Since Hawaii travel reopened, have you noticed a big difference in the attitude of some visitors? We have. While the majority are among the most thoughtful and considerate, there’s a change for the worse we are definitely seeing more of.
“Revenge travel” (getting revenge on canceled travel plans during COVID) has morphed into an attitude of entitlement for some. It was creeping in long before COVID, and has since become much worse. You may have seen them too. These travelers can be demanding and have higher than reasonable expectations for their Hawaii vacations. In fact, they can ruin Hawaii travel for the rest of us. Read on for some gory, unfortunate details.
(We see it, for example, in aggressive and inappropriate driving behavior.)
Some might say entitled tourists been encouraged by the travel industry itself.
Think about the “us vs. them” situation of upgrades, premium classes, and exclusive features that have become so pervasive throughout travel, whether it be on airlines, or in accommodations and car rentals.
This arose out of the travel businesses’ desires for more income based on elite offerings. The industry has over-indulged those willing to spend more, or who travel more, and in doing so has helped, at least in part, to spawn the entitled tourist phenomenon. Now it has to some degree backfired on them, and those in the industry often resent the very people who they egged on.
When some travelers don’t get the premium service associated with the us-and-them culture in which we find ourselves, they feel free to act out here in Hawaii. We can tell you as residents, that when you see enough of it, it’s even easy to start to think that entitled Hawaii tourists are more pervasive than in fact they really are.
Unrealistic Hawaii vacation expectations.
When some visitors’ expectations aren’t met, there can be problems. It can ruin the entire travel experience, both for the Hawaii visitor, and for those with whom they interact. Case in point.
Your editors were seated inside a Starbucks here in Hawaii this week. One visitor walked in and demanded to know the address of the mall-based Starbucks. When the employee said they didn’t know the physical address of the mall, the visitor huffed off uttering not-so-nice expletives.
Within five minutes, another visitor walked in with several non-Starbucks drinks in their hand and asked for a tray for their beverages. The employee said that they don’t provide trays for non-Starbucks beverages. And in this situation too, the visitor left, irate about how they were accommodated.
Recently at Hanalei, the surf was up with significant undertow, and some young children and their parents were in the ocean. The lifeguard started yelling over the speaker for them to move closer to the pier where conditions were far safer. They refused and the lifeguard became angrier, trying to keep them safe while they disobeyed his warnings. It was as though these visitors were thinking, “we paid for this and will stay where we want to be.” The exasperated lifeguard said he simply wanted them to have a safe vacation.
This incident took the cake, literally.
The examples above are nothing compared with what happened Tuesday on Maui, when a visitor-related issue began at Moose McGillycuddy’s restaurant. Police were called regarding a 38 year-old Massachusetts’ resident who refused to either pay her bill or leave the restaurant. After Maui Police arrived, she agreed to pay the bill, but then still wouldn’t leave Moose McGillycuddys.
The visitor was subsequently arrested for disorderly conduct and refusing to leave, and was being transported to the police station in Kihei. While getting into the vehicle, they bit the police officer. Alcohol may have been a factor.
Charges against the woman, identified by police as Corey Campbell, now include assault on the officer in addition to the prior offenses.
Hawaii air rage incident.
So what comes next? Do they bite a flight attendant on the way home? What airline would want them as a guest? It reminded us of the scary Hawaii air rage incident that happened recently.
Your comments to this point.
“A key issue seems to be that many tourism-reliant businesses market the entire state as a paradisiacal theme park. This leaves tourists disappointed when locals don’t act like theme park employees, and locals are insulted to be treated as such. Hawai’i isn’t Six Flags; it is a unique combination of cultures that over-tourism is killing.” (Robbos)
“As a long-time local, I can tell you that there’s nothing that will make everyone happy. People seem to want to be miserable these days. It breaks my heart to see this lack of Aloha and discord. There’s nowhere on Earth like Hawaii.” (Pam)
“Those that work in the service industry here are seriously over it & mentally exhausted from dealing with that same disrespectful & entitled attitude from visitors. Can you blame them? Travel has changed for the worst unfortunately. More & more travelors are traveling to trample & conquer. Sad!” (GR)
Yes, Hawaii is authentic.
Pam is right. With all of its problems, Hawaii is still unique. It is about the people, aloha, nature, the environment. These remain the isolated islands in the world and we welcome visitors for an incredible journey away from everyday life that’s different than anything you’ll find elsewhere.
No, Hawaii is no amusement park.
You’ve said it many times. People who live and work here aren’t like Disney employees. As an industry, Hawaii travel wants to please visitors, and we hope visitors appreciate who we are and what we have to offer.
Hawaii, unlike the Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu, isn’t a manufactured experience crafted as a giant park for tourists. If you expect that, you’re in for almost certain disappointment. Hawaii is real, and primarily it is the home of its residents. Step into our real world. Visitors impact the lives of those who live here.
When you ask how Hawaii residents feel about visitors.
We were recently asked “Are visitors really hated by most locals? Are the majority of visitors as horrible and rude as I’m reading on Facebook? There were so many locals making so many claims of how much they hate visitors.”
Visitors can come to feel like they are being lumped in with a bunch of bad eggs. And Hawaii residents can have a similar take.
With the return to peak tourism, it’s easy to see more traffic, crowding and frustration. Hawaii is getting ready to welcome over 10 million annual visitors. That, in relation to our total population of a meager 1.4 million.
Please step into our world, gently. We live here, with Hawaii’s flora and fauna. When you come here to visit, we’re happy to share our ways of life, when you’re open to it. This is the real world, and Hawaii isn’t close to perfect, nor do we try to pretend it is. Hawaii is real. Please join us in treating Hawaii as a jewel and help respect and protect it for all of us and for future generations.
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We haven been traveling almost every year since 1979. We started to notice in the early 90s that the tourists did not seem to follow the Aloha spirit. An example of that was seen in Kauai where there are a number of 1 way bridges on the North shore. Never a problem before…..if you come to a 1 way bridge the driver must slow down and stop to allow the driver in the opposite direction to cross the bridge. We began to notice an aggressive attitude where the drivers would rush to get over the bridge even if the driver from the opposite direction had already started over the bridge. This behavior let to stalemate on the bridges where one or the other of the drivers had to back up. Disgusting behavior that is not in synch with the Aloha spirit
I, Haole, was playing pickleball in Lahaina for a few weeks, and I was talking with on of my new native Hawaiian acquaintances, and I said something about one of the better players being a big Kahuna at the court, not even thinking about even being in Hawaii, just something I might have said in my home court, and when I got back to the hotel I mentioned it to my wife asking if she thought it was wrong, and she said it was a major faux pas. She said it was. Next day I spoke to my fellow player to apologize and asked her about it. She said she remembered my saying it and thought it was perfectly acceptable, appropriate in the situation and took no offense. She smiled about my concern. Any thoughts?
It is a common American expression that probably honors the acknowledgment of Polynesian Royalty. It was being used in the Midwest long before Hawaii was a state! Your concern showed great empathy and I applaud you.
Well said, Jodi.
When my wife and I came here on honeymoon long ago and fell in love with Hawaii and its people, we were quickly told we definitely were not Haoles because of our Akamai Aloha spirits. For those visiting for their first time we strongly recommend learning as much as possible regarding accurate Hawaiian history-the good and the bad. You will understand locals better, no matter what their race is.
True story: after moving here for just 2 weeks I went to a coworkers house for Monday Night Football. His caucasian girlfriend, originally from Seattle, was there and we were imbibing in intoxicating items.
When his Mom came in the girlfriend switched to speaking Pidgin to her and I thought I was hallucinating!
I gave that up!
You did right. Hawaiian natives do not like it when a Haole attempts to speak Pidgin English. It is considered appropriation of a culture not theirs, no matter how long they have lived in Hawaii.
I don’t know about that, Pat. My friend’s parents and many TUTU’s respected our attempts to communicate with them more easily. They absolutely did not comprehend the near perfect version of English we were taught in mainland schools.
I don’t recommend casual visitors to do it, but my best recommendation would be to ask the older locals (which we did) if they minded us practicing our Hawaiian and Pidgin dialects. We Never were told no!
There are several lists out there on “Things Haoles should not do when living in Hawaii”, and all of them have “Attempt to speak pidgin” as one of the bullet points. Your friend’s parents feel differently, but there are native Hawaiians who prefer that Haoles not speak it. Different strokes, I guess. Some are more sensitive than others.
I’ve been traveling to Maui for 25 years. I own a timeshare and a condo. I was talking to a Hawaiian lady about the aloha spirit amongst the Polynesian people, and she told me that We, the mainlanders have a expectation of the spirit of Aloha so we also encourage that spirit her word were “you bring the spirit of Aloha with you” because of our expectation of the Aloha spirit. All my life I’ve seen what is called the “Ugly American” speaking or travelers to other places. I think we all need to understand more about who we are sharing this beautiful place with.
I want to let you know I love this blog/website, it is so helpful to stay on top of events, deals, and warnings You guys do a great job. Thank You & Aloha!
Hi Jodi.
Thanks for being a reader and for this first comment. We appreciate the feedback!
Aloha.
There are indeed respectful visitors coming here, I am a tour guide and I always thank my guests and say you are smart visitors, you are taking a tour and leaving the driving to us, and learning more than you would driving yourself with a i-phone as your guide. But “they” are out there, seen some stupid behaviors for sure…
Revenge Travel. Hmmm, that’s a new one on me. Think the way a person acts anywhere is a reflection on the character and manners of said person. Most folks tend to have good manners and behavior, it’s the minority that misbehave, sometimes due to alcohol over consumption, sometimes because they’re just not nice people that have a sense of entitlement. Hang Loose Brah! Have a good time. Just remember your rights end where the next guy’s begin. *My flying tip of the day: Stay away from coffee and alcohol on the flight, and don’t overeat beforehand (gas).
people that vacation in Hawaii that disrespect,think they are entitled to something and break rules and laws should be sent home and are not welcome back.
People who live in Hawaii that disrespect, think they are entitled to something and break rules and laws should be kicked out of Hawaii and are not welcome back.
This is so sad, it brings tears to my eyes. The local people are so much a part of the special culture and beauty of the Hawaiian islands! How can anyone come to someone’s “home” and treat it so rudely and disrespectfully?!!!
I am surprised by the overreacting of many people to what I see as bad knowledge and expectations of what a Hawaii vacation can be. In days past Fodders and other guides helped those really wanting a little insight into Hawaii to learn how to act and what to seek out.
The entire time we lived there and on all our many returns we know where all hula shows were and where our favorite artists were playing.
The concept of who “deserves” or is “entitled” to what is nothing but a character defect, which exists in locals and tourists alike. I think making it a Hawaii thing exclusively is unrealistic. Go to Disney World (especially Epcot) at closing time and watch certain Drunk parents get into their rental cars with their Kids! Hawaii issues?
Judging from these comments, there are some that think Hawaii should be as cheap as possible for as many people as possible and somehow think that equates to economic growth for the State. They seem to think the more entry level service jobs the better, after all they are there to serve them. Living here I see that perspective as very bad for the quality of life for all, tourist and resident. Something has to be done before it’s too late. What’s special about Hawaii can be preserved.
AMEN.
So sick of people complaining they cannot afford to vacation here. I cannot afford to vacation in Tahiti or France, but I don’t go to tourist sites run by residents of those places and complain about the locals and prices. I keep them on my bucket list and go where I can afford to go.
I live here. We who live here do not solely exist to serve as minimum wage slaves to serve tourists..I have seen suggestions here of housing workers like on cruise ships. Do those suggesting realize that you are saying people should have no life out of work? Because one cannot raise a family in a hotel room.
If Hawaii is now not attractive for whatever, please do not come and do not complain, and lord knows, stop telling us how to solve our problems.
Spoken like a true non-native.
How so? I am not Native Hawaiian but I am a Kama’aina.
@Diana…”I have seen suggestions here of housing workers like on cruise ships.” Could you point me to that post? I’d be very interested in seeing that.
Thanks
It was here in this thread somewhere. You can find it if you look. Someone wanted to house workers in hotel rooms.
Hi Diana,
Well said seems some here think that Hawaiians are their little slaves to do with as they wish. I wish the boys who run this would block more of these negative nellies.
Right on target!
People, People, People. Do we really want to start talking about censorship due to point of view?
I think these things will work themselves out without going to this extreme. B of H moderators do just that: Moderate, not censor. I wouldn’t read this forum if it were one sided.
Good work, guys.
More specific to your article, someone on here boasted that SWA was the first airline to drop mask requirements.That says something about the corporate attitude in a State that wearing a mask was about caring for others and demonstrating Aloha. The anti mask crowd was all about “personal choice” You could make a case that the “angry personal choice crowd” have helped create a different attitude in the tourism industry here.
Just a small factor, you can’t stereotype SWA pax’s but they did flood the market with new clientele and some would certainly fit the mold you are describing.
I’m a bit blown away that people are actually trying to make a case that Hawaii should focus only on an industry that creates low paying service jobs so they can keep coming here. The reason the State needs to diversify is to create a wider range of jobs for the people that live here and be able to create a livable situation for everyone. To continue trying to pump as many tourists here as possible as cheaply as possible simply destroys destroys the quality of life for here for everyone , visitors and residents. Tourists are more than welcome, just not the ones that don’t respect the big picture.
amen to this.
It would be nice if Hawaii could pivot away from Tourism but at this point, I haven’t seen anyone mention any viable option. So it’s a nice thought but is it practical?
Good question Patrick, first step is managing tourism though. Keeping a balance between mainland and international tourism is crucial. The proposed fees could help keep the entire state from being overrun by people trying to get as much out of Hawaii as they can with minimal return to the state economy. Once managed perhaps doors would open for other opportunities. Business opportunities that connect the East with West. Centers for Eastern and Western medicine, agriculture etc etc
“The proposed fees could help keep the entire state from being overrun by people trying to get as much out of Hawaii as they can with minimal return to the state economy.“
I really don’t understand this attitude. How is there “minimal return to the state economy”? Tourists coming and spending money in restaurants, condos, grocery stores, activities, taxes and now parking fees *is* the economy! I understand that we need to diversify, but to say that tourists don’t contribute to the economy is the opposite of what is actually happening.
Right on target!
Thank you for stating this. I have been coming to Hawaii for the past 50 years. Until recently tourists were appreciated. We tourists pour a lot of money into Hawaii when we visit.
I couldn’t have said it better JohnW! Add to this the growth of “budget tourists” which drive down the income of Hawaii the only solution that some people see is More More more when it comes tourists. What they don’t recognizes is that that kind of tourist growth is a death spiral. It can’t continue forever, and eventually it will hit bottom because it will have destroyed the very reasons that people want to come to Hawaii. It’s a real issue, but of course Big Tourism in Hawaii is against any kind of change that will stop that said same death spiral and they have significant “influence” within the halls of power.
The real money is in manufacturing, and that ain’t coming.
Better to take the winner (tourism) and up its appeal than to go chasing windmills.
There’s a major disconnect from reality, in Hawaii, for 30 years Japan drove the economy, with Stateside Tourism #2, and Canada, then Australia coming to Hawaii. Japan collapsed in the late 1990’s, DFS, as we know vacated their Kalakaua Building that had becomes the Market Dominant Retailer in Waikiki, Yokohama Okadaya a 10 Door Chain found in every Japanese market Hotel dropped to a few doors, this is where the real consumption was, with Kinoshitaya (Palm Tree House), Paul’s, Royal Hawaiian Gem, Louis Vuitton capturing the rest. The Chinese began to fill the void, but CCP intervention controlled the spend. It’s not hard to believe Bureaucrats are agnostic to the truth, but instead blaming fellow Americans for spending here!
It’s not us vs them. All airlines have squeezed the seating areas so close. When you can’t recline on a flight even the airline executives would get aggravated!
As said elsewhere, it’s the “SWA effect”, not a few extra seats on the airplanes (although that is a different issue that should be addressed). SWA enters new markets by flooding the destination with cheap seats. Once they have done that they gradually raise their fares. Works for them in places like Las Vegas and Orlando, it’s been very bad for Hawaii’s infrastructure. Next time you spend an hour in TSA you can thank SWA and how they time their flights. They have preyed on Hawaii, with their business model.
Oregon shares a similar laid-back attitude as Hawaii. I am a regular visitor to the islands and my husband worked there for a short time. I don’t know how familiar readers are with the violent and dangerous cultural events and decline of living conditions that have taken place in Portland in the last years, but you can easily find media reports online. Because of this and my study of Hawaii’s history, I commiserate with Hawaii residents. I would like to point out that Oregon’s degradation started decades ago with an influx of out-of-staters moving here to take advantage of our wonderful way of life and thus brought with them the exact thing they were fleeing, ruining Oregon. Be thankful it’s just visitors and not new residents in HI!
I don’t understand. What dangerous cultural events?
It’s both. I have seen more out of state plates in the last two years alone than I ever have in my entire life.
Aloha
Colorado has been ruined by the same problems as OR the influx of tourists and their lack of respect for the outdoors. People leaving trash and dog excrement all over the trails. The EMS system is breaking to rescue those who get too high on edibles caused accidents to go sky high. Denver is a disaster shootings daily, homeless camps and Fentanyl are rampant
Get out Denver baby Go!
I’ve traveled wrote a few places and pick up trash everywhere I go. Must recently, Walt Disney World, where I paid for the pleasure of doing so.
Hawaii isn’t exempt nor more prone to rudeness or inconsiderate behavior. It’s part of the decline in morals, values and people’s lack of care for others or even themselves.
Look at the bright side, you’re not getting looted and windows smashed out of your vehicles every few seconds like say, lovely San Francisco.
People are voting for this.
We visit Maui at least once a year. It is our time to unwind relax and enjoy the island the music the people. We love and respect everything about Maui. I have seen the entitled tourist many times all over the world. I am saddened and embarrased that people act that way. And i do not blame the Hawaiian people for not wanting tourists there. I too have lived in a tourist area and have been subjected to that tourist that leaves there trash and trespasses on private property. Including stopping to urinate in an apple orchard. And picking apples from that orchard. I saw tourists leave garbage on the beach in Maui. It truly saddens me.
So its the tourists that are trashing the Island? Can you explain, how the tourists transported their old cars, trucks, tires, refrigerators, shopping carts, coolers etc. that are abandoned all over the public streets and highways. Are those tourists that I see vacationing in dilapidated tents and other eye sore shelters, using the streets, alcoves and beaches as their toilets? Don’t forget all the tourists that bring their dogs with them on vacation to walk with them on the streets, parks and disgustingly, the beaches and neglect to pick up after they mark for other people and children to walk in. Its so easy to blame all the foreigners for the Island citizens failures in electing incompetents to government officials to govern.
Hawaii has a huge income disparity. However I’ve visited locals beaches and the Tourist beaches. The tourist beaches get destroyed with beer cans cigarette buts puke diapers etc. the locals beaches my niece took me to everyone was friendly nice and cleaned up after themselves so yes it’s 99% tourists who trash Hawaii.
Amen, a hui Hou.
Exactly. Parts of Hawaii have become an island with natural beauty, but the housing and infrastructure resembles a 3rd world country. How long will those rich tourists, that Gov Green so covets, keep coming with so many other beautiful places.
again Rod see the massive income disparity in Hawaii. Dont go to Hawaii then. I spent two wonderful weeks in Oahu. Just because there are houses that are millionaires so what? You act like Hawaii is the only place like this? Go to any of the other so called beautiful places you never specifically reference. Somewhere there you will find the same.
I was recently in Hawaii & thoroughly enjoyed every day & evening. I encountered wonderful workers in stores & restaurants, and they were helpful with good or excellent service. And met some local citizens, friendly and welcoming. I love the Island and the folks. I am planning to move to Hawaii.
❤️
So true. Truth be told, I recently visited the wonderful island and people of Kauai via South West
Great deal. I was going no matter what so that didn’t hurt, however, I did notice the “different clientele” on board and hoped they weren’t staying where I was. Breaks my heart seeing this happen. It had been close to 20 years since my last visit and all I could think was there are too many people at one time. And now the cruise ships? And the disrespect of your land and ocean makes me want to cry. Thank you to all the people on the islands. I always treat and respect them with courtesy and of course $ because it’s the right way to treat people
While it’s certainly not right to discriminate against any group of travelers… what SWA is trying to do by flooding the market sounds nice, but… Hawaii simply doesn’t have the infrastructure to support what they have tried to do. The so called SWA effect is very destructive to the Hawaii we all have loved and has the potential to turn the islands into another Orlando or Las Vegas
I love Hiwaii!! While there are many hotels, I stay in my favorite, twice a year. I now know most of the staff, am greeted like family by the staff. My experience with travel is that the attitude I present is returned. It doesn’t matter if it’s Colombia, India, Africa etc.
That being said, observing others is a hobby; I see a lot of rude, disrespectful and entitlement now more than ever.
I am 72, travel as much as I can. Attitude and mutual respect is worth a lot.
Respect the native people, it is their land!
As a side note, old cars and trash on some of the beaches is unattractive; is there a way to make it easier to dispose of such?
You’re 100% right, from ’87-’98, my spot was the Moana Surfrider, most of my business was In Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center and Ala Moana and at 5X’s a year, I was getting Christmas Cards from the GM, printed Stationary on arrival, from the Valet Parkers, Concierge, Front Desk, everything was always genuinely cordial and welcoming. For whatever reason, the only time I was at a different Hotel during that period, was the Hyatt Regency Waikiki, and that was September of ’92 and Hurricane Iniki came in, then passed Oahu for Kauai, the best thing was we didn’t have to evacuate, which the Moana, Royal Hawaiian, I’m sure Outrigger’s and Halekulani did.
Speaking of entitlement. Don’t you think that feeling as though you are entitled to a “cheap” vacation in Hawaii is a bit, ah, entitled? I wish I could drive a Ferrari, but I can’t afford one, so I drive a Ford. I don’t tell Ferrari that they have to lower their prices to the point that I can afford one just because that’s the car I want to drive. So, maybe some people simply can’t afford a Hawaii vacation, and need to go somewhere less expensive. No one is entitled to a particular vacation destination. A lot of the issues around Hawaii travel could be solved with few people who end up paying more. Just a thought …
So true, and the sense of entitlement doesn’t just apply to Hawaii vacations. There seems to be a trend of feeling entitled to everything no matter the price, even when it comes to living in the best neighborhoods, getting the best jobs (apparently not customer-facing jobs) and quickly rising through the ranks, etc. It’ll be interesting to see if this significant change in expectations will cause a major shift in society and the status quo.
We travel to the Big Island often; one of our regrets is that in our search for the beautiful beaches and some of the mystery of original Hiwaii, we followed a map to a remote fishing village, one of the oldest known. We did not intend to intrude, but did. We always felt that we should have spoke our regrets!! Here is our apology, and we have shown respect for local history since our blunder.
Please accept our apologies!!
What are you talking about? Did you disrespect them while there?
No, but a group of Hawaiian people were fishing and having a meal. We inadvertently intruded, Apologized to them, and left. Their should be some sacred places left for them alone.
One could feel the attitude from them of being unwelcome. We do not have the right to go wherever we please, deliberately or by accident.
Makaha used to be that way, strictly Locals-only, that’s going back into the late ’80’s, early ’90’s.
Many people love Kauai and Maui. While we’ve been to both we prefer Oahu.
He always stay in Waikiki, but for those who prefer a slower pace, Oahu has that as well. Just head over to the North Shore (stop at the shrimp trucks), Turtle Bay, Hawaii Kai or Sandy Beach. Plenty of quiet and a slower pace there. While still having the vibrancy of Honolulu for those days when you want your heart to race a little. On Oahu, you really can have it all.
BOH,
My wife vetoed all such expensive hotels. So, we’ve been lucky to stay at the good-location: Imperial of Waikiki.
Next year I hope to surprise her for 1 or 2 days at the Halekulani.
Mahalo,
Rod
Aloha!
I have experienced more first time travelers to Hawaii recently than the past 40 years. The US culture is becoming more demanding & entitled & not just tourists in Hawaii. People are exposed more to the short term gratification rather than taking time to learn about the culture & people in the areas they are visiting.
Hawaii is creating a divide with tourists & locals with their added fees for tourists only. You don’t get this when traveling stateside. The influx of new residents to Hawaii is also changing the culture of the islands. Less grace & aloha as some of these new locals bring some kooky entitlement attitudes with them. Hopefully moretourists & new locals will be “won” over & embrace the Hawaiian culture & aloha.
Hi Lee.
Good to hear from you and thanks for your input on this.
Aloha.
I agree with Lee on almost every point. While there has always been Kamaaina rates on groceries and the like, jacking up parking for places like Hanauma Bay and Maui just says “this is for locals and wealthier tourists only.” I have met many young families from around the world who want to show their kids Hawaii but can’t afford to park! And can’t take the bus due to young ones or disabled family members.
Families coming to HI and can’t afford to park? Really? Hmmm… maybe they should save a bit more in their vacation fund to cover that?
Kama’aina rate for groceries? Please do tell where this magical store is, because we have lived here our entire lives and not seen that one.
Hi Diana.
True that. And moreover, Kamaaina discounts are fewer than ever and of less value.
Aloha.
Rob/Jeff,
I had the impression on our visit last month that Halekulani and The Embassy have Kamaaina discounts. Halekulani surprised me when I heard that.
Would you know if with have the program for Kamaaina?
Hi Rod.
Funny you should ask. We asked Halekulani recently about a Kamaaina discount. They have one, which as we recall was quite small. and We weren’t impressed with either the discount or their customer service. That was disappointing. We’ll contrast that with some other choices we found in upcoming reviews.
Aloha.
BOH,
Clearly, I’m a visitor but would like to spend at least one night a Halekulani before I can no longer come. We thought 2021 would be the last year. But, we came again this year – hopefully next year too.
My first visit was a very short one in 1965. Been coming regularly since the 1970s and 20 or 30 years in a row except for the year I was dealing with cancer.
For many, one trip in a lifetime is to be remembered. For one like myself – so many visits – WOW.
Hi Rod.
We welcome you back again and again! Please let us know how it goes at Halekulani. We didn’t have a great experience trying to book with them and so moved on.
Aloha.
We used to go to the big island and stay at the Moana Lani Bay and Bungalows. They had a true Kamaaina discount. They’s give us oceanfront rooms after we booked the regular and free breakfast buffet for about 30 percent of what tourists paid we always made sure we tipped the staff very well as one hand washed the other.
The lower fees for locals are because the locals work hard to service the millions of visitors. Giving them a Kamaaina rate is showing appreciation for the hard work they do. When the locals have some free time to enjoy a meal or stay at a hotel too. What a great gesture. I live in Maui and yes my employees love being appreciated. Hawaii is our home, not Disneyland. The local people need to be appreciated. Without the local people. The tourist have no one to take care of everything
From food prep to maids, and management to every single thing that makes the tourist vacation enjoyable.
Appreciate the local people…Aloha
Isn’t that pretty much the same thing everywhere? No locals, tourists are out of luck. But it goes both ways, no tourists, no need for tourist jobs, which, I imagine, make up a large part of who employees the locals. They need each other.
Not close anywhere else on in dependence on tourism as Hawaii.
Hawaii is 90% dependent or higher on tourists. California and NY etc would do fine without tourists. Millions live there to support the communities in every trade etc…..
Here in Hawaii.All points to hospitality and tourism.
The difference is the visitors think Hawaii is Disneyland. It’s not.
People live here with families.
They need to be compensated properly and treated properly.
It’s not a theme park. And many treat the Islands as if they were.
Including the price scale for workers by the greedy corporations who own the hotels.
So the point is to be above and beyond courteous with those who serve you. Tip them well. Do not act entitled.
And you will receive Aloha in return.
The locals are getting the real value, not the inflated value paid by tourists.
But, that’s fine – no need to justify on this site. I think we all know the underlying truth.
The “real value.” Because people making low wages in hospitality in the place where they grew up, live and work that has one of the highest costs of living in the US can afford the 25% discount on a 1000 dollar a night room? Think again.
The “real value.” Because people making low wages in hospitality in the place where they grew up, live and work that has one of the highest costs of living in the US can afford the 25% discount on a 1000 dollar a night room? Think again.
The “real value.” Because people making low wages in hospitality in the place where they grew up, live and work that has one of the highest costs of living in the US can afford the 25% discount on a 1000 dollar a night room? Think again.
Without the tourists, Maui would have no need for the maids, the concierges, the bartenders,
the food prep, the food servers. Maui appreciate the Tourists.
This is true. And maui is making it clear that it no longer wants its people to work as maids, as concierges, as bartenders, as food preparers, as food servers. Those professions are considered beneath them.
Hawaii wants to return to the way things were before becoming a state. Apparently, it is a fact (not just opinion) that Hawaii was stolen. Many residents here do not consider themselves Americans, and are extremely vocal about it.
I think it would be difficult to live as before, but I think everyone would adjust eventually. The Hawaiian people were here long before tourists started coming, and Hawaii would survive if tourism stopped. It would be a hard life, but perhaps a happier one. At least that’s the current sentiment.
I’ve heard poor people are the happiest.
No more tourists, no more military,let Hawaii demonstrate how that works.
Native Hawaiians represent 10.4 % of the pop. Asians are the largest group at 37.64%.
I wonder how the other 90% feel about the issue.
It doesn’t really matter, because the other 90% do not control the islands.
The independent Kingdom was overthrown and the Hawaiian population left as paupers in their own homeland.
“… think it would be difficult to live as before, but I think everyone would adjust eventually. The Hawaiian people were here long before tourists started coming, and Hawaii would survive if tourism stopped. It would be a hard life, but perhaps a happier one. At least that’s the current sentiment.”
They would Not survive without tourism… unless the gov’t stepped in like it did during the pandemic and gave away tons of money. You can’t have it both ways. Go back to the way Hawaii was before the hoales came in yet get free money from them.
SWA’s business model of swamping a market with cheap fares certainly was a contributing factor to much of the “new” type of tourists we are experiencing.
John,
“new type?” Until recently, I’ve had to watch every penny on my vacations in Hawaii (and elsewhere). But, in recent years, I’ve been fortunate enough to come in Comfort Class and even 1st Class.
I’m the same person who came on cheap packages as far back as 40 or more years ago. I think most of today’s visitors are much the same as those of us who came so many years ago.
New “type” of tourist!!?? Excuse me, but I travel as much as I can and if I do it by “cheap seats” that does not make me an entitled brat!!
Many of the “rich seat” travelers are the ones who are demanding, pushy, and very rude.
Oh John 🤦🏻♀️
Just to clarify Tammy, it sounds like I’m bashing the low budget tourist, I’m not…it’s the SWA business model that likes to flood a new market with cheap fares and many flights, then discards the routes that they can’t raise fares on. They treated Hawaii like we are Las Vegas or Orlando with room for that. We don’t, they choked our limited resources with little regard for the impact. They are on record boasting of using their deep pockets to be opportunistic and predatory, Hawaii suffers, not benefits from what they are trying to do from my perspective.
I think what they mean by a new “type” of tourist is a tourists who is spending less. SWA opened up the Hawaii market to visitors of all different spending levels. Statistics from 2021 and the first half of 2022 show an explosion of visitors, but with the average spending per visitor being much lower than before. The government started chanting the mantra “We want quality over quantity”, with the residents echoing the sentiment. Less tourists are desired, with each one spending more.
I think the residents and the government are about to get their wish.
If the Hotel Rates are 46% Higher, Room Taxes jacked up to the highest in the World, Resort Fee’s, Car Rental Rates, how can the Average Tourist be paying less, when most travel in pairs, paying these Rates? Governor Ige has been a major contributor taking the other Counties Taxes for the General Fund, and by paying Employee’s PPF$ to stay home (see NY, NJ, Ill.., Ca., Wa., Ore, Mich.) has restricted the Service Industries that create Revenue, that is being stilted from Dining to Retail, Royal Hawaiian, International Market Place, Hilton Hawaiian Village, DFS in Waikiki alone. The bloom was off the Japanese spending before the millennia, China is an Enemy now and declared themselves same!
Randy R… just curious as to why you randomly capitalize words?
Thanks!
Good question, could be something in my subconscious. I guess, given the Character Limit (750), maybe my mind is categorizing for the format, regardless of being grammatically incorrect. In the late ’80’s early ’90’s before we were given Laptops, my Communications and Reports drove my wife the typist crazy, as my long hand came out as a stream of conciousness sans punctuation. For 20+ years, Hawaii was 5X/Yr., Business and Pleasure, I was fortunate to have the 10 western States, since ’08, it’s become an Annual, save for ’21 and so far this year. At 75, too late for an Analyst. All the best.
Thanks!
Just curious. 🙂
That’s a good observation. The “budget tourist” may be becoming a thing of the past now. Maybe in the next few months more spending per person will be reflected in the statistics. But for the past few years, it has been true that the spend per visitor has been decreasing as the visitor count was increasing. Some of the fees and legislation that have been passed lately is in part a reaction to the visitor count increasing with revenue hardly growing at all.
What’s below “budget” tourist? I’m staying with my brother-in-law, using his truck to get around and not going out to restaurants. Just buying groceries for us. 🙂
What I don’t get is if the prices have been going up as dramatically as the article would suggest, and the number of tourists have gone up as much as suggested as well, then how can the spend per tourist be going down? I’m going to Guess that the “budget tourists” are not staying in hotels, hence the crackdown on illegal short terms rentals, and using Turo to rent, etc. Does anyone know for sure?
Since I always fly SWA I take offense at the broad statement. I have been coming to Hawaii since the 80s. I am much older but still love the beauty. I am sorry some tourists are bad but there are entitled in older to younger adults. I dislike them in Las Vegas where my family had lived since the 60s. No one likes rude people. you actually have some of these same types that call Hawaii home. We could all be kinder and more respectful to the land and ocean.
Reading your observation, I can’t help but think back to the 80’s when booze cruises and such were the advertised way of the islands. To me, that was the epitome of disrespect of the Hawaiian people and land.
Just an FYI for Lee T… it’s not “stateside”. As Hawaii is a state, that term is not used.
It’s the mainland.
My family comes every year to Maui. We love it there, and we were love the people who live and work there. I am so sorry about the rotten apples. Hopefully, they won’t be repeat visitors