Maui, Hawai’i: Practice Mindful Travel Through Language and Shopping Local

Oneika Raymond ends her wellness journey in Maui, Hawai‘i's second largest island known for its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to sandy beaches. There, she meets up with locals who help her become a more mindful malihini, or visitor, to the island by connecting with the Hawaiian language and history and shopping local.

Oneika begins her day with a morning Hawaiian language lesson on Kā‘anapali Beach with Luana Kawa’a, a language teacher who’s been instructing students to speak the melodic language for over 30 years. Luana knows that language is the gateway to cultivating a better understanding and appreciation for Hawaiian history and local traditions. She leads Oneika through a language lesson that connects her to the deep meaning behind essential Hawaiian vocabulary. 

Then, Oneika heads to her first stop of the day: Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House, a museum run by the Maui Historical Society that boasts the largest collection of pre-contact artifacts in Maui. She meets up with volunteer coordinator James "Kimo" Guequierre to learn about the painstaking craftsmanship, and mana, or energy — especially from Maui’s women — that went into these artifacts.  

Next, Oneika goes in search of a Hawai’i specialty — shave ice. Her search ends at Olowalu General Store, a family run fixture of West Maui that’s been in operation since 1932. Oneika sits down with Olowalu’s manager, Rylee Ann Domogma, to learn about the importance of buying local to support independent purveyors on Maui. 

Oneika travels back to her hotel, the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, to meet one more inspiring business woman on Maui: Anna Kahalekulu, the founder of Kulua, a small batch clothing shop inspired by Maui. Oneika finds out how supporting local artisans like Anna sustains the community and contributes to a more meaningful experience on the island. 

Oneika and Anna end the day watching the nightly lele kawa, or cliff diving ceremony, that takes place on Kā‘anapali Beach. Looking out over the water, Oneika reflects on her transformative journey this season. 

Experience Maui's transformative power for yourself. For more about Oneika’s journey — and to get other itinerary ideas — visit Marriott Bonvoy Traveler. To learn more and book a room at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, visit the hotel’s website. Book wellness-inspired activities for yourself at Marriott Bonvoy Tours & Activities. Marriott Bonvoy members earn points on every experience booked through the site.

About the Journey is a podcast produced by Marriott Bonvoy Traveler, AT WILL MEDIA, MNTRA, and Oneika Raymond. Listen and follow the show here.

To read full episode transcripts from About the Journey and see photos of each featured destination, head to About the Journey on Marriott Bonvoy Traveler. Starting this season, you can watch full videos of each episode on the Marriott Bonvoy YouTube channel.