Reddit reviews Pidgin to Da Max

I would STRONGLY suggest that you start reading up quickly so you are sure that moving to Maui will work for you. Our island is beautiful, and if you can integrate yourself it is a lovely place to live and raise children.

Living in Hawaii, and Maui, is not easy. Things cost more and many things take longer to do. The culture is VERY different from the mainland (continental US), and is hostile to people who come in and don't check their egos at the door. You will be at LEAST 2-3 hours out of phase with friends and family on the mainland.

There are two other languages that are used in Hawaii. Pidgin, which is a creole language (and you NEED bone up on it before moving to Hawaii as an educator. I suggest purchasing this book: Pidgin to da max as well as the other books beyond it).
The second language is Hawaiian. Traditional Hawaiian is definitely a living language and becoming more prominent over the last decade. Our state song, Hawai'i Pono'i, is the only song in the United States that is not in English. With rare exceptions all of the streets, towns and cities in Hawai'i are Hawaiian words. Finally, in an educational context, important semester starting and ending events have prayers or chants in Hawaiian.

Please read the FAQ in this sub-reddit. I'd also suggest watching this movie: The Decendents Its the best modern movie that gives a little taste of "living" in Hawaii vs visiting.

Final link, This is a nice and easy introduction to Hawaiian modern history, shortly after contact with Europe, there are contained a lot of historical events and people that you really need to know about in Hawai'i. Part 1 Part 2.

I'm sorry if I'm sounding scary. Hawaii is a wonderful place, but you must live her on Hawaii's terms to be happy. Too many people try to force the aina to live on their terms, and go away very unhappy.

Aloha Nui Loa,

Hkedi