As the most isolated population center in the entire world, the Hawaiian Islands are incredibly unique and unlike anywhere else you've ever lived or visited. That is clearly evident in everything from our breathtaking scenery to the quirks Hawaii locals share. From common language differences and driving preferences to feelings of sun guilt, island fever, and general annoyance about Hawaiian pizza, here are 17 weird side effects of growing up in Hawaii you might have experienced. Read on for a good laugh.
1. You know there’s nothing a little "vitamin sea" can’t fix.
Everyone knows that saltwater therapy can cure anything.
2. You know how to pronounce even the longest Hawaiian words.
You also laugh in the face of anyone who tells you that the way you pronounce "Hawaii" or "Karaoke" is weird.
3. You roll your eyes when anyone mentions Hawaiian pizza.
Just because a pizza has pineapple doesn't mean it's Hawaiian.
4. You easily experience feelings of cold — at 75 degrees.
When you grow up in a warm climate, adapting to anything colder is a struggle.
5. You love Spam more than any mainlander ever would.
Especially Spam Musubi.
6. You have lost track of who your "real" aunties, uncles, and cousins are.
Not that it matters anyway. Our chosen ohana is just as important as those we are related to by blood.
7. You know not to drive Westbound on H-1 in the afternoon — unless you absolutely have to.
If you work in Honolulu and live on the west side, my thoughts go out to you.
8. Your Instagram is full of sunset photos…
Even though we constantly witness stunning sunsets, we'll never get sick of them.
9. ...and the occasional sunrise shot.
When we wake up early enough, that is.
10. You don’t wear flip-flops, you wear slippers.
For the last time, they are slippers or slippahs, not flip-flops or thongs.
11. You throw shakas everywhere you go.
While you're driving and in photographs, especially.
12. You call it shoyu, not soy sauce.
At least no one will look at you funny if you call it soy sauce.
13. The Aloha Spirit is more than just a concept.
There's nothing quite like the Aloha spirit you'll find in Hawaii.
14. You might be indifferent to current events.
When you live more than 2,000 miles from the mainland, it's hard not to feel indifferent when it comes to United States politics.
15. You dread the vog.
For some people, the vog rolling in results in pretty intense symptoms.
16. You have experienced sun guilt and island fever.
Some days you just need to stay inside, watch Netflix, and relax — or get off of the tiny island you call home.
17. The Aloha State will always be your home.
It's hard not to be in love with Hawaii.
Which of these things do you believe are true? Is there one or two that ring more true than the others? What other weird side effects of growing up in Hawaii have you experienced? Sound off in the comments, then if you need a good laugh today — and who doesn't these days — check out these 21 signs that sum up island life perfectly.
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