243 thoughts on “Nickle-And-Dimed To Death | Hawaii Visitors Reeling”
Cheryl T
These taxes and fees are becoming way way too much for a normal person to afford.
Obviously Hawaii wants to have only the rich staying in their hotels, etc.
My husband and I have been going to Maui for 2 weeks each year the last 4 yrs. I think this will be our last trip. We will find somewhere else to go for our hard earned money.
You are correct. The government even has a mantra they use every day these days: “In our visitors, we want quality not quantity”, meaning they want fewer tourists, and only the “quality” rich ones. A sad commentary from a place that traditionally cherishes aloha and respect for all people.
We’ve chosen Croatia this season. After many years of island visits the flights haven’t been as attractive as before and we are able to rent a car 11days for $275, stay in a well appointed apartment near one of the most beautiful state parks. Apartment less than $90 nightly. Will keep you posted. Hvala vam
My wife and I have visited most of the Islands for many years, in fact we met in Waikiki in 1975. Hawaii holds a special place in our hearts. We missed our annual visit for 2 years due to Covid. This fall and winter we spent a month on Oahu and 2 months on Kauai. As our stay on Kauai winds down we are reassessing our future visits to Hawaii. The costs have become almost intolerable and the ever expanding fees just make it feel like we’re being targeted. We typically rent a middle of the road condo and with airfare, condo, car rental etc., the daily rate is approaching $500. Now with the looming $30/day parking fee on Maui I wonder where this will stop. Lots of resentment towards the wealthy but only they can afford to come here now.
It will stop when tourists stop coming, I’m afraid. It’s already starting to have an affect, and the increases will continue until the visits cease. Kind of like the Feds and inflation.
PatG, after reading many comments about this problem and contemplating everything that is occurring, I can really understand why so many are doubtful of returning to Hawaii after their latest trip. To raise the awareness of what is occurring in Hawaii I am considering creating a line of active wear, hats, even tee shirts. The common theme of this line might be named Hawaiian Ca$h Cow. A 🐄 with a bundle of cash, small of course, and a variety of imprints like a “Bullseye” with half toned $100 dollar bills with the word “Hawaii” or “Welcome to Hawaii!” at the top. What do you think, PatG? I have other ideas for sayings and targeted things.
Aloha, Because of COVID People and Businesses all over the World Lost alot of Money in many different forms, now that the World is slowly coming back to normal is seems no matter where you go these same People and Businesses are making the Consumer Pay for the Losses that encurred and that is the biggest Mistake. The Consumer Lost out also and to make Him and or Her Pay more fore the same Service is like Biting the Hand that Feeds you.
I Agree with you totally, additionally when you consider that many, if not all, of these businesses received Federal and State Money to get them through Covid it goes from a slap in the face to several punches. I look at it as this: We paid Them to survive through Covid, in some instances even Thrive, and Then They want Us to make up for “Losses” that we have already paid to make them Whole. Isn’t that sort of like Insult on top of Injury? It was Taxpayer’s Money that they received. I won’t even get into the “probability” of Our Taxpayer’s Money and the Development and Gain of Function debacle over the origin of Covid being a real groin kick. The Hotels should be grateful to us, every State too, even Hawaii! Stop the Money Grab!
Good informative article. I’m from Hawaii and my wife is a born and raised local. We moved to the mainland when we retired and have come home every year, but didn’t in 2022. Honolulu shut down the BnBs, and our friend that we stay with every year. Now you have to lease a minimum of 6 months. And I used to get killer deals off airport for monthly car rentals, looks like that’s over with. We always tip 20% on food. It’s hard to make it in Hawaii.
I can’t believe you believe that. I really enjoy the various points of view here and often change my thinking from well-put thoughts shared. But the idea that Hawaii can “get along without tourism” is unrealistic. The Covid recession in tourism proved that. We don’t manufacture enough or even farm enough for economic sustainability anymore. And don’t forget that the fat cats and politicians who reap the profits of tourism and its taxes are never going to entertain the idea of “getting along fine without tourism.”
Are we talking about tearing down the Waikiki hotels and limiting flights?
I understand what you’re saying, but I live here and hear the agony, uprising and activism every day. There are many who emphasize the fact that Hawaii was stolen, and that the islands should be given back so that life can go back to the way it was before statehood and tourism.
I know that tourism has been the major driver for many years, but I’m willing to entertain the notion that things do not have to remain the same, and that there might be a better way to live. Million dollar houses on minimum wage salaries is unattainable. There are a lot of people in the hospitality industry suffering right now.
I witnessed this in action on my news feed yesterday as two ‘natives’ assaulted a new white neighbor who dared to purchase a home on ‘their land’.
I’ve got news for you turn back the clock folks, there is no way you can support your lifestyle and infrastructure once you drive the haoles off the islands. If you think you’re in agony now, just wait….
2
Ernie S.
You’re Right, I can’t even imagine how we would Survive living there. The rentals are too pricey and purchasing is even worse, our entire income stream would be strained beyond the max. That’s why we choose to only vacation in Hawaii, not live, and have ceased to consider anything more.
No. Every mainlander, I am as well, not supporting the Hawaiian people & their land is wrong. Nickel and Dime??? How about this…get rid of all the high end stores that employ 2 people and are 99% empty. Getting my wife a coffee I had to jump down and clean up 2 handfuls of McDonald’s trash left on the beach. Unacceptable! I’m for the people, for preservation, and most of Waikiki is starting to look like a dump. And that’s on the tourists. Give Respect in Hawaii doors wide open, show no respect doors shut. I need to move here and clean up the gov’t and start handing out fines to tourists. Also find deals stop staying at corporate resorts where they pay the Ceo 20 mil a yr, workers 10 an hr
We liked the Big Island of Hawai’i because it’s safe, the food and water are clean and the people are wonderfully welcoming.
We get hit because we’re used to thinking in Canadian dollars. In Canada taxes are added onto the price and are visible. In much of Europe and the Antipodes taxes and tips are included so there’s no after purchase shock at the total. Visible taxes upset visitors.
Are you tired of the outrages taxes and nicle and dime tactics in Hawaii. Try Tahitti with friendly locals, spectacular scenery and warm tropical water.The flight to Papeete from SFO is only 3 hour longer than SFO to HNL. There is much to do in French Polynesia You might like to try a visit paradise.
We just returned from Tahiti and absolutely loved it. We went to Tahiti instead of going to Hawaii for the first time in 12 consecutive years. You can count us as a family of tourists defect in Hawaii, probably for good. (We normally budget $1,000 a day for 21 day visit.)
Everything costs more in Hawaii. Most expensive place to live. And the wages are very low. Especially for servers and hotel staff. Most locals have 2 jobs.
Up until 5 years ago I used to go to Maui every year at least once. But with the increased fees for parking, state parks and accommodation fees going up and up, I can no longer afford to do so Hawaii is becoming a no-go Zone. Sad in all respects
Aloha (goodbye), Hawaii.
Kauai is especially ridiculous!! Trying to find a beach other than Hanelei Bay is absurd! No parking, need a permit or simply closed. I’m from the PNW. I get it. Visitors are literally loving our beautiful state to death. But you’re no exception. Sorry. Ppl with continue to vacation on your island no matter your feelings on the subject. The Big Island was way more welcoming and easier to get to the beaches.
These taxes and fees are becoming way way too much for a normal person to afford.
Obviously Hawaii wants to have only the rich staying in their hotels, etc.
My husband and I have been going to Maui for 2 weeks each year the last 4 yrs. I think this will be our last trip. We will find somewhere else to go for our hard earned money.
You are correct. The government even has a mantra they use every day these days: “In our visitors, we want quality not quantity”, meaning they want fewer tourists, and only the “quality” rich ones. A sad commentary from a place that traditionally cherishes aloha and respect for all people.
We’ve chosen Croatia this season. After many years of island visits the flights haven’t been as attractive as before and we are able to rent a car 11days for $275, stay in a well appointed apartment near one of the most beautiful state parks. Apartment less than $90 nightly. Will keep you posted. Hvala vam
My wife and I have visited most of the Islands for many years, in fact we met in Waikiki in 1975. Hawaii holds a special place in our hearts. We missed our annual visit for 2 years due to Covid. This fall and winter we spent a month on Oahu and 2 months on Kauai. As our stay on Kauai winds down we are reassessing our future visits to Hawaii. The costs have become almost intolerable and the ever expanding fees just make it feel like we’re being targeted. We typically rent a middle of the road condo and with airfare, condo, car rental etc., the daily rate is approaching $500. Now with the looming $30/day parking fee on Maui I wonder where this will stop. Lots of resentment towards the wealthy but only they can afford to come here now.
It will stop when tourists stop coming, I’m afraid. It’s already starting to have an affect, and the increases will continue until the visits cease. Kind of like the Feds and inflation.
PatG, after reading many comments about this problem and contemplating everything that is occurring, I can really understand why so many are doubtful of returning to Hawaii after their latest trip. To raise the awareness of what is occurring in Hawaii I am considering creating a line of active wear, hats, even tee shirts. The common theme of this line might be named Hawaiian Ca$h Cow. A 🐄 with a bundle of cash, small of course, and a variety of imprints like a “Bullseye” with half toned $100 dollar bills with the word “Hawaii” or “Welcome to Hawaii!” at the top. What do you think, PatG? I have other ideas for sayings and targeted things.
Aloha, Because of COVID People and Businesses all over the World Lost alot of Money in many different forms, now that the World is slowly coming back to normal is seems no matter where you go these same People and Businesses are making the Consumer Pay for the Losses that encurred and that is the biggest Mistake. The Consumer Lost out also and to make Him and or Her Pay more fore the same Service is like Biting the Hand that Feeds you.
I Agree with you totally, additionally when you consider that many, if not all, of these businesses received Federal and State Money to get them through Covid it goes from a slap in the face to several punches. I look at it as this: We paid Them to survive through Covid, in some instances even Thrive, and Then They want Us to make up for “Losses” that we have already paid to make them Whole. Isn’t that sort of like Insult on top of Injury? It was Taxpayer’s Money that they received. I won’t even get into the “probability” of Our Taxpayer’s Money and the Development and Gain of Function debacle over the origin of Covid being a real groin kick. The Hotels should be grateful to us, every State too, even Hawaii! Stop the Money Grab!
Good informative article. I’m from Hawaii and my wife is a born and raised local. We moved to the mainland when we retired and have come home every year, but didn’t in 2022. Honolulu shut down the BnBs, and our friend that we stay with every year. Now you have to lease a minimum of 6 months. And I used to get killer deals off airport for monthly car rentals, looks like that’s over with. We always tip 20% on food. It’s hard to make it in Hawaii.
Those here managed for centuries without tourism; they can do it again.
I can’t believe you believe that. I really enjoy the various points of view here and often change my thinking from well-put thoughts shared. But the idea that Hawaii can “get along without tourism” is unrealistic. The Covid recession in tourism proved that. We don’t manufacture enough or even farm enough for economic sustainability anymore. And don’t forget that the fat cats and politicians who reap the profits of tourism and its taxes are never going to entertain the idea of “getting along fine without tourism.”
Are we talking about tearing down the Waikiki hotels and limiting flights?
I understand what you’re saying, but I live here and hear the agony, uprising and activism every day. There are many who emphasize the fact that Hawaii was stolen, and that the islands should be given back so that life can go back to the way it was before statehood and tourism.
I know that tourism has been the major driver for many years, but I’m willing to entertain the notion that things do not have to remain the same, and that there might be a better way to live. Million dollar houses on minimum wage salaries is unattainable. There are a lot of people in the hospitality industry suffering right now.
I witnessed this in action on my news feed yesterday as two ‘natives’ assaulted a new white neighbor who dared to purchase a home on ‘their land’.
I’ve got news for you turn back the clock folks, there is no way you can support your lifestyle and infrastructure once you drive the haoles off the islands. If you think you’re in agony now, just wait….
You’re Right, I can’t even imagine how we would Survive living there. The rentals are too pricey and purchasing is even worse, our entire income stream would be strained beyond the max. That’s why we choose to only vacation in Hawaii, not live, and have ceased to consider anything more.
No. Every mainlander, I am as well, not supporting the Hawaiian people & their land is wrong. Nickel and Dime??? How about this…get rid of all the high end stores that employ 2 people and are 99% empty. Getting my wife a coffee I had to jump down and clean up 2 handfuls of McDonald’s trash left on the beach. Unacceptable! I’m for the people, for preservation, and most of Waikiki is starting to look like a dump. And that’s on the tourists. Give Respect in Hawaii doors wide open, show no respect doors shut. I need to move here and clean up the gov’t and start handing out fines to tourists. Also find deals stop staying at corporate resorts where they pay the Ceo 20 mil a yr, workers 10 an hr
I can guarantee you that it isn’t just tourists who leave trash on the beach and all over the islands. Always feels better to blame others, though.
We liked the Big Island of Hawai’i because it’s safe, the food and water are clean and the people are wonderfully welcoming.
We get hit because we’re used to thinking in Canadian dollars. In Canada taxes are added onto the price and are visible. In much of Europe and the Antipodes taxes and tips are included so there’s no after purchase shock at the total. Visible taxes upset visitors.
Are you tired of the outrages taxes and nicle and dime tactics in Hawaii. Try Tahitti with friendly locals, spectacular scenery and warm tropical water.The flight to Papeete from SFO is only 3 hour longer than SFO to HNL. There is much to do in French Polynesia You might like to try a visit paradise.
People don’t get drunk in Tahiti because a six pack of beer costs $12.hahahaha
We just returned from Tahiti and absolutely loved it. We went to Tahiti instead of going to Hawaii for the first time in 12 consecutive years. You can count us as a family of tourists defect in Hawaii, probably for good. (We normally budget $1,000 a day for 21 day visit.)
Everything costs more in Hawaii. Most expensive place to live. And the wages are very low. Especially for servers and hotel staff. Most locals have 2 jobs.
Up until 5 years ago I used to go to Maui every year at least once. But with the increased fees for parking, state parks and accommodation fees going up and up, I can no longer afford to do so Hawaii is becoming a no-go Zone. Sad in all respects
Aloha (goodbye), Hawaii.
Sadly…same for me. The car rental highway robbery is #1 followed by accomodations. Aloha nui, Hawaii….
Kauai is especially ridiculous!! Trying to find a beach other than Hanelei Bay is absurd! No parking, need a permit or simply closed. I’m from the PNW. I get it. Visitors are literally loving our beautiful state to death. But you’re no exception. Sorry. Ppl with continue to vacation on your island no matter your feelings on the subject. The Big Island was way more welcoming and easier to get to the beaches.
Big island has more beaches? Lol That is a laugh!
Ok stay away from BI as they have no nice beaches …😏
Please check out Anini beach on the north shore of Kauai for a beautiful beach experience