Ten issues most guests to the islands get mistaken – and get it proper

Travelling across the island paradise of Hawaii could seem fairly self-explanatory. Select a reasonably island, plan some enjoyable actions and pack loads of sunscreen.

In line with locals, it is not fairly that easy, and plenty of long-time and first-time guests typically make the identical errors.

Luckily, by doing the precise reverse of those well-liked fake pas, you possibly can ace your subsequent journey to the tropical islands.

Mistake 1. Assuming all islands are the identical

Hawaii is made up of 4 primary islands; Hawaii (or The Massive Island), Kauai, Maui and Oahu and every one gives a really totally different expertise.

For an abundance of nature and peace, Kauai is your island, whereas those that want an city jungle with nice buying ought to prioritise a go to to Maui. Much like Kauai, Hawaii Island has a extra rural really feel however is way bigger, with well-known lava flows and energetic volcanoes, whereas Oahu mixes nature and tradition for a well-rounded expertise.

Lesson: Do your analysis earlier than reserving journey and align it with the actions you have an interest in.

Mistake 2. Not respecting the setting

Hawaii is a shocking pure oasis, however to remain that means, vacationers must play their half.
Luckily, Malama Hawaii is a programme that connects guests with organisations that present volunteer alternatives.

Launched in 2020, the programme means guests can take part in actions like reforestation initiatives or seashore clean-ups in return for particular offers like free nights at sure resorts. Speak about a win-win.

Lesson: Give again to the folks and locations you go to by taking part in a volunteer scheme.

Mistake 3. Mispronouncing Hawaiian phrases (or, do not even attempt to study any )

In Aotearoa, we aren’t any stranger to vacationers stumbling via place names or te reo phrases.

Equally, in Hawaii, it is all too frequent for vacationers to mistakenly mispronounce frequent phrases like mahalo (it is “ma-hah-low”, not “ma-halo”).

Nonetheless, Hawaiian native Ashley Probst stated some guests deliberately say phrases incorrectly to make enjoyable of the language.

“One time, I heard somebody mockingly try to say humuhumunukunukuapua’a, the identify of Hawaii’s state fish,” Probst stated. “When my buddy corrected an individual’s pronunciation of Maui, our dwelling island, they doubled down and advised her she was mistaken.”

Asking locals for assist with pronunciation is okay, Probst stated, so long as it’s accomplished respectfully.

Lesson: Do your homework and study some frequent Hawaiian phrases earlier than you arrive, and be humble if you happen to get one thing a bit of mistaken.

Mistake 4. Utilizing sunscreen made with banned chemical compounds

Residing beneath a gap within the ozone layer makes Kiwis very keyed up on the subject of carrying good, thick sunscreen and reapplying typically.

Nonetheless, once you’re on the islands, you might must test what sort of sunscreen you’ve got and what elements it accommodates.

In January 2021, Hawaii turned the primary US state to ban the sale of sunscreen containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, chemical compounds that hurt coral and marine life. You possibly can’t purchase sunscreen with these harmful chemical compounds however you possibly can deliver them in from NZ.

Lesson: If you happen to deliver sunscreen from dwelling, test the label to see whether it is secure for the reefs – and your pores and skin.

Mistake 5. Solely consuming at locations you already know and love

Journey could be filled with international surprises and sudden conditions so it is sensible one may search a bit of familiarity at a US chain restaurant they know and love – particularly when travelling with little children or choosy eaters.

Nonetheless, that is not the place you will discover the distinctive tradition you got here to expertise. Hawaii has an intensive meals truck scene, in addition to many regionally owned and operated eating places. Give them a strive. Who is aware of, you might fall in love with the contemporary fish tacos, poke, huli huli hen, or shave ice (notice: not shaved ice).

Lesson: Do not knock it until you have tried it!

Mistake 6. Counting on public buses or ride-share apps

You could be on an island however do not suppose meaning every little thing is inside strolling distance, or that public transport can get you the place you’ll want to go. Since Hawaii’s public bus system caters to residents, the providers are usually rare and restricted to primary cities, generally with out stops at well-liked vacationer locations.

Moreover, taxis and ride-share automobiles are likely to linger round main buying centres, vacationer spots and airports and might not be out there if you happen to keep until final name at a bar or stray from the crushed observe.

Lesson: If you happen to’re spending time in a smaller city or going off the crushed observe, take into account renting a car for extra freedom.

7. Ignore the indicators

If you happen to come throughout an indication that reads “kapu”, this implies you may be approaching sacred land or a dangerous space. The world could not look notably necessary or harmful, however to disregard these indicators is to disrespect the native communities.

For instance, the Waipio Valley (additionally named the Valley Of The Kings), is commonly known as probably the most stunning, untouched locations on the planet. Nonetheless, in response to overtourism and quite a few accidents, the realm has been closed to guests. Any travellers will encounter an indication that warns folks to show round and never enter.

Lesson: Observe the indicators and keep away from banned areas.

Mistake 8. Leaving the nice and cozy layers at dwelling

In photos and postcards, Hawaii looks as if a perpetually sunny paradise. In actuality, these tropical islands expertise tropical climate and this will imply brief, unpredictable spells of rain, cloud and solar.

Generally, summer time is Might to October and has a median daytime temperature of 29C. Winter is from November to April with a median daytime temperature of 25.6C.

Lesson: Pack a rainjacket and heat layer to go alongside your swimsuit and shorts.

Mistake 9. Grabbing a discount memento from a stall

The numerous vacationer stalls promoting cheap souvenirs could also be tempting, however it’s value going the additional mile (and paying the additional cash) for a real piece of native artwork or craft.

Not solely will you get one thing way more genuine and memorable than an imported trinket, however you will additionally instantly assist the native artists and creators on the island.

Lesson: If you need a memento, search out native creations as an alternative of mass-produced items.

Mistake 10. Leaving the sundown too early

You cease to absorb the sky because the solar dips under the horizon, perhaps grabbing your telephone or digital camera to seize the scene. Then, as soon as it is set, you proceed on with the night, none the wiser that you might have missed the perfect half.

Whereas the solar hitting the horizon is spectacular, locals declare that the wealthy afterglow is simply as beautiful.

Takeaway: Pull up a seat (or seek out a bar with a view) and provides your self the time to savour the complete spectacle.