Five Tips for Tourists Visiting Hawaii

Planning a trip to Hawai'i and not sure what to expect? Most likely, you'll have a nice stay with sunlit sandy beaches, some unfamiliar foods, and warm romantic evenings. But there is much more to Hawai`i than those common trappings of paradise. Here are a few things the wise visitor will consider.

Keep Valuables On Your Person :-

Don't leave them in your rental car. Though this is less of a problem in the crowded, busy streets of Honolulu and Waikiki, car break ins are too frequent to be ignored in spots far from the city. If you head out to one of the far-flung beaches on the 'Ewa side, North Shore, or just about anywhere away from the urban centers, limit the amount of valuable objects you bring with you and don't leave them locked in the car.

Kapu Means Keep Out :-

Kapu is an ancient Hawaiian word originally referring to a complex system of laws and norms in old Hawai'i. Now the word is frequently used to mean no trespassing or danger. If you see a sign anywhere that says Kapu, it's best to stay away.

Also considered kapu is the removal of plants or animals from their natural habitat, taking corals from the beaches (which is also against the law), and taking rocks from the Big Island. There are plenty souvenirs in the gift shops.

Be Careful Where You Go :-

The people of Polynesia are depicted as peaceful and easy-going in popular culture. While this is true to some extent, the reality of life in one of the most expensive, isolated lands in the world not to mention the checkered history of colonialism, racism, and exploitation has created unavoidable resentment in many. This resentment is stronger impoverished neighborhoods, like Waipahu, 'Ewa Beach, Kalihi, Waimanalo, or the entire coast beyond Ko 'Olina (the Waianae coast). Tourists are best advised to avoid those places.

Consider the Locals :-

Hawai'i is a true melting pot, a mix of people from all over the world. The greater majority of the population ofHawai'iis made up of people who can trace their roots back to China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, the Philippines, Samoa, Tahiti, and any number of other Pacific countries and cultures. Only a small portion remain of true Hawaiian ancestry. Most everyone is mix plate a combination of two or more races and ethnicities, including Hawaiian. This intermingling of cultures has produced some unique cross-pollination, which you will see most dramatically outside the largely American/Japanese tourist enclave in Waikiki. Be sure to be culturally sensitive and open to new things.

Be a Traveler :-

The best piece of advice is to approach your trip to Hawai'i not as a tourist, but as a traveler. The difference may seem subtle, but it is not. Tourists go to places expecting to encounter things which confirm their preconceptions. They have an idea of what to expect, and go hoping to have their expectations met. Travelers, on the other hand, go to places without preconceptions or, if that isn't realistic, hoping to have their preconceptions changed upon encountering reality.

Put another way, travelers are interested in learning about the places where they go, whereas tourists want the place to conform to their desires. This is why so many people who visit Hawai'i enjoy the beaches and sun, but end up feeling disconcerted when they venture out and see the real Hawai'i. Do a lot of research, talk to some locals (if you can), and open your mind to what Hawai'i has to offer besides surfing and sand, and your visit will be more than just a trip.