The Festival of Pacific Island Arts & Culture made its triumphant return to Hawaii after an eight-year hiatus.

(FestPAC made its triumphant return to Hawaii this year after an eight-year hiatus.)

Hawaii, with its spirit of aloha, was the perfect host for such an occasion.

Traditional dancers on the stage at FestPAC 2024

Credit:Nicholas Tomasello/Courtesy of FestPAC

As travelers, understanding and embracing this principle can transform our journeys into deeply enriching experiences.

Inspired by this, I sought out ways to give back and immerse myself in the culture more meaningfully.

I took pride in erupting the soil from the ground and planting my tree.

Traditional dancers at FestPAC 2024

Nicholas Tomasello/Courtesy of FestPAC

I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and connection to the Earth.

These activities also offer deep insights into the cultural values and practices that define Hawaiian life.

As my time in Hawaii came to an end, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude.

Wood carving demonstration presented by the Bishop Museum

Nicholas Tomasello/Courtesy of FestPAC

Writer Imani Bashir plants a tree during a trip to Hawaii

Courtesy of Imani Bashir