I was fortunate enough to be able to enjoy a wonderful trip to Maui this summer, with my family. We hiked, went zip-lining, kayaking, plenty of shopping and of course attended a luau! Besides breathtaking vistas and phenomenal food, one thing that I could not help but notice was the overwhelming kindness and sense of family that was extended to us the minute we stepped off the plane. Everyone was so friendly and welcoming! It was quite different from the “LA vibe” tourists often experience when coming to our neck of the woods.
The luau we went to was amazing. We had all sorts of yummy, traditional foods (though I would not recommend the poy), a mai tai (or two), and saw the history of the islands portrayed through graceful hula dancing. The hostess of the luau explained what each of the dances meant, as well as a bit more about the culture of the islands. She explained that they try to do everything with the spirit of ohana, or family. Whether it be your actual family, a neighbor or tourist, everyone is welcome and cared for! Maybe it’s the fact that we have our annual August luau coming up, but I couldn’t help but relate this attitude back to Regency and the relationships we have with our residents and their families.
During the month of August we always host a luau of our own, and let me tell you, it’s the biggest event of the year! We serve a plethora of Hawaiian inspired food and have a great show put on by a local Polynesian dance troop. It’s definitely a day to remember and something we all look forward to as soon as the weather starts to get warm. The luau though, is not the only large event we host. We do a spectacular gathering for all of the holidays. What do we do on the months with no holiday? A champagne brunch, of course!
Not only do these events bring all of our families, friends and staff together, it also gives our residents the chance to invite their loved ones to something THEY are hosting. Our residents take great pride in the brunches, BBQ’s and candlelight dinners we plan for them and are eager to have friends and family partake in these special events. It’s a wonderful thing to see everyone gathered together, as one big family, sipping champagne, enjoying the entertainment and sharing a meal. We have all become one big family here, and it is a pleasure to be able to create such a joyous experience for everyone.
