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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Andrew says
I don’t think I could ever decide to make a life in a resort or vacation town again, for the same reasons as the aforementioned article describes. I had enough of those attitudes in the ski towns of Colorado, pre covid. I want to visit Hawaii for a few months, one of these days, but it would have to be somewhere non touristy. I don’t think that exists on those islands anymore, does it? Thanks.
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Andrew.
Others may comment, but from our point of view, there are many ways to have a less touristy Hawaii vacation. Perhaps consider one of the neighbor islands rather than Honolulu. In fact, we’d suggest the Big Island or Kauai. Then choose where you stay carefully, and avoid mega destinations. Many options. Have a look at the Hawaii Revealed online guidebooks for more ideas.
Aloha.
Rod W says
BOE,
I don’t even think they have to leave Oahu. Once you leave Honolulu/Waikiki there are a million slow-paced destinations on Oahu.
The nice thing about Oahu is you have the choice – fast-paced, slow-paced, and some of both.
MJ says
Hawaii is aloha, no matter what the tourist or the local says. If you meet a waiter or waitress with an attitude because you’re a “haole,” just chalk it up to them having had to deal with a rude Caucasian visitor or two in the past (or local for that matter). And yes, Japanese visitors are much more polite in my experience.
It’s hard to suggest how to avoid this, except to say opening up the conversation with “Howzit?” and then tell them that’s the only Pidgin English you know and you want to be friendly. See how that works…
Hoku K. says
Don’t try to speak pidgin.
Warren M says
Wow – as someone who is about to visit Hawaii for the first time very soon some of these comments are quite sad. I really do not know what to expect on this trip as we have never been to anyplace even remotely similar to Hawaii but I am surprised at some of the attitudes documented here. On past trips, we have tried to enjoy each destination for what it is (or is not) and the people there have not been all that influential toward setting / establishing feelings toward a place. I do not expect Hawaii to be any different in that regard – the physical beauty (in all its many forms) of the state matters most to us. I will have to remember to revisit this thread when we return home and update…
Paulc says
Go you’ll have fun. Most who complain about residents feel entitled.
Rod W says
Warren,
I can’t count how many times I’ve been to Hawaii since 1965 – just say it’s in the dozens.
I go for the weather, and the scenery and am never disappointed. The folks in the hospitality industry will be happy to see you and they will show it. The rest of the folks are mostly going about their daily lives and will be like the people walking the streets of any other place in the country.
But the beauty of Hawaii is worth the trip. Just don’t expect the folks to be excited to see you or any other American tourist. They’d rather have high spending Japanese and perhaps Chinese coming.
Beth C. says
I agree with you. I have been coming to Hawaii often since 1970. I have always noticed they cater to the Japanese. My nephew worked many years ago for the Mayor in Oahu. He became fluent in Japanese to better do his job and communicate. Rude visitors are not just in Hawaii. They are everywhere.
diana says
The Japanese tourists typically come with their love of HI, its culture, and its people showing.
Also, they do not act entitled.
Finally, many many residents are descended from Japanese families dating back to the plantation era so a lot of students learn Japanese growing up via formal schools for kids, or in HS or College.
That said, the Japanese spend big money here when they visit. Apparently, things are cheaper here than there. Of course, businesses are going to cater to those spending large sums. Is it fair? No. Is it reality? Yes.
Ronald W says
The key word is entitlement. That’s why a lot of places don’t care for American tourists. Americans are so entitled and stuck up on themselves. My experience is the Japanese are by far a more polite society. And this coming from an American citizen.
Randy R says
Japan has been the #1 Tourist to Hawaii for over 45 years, they traditionally buy gifts especially Wedding Thankyou’s that are not available back in Japan, this traditional culminated in ‘Golden Week’, something that was easier in 1977, then in 2017! Just as Hawaii refers to Las Vegas as ‘the 9th island’, so to Japan has a similar reference for Hawaii, which escapes me at this time. The Japanese normally considered by U.S. To be polite and refined have their moments, jst as we all do, it matters not the Hotel or Resort, just be in an Elevator coming down to the first Floor, and a crowd of Japanese will forget etiquette and try and get on, without Guests being allowed off.
Rod W says
Randy,
A little off topic. But, I was stationed in Japan in 1964. I hated to leave. Just hated to leave. I was a Marine stationed in Iwakuni, about 25 miles from Hiroshima.
But, even though I was raised in a terrible section of the South Bronx, Japan is the only place I’ve ever been physically attacked – twice. Now, it wasn’t like I got my butt kicked, but it was unnerving, to say the least.
Randy R says
Rod,
Never having been to Japan, I can’t speak to it, but I think the world may be pretty universal that way, I remember in Switzerland a patron taking umbrage to myself and an Associate being American, and we were just quietly speaking among ourselves! My wife was there twice in the ’70’s and ’80’s on Business, but they were both pretty controlled trips with a Japanese Company. I’m.glad my travelling is behind me, Hawaii, may be the exception.
patrick says
That’s funny. Reminds me of a stay I had several years ago at the Honolulu Hyatt. One of the elevators was broken so the other’s were very crowded and slow. We were staying near the top and never had any trouble getting on. But the poor folks in the middle to lower floors were having a tough time getting on. There were a few occasions were I felt like this must be what it’s like riding on Japanese trains at rush hour. We were really packed in like sardines. My poor wife, who has claustrophobia, had to use all her strength to keep from freaking out as we were packed in. Tried to stay near the doors but that didn’t all ways work.
Dixie M says
Yes and having lived in Las Vegas I have met many Hawaiians who have moved to this city to have a better life. I have always treated them with friendliness and enjoy talking to them as I love Hawaii. I have been many times and stayed for a while after my first husband passed away. No one was ever rude that I saw but this was in the late 90s.
We still love to go and relax on a beach and read and enjoy the island and all they offer. Mahalo
PegM says
Warren, Hawaii is just like the rest of the world. There are nice locals and there are others, there are nice visitors and there are others. Expect it to be like the rest of the world, with beautiful places to visit and places that you won’t want to visit. It’s the real world, just do not expect an amusement park.
Ron D. says
You’ll have a wonderful time. Just have a smile on your face and be respectful and you’ll get the same in return. I went for 2 weeks last December and that was my 102nd trip to the islands. I used to go once a month for long weekends back in the late 70’s and early 80’s when it was so affordable. I have never had an unenjoyable trip. The locals have always treated me with the utmost kindness, as I do to them. I just booked this years trip for December 2nd. I’m already excited. Enjoy your holiday. The scenery is breathtaking. Don’t be afraid to explore on your own. Aloha.
Rod W says
Warren,
As you have experienced, vacations are what We make of them. Not, the influence of others.
Have a great time.
Dixie M says
I love Hawaii. It is like every vacation beach, mountains etc. People live in these places and we always need to respect them. California, Florida,the whole coast of the Atlantic, Pacific oceans, Gulf of Mexico…so many beautiful places. Many rely on tourists to survive so respect to everyone is needed. I have had tour bus people try to herd us on the bus…leave show early so we get out first etc. For what I paid I plan to enjoy whatever it is but always be kind , Mahalo
Scarlette L. says
I am happy to here how you feel and I understand your frustrations. My plan is to move to Hawaii. Iam an license Esthetician and I am so excited to here you Hawaiian care about where you live. Thank you so much for the update.
Michael m says
Nothing new here. Just isolated incidents that happen even with intoxicated locals.ps: a Starbucks every 50 ft all over Maui is more revolting and entitled corporate takeover and greed than some rude tourist complaining at a Starbucks, capische? People who live on Maui and can afford to spend 5 to 10 bucks a day at a Starbucks are far more entitled and disgusting to those of us who simply brew our coffee at home in the morning and take it w/us.
Lori L says
How do I turn off comment notification. I made one comment and now I have received about 150 emails each time someone comments on the same topic.
Rod W says
BOE,
Why don’t all comments have a Reply button?
Mahalo,
Rod
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Rod.
We do see the reply button on all comments when just checking. If there’s a specific comment, let us know and we’ll look. Otherwise, it may be a browser cache-related issue on your device, so you may want to try a different browser and check. Thanks for letting us know what you find.
Aloha.
Rod W says
I cleared the cache less than an hour ago and this is just one without a button on my display:
Xavier S
MAY 15, 2022 AT 11:56 AM
We had a Republican Governor and she did not do anything! So, it is ok for you not to return to the Hawaiian Islands since it is a Democratic State. You are entitled to love anyone, including trump as much as you want to as well. The Hawaiian Island will survive without your visits 🙂
1 2
Thank you for any help!
Rod
Beat of Hawaii says
Hi Rod.
Thanks again for pointing this out. We’re checking into the problem.
Aloha.
Rod W says
BOH,
noʻu ka hauʻoli
Rod
Irene G says
Not to excuse that rude behavior, I don’t think those folks are lashing out. That’s just how people are here on the mainland especially if they’re from a big city. I live in a small town where people still say Please & Thank You & boys hold the door for you but when we go to The Bay Area/San Francisco oh my goodness, it’s another world. Someone wants your lunch they just take it. They push you out of the grocery line before you’re done typing in your pin #. We’re coming to Maui in couple weeks for visiting aunties, uncles, cousins, grandparents etc & promise to be as respectful as the beautiful island deserves.
patrick says
I think that’s the root of the problem… It’s not so much visitors in general but it’s the rude people that are rude at home bring that attitude with them.
Greg says
We are making our 6th trip later this summer. We love the natural beauty and try to leave as little impact on the island as we can. We shop local stores, shops, food stands and food trucks. We eat at restaurants that we believe our local.
One recommendation is on flights to the islands that a short video be played about respect and Aloha Spirit. It could be about respect, being safe, staying on trails, and ways to positively impact the local community. Add a few page brochure/magazine for travelers to read, may not help the idiots out there but will make the rest of better visitors. Resorts also have information channels about their resorts add a Hawaii tourist video.
Jennifer says
Some people are idiots and don’t deserve to enjoy such a beautiful place. We are visiting Hawaii in the summer and promise to be respectful and gracious
PatG says
You are making an analogy of a visitor biting a law enforcement officer, to the Hawaiian Airlines rage incident. The enraged person who twice struck the airline attendant was a Hawaii Island resident, so that is a manipulative and unfair comparison.
Let’s all remember none of us have been exempt from “revenge tourism” and entitlement. This includes Hawaii residents, and everyone else in the world post-Covid.
Paul K says
I can’t wait for my Hawaiian Vacation with the family at the end of the month. I love the Aloha feeling and Ohana.
We plan to do some of the manufactured island,, i.e. PCC, but Diamond Head, Volcano National Park, manta rays snorkeling, etc.
Mahalo
Pkease don’t let the 10%, paint the rest of us as jerks.
Melanie says
Hawaii is home for me ,yet I live in Florida My Keike and moopuna still reside at home in Hawaii. For many years I was a tour guide in going back to the days of Aramaic tours, Club coac and so on. Best job I ever had despite not making the most money I ever made. This thing of entitlement i don’t belive is just in with Hawaii visitors, I think our country is infected with ” Self ” I miss home the ways and mannerisms of Hawaii unique spirit of Aloha. To this I say keep being Aloha filled its who and what Hawaii is we can’t change anyone else, so just be greatful to God you live Hawaii and that the rude ones will go home
Me Ke Aloha
Melanie
Herb S says
As a Canadian who Loved the islands this really saddens me that people think they can ‘power trip’ over other people, honestly stay away, if don’t have an Aloha spirit and honor that locals than go somewhere else in this world. Leave paradise to the people who truly appreciate it. It’s a Blessing to even step foot on the islands. These words like ‘Ohana’ and ‘Aloha’ are from a culture that is infused with a Living spirit, and as a Canadian I will Always be as kind as humanly possible. Aloha❤🤙
Mary E says
Thanks Herb. Have found Canadians to be generally kind people. Sort of their own kind of Aloha.
Barb K says
Aloha my sister and I have been coming to the the Iland for years and love the culture and the spirit. It is very disrespecful of these visitors to conduct themselves in that manor.
I am apulled with this mahalo.
John R. says
I’ve been visiting Hawai’i now for many years and am always so impressed with the patience and care the locals have shown me. I fully understand I am stepping into their home and can’t imagine acting with anything other than respect and thankfulness. Unfortunately, there are inconsiderate, demanding, and entitled folks everywhere and their attitudes can tarnish an experience in moments. I hope there can be a comprise that supports everyone in the local community to feel the true beauty and history of this place is being respected.
Matt S says
As a tourist and friend of a resident i feel ashamed for tourists. Hawai’i is one big home so treat the land and people like you were invited into everybody’s home. Treat others as you would want to be treated. It only takes a few to ruin it for the many
Dennis B says
My wife and I lived on Maui for 2 years, during the covid period. Prior to the shut down visitors were OKAY. We noticed a big uptick in hostitatly when the island opened again. Yes the visitors do feel entitled. Such a shame.
Linda D. says
I’ve been to Hawaii many times. I love it. The beautiful foliage, the warm air streams,and all the different animals. I’ve not had a bad meal there and all the natives have been very welcoming and friendly. I love the slow, easy lifestyle. I will continue to go back for visits again and again. Thankyou Hawaii,for your welcome.
patrick says
All the “natives”? What?
Rod W says
Hey, I’m a native New Yorker. Let’s not be ready to jump at every word people utter.
Xavier S says
Alohaaaaaa…I believe over tourism is an issue and the State needs to put a stop! The Islands don’t need 10 million visitors a year! Also, the State in conjuction with hotels, your companies HVCB, HCC and others need to create awareness of the importance to respect Hawai’i Residents, Hawai’i Culture, Hawai’i way of life, it’s flora & fauna & the land. Leave your entitlement bs wherever you came from….or instead, go to Cancun!
MJ says
The only part of your comment that I agree with is the HVCB comment, and it’s the CB part of that I mean. Some companies hold conventions which bring people who have little interest in Aloha, but instead big interest in company paid power drinking, which results in bad tourists. Here’s a hint: if you are here for the drinking you are missing the whole point!
Take pictures, leave footprints. Mahalo.
viveca h. says
As a first time visitor, Hawaii has been an incredible adventure, the people are so very nice and while expensive, worth every cent spent. My life has been enriched by this experience here in Big Island. Thank you for sharing your home and culture. sincerely, Viveca
Debbie Z says
Aloha!I have visited Hawaii over 25 times, and I have loved the beautiful islands. My husband and I have toured Oahu, Maui, The Big Island, Kauai, and Lanai. There is an o much Aloha spirit from most of the local people. Hawaii is not an amusement park. That’s the challenge with Hawaii. it is a real place, not Disneyland! Treat Hawaii and it’s people with respect. Mahalo.
Mary says
I am so saddened to read this lack of respect for culture and individuals. I visited Hawaii in January and could tell the difference from the last time in 2014. It is getting over run with the exact thing you describe. I love aloha and view it as real and authentic just like the beautiful ocean, flowers and warm weather. Please let’s all show love and respect for each other and this beautiful earth we live on!
Aloha 🌺