AboutBruce Fisher Expertise I’m a Hawaii Vacation Evangelist and the founder of Hawaii-Aloha.com. I have lived here in the islands for 18 years and have developed a special affinity and enthusiasm for this wonderful place. I’m so grateful that each and every day I can help folks plan and make their vacation dreams come true. My company specializes in inbound travel from mainland US to all the islands of Hawaii. I can answer any travel questions relating to travel packages, airfare, weddings, all inclusive and cruises to Hawaii.
Experience I have been in the travel industry for 13 years
Organizations International Association of Travel Agents, Cruise Lines International Association, Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, American Society of Travel Agents, Outside Sales and Support Network, Association of Retail Travel Agents, National Association of Commissioned Travel Agents, Better Business Bureau
Publications Wall Street Journal, USA Today, Travel Agent-Home Based, Travel Agent Magazine, Travel Weekly, Travel Trade, Smarter Travel, Honolulu Advertiser, Honolulu Star Bulletin, Pacific Business News, Hawaii Business
Television Travel Channel-Hawaii do's and dont's
Education/Credentials B.S in Psychology Certified Hawaii HVCB Destination Specialist All ISlands
Certified Norwegian Freestyle Cruise Line Specialist
Outrigger Specialist
Hyatt Specialist
Marriott Hotel Sales Specialist
Fairmont Famous Agent
Hilton Hawaiian University Certified
Ambassador of Aloha Certification
I have always wanted to go to Hawaii and am finally making my first trip, yeah! I'm really excited and will be visiting Kauai this time around, I leave in about a week and a half. Next time will be Molokai :).
As my vacation has grown closer I've been doing more reading on Hawaii and am a *little* concerned. From books, blogs, reviews etc I've read a number of times that locals don't like mainland tourists. I have read up on Hawaii's history and I can understand where the anger comes from. I know that what I have read does not apply to all locals and that some of these events may have been provoked by tourists not respecting the islands or it's people. I get that.
I have read that visitors need to avoid certain beaches especially at night etc...I guess it just makes me a little sad that I'll be a little nervous not knowing what public places aren't really for tourist. I'm coming to Hawaii to experience the beautiful scenery, culture and people and in return will be volunterring and giving back to the community.
Was curious as to your thoughts on this subject and if you know of any places I should avoid as to not disrespect the local community? I did check the other posts and your website but couldn't find any similar topics. I appreciate your time. Mahalo!
Answer Aloha Jen,
Recently it was reported that the crime rate in Hawaii was actually lower last year over the previous year. In general, Hawaii is one of the most safest places in America. That being said obviously we do have crime. Most of the crimes that are committed on tourists are confined to car burglaries. We very rarely have violent crime against tourists who visit here. It's probably not a good idea to go to secluded beaches at night or anyplace where you are not aware of your surroundings. Basically, if you take commonsense precautions you will be just fine here. I am not aware of any beaches on Kauai that would be considered off-limits because of crime.
It might be worth noting here that if something should happen we have a wonderful program in Hawaii called the Visitors Aloha Society of Hawaii ( I am a member) and we help folks who do become victim of crimes should that happen here in the islands and you can reach them at 808-926-8274.
We also have written a great blog post called "When in Hawaii You'll Fit Right In" http://www.hawaii-aloha.com/blog/2008/09/29/, which will help you understand how things are done islands and it will help you understand the local mentality.
