After facing cultural backlash, the ex-Trump hotel in Waikiki, Hawaii, has been rebranded as Ka La‘i. The hotel, now under LXR Hotels & Resorts, held a blessing ceremony to mark the name change, which reflects a deeper cultural sensitivity.

The renaming process was not without its complexities, especially when it involved removing the name of former President Donald Trump from the hotel tower. However, the decision to rebrand and the subsequent blessing ceremony signify a significant shift in the hotel’s identity.

As part of the rebranding efforts, Ka La‘i is set to introduce a lobby bar, aiming to enliven the Waikiki Beach’s lobby and enhance the overall guest experience.

In Native Hawaiian culture, the significance of a name holds immense value, and the decision to rename the hotel reflects a cultural understanding and respect for the local community.

For those following the transformation of the hotel, the name change to Ka La‘i represents a meaningful step towards embracing and honoring the cultural heritage of the region.