent of the islands, along with the rich, exotic tradition associated with this unusual flower. You can buy a single orchid lei for about $15 or a double strand for about $25. Prices vary from one shop to the next, so call ahead and have your lei delivered when you arrive or pick one up on your way to the hotel. Other versions include ti leaves intermixed with orchids or alternative blossoms and petals to create an imaginative array of beauty and scent. An anela lei gets its name from the angel wing-type petals that are strung together to make a lovely floral pattern. You can buy a lei kit or make your own. Use a 12” to 18” lei needle or

one of comparable size and 100” of thread or string, which is then folded in half. Gently push the needle through the face of the flower and attach it to the string. Don’t force it into place; as more flowers are added, the bloom will settle into position. Continue adding petals and other decorations until you have about 40” of floral beauty. The correct way to wear a lei is around your neck and settled on the shoulders so that it hangs down both in front and in back. The lei is readily recognized as an international peace symbol. Appreciate any lei you might receive and be prepared to offer one in return as you begin to establish friendships with Hawaii’s warm and welcoming residents.