AboutMalia Expertise Aloha,
I can answer I would say about 99 % of all questions relating to Hawai`i.
Experience I work for tour agencies as a tour guide so have a wonderful island experience especially from the view of travelers and newcomers to the islands. I am also a high school language teacher.
Question Aloha Malia,
My husband and I are very much interested in relocating to Kauai. We have been there several time and feel our souls belong there. We are, however, completely ignorant to how to relocate. We are currently living and working in Pennsylvania. We get regular email alerts from a realestate company on condos and homes on the market. We wouldn't be seriously moving until after August of 2008. What is the best steps to take to accomplish our dream. Also, is Maui a better island to relocate to as far as jobs and housing? Our children are also thinking about moving with us. How are the public schools.
Thank you, Marianne
Answer Aloha,
As you know from my profile, I wasn't born in Hawaii either but this is my home, paradise on earth. If you love this place, it loves you back and you will be happy here. So if you truly want to move to Hawaii and forget the long grey winters and embrace a new tropical lifestyle, laid back, with a Polynesian and Asian influence yet featuring all American amenities, then this place is right for you.
As for the different island, it really depends on what you expect.
I live on O'ahu, smack in the middle of Honolulu, I love the city life.
Maui is more laid back, but still very busy.
As you know Kaua'i is very laid back, less busy, more nature, less traffic.
Housing is very expensive here, on all islands, due to the excellent location of our islands: low criminality, no pollution, 360 days of sunshine per year, stable economy. This said however, once you are here and have a place, you have less expenses as on the mainland.
You don't need to get gas every couple of days because distances are short, no fancy clothes, no heating, no money to go to the gym or an expensive spa or pool, the ocean is at your doorstep.
For kids to grow up here, it's the best. I assume your kids are are older but for their kids it will be great.
As for housing Maui is more expensive of course because there are more possibilities on Maui for jobs etc but depending on what your specialty is any island might be the best for you to find a job.
As for public schools there are good and bad ones. On Kaua'i good public schools are harder to find and I strongly recommend a private school for middle and high school.
But again if you truly feel in your heart that you will be happy here, then go for it.
You won't regret it. I never did.
Malia
