Take the Spanish word for "hello" for instance, and compare it to the Hawaiian word for "hello/goodbye". Ever notice that, even though Hawaii and Spain are half a world apart, these words are very similar and mean the same thing? And what does this have to do with the pictured matchbook for the Aloha Motel?
This charming Hawaiian-themed motel is nowhere near any Hawaiian island, but aims to bring that tropical feel to none other than- San Antonio, Texas. Where one is much more likely to hear "Hola" than "Aloha".
While the KC Matchgirl can't be positive about which year the Aloha Motel began luring San Antonio travelers with its Polynesian flair, it's a safe bet it was part of the craze for all things Hawaiian back in 1959 when Hawaii became the 50th state.
Despite the name, it was pretty much the standard mid-century motel, the only tropical amenity to the typical pool-side aluminum chairs with webbed seats under metal striped patio umbrellas was a smattering of live palm trees. Once affiliated with Best Western, the restaurant was commended by the Diners Club and the motel was AAA rated.
The rooms featured the piped music offered by Muzak- perhaps that was Polynesian, or there were tropical bedspreads to carry out the theme. And if it all sounds similar to the KOCHI Motel in Yankton, S.D. (Yanked A Ton, Feb 2015) they are connected- by the same highway, U.S. 81.
By 1972, it appears the motel changed its focus from travelers to college students, operating as the Aloha Inn. The sun set on the motel when it was recently demolished to make room for a Sonic Drive-In. While a few palm trees remain, this motel has said "Aloha".
Note: "Swimming & Recreation for the whole family" is only a smartly worded phrase outlining the amenities offered- swimming pool, kid's wading pool, and a putting green- quite a lot to offer travelers during that time period. The Aloha Motel was located at 1435 Austin Highway.
