Maui: Lei Greetings

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Lei Greetings

When you walk off a long flight, perhaps a bit groggy and stiff, nothing quite compares with a Hawaiian lei greeting. The casual ceremony ranks as one of the fastest ways to make the transition from the worries of home to the joys of your vacation. Though the tradition has created an expectation that everyone receives this floral garland when they step off the plane, the state of Hawaii cannot greet each of its nearly 7 million annual visitors.

Still, it's easy to arrange for a lei ceremony for yourself or your companions before you arrive. Contact Alii Leis if you have not signed up with a tour company that provides it. If you really want to be wowed by the experience, request a lei of tuberoses, some of the most divine-smelling blossoms on the planet. Greeters of Hawaii requires 48 hours' notice and charges $24.95 to $49.95 per person, depending on the type of lei requested; add $10 for late notification. Alii Leis requires two days' notice and charges $19.95 for a standard greeting on Maui.

Information

Greeters of Hawaii (800/366-8559. 800/926-2644. www.greetersofhawaii.com). Alii Leis (808/877-3521. 808/877-0757).