Aloha, Hawaii
A Journey of Firsts and Gratitude
By Pam Nolivos
When I attended the LATINA Style Magazine event, I never imagined I would walk away with a round-trip ticket to Hawaii. I was shocked and beyond grateful. Winning that ticket became the start of one of the most unforgettable experiences of my life.
It was my first time flying with Southwest Airlines, and even that was full of surprises. I didn’t know you had to line up for your seat assignment! It felt a bit unfamiliar at first, but the staff made everything so easy and fun. The pilot even joked with us about “behaving so he could land on time and get us to our vacation” — it immediately made the cabin feel warm and welcoming. Passengers were kind too. A couple offered to switch seats so I could sit by the window, knowing it was my first time heading to the islands. That small act of kindness set the tone for the rest of the trip.
Hawaii took my breath away. The moment we landed, I was overwhelmed by the natural beauty — the lush green landscapes, the deep blue ocean, and the kindness of the people. I traveled with my husband, and together we explored the island of Oahu in ways I’ll never forget. We drove around the island, hiked along scenic trails, and even caught sight of sea turtles while walking on the beach.
But the most meaningful part of the trip was volunteering at the Pearl Harbor Memorial on the Fourth of July. Standing on such historic ground and giving back on Independence Day was incredibly emotional. It made me reflect deeply on the sacrifices made by so many and reminded me of the importance of service — something I hold close to my heart.
Every moment in Hawaii felt magical, from watching the sunrise to savoring local cuisine (the poke was unreal!). We stumbled upon small roadside fruit stands, tried fresh coconut water, and discovered beaches that felt like hidden treasure coves. I never thought one trip could bring so much joy and peace.
Thank you to LATINA Style Magazine for giving me this incredible gift. It wasn’t just a vacation — it was an experience that filled me with gratitude, joy, and renewed appreciation for life’s unexpected blessings.
This trip was made possible by Southwest’s Preferred Travel Destinations Program.