1,090 thoughts on “Hawaii Visitors and Residents Whipsaw in 1,000 Comments”
Liam O
Many visitors have expressed their appreciation for the beauty of our state, and for the overall sense of Aloha that is shared with them.
But…many come with a sense of entitlement that coming here allows them to disregard the local norms, and community standards. It’s those visitors who should travel to locales where their sense if entitlement can be catered to.
Cf
Liam o, people spend triple the amount of money on average to come visit hawaii. If hawaii wants tourists and tourist dollars then yes they DO need to cater to the needs of tourists. And yes hawaii continues to depend completely on tourist dollars for some reason?
Like anything else you get what you pay for. If tourists are upset or feel entitled then it is the responsibility of hawaii lawmakers and residents to work things out so that everyone can have a more positive experience.
Unfortunately the hawaii first attitude doesn’t work well in America. Cash only stores need to accept credit cards and its time that hawaii strengthens its bonds with the rest of usa. For the sake of economics and responsibilities of us citizens etc. having all this dysfunctional behavior is not the answer and all the racism and divide.
Things could be much much worse for hawaii atleast there is money from tourists to pay for all the roads etc. and gotta pay for all the beach park maintenance, airports, nice homes cars etc
Paul C
I am guessing you must not have traveled much. Its not just the islands its any small community asshats can be found everywhere. Entitled tourists also are found everywhere. Try being nice and you will be treated nicely.
Dan
Simple golden rule seems to work best everywhere. Have courteous respect for others, and hopefully they will have the same for you. It’s a simple concept we should all try to remember to follow. I do agree, jerks are always present, in every group, no matter where a person is, but they are also the tiny minority and shouldn’t be used to judge an entire group of people whether they are tourists or locals.
James B
You have expressed on numerous occasions your disdain for Hawaii and the way the state is trying to protect its citizens. Your reflections illustrate the very reason why Hawaii wants less people with your attitude. I have only one question. Since you readily and repeated trash Hawaii, why are you still on this site?
Elizabeth S
James
Well stated. CF cant seem to get enough of the trash talking to the citizens here and to the State overall, so much so that he is on the Beat of Hawaii regularly.
I’m surprised actually that it is being permitted.
Paul C
I say we take a vote and vote the negative Nellie CF off this great site where people are actually trying to find information about Hawaii not trash Hawaii
Dan S
I don’t think silencing people because they disagree is a good idea, it’s good to hear the positive and negative aspects of a place when researching a trip/vacation. Especially when cost and more importantly time off is such a valuable resource these days. I for one, would lose respect and interest in a site that censors people just because we or a certain small group of people disagree with someone. I personally applaud the people who run the boards and site for allowing people to express their views, from all sides. If all you hear is an echo chamber, you lose important insight. If the tourist industry tanks, and you aren’t willing to find out why or listen to people, it will never recover. If the locals are treating tourists badly, and tourists don’t listen and try to understand what is bothering locals, the problem will only get worse, not better.
Dan S
How many of the people on here just live in Hawaii vs being born and raised there or having Polynesian blood. I have much respect for actual Hawaiians, and I’m interested to hear their opinions, but I’m also very aware of lots of people who “live” in Hawaii, that aren’t even Hawaiian that love to push their politics on others, they are usually the ones that are unwelcoming. Can any true locals offer some insight into the conversations above? I feel like part of the culture I’ve experienced in the past is that “welcoming attitude” and willingness to share and educate willing tourists about their ways and culture. That’s what’s always made Hawaii so great and interesting to travel to. It was an entire experience, learning about the culture, the land, the food, the traditions…that’s what I love about Hawaii, not the modern generic hotel/beach travel that can be had at millions of other locations. Without that entire experience, Hawaii isn’t much different than any number of tropical beaches on the mainland.
Paul C
Dan to your comment about negative commenters. I agree to a point but there are several than are here non stop and always spewing negativity specifically towards Hawaiians. I agree that the mods do the best job they can to keep a nice informational site for us to see. That being said get off Hawaiis butt. They are hardly the only state in this situation
Beat of Hawaii
Hi Paul.
Just an aside here. You should see the ones that got away (those comments that we would not publish)!
Aloha.
Mary F.
I am appalled by the negative comments of visitors. I have had family on Oahu for nearly a century. It sounds like these visitors are equating Waikiki with all of Oahu which is very sad. The tourist industry in Waikiki is just that….an industry. They do depend on tourism. But the rest of the state has many more means of income. On Oahu it is mainly from the military and the civilian jobs they create. Agriculture used to play a big role on some of the other islands until greedy developers grabbed up so much land to build condos and tourist accommodations. I have seen many tourists from many lands come to the islands with an entitlement attitude. That’s definitely not the Aloha spirit. Before you blame Hawaii for trying to protect its people during this pandemic, please look in a mirror and determine which kind of visitor you want to be. Mahalo.
Dan
I agree, it works both ways. If all a tourist wants is a beach and service, there are easier places to travel to get that. Hawaii offers so much more with its amazing culture, history, and natural beauty. Unfortunately the local politicians are making it clear to travelers, that they aren’t wanted though. The destruction of the local economy and how that will impact locals will be felt for years to come. When people like myself, who travel to Hawaii because we love the culture and beauty feel pushed away and unwelcome by the local government, you know Hawaii is in trouble. I am always open minded and very easy going, but all these harsh rules and discrimination towards visitors is making even the most die hard Hawaii lovers turn away from our visits. The welcoming spirit is dying, and it’s clearly visible to anyone who looks, don’t let the local politicians push agendas that will cause more long term and short term damage than the actual virus does.
Paul C
exactly! People feel they are owed something because of their privilege’s
Bunny
It’s an unfortunate truth but not all tourists know how to behave. 🙁 It doesn’t take more than a few people to ruin it for everyone else. It’s best to follow the golden rule and lead by example.
JLH
And it only takes one hostile local to change the demeanor of many tourists. I witnessed a store owner in Lahaina yelling at a family because their two kids stepped up onto the front steps of his closed store. The kids stepped up and then back down. And this store owner flipped out, yelling “I’m sick of you people. You people come here and do what you want. I don’t need you suing me because your kids got hurt.” If you hate tourists, why do you run a souvenir shop in Lahaina?
Paul c
read your own words. The store was closed. This is hardly exclusive to Hawaii. Give me a break.
Reese W
I was hoping to hear what native, Aboriginal Hawaiians think about tourism, not white colonizer ‘locals’ or ‘residents’. is there any polling on what actual Hawaiians think?
Ann M
Reese you could start one but good luck in finding any people that are 100%
native Hawaiian.
Dawn
That’s because the native Hawaiians were pretty much wiped out by disease during the last rounds of pandemics brought by people from other places.
Dan
Wow, I guess that sums up your opinion about being welcoming and open to other places/opinions or people. Scary thought, but if you really want to stop all travel to Hawaii, should we have that work both ways, no Hawaiians can visit the mainland, should we stop sending federal money other than what the state contributes? I think your opinion is rather eye opening, and probably doesn’t represent how the majority of locals really feel, but maybe I’m wrong, after all, it’s just my opinion.
Paul C
Dan,
What part of this is an island in the middle of the pacific? A set of islands with limited resources as in hospitals etc. You allow Millions to start flowing as usual into Hawaii with the virus the islands will be wiped out. Personally I think all states should shut down all but essential travel between states until the vaccine is successfully rolled out and the numbers drop sufficiently. IN fact a number of states are requiring quarantines now and lock downs. Its not just Hawaii.
Dan
They don’t have to be 100% native Hawaiian, but at least people who are multigenerational from Hawaii. I think we hear a lot from transplants who like to say they are “local”, but clearly don’t seem to exude the “Aloha” spirit that the culture seems to have openly exhibited in my past experiences. I find it hard to believe that the true Hawaiians are so unwelcoming about sharing their culture. I have always had great experiences learning about the culture, history, and beauty Hawaii has to offer, but now I’m hearing so much unwelcoming resentment towards tourists from so called locals that I’m having a hard time believing it. If Hawaii is truly becoming this hostile towards visitors it is a sad thing indeed and a disappointment to all of us who truly appreciate and love the culture. Many of the rude and unwelcoming comments I have read Seem to be more about policies and politics. The idea on here that only certain views should be allowed to be posted is a very scary thought to me and runs contrary to both constitutional norms, but also Hawaiian culture.
Maybe I’m wrong, but I think the majority of these negative comments from people calling themselves locals are probably transplants from other places.can anyone offer some insight?
Erin G.
In the 1980 census, there were only 500 “pure” Hawaiians left in Hawaii,being 40 years ago, I am sure that number is far, far lower.
Dan
I was thinking the same thing, I would like to hear what the multi generational Hawaiian locals have to say, not just the loudest transplants pushing their political ideals and opinions.
Eldon R.
My parents taught me to be respectful, and the lessons took, for the most part. Anyone who invites tourists takes the risk of having to deal with a few who are outright rude, crude and disrespectful. Thanks to all who take that risk on my behalf. I hope I never violate the trust you give to me. Your trust allows me to experience things I could never see or do without your gamble! Aloha and Mahalo!
Beat of Hawaii
Hi Eldon.
Thanks for your nice words.
Aloha.
Dan
Exactly, it works both ways, and jerks are found in every place and group of people, but they are usually a tiny percentage of the actual population. Just because they scream the loudest doesn’t mean they represent the majority. Having mutual respect for each other, our customs, culture, etc is what we all need to keep in mind. Many of the tourists are from places that have their own cultures as well, even other states have values that differ from on another, but let’s try and be respectful and treat each other how we would like to be treated. Having conversations is what helps all of us understand the differences we share and why we deal the way we do, without those, we are flying blindly and making chooses that aren’t informed.
Dorothy
I’m a native Californian who didn’t experience Hawaii until 2006. Since then we have tried to return at least every other year, to Kauai. I think I understand why Hawaiians are often repulsed by the insensitivity, rudeness, and ignorance of some tourists. I was horrified to read a comment posted here, earlier this year, from a tourist who was fed up because President Obama might be purchasing a home in Hawaii. Her post said that if he were to buy or build a home, she would never return to Hawaii again. That didn’t just repulse me, a person of color, but made me think what Hawaiians, including President Obama, must have to endure by others who disrespect their land and their people.
Mahalo nui loa.
Beat of Hawaii
Hi Dorothy.
Thanks for your comments. We appreciate it.
Aloha.
JohnW
Dorothy, sadly, there are people out there that do think like the person you referred to, “if Obama builds a home there I’m not coming”.
Personally I have to remind myself most people are not like that, not even most “trumpies”. But the fact that the extremists say they aren’t coming to Hawaii is a good thing for the State. When her type stays away Hawaii wins.
I think the whole locals vs tourists debate on here has been a little blown out of proportion . There are isolated instances for sure when a local gets fed up with the subtle or not so subtle racists that visit. Rude, disrespectful behavior isn’t always well tolerated here. But by far most visitors are not like that. Most are having a wonderful time here and the proof is how many people do visit Hawaii.
If someone is having a problem with Hawaii it says more about them then any reflection on the State.
Nobody should read this blog and assume the “Local don’t like tourists”, instead read it for what it is, some people do act in a way that is offensive and they also post on blogs with the same attitude. They are a small minority of visitors and the vast silent majority is the norm and have a great time when they are here. They are warmly embraced by the tourist industry as it’s a win win deal for everyone.
Aloha to all
Beat of Hawaii
Hi John.
Thanks for your thoughts and all your comments. We appreciate it.
Aloha.
Michael H
Very well said. Excellent perspective. Thank You!!
Hip I.
Hi Dorothy I vacation in Hawaii every year and I have never come across these insensitive rude ignorant tourists you mention.In my experience the local residents are equally respectful.
Cf
Hip l that was usually my experience there. I dont know what its like with the covid there. The homelessness there has been out of control as far back as 2012 to 2016. I have no idea if its better now or not. I know on beat of hawaii there were few negative posts on here until covid happened. I just know that because hawaii is an island costs are higher on everything. So even if the Hawaii govt didnt lock down or place any restrictions the groceries would go up and hospitals would stay pretty full.
Dan
I agree that it’s absurd to judge a place because of someone who is from there, or wants to move there, or any other reason about one person. That’s just a cop out in my mind and a bully mentality. I’m not a supporter of Obama, but I don’t see what that has to do with an entire state or population. Who cares where Obama, Trump, or any other person wants to live, that’s no reflection of the local population or anything else. As long as they follow the same rules and are held to the same standards as the population, it shouldn’t matter.
As a fellow person of ethic background, I do t see what our skin color has to do with anything. No offense, but I just don’t see how that is pertinent to anything we are discussing on this board and injecting it into the conversation can be used to divide people rather than unite people.
I do agree that Hawaiian probably don’t always have positive experiences with tourists, but I bet many do have positive experiences. There are plenty of us that travel to Hawaii because we love the culture and heritage, I learn something new every time, and I am very appreciative of people willing to share their history and culture with me so openly. I also believe that there are tourists that aren’t treated very nicely, but I bet that’s also a small percentage. I believe the majority of people are respectful both ways, and it’s good to hear other points of view to learn from one another. Hopefully this board will continue to be a place where we can research our travel plans and learn what to do, and not do to upset or insult each other, but rather learn from these encounters and strengthen what we do have in common and respect one another’s differences.
Paul p
Hi my name is Paul from Calgary wishing for a vaccine so we can all be safe. I will wait until there is one to book a trip to the place I love most. Hope to see you soon.
Joe B
Hey Paul C, I live in Idaho, I actually moved here 2 years ago. I have been to many small towns here in Idaho and have never met anything well wishes. You are listening way too much to the liberal press and worst yet you believe what they tell you. I just want to set the record straight Idaho is a great place to live and raise a family. Watch this video (Warning: Link Deleted Per Comment Rules). This is just one of many videos about needy people here. One thing they all have in common is they don’t complain, they work and they don’t ask for hand-outs. This is a lesson that other people should learn. So, don’t tell me Idaho isn’t a good place to live.
Banjo T
This is about Hawaii. Why are you talking about Idaho?
Dan
I think a comment or reply must have been removed/deleted?
Jouh
Maui is over rated.
Cf
Like anywhere else paul c some people are friendly some arnt.
Hawaii is on island time way of thinking and some think that usa owes them something because hawaii became a state. Its a bit behind in terms of way of thinking. It can be really slow and hard to get things done. On mainland people do things faster and more efficiently. Hawaii is islanders with islander mentality. Its not always bad but it is definitely not like living in the modern world To me atleast.
Alot of places in hawaii if you live like a local are small cramped dirty compared with the mainland. Its no ones fault really but recognize the issues paul c before you open your mouth. Tourists notice this stuff and yes they don’t understand it. I do understand it and yes it can be annoying even to locals that have lived on the mainland.
Young people leave the island in droves for more opportunities and quality of life for a reason. Im happy i lived there for a few years was a good experience overall.
Paul C
YOu do know the history of Hawaii and how Mainland USA basically stole it from the natives and made it be part of our nation right?
Go to a little town in Idaho and you will find their attitudes towards outsiders is way worse than any that Hawaiians might show. And why should hawaii be forced to live in this modern mainland world you speak of? I am guessing pretty much any island anywhere you go will have some of this. I have traveled extensively and I never judge a place just because.
Cf
Paul c i liked People in idaho. Its friendly and id actually love to stay in a mtn cabin there sometime.
If some want to feel hawaii was stolen then they need to file complaints with the federal govt not attack tourists which are source of revenue for the state. I think that is really innefectual.
i am not responsible for 1950s actions. I was born in early1980s. Anyone that was born in 60s or later should not be thinking about succeeding from usa or getting upset etc.
Marla B
Thank you very much for your time to help us adjust. Glancing through the comments, I can understand why they think Hawaiians are “rude”. When the Zonies (Arizona) come to San Diego, they are rude, they drive fast cut people off, leave their trash, etc.. This apparently is who many of them are & if they bring this behavior of disrespect to Hawaii, who can blame them? Personally, my experiences on the islands have always been very positive. My mom is part native American & I’ve been raised to respect the land & people. (My dad French Canadian where manners are
important) Respect is huge with both Hawaiians & Native Americans. It isn’t a lot to ask. There’s a song by Leon Russell called “Magic Mirror” those who think they’re rude might do well to listen to the words. Mahalo for reading this.
Beat of Hawaii
Hi Marla.
Thanks for your comments. Yes, Hawaii isn’t unique in all ways.
Aloha.
Comments are closed.
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Many visitors have expressed their appreciation for the beauty of our state, and for the overall sense of Aloha that is shared with them.
But…many come with a sense of entitlement that coming here allows them to disregard the local norms, and community standards. It’s those visitors who should travel to locales where their sense if entitlement can be catered to.
Liam o, people spend triple the amount of money on average to come visit hawaii. If hawaii wants tourists and tourist dollars then yes they DO need to cater to the needs of tourists. And yes hawaii continues to depend completely on tourist dollars for some reason?
Like anything else you get what you pay for. If tourists are upset or feel entitled then it is the responsibility of hawaii lawmakers and residents to work things out so that everyone can have a more positive experience.
Unfortunately the hawaii first attitude doesn’t work well in America. Cash only stores need to accept credit cards and its time that hawaii strengthens its bonds with the rest of usa. For the sake of economics and responsibilities of us citizens etc. having all this dysfunctional behavior is not the answer and all the racism and divide.
Things could be much much worse for hawaii atleast there is money from tourists to pay for all the roads etc. and gotta pay for all the beach park maintenance, airports, nice homes cars etc
I am guessing you must not have traveled much. Its not just the islands its any small community asshats can be found everywhere. Entitled tourists also are found everywhere. Try being nice and you will be treated nicely.
Simple golden rule seems to work best everywhere. Have courteous respect for others, and hopefully they will have the same for you. It’s a simple concept we should all try to remember to follow. I do agree, jerks are always present, in every group, no matter where a person is, but they are also the tiny minority and shouldn’t be used to judge an entire group of people whether they are tourists or locals.
You have expressed on numerous occasions your disdain for Hawaii and the way the state is trying to protect its citizens. Your reflections illustrate the very reason why Hawaii wants less people with your attitude. I have only one question. Since you readily and repeated trash Hawaii, why are you still on this site?
James
Well stated. CF cant seem to get enough of the trash talking to the citizens here and to the State overall, so much so that he is on the Beat of Hawaii regularly.
I’m surprised actually that it is being permitted.
I say we take a vote and vote the negative Nellie CF off this great site where people are actually trying to find information about Hawaii not trash Hawaii
I don’t think silencing people because they disagree is a good idea, it’s good to hear the positive and negative aspects of a place when researching a trip/vacation. Especially when cost and more importantly time off is such a valuable resource these days. I for one, would lose respect and interest in a site that censors people just because we or a certain small group of people disagree with someone. I personally applaud the people who run the boards and site for allowing people to express their views, from all sides. If all you hear is an echo chamber, you lose important insight. If the tourist industry tanks, and you aren’t willing to find out why or listen to people, it will never recover. If the locals are treating tourists badly, and tourists don’t listen and try to understand what is bothering locals, the problem will only get worse, not better.
How many of the people on here just live in Hawaii vs being born and raised there or having Polynesian blood. I have much respect for actual Hawaiians, and I’m interested to hear their opinions, but I’m also very aware of lots of people who “live” in Hawaii, that aren’t even Hawaiian that love to push their politics on others, they are usually the ones that are unwelcoming. Can any true locals offer some insight into the conversations above? I feel like part of the culture I’ve experienced in the past is that “welcoming attitude” and willingness to share and educate willing tourists about their ways and culture. That’s what’s always made Hawaii so great and interesting to travel to. It was an entire experience, learning about the culture, the land, the food, the traditions…that’s what I love about Hawaii, not the modern generic hotel/beach travel that can be had at millions of other locations. Without that entire experience, Hawaii isn’t much different than any number of tropical beaches on the mainland.
Dan to your comment about negative commenters. I agree to a point but there are several than are here non stop and always spewing negativity specifically towards Hawaiians. I agree that the mods do the best job they can to keep a nice informational site for us to see. That being said get off Hawaiis butt. They are hardly the only state in this situation
Hi Paul.
Just an aside here. You should see the ones that got away (those comments that we would not publish)!
Aloha.
I am appalled by the negative comments of visitors. I have had family on Oahu for nearly a century. It sounds like these visitors are equating Waikiki with all of Oahu which is very sad. The tourist industry in Waikiki is just that….an industry. They do depend on tourism. But the rest of the state has many more means of income. On Oahu it is mainly from the military and the civilian jobs they create. Agriculture used to play a big role on some of the other islands until greedy developers grabbed up so much land to build condos and tourist accommodations. I have seen many tourists from many lands come to the islands with an entitlement attitude. That’s definitely not the Aloha spirit. Before you blame Hawaii for trying to protect its people during this pandemic, please look in a mirror and determine which kind of visitor you want to be. Mahalo.
I agree, it works both ways. If all a tourist wants is a beach and service, there are easier places to travel to get that. Hawaii offers so much more with its amazing culture, history, and natural beauty. Unfortunately the local politicians are making it clear to travelers, that they aren’t wanted though. The destruction of the local economy and how that will impact locals will be felt for years to come. When people like myself, who travel to Hawaii because we love the culture and beauty feel pushed away and unwelcome by the local government, you know Hawaii is in trouble. I am always open minded and very easy going, but all these harsh rules and discrimination towards visitors is making even the most die hard Hawaii lovers turn away from our visits. The welcoming spirit is dying, and it’s clearly visible to anyone who looks, don’t let the local politicians push agendas that will cause more long term and short term damage than the actual virus does.
exactly! People feel they are owed something because of their privilege’s
It’s an unfortunate truth but not all tourists know how to behave. 🙁 It doesn’t take more than a few people to ruin it for everyone else. It’s best to follow the golden rule and lead by example.
And it only takes one hostile local to change the demeanor of many tourists. I witnessed a store owner in Lahaina yelling at a family because their two kids stepped up onto the front steps of his closed store. The kids stepped up and then back down. And this store owner flipped out, yelling “I’m sick of you people. You people come here and do what you want. I don’t need you suing me because your kids got hurt.” If you hate tourists, why do you run a souvenir shop in Lahaina?
read your own words. The store was closed. This is hardly exclusive to Hawaii. Give me a break.
I was hoping to hear what native, Aboriginal Hawaiians think about tourism, not white colonizer ‘locals’ or ‘residents’. is there any polling on what actual Hawaiians think?
Reese you could start one but good luck in finding any people that are 100%
native Hawaiian.
That’s because the native Hawaiians were pretty much wiped out by disease during the last rounds of pandemics brought by people from other places.
Wow, I guess that sums up your opinion about being welcoming and open to other places/opinions or people. Scary thought, but if you really want to stop all travel to Hawaii, should we have that work both ways, no Hawaiians can visit the mainland, should we stop sending federal money other than what the state contributes? I think your opinion is rather eye opening, and probably doesn’t represent how the majority of locals really feel, but maybe I’m wrong, after all, it’s just my opinion.
Dan,
What part of this is an island in the middle of the pacific? A set of islands with limited resources as in hospitals etc. You allow Millions to start flowing as usual into Hawaii with the virus the islands will be wiped out. Personally I think all states should shut down all but essential travel between states until the vaccine is successfully rolled out and the numbers drop sufficiently. IN fact a number of states are requiring quarantines now and lock downs. Its not just Hawaii.
They don’t have to be 100% native Hawaiian, but at least people who are multigenerational from Hawaii. I think we hear a lot from transplants who like to say they are “local”, but clearly don’t seem to exude the “Aloha” spirit that the culture seems to have openly exhibited in my past experiences. I find it hard to believe that the true Hawaiians are so unwelcoming about sharing their culture. I have always had great experiences learning about the culture, history, and beauty Hawaii has to offer, but now I’m hearing so much unwelcoming resentment towards tourists from so called locals that I’m having a hard time believing it. If Hawaii is truly becoming this hostile towards visitors it is a sad thing indeed and a disappointment to all of us who truly appreciate and love the culture. Many of the rude and unwelcoming comments I have read Seem to be more about policies and politics. The idea on here that only certain views should be allowed to be posted is a very scary thought to me and runs contrary to both constitutional norms, but also Hawaiian culture.
Maybe I’m wrong, but I think the majority of these negative comments from people calling themselves locals are probably transplants from other places.can anyone offer some insight?
In the 1980 census, there were only 500 “pure” Hawaiians left in Hawaii,being 40 years ago, I am sure that number is far, far lower.
I was thinking the same thing, I would like to hear what the multi generational Hawaiian locals have to say, not just the loudest transplants pushing their political ideals and opinions.
My parents taught me to be respectful, and the lessons took, for the most part. Anyone who invites tourists takes the risk of having to deal with a few who are outright rude, crude and disrespectful. Thanks to all who take that risk on my behalf. I hope I never violate the trust you give to me. Your trust allows me to experience things I could never see or do without your gamble! Aloha and Mahalo!
Hi Eldon.
Thanks for your nice words.
Aloha.
Exactly, it works both ways, and jerks are found in every place and group of people, but they are usually a tiny percentage of the actual population. Just because they scream the loudest doesn’t mean they represent the majority. Having mutual respect for each other, our customs, culture, etc is what we all need to keep in mind. Many of the tourists are from places that have their own cultures as well, even other states have values that differ from on another, but let’s try and be respectful and treat each other how we would like to be treated. Having conversations is what helps all of us understand the differences we share and why we deal the way we do, without those, we are flying blindly and making chooses that aren’t informed.
I’m a native Californian who didn’t experience Hawaii until 2006. Since then we have tried to return at least every other year, to Kauai. I think I understand why Hawaiians are often repulsed by the insensitivity, rudeness, and ignorance of some tourists. I was horrified to read a comment posted here, earlier this year, from a tourist who was fed up because President Obama might be purchasing a home in Hawaii. Her post said that if he were to buy or build a home, she would never return to Hawaii again. That didn’t just repulse me, a person of color, but made me think what Hawaiians, including President Obama, must have to endure by others who disrespect their land and their people.
Mahalo nui loa.
Hi Dorothy.
Thanks for your comments. We appreciate it.
Aloha.
Dorothy, sadly, there are people out there that do think like the person you referred to, “if Obama builds a home there I’m not coming”.
Personally I have to remind myself most people are not like that, not even most “trumpies”. But the fact that the extremists say they aren’t coming to Hawaii is a good thing for the State. When her type stays away Hawaii wins.
I think the whole locals vs tourists debate on here has been a little blown out of proportion . There are isolated instances for sure when a local gets fed up with the subtle or not so subtle racists that visit. Rude, disrespectful behavior isn’t always well tolerated here. But by far most visitors are not like that. Most are having a wonderful time here and the proof is how many people do visit Hawaii.
If someone is having a problem with Hawaii it says more about them then any reflection on the State.
Nobody should read this blog and assume the “Local don’t like tourists”, instead read it for what it is, some people do act in a way that is offensive and they also post on blogs with the same attitude. They are a small minority of visitors and the vast silent majority is the norm and have a great time when they are here. They are warmly embraced by the tourist industry as it’s a win win deal for everyone.
Aloha to all
Hi John.
Thanks for your thoughts and all your comments. We appreciate it.
Aloha.
Very well said. Excellent perspective. Thank You!!
Hi Dorothy I vacation in Hawaii every year and I have never come across these insensitive rude ignorant tourists you mention.In my experience the local residents are equally respectful.
Hip l that was usually my experience there. I dont know what its like with the covid there. The homelessness there has been out of control as far back as 2012 to 2016. I have no idea if its better now or not. I know on beat of hawaii there were few negative posts on here until covid happened. I just know that because hawaii is an island costs are higher on everything. So even if the Hawaii govt didnt lock down or place any restrictions the groceries would go up and hospitals would stay pretty full.
I agree that it’s absurd to judge a place because of someone who is from there, or wants to move there, or any other reason about one person. That’s just a cop out in my mind and a bully mentality. I’m not a supporter of Obama, but I don’t see what that has to do with an entire state or population. Who cares where Obama, Trump, or any other person wants to live, that’s no reflection of the local population or anything else. As long as they follow the same rules and are held to the same standards as the population, it shouldn’t matter.
As a fellow person of ethic background, I do t see what our skin color has to do with anything. No offense, but I just don’t see how that is pertinent to anything we are discussing on this board and injecting it into the conversation can be used to divide people rather than unite people.
I do agree that Hawaiian probably don’t always have positive experiences with tourists, but I bet many do have positive experiences. There are plenty of us that travel to Hawaii because we love the culture and heritage, I learn something new every time, and I am very appreciative of people willing to share their history and culture with me so openly. I also believe that there are tourists that aren’t treated very nicely, but I bet that’s also a small percentage. I believe the majority of people are respectful both ways, and it’s good to hear other points of view to learn from one another. Hopefully this board will continue to be a place where we can research our travel plans and learn what to do, and not do to upset or insult each other, but rather learn from these encounters and strengthen what we do have in common and respect one another’s differences.
Hi my name is Paul from Calgary wishing for a vaccine so we can all be safe. I will wait until there is one to book a trip to the place I love most. Hope to see you soon.
Hey Paul C, I live in Idaho, I actually moved here 2 years ago. I have been to many small towns here in Idaho and have never met anything well wishes. You are listening way too much to the liberal press and worst yet you believe what they tell you. I just want to set the record straight Idaho is a great place to live and raise a family. Watch this video (Warning: Link Deleted Per Comment Rules). This is just one of many videos about needy people here. One thing they all have in common is they don’t complain, they work and they don’t ask for hand-outs. This is a lesson that other people should learn. So, don’t tell me Idaho isn’t a good place to live.
This is about Hawaii. Why are you talking about Idaho?
I think a comment or reply must have been removed/deleted?
Maui is over rated.
Like anywhere else paul c some people are friendly some arnt.
Hawaii is on island time way of thinking and some think that usa owes them something because hawaii became a state. Its a bit behind in terms of way of thinking. It can be really slow and hard to get things done. On mainland people do things faster and more efficiently. Hawaii is islanders with islander mentality. Its not always bad but it is definitely not like living in the modern world To me atleast.
Alot of places in hawaii if you live like a local are small cramped dirty compared with the mainland. Its no ones fault really but recognize the issues paul c before you open your mouth. Tourists notice this stuff and yes they don’t understand it. I do understand it and yes it can be annoying even to locals that have lived on the mainland.
Young people leave the island in droves for more opportunities and quality of life for a reason. Im happy i lived there for a few years was a good experience overall.
YOu do know the history of Hawaii and how Mainland USA basically stole it from the natives and made it be part of our nation right?
Go to a little town in Idaho and you will find their attitudes towards outsiders is way worse than any that Hawaiians might show. And why should hawaii be forced to live in this modern mainland world you speak of? I am guessing pretty much any island anywhere you go will have some of this. I have traveled extensively and I never judge a place just because.
Paul c i liked People in idaho. Its friendly and id actually love to stay in a mtn cabin there sometime.
If some want to feel hawaii was stolen then they need to file complaints with the federal govt not attack tourists which are source of revenue for the state. I think that is really innefectual.
i am not responsible for 1950s actions. I was born in early1980s. Anyone that was born in 60s or later should not be thinking about succeeding from usa or getting upset etc.
Thank you very much for your time to help us adjust. Glancing through the comments, I can understand why they think Hawaiians are “rude”. When the Zonies (Arizona) come to San Diego, they are rude, they drive fast cut people off, leave their trash, etc.. This apparently is who many of them are & if they bring this behavior of disrespect to Hawaii, who can blame them? Personally, my experiences on the islands have always been very positive. My mom is part native American & I’ve been raised to respect the land & people. (My dad French Canadian where manners are
important) Respect is huge with both Hawaiians & Native Americans. It isn’t a lot to ask. There’s a song by Leon Russell called “Magic Mirror” those who think they’re rude might do well to listen to the words. Mahalo for reading this.
Hi Marla.
Thanks for your comments. Yes, Hawaii isn’t unique in all ways.
Aloha.