The first Hawaii hotels to implement a Hawaii vaccination passport mandate have just announced that starting October 15, all persons entering their properties must provide proof of full vaccination. That includes employees, guests, and others. The news comes as Hawaii announced 380 new Covid cases today, which, if accurate, is significantly lower than what we have been seeing recently.
The included hotels are the Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, Ambassador Hotel Waikiki, Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel, Courtyard Marriott Waikiki Beach, Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach, Park Shore Waikiki, and Pearl Hotel Waikiki.
This is the first of what we expect will be more similar announcements. It was unveiled today by executives of Highgate Hawaii at a press conference attended by the Hawaii Tourism Authority and Hawaii Lodging & Tourism Assn., and government officials.
The company said it is contacting upcoming guests to advise them of the policy change and requirements. The mandate will apply to all employees as well, with limited exemptions for religious or medical reasons. The rollout was spurred by the Safe Access Oahu vaccination passport program, which starts on September 15 (see details below).
Maui officially announces vaccination passport requirements.
Yesterday, Maui joined Honolulu in formally mandating proof of vaccination for entry to some businesses. The Safer Outside program was revealed yesterday and will, like Oahu’s program, go into effect next week, once formally approved by the governor. The rules are set to be reviewed in 30 days.
Safer Outside includes a reduction in capacity for commercial boating, ground transport, and commercial tours. No spectators will be allowed at indoor and outdoor sports events. “We are calling our new set of rules Safer Outside… This means that all gatherings up to a maximum of 10 should be held outside whenever possible. We are modifying social gatherings inside five people, outside up to 10 people… For outside shared areas, individuals must comply with physical distancing requirements of at least six feet of physical separation from all other persons who are not part of the same household. And this goes for everyplace that you’re at.” — Sandy Baz, Maui County.
Maui’s Mayor indicated they might have additional guidelines to be announced subsequently. Also, employees can either be vaccinated or be tested regularly. Details of that are forthcoming. In addition, any event of more than 50 persons must obtain an exemption.
All customers over age 12 must provide proof of full vaccination. Those younger are exempt.
Maui restaurants and bars will now need to close by 10 pm. Guests are to remain seated and not socialize.
Those not fully vaccinated can only be served in outdoor dining areas. They can also access takeout and drive-thru services.
All gyms and fitness centers can continue to operate at 50% capacity indoors, with the same vaccination requirement for those over age 12. Facilities must verify vaccination status.
Violation of rights – not according to Maui and ACLU.
Sandy Baz, Maui County’s manager, said, “for those claiming that vaccine mandates compromise civil liberties, the American Civil Liberties Union does disagree.” The ACLU says, “Far from compromising civil liberties, vaccine mandates actually further civil liberties. They protect the most vulnerable among us, including people with disabilities and fragile immune systems, children too young to be vaccinated and communities of color hit hard by the disease.”
What proof is acceptable on Oahu and Maui?
Vaccination cards, including images or in digital form, will be acceptable proof on Oahu and Maui for now. The state is planning for some form of an electronic verification system, which has not yet been announced. Last week, Ige said that, for these new vaccination passports, the state would have the ability to verify those vaccinations which took place in Hawaii. Still, he did not discuss those vaccinated elsewhere.
Each island can implement its own rules.
The governor reiterated last week that each island could move separately. And Oahu and Maui have already done so.
Mitch Roth of the Big Island said, “we have been looking at it (vaccine passports)… We don’t have a lot of the (financial) safety nets we had last year… We have not decided yet… We are also waiting to see what happens with Honolulu.”
Kauai is also contemplating a vaccine passport and is looking first to see what happens with Honolulu’s implementation. “We’re taking a look at it,” said Mayor Kawakami.
Why vaccination Passports for Hawaii restaurants? 20 Covid clusters at restaurants just occurred.
As the country is hit by the latest wave of COVID-19 courtesy of the Delta Variant, Hawaii is again looking to roll out restrictions to prevent further virus spread. It was reported by the State Department of Health last week that at least 20 recent Covid clusters in Hawaii in a recent two-week period are related to restaurants.
Recently, renowned Hawaii restauranteur Peter Merriman said that all staff and customers would be vaccinated against Covid.
The use of commercial vaccination passport apps is up next.
We believe Hawaii will soon move for verification to the three state-approved commercial vaccination passports that thus far have been solely used as options for Hawaii travel. Lt. Gov. Green confirmed that idea, stating, “all we really have to do is, work with either Clear or CommonPass, who we already have a deep relationship with, who are helping us with the Safe Travels program to show that people are vaccinated. He said it would make life easier in Hawaii.
These are the Hawaii-approved vaccination passports.
BOH note: In terms of travel to Hawaii, registering and complying with the requirements of the state’s Safe Travels program remains the only current requirement for all arrivals (not required for interisland travel). Safe Travels is needed to create your trip, link and obtain approval of these vaccination/testing passport exemptions, and lastly, complete the required health questionnaire within 24 hours of travel. The passports below are simply options.
CommonPass Hawaii – SMART Health Card.
CommonPass said that “U.S. visitors with a ‘SMART Health Card’ digital vaccine record can use CommonPass to verify that they’ve been vaccinated and waive the testing requirements… When travelers use the CommonPass exception to confirm their vaccination status in Safe Travels, they will be instantly verified, rather than needing to wait for verification as they would when uploading a paper CDC card.”
First, you download the CommonPass App, available for both iOS and Android. Finding it in the phone stores can be confusing, so we found it easiest to start here.
Next, either 1) scan your vaccination record directly into the app. “Note: CommonPass does not accept CDC vaccination card uploads.” Or, 2) for test results, “select the lab where you were tested and log into the lab portal through the CommonPass app or scan or import your SMART Health Card QR. Note: you must get tested at a CommonPass compatible lab.” Then, use the CommonPass and the pass ID number as the exception method in the Safe Travels Portal.
CLEAR Health Pass.
CLEAR Health Pass can be used by all passengers 18 and older. CLEAR’s no-cost mobile phone app’s health pass allows 1) vaccine verification or 2) negative test results to be uploaded.
To use CLEAR, upload your proof of vaccination or COVID test result on the CLEAR app and then go to the Safe Travels website and apply for quarantine exemption via the CLEAR Health Pass. Also, complete the health questionnaire on the Safe Travel site within 24-hours of travel.
AZOVA Simple Health Pass.
AZOVA offers expanded Covid testing options. You can also get vaccinated through AZOVA’s vaccine network or get your digital vaccine record confirmed by them to obtain your Simple Health Pass. You must link this pass with Hawaii Safe Travels. All adults 18 and over must still register with the Hawaii Safe Travels online system. Each child traveling with an adult should be included in the adult’s Safe Travels form.
As with the other vaccination passports, once you have you apply for Exemption/Exception from Quarantine and in this case, choose the AZOVA Exemption and select your trip and enter your name. In the AZOVA Exemption, enter your Credential ID and press Verify (you will see a verification status once completed).
Updated 9/8/21.
Note regarding comments: Your comment must relate specifically to Hawaii and comply with our comment policy in order for it to be considered for publication.
Hi guys please delete my comments on this post thank you
Hi Stephanie.
Done.
Aloha.
This is hilarious when the vaccinated carry the virus as well. Very sad, been to Hawaii 19 times and my Husband is triple vaccinated but we can’t go. Why don’t you do blood tests. I did one here and have never had it, so criminal. Hawaii was like my second home. We would stay a month, but now will travel overseas to a Country that is open. My Doctor said the whole World is open now, and I said, not America.
Not sure why you think you can’t go to Hawaii. This article is from September of 2021. All restrictions have currently been dropped.
Don’t be so mean. I opened this email this morning and had to work all day thinking about it before I realized it’s old. Mean. Grow a heart before it’s too late.
Dear, you are your confused and out of date. Did you do your own research on this?
If you want to eat at restaurants, you will need to show your vaccination card. We are currently here. Not all ask but just letting you know.
Not anymore! Hawaii has joined the rest of the country in suspending all Covid related travel restrictions.
Please provide sources, as the Hawaii website and news do not show that it has been suspended.
It doesn’t start until sometime in March.
This is getting comical.
Having been vaccinated and bolstered in UK, I uploaded it to the New York City NYCCOVIDSAFE App along with my Passport Picture for use in Manhattan. It was accepted everywhere on Oahu wit no trouble. Free and easy to use.
Does CLEAR, or Common PASS make entry into Hawaii faster, and easier, or is the card just as fast? (I am vaccinate and have gotten the booster)
Also, if you want the Common Pass, or CLEAR pass do you get it before you register on the Hawaii SafeTravels and add it then, or do you register on SafeTravels and get the pass after you are registered.(I contacted the State and did not get a clear answer)
LOPAKA15… Be aware that both programs are limited. Can’t remember which but one only accepts “digital” vaccination proof and last I knew only California and one other state issued “digital” cards. As for the other one, again it is limited – I think it requires proof of where you were vaccinated and even one of the three largest providers in our state was not on their list. Since you need to show your vaccination proof on occasions other than flying, upload it to your phone and then to Safe Tra
thank you .. I guess that I’ll just load the card, and bring the card with me.
I have digital proof(Excelsior Plus ) from NY showing my vaccination and booster It’s on my phone as a backup to prove that I was vaccinated.I know Hawaii does not accept that, but I figured that it can;t hurt to have it since it’s verification from my State that I was vaccinated.
We are on Maui now and the only thing you need to do is go to Hawaii safe travels and update with your vaccine card. No other site is needed. Safe travels will send you a QR code via email. Then you show it to the airlines and they give you a wrist band. Easy…
We just returned from Maui. The Safe Travels site was a a little confusing. We did AZOVA (don’t waste your money😡). Best thing to do if you have time is the Clear Health Pass. The common Health Pass has you do a couple of things in the last 24 hours before your flight. That is when things are the busiest. It was worth the effort 🥰
Why do so many not get it that a “vaccine passport” is your immunization. The airlines may require a test for COVID in order to control passengers spreading the virus even if vaccinated. (You can pass on the virus even though you are not ill.) So I see a couple of steps. Make sure you have had all three vaccine doses, carry your card with you, get tested if your airline requires it, get enough N-95 masks for your trip. We’re 77! Not computer savvy? Use a travel agent who can do it for you!
LIN Y… Brilliant!
Incredibly hard to keep up with the ever changing requirements. (Even for someone who’s had the shots) 3rd and final cancelled trip to Hawaii happens tomorrow. Sad, but we wish the islanders much wellness and better leadership. Thank you BOH for all the updates on Covid the past 2 years. It must be exhausting. You did well keeping us informed as best possible. Aloha.
Hi Gin.
We hope that you can return again soon!
Aloha.
My wife and I have been tested several times for travel as well as to have heart procedures done in the hospital. We have been fully vaccinated and also had our booster vaccine. We are very confused about how to aquire these passports. A lot of travelers in their 70’s are not that computer savvy. We return to Hawaii every year for at least 30 days. Are you trying to prevent seniors from coming to Hawaii? Please set up a help line for seniors to get through this.
Hi Jon.
For restaurants and other venues, just bring your proof of vaccination with you.
Aloha.
You did not answere Jon’s question as to help with the process.
By proof of vaccination, I believe BOH meant the vaccine card. No technology is required.
JON M… YOu do not need a “vaccination passport”. You just need to be able to show proof – hard copy card (not advisable!), Immunaband, photo on your phone, etc.
Bring your therapy card aka vaccine passport
We have been on Maui now for four weeks. We dutifully got the CLEAR vaccine passport prior to traveling thinking that it was exactly what we needed and wouldn’t have to hassle with our vaccine cards. The vaccine passport is useless. We have yet to have it accepted by any restaurant. They all want to see your vaccine card. Most of them don’t even know what the vaccine passport is and the ones that do claim they don”t have a scanner to read it. What a waste of time.
Good to know. Maybe Honolulu will be different. We’ll see.
Yes, a lot of tangential commentary, case law arguments, personal freedom issues … to tell the truth, they don’t bother me … some folks take themselves way too seriously … but it’s their right to post as long as they comply with the rules of this site … I just pick and choose what to read …
They are not complying with the site rules, and neither are the brothers from BOH when they allow them to post this. Enough with the non-HI travel related comments.
JONL… Yes but it’s extremely annoying to have to open every email to discover it’s something you could care less about – like a legal debate!
Thanks for posting. I agree with you wholeheartedly (that is not legal advice).
It’s sad that there are still comments about “people’s rights to freedom”, I ask, what about that “freedom” you take that affects others? Didn’t most people have to take the Salk vaccine as kids to avoid polio? How about your MMR shot to attend school? I’ve had both measles and the “German measles” right after. I was miserable for more than two weeks; couldn’t go out to play, no school, just stuck in bed. If the MMR shot was available then, I would have been glad to take it.
Please show some empathy towards others, you may not want that shot, but if you are infected or someone infects an immune compromised family member, how would you feel? Would you agree that the infected person had the right to spread the disease and your family member dies, that it was okay? At least if you don’t get the vac at least take measures to keep from spreading it.
After all, your right to do what you want CAN affect others, unless you decide to live on a deserted island without any assistance from anyone.
Unfortunately, they only think of themselves. Societal responsibility is not their worry. So they think. When they are getting tubed they may change their mind, but they will have already done damage to themselves and others. It’s sad.
Have you felt this way about the flu vaccine as well? I’m just wondering, because no one was ever ostracized for not wanting a flu vaccine, but did you on your own have this same belief you have about the covid vaccine? I used to get sick every single time I flew to and from Hawaii, it never once occurred to me to call the airline and demand the manifest so I could hunt down the perpetrator and have them punished. Is that what we are coming to? Is that a quality of life, to always live in fear of catching a virus?
The information being spewed by the media and government is meant to disorient the public. Its done a great job.
Thanks BOH for keeping those of us who love the islands up to date on the ever changing rules. I will say though, that I will be so glad when this site returns to being an information tool for travelers and locals rather than a vehicle for endless debate on the vaccine pros and cons. Everyone is right in their own mind and all this hateful bantering does nothing but add to the frustrations and divisiveness that this country and the rest of the world are experiencing right now. The facts are different depending on which side of the argument you are on. I personally just want to know how to travel to the islands safely and smoothly without having to worry about accidentally doing something or overlooking something that might require us to quarantine upon arrival, and about what businesses and experiences are going to be open and available to us when we get there and what those may cost. Information is helpful….name calling and arguing helps no one.
Hi Cheryl.
Thanks. We concur. At least there’s some good news coming out today.
Aloha.
Dear Sheryl, well said & I agree. No more fighting because that causes division. Lives of people are far more important!! Stay safe & be blessed 😇 psalms 91:11 🕶🌞🐢🐠🩴🍍🥥🏝❤🌺🛩🌏🌈🏖🌊🌸👙👒🛍🎉
still not getting the vaxx you guys are drinking the kool aide. call me in 5 years if you are still around. Hawaii is a small community many anti gmo organic farmers out here why would you trust an entity that wants to reduce the human population under agenda 21
its real
Wow, what started as a very informative article (Mahalo BOH!) has generated 2000+ comments … including diatribes from both sides on the vaccine issue … and the comments continue. As my Nonna used to say “che casino!”
Does the clear health pass renew when it expires or do you have to upload vaccination card again when it expires is 278 hours? Makes no sense to keep uploading card
I have reached out to Maui County Government to get their take on Canadian Vaccination Certificates and got the following response:
Aloha Mr. ….
Due to you and your wife being vaccinated with an FDA authorized vaccine (Pfizer) that will be valid proof for use in restaurants.
Mahalo for asking.
Safe travels,
Sandy
Mālama pono,
Sandy Baz
Managing Director
County of Maui
200 S. High St.
Wailuku, HI 96793
That’s great to know! Thanks for the info. Would any Canadians know where we can obtain PCR tests before our flights back to Canada? I’ll be on the Big Island visiting friends in November. I am not sure if non-residents have access to the same testing facilities that residents can use. Any info anyone can provide would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks
The clear app is not uploading my vaccine card. Now what?I’m trying to plan a trip to Honolulu. The clear app seems to be the the only one that allows an upload of cards. I don’t want to take another test for travel and unsure if the app would upload it either. Any suggestions?
BOBBIE… Why are you trying to use the CLEAR app? It’s only available in about 2 states in the country as you can only upload a “digital” cared and is irrelevant anyway. You have to use Safe Travels in the end anyhow so why not just keep it simple and not bother!
We will have been in Maui for a week when “Safer Hawai’i” kicks in on Oct 15th, so we will carry our CDC Vaccination card everywhere and will show it when asked. Is there an additional vaccination passport app or requirement (that you know of at this time) that will be required?
Thanks
Hi Michel.
You mean to say September 15, rather than October 15, and no, just bring your proof.
Aloha.
I have both Safe Travels Hawaii and Clear filled out and my exemption ok’d on both..Clear takes forever to accept your signature..don’t know why but it’s the Safe Travels site that gives you the code for boarding the plane after filling in the questioneer 24 hrs prior to your planned flight. Everything I’ve read confirms this and it doesn’t seem to be giving any issues. Have a good flight.
was just in Maui for 2 weeks. got my info loaded to CLEAR only to find out I was good with just the Safe Travels Site. I was able to load my copy of my card by signing both boxes even though 2nd box pertains to a child traveling with you.It should be easy after that. Also, skip the restaurant app-found calling direct was easier or just showing up to go on wait list worked. showing card was no prob. get wrist band b4 boarding n save time at airport. enjoy
If we fill out the safe travels info, why do we need a vaccination passport? Please explain. Thank you.
Hi Darleen.
No, you can simply follow the Safe Travels vaccination exemption protocol. Nothing more is needed at this time and the passports remain just an option.
Aloha.
The “Safe Travels” web site includes the ability to request a quarantine exemption for a particular trip. For example, one can upload their vaccine info, plus a photo of the precious paper card, to receive the exemption. Another way is to upload a negative test result from a test that meets their requirements and was taken within 72 hours of your final flight to HI.
The “Vaccine Passport” has nothing to do with avoiding quarantine. It has to do with being able to dine inside a restaurant, go to a gym, movie theater, etc. Appears to be same thing as NYC has done. FWIW, NYC has stated that Outside US vaccinations are acceptable for their “passport.”
So has Hawaii, It is on their website.
Where a LOT more testing is going on…Israel, Singapore, even Duke University the data shows that vaccinated people are spreading Covid-19. And that the vaccines effectiveness wanes with time. No question that the vaccine prevents death and a severe outcome. However, requiring vaccinations will not prevent the spread of Covid and may actually encourage more variants to arise within vaccinated individuals. Natural immunity from a previous infection has been shown to be more effective than the vaccines against the newer variants. To require a 12 year old that has a close to 0% chance of developing severe Covid to be vaccinated to eat at a restaurant when we now know it doesn’t prevent the spread of Covid, just doesn’t make sense. I am vaccinated but still wonder why we don’t have equivalent ‘previous infection/recovery cards’ available for the millions who have already had it and recovered?
Hi SUPMOM.
Most likely because it doesn’t support the announced political narrative that everyone must be vaccinated.
One of the Rules for Politics is:
When facts do not support the theory, disregard or dispose of the facts.
Get the vaccine you will not die
No.
So, what are you suggesting, that people not get vaccinated and play Russian Roulette with COVID?? Bottom line is that everyone should get vaccinated, regardless of whether or not you’ve had COVID. There’s actually some studies that suggest that natural immunity plus the vaccine might be the best protection of all. What there’s not a definitive answer to is if natural immunity alone provides better and worse protection from COVID. There are some conflicting studies so we can’t draw any conclusions for now. Therefore, the safest thing to do is just go ahead and get vaccinated anyway. As for 12 year old’s. What you said was true at the beginning of the pandemic when we closed the schools and locked down. However, now the numbers are a bit more grim for children and the latest numbers seem to suggest that severe COVID in children with the advent of the Delta variant and the opening up of schools, etc. has gone Way up. A CDC study showed that COVID in children and adolescents increased five-fold from late June to mid-August.
Kudos!
Not sure if Hawaii travelers over 65 are aware that the state of Hawaii just decided that all things being equal those over age 65 will be denied medical care if the hospitals become full in favor of younger patients , hopefully it doesn’t get to this situation .
Where did you read this. Can you provide a link?
This was in the online addition of the star advertiser Sunday sept. 12 as the featured story . The need to ration health care was known if covid hospitalizations increase but what was decided by the governor recently is that the age of 65 will be a determining factor in making the decision as to who to treat and who will be denied treatment if all the other Determining factors are equal . Some states have had to ration healthcare and deny a bed to critical patients .
Because I am not a subscriber, I was unable to read it. Has there any other news on this?
Emergency medical care already is being rationed in Idaho. The unvaccinated have filled the hospitals to capacity and people are being turned away for other emergency care. They simply don’t have the room to treat them and as one Doctor pointed out “every single Covid patient in his hospital was unvaccinated”. It’s well covered in today’s Seattle Times as is a story about a man in Alabama with a heart problem who was turned away from 43 hospitals due to unvaccinated Covid patients before he died.
The unvaccinated situation is not just preventing the economy from recovering, it’s killing a lot of people too.
I’m fully aware this sounds harsh, but it also happens to be the reality of what we all are dealing with. People should be basing decisions on reality and not some random conspiracy theory or lie they read on line.
You need to stop watching the “news” and reading newspaper “headlines” and read the actual data. Nothing you said is factually true. Even the directors of the hospitals confirmed this. Please do the research on your own before spreading information like this.
👎
ELiE K.,
The problem with “do your own research”, which usually means Google it, is that you have no way of determining the veracity of the information you are getting. I could put something on my blog claiming I’m a doctor and I’ve found that the vaccine will make you smarter, faster, and taller and it would show up in your Google search. One of the things that true journalists do, they check out the information, get multiple sources, etc. before they go to press. Also note that just because it’s coming from a “news” channel, doesn’t mean it’s Journalism. Much of what’s on Fox and MSNBC, etc. is really opinion. Bottom line is that what John W. said above is basically information that comes from many reliable sources. Note, for example, in yesterdays Alaska News there’s a story about how Alaskas largest hospital is rationing care because of the number of COVID cases it’s dealing with. These stories are popping up all over the US, but especially from low vaccinated states. adn.com/alaska-news/2021/09/14/amid-covid-19-overload-providence-alaska-medical-center-now-prioritizing-care-under-crisis-standards/. So, in the end, I suggest that we all Not “do our own research”, but instead listen to the agencies that we Pay a Ton of money for, like the CDC and leave it at that.
Thanks Joerg…this is as of today..
Idaho hospitals are so overwhelmed with the surge in coronavirus cases that doctors and nurses have to contact dozens of regional hospitals across the West in hopes of finding places to transfer individual critical patients.
The situation has grown so bad that the Idaho Department of Health and Wellness announced Thursday that the entire state is in a hospital resource crisis, permitting medical facilities to ration health care and triage patients.
Yeah, those crazy left wingers at The Wall Street Journal are trying to trick us because….
FB has always been the go to for in depth coverage, of nonsense.
LOL… I like the joke that has someone sitting at their computer and yelling to their spouse….”Look honey, I found something on the internet that all the Doctors and Researchers missed!”
I guess its safe to assume few have gone to a single government web site or proceeded past the first page. Because if you had, the conversation regarding this shot would be over and those who’ve received it would be very, very disheartened. Research longer than 15 minutes and definitely ignore the headlines. Why anyone is believing MSM right now is baffling.
Well Kimberly you pretty much nailed it …you think with 15 minutes of reading the Internet you can debunk the scores of highly experienced scientists, researchers, medical professionals, hospital administrators and countless other people that have dedicated theirs lives to the work they do and could careless about any one particular political base and just work to save lives.
That pretty much sums up what this country is dealing with.(psst, there are people using the Internet to say things that are not true)..saddest thing of all is the Dr Mercolas and “frontline doctors” are making a lot of money and people are actually making a choice that kills them because of the their highly profitable misinformation campaign.
They are directly responsible for people dying.
JohnW, I am not a lone rider. There were over 150k people at a ball game over the weekend…another ball game. Unfortunately, we are stuck in a bubble while the rest of the world is moving on. That’s what is going on. Period. There’s no argument over this. It’s fact. I admit I do not understand your fear. However, I am not going to beat you up for living with this fear, I am just going to say, its sad. There is still a lot of life to live out there and there are some of us that are being held down. It’s not right, it’s not constitutional and it’s absolutely NOT legal and I, along with many others are tired of it. But, nothing or no one wants to stop you from protecting yourself. If you want to get 30 vaccines, wear 5 masks and spend the rest of your life fearing other people that’s okay, but I shouldn’t have to. I am not afraid of this virus or any virus… I am however, terrified of losing time. I want my freedom back – without having to inject it.
Kimberly, please educate us all on what is unconstitutional and illegal about anything going on with Covid restrictions and procedures.
Kimberly, for the record I have no fear of the virus for myself or family, we are vaccinated. I’m not viewing the current situation from how I am effected. I care that there are still people dying that didn’t have to and I certainly don’t want to inadvertently be part of a chain that could pass the virus to someone that dies. It’s all about the big picture and once enough people are vaccinated we can all move on from this situation. Personally I feel the most for young parents and am glad I don’t have to deal with what they are facing. Sadly while some kids are being told that wearing a mask is about protecting others and practicing compassion, others are being taught “no it’s all about you and so what if you pass a virus to your teacher, you shouldn’t have to wear a mask if you think it’s uncomfortable “.
I fear we are raising a generation of narcissists that think their personal rights trump everything and everybody.
Adversity should breed strength, I fear this one is breeding self interest at a grand scale.
You can only meet people where they are. 
The donkey told the tiger, “The grass is blue.”
The tiger replied, “No, the grass is green .”
The discussion became heated, and the two decided to submit the issue to arbitration, so they approached the lion.
As they approached the lion on his throne, the donkey started screaming: ′′Your Highness, isn’t it true that the grass is blue?”
The lion replied: “If you believe it is true, the grass is blue.”
The donkey rushed forward and continued: ′′The tiger disagrees with me, contradicts me and annoys me. Please punish him.”
The king then declared: ′′The tiger will be punished with 3 days of silence.”
The donkey jumped with joy and went on his way, content and repeating ′′The grass is blue, the grass is blue…”
The tiger asked the lion, “Your Majesty, why have you punished me, after all, the grass is green?”
The lion replied, ′′You’ve known and seen the grass is green.”
The tiger asked, ′′So why do you punish me?”
The lion replied, “That has nothing to do with the question of whether the grass is blue or green. The punishment is because it is degrading for a brave, intelligent creature like you to waste time arguing with an ass, and on top of that, you came and bothered me with that question just to validate something you already knew was true!”
The biggest waste of time is arguing with the fool and fanatic who doesn’t care about truth or reality, but only the victory of his beliefs and illusions. Never waste time on discussions that make no sense. There are people who, for all the evidence presented to them, do not have the ability to understand. Others who are blinded by ego, hatred and resentment, and the only thing that they want is to be right even if they aren’t.
When Ignorance Screams, intelligence moves on.
Aloha everyone!
May I ask for suggestions of things to do on the island for families? We have a 9 year old and almost 2 year old, looking for activities and places to eat.
Mahalo in advance!
JUDY C… Don’t know which island you are visiting but most have Facebook pages which are very active and a much better source of information. If you are visiting Kauai, Kauai has at least 2-3 – just look up “kauai”.
If you are going to Maui I would recommend the “Reef Dancer” (the yellow sub) for the kiddos. It “dances” in a shallow area and the divers bring up sea life to the windows and describe what they are showing you plus you get a chart showing all the local fish. If you want to take the longer trip, after that they go out to sea fora half hour in search of turtles. I also totally enjoy the Quick Silver company for an outing to go snorkling.
Hi!
I’m soon planning a trip to Oahu & Maui – I’m from Europe & have a vaccination passport issued here, in digital format. Any idea, would this be acceptable?
Thanks in advance,
Monica
Hi Monica.
It will not be acceptable. You need to follow the Safe Travels testing protocol.
Aloha.
The European documentation is not acceptable to enter Hawaii but it can be used along with other countries’ documentation to prove vaccination status at hotels and restaurants. It must be a CDDC or WHO approve vaccine. So nice to have a topic that is cut and dried on Covid.
How do you know that? Is there a source where I can see this in writing? I am trying to find out and nobody is able to tell me if a Canadian Vaccination Certificate is accepted. The Restaurants I contacted did not know anything. Only one said: Maybe.
Even that was not helpful.
oneoahu.org/safe-access-oahu?LID=1104976_LINK_1&HACMP=EMMP_HM-PTR-Solo_PC-HNL_20210909&MID=1104976&RID=RS5762471332
“Proof of a US FDA approved or US FDA EUA vaccination (currently Moderna, Pfizer and Johnson & Johnson) administered outside the United States is acceptable for employees and patrons/customers.
○ For employees, the employer must be able to provide an English version of the employee’s documentation upon request for verification
○ For patrons/customers, the establishment should exercise reasonable discretion in accepting an official immunization record from outside the United States. One significant factor to consider is whether the document has enough English to be comprehensible or is in a language the establishment employees can comprehend. “
I fear we are moving away from the inherent obligation of leadership to promulgate and encourage the wisdom necessary for a free person, indeed a free society, to choose their path carefully and wisely, and toward a darker position.
I find the concept that in order to be free of one thing I must surrender perhaps more freedom to another difficult to understand. I don’t view the freedom of Americans as being a zero-sum proposition.
I suggest any mass immunization program that uses compulsion rather than persuasion will, on balance, do more harm to the well being of a free people than any good it was intended to convey.
While I wish it otherwise, I believe no good shall come of this. For Hawaii or the nation.
Asking people to be either vaccinated or show proof of a recent negative test when entering in situations that have already created the spreading of a virus that is like russian roulette and has killed or devastated so many people already hardly seems like compulsion to me. It certainly is not as restrictive as the vaccine requirements we abided by as children going to school, that wiped out Polio, Diphtheria, whooping cough etc. and saved millions of keiki lives.
Given our current situation what really is the problem with asking diners to either be vaccinated to sit at a table or if not please take advantage of the carry out options. Seems to me that’s very respectful of the people that opt out of the vaccination and yet still gives them fair options.
Hello JohnW
Whether I have to wear a mask to use the men’s room or order a hamburger at Big Kahuna Burgers is ‘de minimus’. Such is not the issue. These things are simply annoyances resulting from the ongoing prepping of the COVID political battlefield.
COVID is a virus than infects humans. It is poorly understood. We actually know we poorly understand it because despite almost 2 years of encounters we continue to witness gross errors in the medical and societal approaches to reducing it. COVID will do what virus’s have done since humans first encountered them. Infections may increase; they may decrease. But it will be the single little COVID virus cell that dictates which.
You and I are simply caught in the frenzy of political entities that know they will not long survive if they are viewed as not being able to offer something to those to whom they are ultimately accountable. They realize a drowning man will cling to anything to remain afloat, so we are being told we are drowning and receiving just that – anything. My fear is that among those anythings is the loss of freedom to make moral and ethical decisions for oneself.
I doubt we who read this shall witness the end of COVID. My biggest concern is that when the last little COVID virus falls to earth, those who remain are not as free from political control as when the first one flew.
Well Heyward, you are spot on that this issue has been politicized. Interesting how Canada has done so much better then we have. Whether on the left or the right, Canadians didn’t politicize this and all just pulled in the same direction. Nobody said it was hoax. Everyone agreed it was a problem and getting everyone vaccinated was the safest and quickest way out of this mess. It’s working nicely for them.
Telling people that they should get vaccinated or wear a mask when appropriate isn’t politics, undermining that message is.
you are so articulately correct!
My neighbors, 76 and 74 hesitated to get their vaccines because their daughter in law, a naturopath, opposed it. Now they are the only ones not sick (because they DID get vaccinated). Both their sons, both daughters in law, are now very sick and need grand parents to care for grandchildren. Thankfully they listened to their doctor!
So let’s say it as it is vaccination is a requirement even though it really shouldn’t be. These people have become a law unto themselves and it is not civil or legal. It does not recognize those are naturally vaccinated or I would rather take a test. When are people going to learn that if you are vaccinated you can still get the virus and you can still spread the virus!!
As soon as the unvaccinated recognize that they are more likely to be hospitalized and die than the vaccinated. As soon as the ones with Covid-created antibodies recognize that getting vaccinated provides an extra level of protection.
GP,
We all know that the vaccinated can still get the virus and can still transmit the virus. We also know that if you wear you seatbelt you can still die in an accident but it still smart to wear a seatbelt.
Let’s use the King County, Washington (Seattle area) data as an example since they do a great job of tracking vaccinated vs. unvaccinated statistics. In the last 30 days, unvaccinated persons were 7x more likely to test positive for COVID, they were 50x more likely to be hospitalized and they 30x more likely to die.
In a restaurant full of vaccinated people, you are far less likely to contract Covid because the patrons are far less likely to have Covid. And, if the folks in the restaurant do happen to get COVID they are way, way less likely to go to the hospital and further burden an already overwhelmed system.
To all those that choose to not get immunized, we respect your choice but please understand that it is a selfish one. As an unvaccinated person, you are more likely to get infected therefore you are more likely to infect those around you.
And why not get the vaccine? Because of the infinitesimal risk of a severe side effect? Every single hospital in the world, all the top epidemiologists, and 99.9999% of MDs strongly recommend the vaccine but you got to find some random YouTube post by a chiropractor or vet that recommends otherwise.
As always, the adults in the room will continue to stay on the courageous and patriotic path and do what’s best for our community and country as a whole. No thanks needed – it’s what we do.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for this post. This is the reality, it’s the bottom line, it’s true, responsible, and what people need to hear. Please everyone, think of the greater good, it’s your chance to make a difference in the world, it really is. Please be responsible for those who rely on you to help protect those needing protection, children, immunocompromised, frail, and elderly. It’s public health, and should not be political. Even the ACLU supports vaccine mandates. Thank you again for your post.
Well said MyChal…..you brought up patriotism and that’s so true. We won WW2
because the whole country pulled together and made sacrifices far greater then
the simple act of wearing a mask and getting vaccinated. Times have sure changed.
As a senior I grew up when vaccines were mandated..the polio vaccine came about when I was about 9yo..I couldn’t attend school in NH in 6th grade until I got the smallpox vaccine.My brother and I did had the usual childhood illnesses of it’s time like measles, chicken pox, whooping cough and survived. Through vaccines we have virtually eradicated these and as time went on and people are choosing not to vaccinate their children they are coming back. I am of the mindset to do what is best for all and with a more or less safe vaccine I have a hard time understanding why someone wouldn’t get the vaccine if it meant preventing yourself or someone you love from contracting a deadly virus.
I am 72 and vaccines have been around for a long time.I did not have all my vaccines as a child and got measles, mumps and chicken pox. I remember being very sick with all of them. I had to get a small pox vaccine to attend college. I am a firm believer in vaccines.
I don’t normally like to read all these comments about Covid on BOH but you did a great job of stating the facts. I have been vaccinated and am hoping to get my booster next month.
My neighbors, 76 and 74 hesitated to get their vaccines because their daughter in law, a naturopath, opposed it. Now they are the only ones not sick (because they did get vaccinated). Both their sons, both daughters in law, are now very sick and need grand parents to care for grandchildren. Thankfully they listened to their doctors, not the naturopath!!
You just never know how your body is going to respond… Russian roulette. 2 of my friends have had severe reactions to the vaccine and most likely life long health issues now. I had Covid months ago and recovered fairly easy- I refuse to get the vaccine- I have antibodies and don’t want to mess with my health when there are no long term studies– who knows what is going to happen to these spike proteins in 3,
5 years.
How long do you expect your antibodies to last? If you wait for long term studies you could face a severe disease or death. Imagine if everyone waits for long term studies…. I guess the world will be much, much less populated. I would respectfully suggest you not take a long term view, unless meeting your maker is OK with you.
Hopefully, we all will meet our maker one day. Isn’t that the plan?
Kimberly, I think you know I meant you don’t want to meet your maker in the near future. Of course, we will all die at some point. You took my comment out of context either by mistake or intentionally, but either way I have clarified what I mean.
Candi, Aloha still means taking care of others is most important. Don’t be misled by
a handful of blog posts as speaking for everyone that lives here. There are many many people that do many many good things for others over here. Aloha is certainly under attack, but it’s far from dead.
Sorry, I thought I tagged this to Candi’s post further down were she lamented the loss of Aloha
Wow! I wish I knew you when I could barely afford to feed my kid yet alone myself. Those were some troubling times. No vaccine for poverty unfortunately.
Nancy S
I know what you meant. However, if you are seriously that frightened of this virus, you’re not living anyway. The media and the government have made this virus far more than what it really is. There are other countries and states in the US where Covid is not even discussed. You wouldn’t even know it still exists in the world and when I say exists, I mean talked about. People are not wearing masks, they aren’t walking or standing 6 feet apart, they don’t have to show their papers to enter a restaraunt, bar or any other business. At this point, the panic in the few remaining states is 150% manufactured and I have 250% confidence with that statement. It’s time. These few states left pushing this need to just stop with all of this nonsense. It’s tyrannnical.
It’s kind of tragic that 675,000 deaths mean so little you. If you would have followed the simple protocols and then gotten a vaccination it would have never come to this. We know that. That is a fact, not an opinion. We could be so far beyond this we could be making a real dent in the worldwide pandemic. It is worldwide, you know, it hasn’t just affected your little corner of the world. But, instead we have to struggle with all of you newly minted ‘experts’. I really don’t know how you live with yourself.
Kimberly…GROW UP and GET REAL!!!! Your comment don’t even make sense. Australia is having riots – yes, that’s “talking about it”. And yes, people in many states/locations are being required to show proof of vaccination to enter. You might want to enter “reality” and read the news! You are so far out of it, it’s frightening!
Not for your benefit as your mind will never change, but how about 1 in 500 Americans died last year from this “invisible” illness. Now more Americans have died than in the 1918 pandemic. By all counts and reasoning, the actual worldwide death toll is an estimated ~16 million when epidemiologists looked at the unintended death rates compared to 2018 and 2019.
Why do you see it as your mission to continue this charade on a site devoted to those who do actually read and understand the short (death and suffering) term and long-term CV-19 effects that will result from this novel coronavirus ripping through bodies and the general population?
Either emerge from the hole you reside within or explain why these numbers and the coming results from long and short haul Covid effects don’t seem to matter.
Here’s the difference between me and all of you who have chosen to attack me; I don’t care if you get vaccinated. I really don’t. Get all the boosters too. I honestly don’t care. Where a mask all day long. Wear it while you swim in the ocean, just make sure you take it with you when you get out so I don’t have to see another one float by me. What my issue is, YOUR problem with me NOT wanting to take the vaccine. It’s none of your business what I do with MY body. PERIOD. If you honestly believe that you, who have obviously taken the vaccine, are not safe unless I get vaccinated too, then what are you doing, here? Why did you get vaccinated? Just let it go. You’re vaccinated, you’re safe. You are free to roam the earth. Meanwhile, I am going to fight for the rest of your freedoms and mine too. Have a lovely day.
KIMBERLY…. Guess what – in spite of what you think, not a single soul really cares about you and your vaccination philosophy. Please take it elsewhere – it as NOTHING to do with traveling to Hawaii! If you didn’t comment, you wouldn’t be criticized. Obviously, you haven’t figured that out!!!
I don’t mind the criticism. I was just addressing those who criticized me and, I do have the right to express my opinion, just as you clearly have the right to express opinions.
Aloha!
BOH, why are comments like this allowed? This is not a helpful Hawaii travel tip.
BETH C… Do you mean me (Barbara) or Kimberley?
This refers to Kimberly’s comment.
Your point is well put. However what is the difference with people smoking. It is the same principle. People are regulated in what they do so as to not expose others to risk. You are perfectly at liberty not to be vaccinated but you will have to accept it will limit what you will be able to do, for example in hotels, restaurants and some airlines. People leaving trash in the water and on the beach is the same principle. People should not do it and should face consequences if they do. It is all about thinking of others and the effects your actions could have on them.
Amen Kimberly!!!!!
Kimberly, I hate to tell you this, but the reason you’re being “attacked” is that those of us who are vaccinated, are tired of the unvaccinated and the problems you cause. So, sure, it’s your body, and feel free to play COVID Russian Roulette with it if you like. However, undertand that your choices also come with consequences. So, let me pull this back to travel to Hawaii. In this case, you will not be able to participate in some things that the vaccinated can. That’s a consiquence of your choice. Want to be able to eat inside in a restaurant in Hawaii, get the jab. Otherwise, seriously, the rest of us a tired of hearing people like you complain.
Joerg H, yeah….I’m not playing this vaccinated vs unvaccinated game. Nothing good is going to come from it. I’m also not playing Russian Roulette. That’s a silly term for anything with such a high survival rate. You want to play Russian Roulette? Go check yourself into the hospital and for the record, as vaccinations increase, so does the virus. I’ve never heard of that happening before.