Do Outsiders Really Understand the Pros and Cons of Living in Hawaii?

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Just wanted to mention a couple of corrections. First, the pros and cons list was from Travel Safe Abroad. Safe Travels was Hawaii's travel program during the pandemic. Second, the original pros and cons list covered 18 pros and cons. I left out a couple of them in this video.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Yes, we Outsiders need Locals' perspectives, no doubt. I love the Pro and Con (about living somewhere) lists and KZbin videos about it, as well.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

I like your perspective on the Cons of living in your native state! I like your perspective on / about outdoor activities, and the lack of mainland stores over there. I love Hawai'i as a tourist. I have loved it as a tourist for THREE times, so far. There is a limited amount of land, and shops one can visit, and the stores come and go, especially during times of pandemics and such. There really is only so much one can do in Hawai'i, isn't there? Unless you love to surf, and the water, then ... the activities can be much more limited, I would imagine. I also think it is well worth mentioning how "Island Fever" sets in and how (if you want to go anywhere, like to a neighbouring island, for example) you have to fly there or take a ferry, which is a bit of a hassle. Also, medical care is not nearly what it is on the mainland: The only hospital worth going to, which offers truly specialised care, is Queen's Medical Center on O'ahu, The bugs and centipedes are the downers, too, aren't they? "Roaches are everywhere. I know. I saw them! And, your cane spiders have to be seen to be believed. We had those in our place, too! I wish I knew how to interact more with the longtime Locals in Hawai'i. I was not sure how to do it, without appearing to be overly ingratiating, or inappropriate (too pushy). I love Hawai'i as a tourist. I have loved it as a tourist for THREE times, so far. Living anywhere there becomes a bit more like living anywhere else.

[@SuiGenerisAbbie]

Chris, apart from Punahou, what are the good private schools over in Hawai'i? I have only heard of one of them. Kamehamea schools are mainly for the Kānaka maoli, yes? Tell me more, please.

[@okguy1282]

Interesting. I am from Puerto Rico but moved when I was 11 parents moved to California. Still live in Cali. I have cousins in PR. Island living is not for everyone. The local living is much much different than tourist. You are so correct. Very similar in Puerto Rico. But funny when you spoke about island time. In Puerto Rico you want someone over at 8….you better say 6 or 7. Haha! I been to Hawaii many times. Beautiful and the people, locals are the best. Wife and I try to hang out where the locals go. Oh my wife is Vietnamese. Many times we get asked if we are from Hawaii. It’s a compliment to us. There is a bond vibe I guess we have as folks from the tropics. Ok. Be safe. Mahalo! 🤙🏼🌴🙏🏼

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing. Yes, great compliment if people ask if you're from Hawaii. Must be that similar island lifestyle.

[@syedtaqi6122]

Great topic and excellent elaboration on the pros & cons of being in Hawaii. I pretty much agree to what you have stated. In my opinion, if one loves outdoor activities, the year round great weather, climate, and natural beauty, then Hawaii is the place to be at. It’s got the cultural richness, which is unique and offers a wonderful experience of being there. Yes, there are challenges of being in Hawaii, as you have stated correctly that there are plenty of jobs, but the salaries are not keeping up with the cost of living/inflation, and that’s the biggest challenge of being there. The crime has been relatively low, sure the murder rate is low and there are no major gangs running around, but there has been a spike in small crimes, like break ins and snatching, but it hasn’t hit large numbers. And talk about ecological damage, the number of visitors coming to the island is having an impact on the water resources, perhaps some damage to the reefs, excessive activity on the popular trails, beaches etc. One major area where I believe Hawaii needs to focus is becoming more self reliant on food and vegetables, the weather offers great opportunity to grow more stuff in Hawaii, and that might help alleviate some of the high cost of import of food items. I can write quite bit more, but I think I will stop. Mahalo and always waiting eagerly for your videos.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for the thoughtful comment. Yes, it would be nice to see Hawaii more self-reliant, especially in food production. It's why I think we could do something with vertical farming. We have solar and can maximize our limited land with that type of farming.

[@mamafromhawaii]

So funny you mentioning the seasons thing since I’ve been thinking about that concept as well! Probably will do some sort of video on “fall in hawaii” or something with seasons. Nothing really changes here so there’s not really a lot of weather signs to tell us it’s fall or winter, which I think contributes to the more laid back culture here. Anyways, great video and it was a beautiful day at magic island!

[@christopherturco197]

Aloha, Chris! I'm surprised they, and you, didn't mention traffic as a con, particularly on O'ahu. The last time I was back was 5 years ago and I was stunned at how much worse traffic was! Whereas there used to be rush hour traffic in the morning and afternoon, which coincided predominantly with people going to and coming from work and school. When I was there, it seemed like rush hour was all day and all night long. It was so bad that I went into Honolulu (from downtown to Hawaii Kai areas) all of maybe 3 times in the 3 weeks I stayed on O'ahu while staying at a friend's in Ewa Beach. I avoided the H-1 like the plague. Concerning the seasons, I know when I first moved out to Hawaii to attend the UH, I felt like I missed the changing of the seasons. However, over time you realize there are seasons that are unique to Hawaii, and you use them to mark the passing of years. For example, Hawaii can claim a rainy season☔ (punctuated by the Punahou carnival HaHa!), mango season🥭, whale season🐳, high school carnival season🎢, etc. LUCKY YOU LIVE HAWAI'I!!! 🌺🌴🍍🤙

[@naomigriffith4250]

Funny how the H-1 is an interstate. Which states does it connect?

[@christopherturco197]

@@naomigriffith4250 Haha! 😂

[@HelloFromHawaii]

The traffic is bad for sure.

[@bryanhull5159]

I've been to every state and nowhere else have I seen so many people who I was able to connect with. People in Hawai'i just seem to be more willing to share their authenticity with others.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Great perspective. Something nice about Hawaii people.

[@Shadbraw]

Chris, as always, is killing it! Happy Halloween by the way!

[@markwaters5578]

As to no season, we live at 3200 ft on the Big Island and because we have somewhat seasons, I'm able to grow strawberries and potatoes (granted it's in raised beds). Still wouldn't be anywhere else. Living here is nothing like living in Honolulu though, I think you addressed that in a previous video.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Wow, great that you can grow strawberries. Maybe other colder climate crops? Blueberries?

[@markwaters5578]

@@HelloFromHawaii My sister-in-law has a blueberry bush, she's about 100 to 150 ft higher mauka.

[@charlesjones2774]

This was great! I appreciate your taking the time to do this, and your closing statement about how we view moving to a new location I really liked. Thanks!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@michaelmaes6492]

I want to move to Hawaii so bad and I have to find somewhere to move in a month so why not I'm not trying to tour all though I will explore alot in my free time as I have done here in Idaho. Amazing state amazing fishing amazing mountains. I'll miss it but it's time for a new journey and chapter. Ty brother for this video. 🙏

[@mmmpotstickers8684]

Laughed that the topic of surfing was followed by educational opportunities because in Junior High my English teacher was also a famous Big Wave surfer. A classmate had to point out that we got a substitute when there was a fantastic surf report in the morning.

[@meathook2448]

Gonna like this before I even watch it, cuz I know it's gonna be good!

[@al-lr3yv]

Another great informative video Chris.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@HamRadioLiveShow]

Aloha, mahalo for the video. I’ve dreamed for over 30 years that I could retire ANYWHERE in Hawaii. The prices of properties, however, probably will crash my dream. It’s the only place I know if I’ve ever found true “peace” at. Subscribed! You present things very authentically. Well polished.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@opshn5233]

Seasons thing is something I don't think I will ever miss. I grew up without seasons so snow was just a vacation thing. Having lived as an adult in areas with snow, it was impressive maybe the first couple of years but after that I was over it.

[@PH-hf2bo]

Yes I still remember the test of a vog when I opened my mouth to talk. 😆 I think you know how was it right.😂 Back 16 years ago we had experience an earthquake there ( Oahu ) and that changed me because I put jeans on for bed time for a month and half to be ready in case I need to run.😂😂😂 Even now, life never stop being excited we still run down to our basement sometimes when we were warning about tornado in our area( Colorado). I love my life. 😊 Thank you for sharing. 🤙🏻

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@bw5277]

Aloha Chris. I left Hawaii as a child. I have gone back often over fifty years. Although, we lived in Kapahulu then, my first choice would be to live on Big Island. In my opinion, Hawaii locals are mostly warm, friendly, and easy to socialize with. In my golden years, I want warm weather and to be able to enjoy the outdoors daily. I do remember my mom saying what she didn't like was being around family too much. Everyone knew each others business and often played the comparison game. Mahalo for your channel....enjoy a young guy's take.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for the comment. Big Island is a good choice. Hilo or Kona side? Somewhere in-between?

[@bw5277]

Try to go for couple weeks in early November and in February. Hawi and Waimea area. Easy drive to Spencer and hapuna beaches. And love morning and evening walks on n Hawi. Look forward to next video!

[@wheresmyeyebrow1608]

I'm glad KZbin recommended your channel!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@sharonkatherine8191]

Thank you for your honest video. How is the humidity in Kailua Hawaii

[@Beavers1986]

Bro trust your honesty and I plan on moving to Hawaii for a year. If I love it there I might move there permanently. I’m from OR it’s very expensive here but my husband and I have great paying jobs so we don’t struggle. We’ll have to adjust to the weather and go from there. Honestly $3000 a month is average in OR. I rather live in a safe community ❤.

[@ssglopezvm]

Aloha Chris, I've been following you - my friend for more than 3 years. Thank you for everything you do, good content information, honest advise, and sharing your Hello From Hawaii experiences with us🤙 My experience in Hawaii has been better than I imagined. I moved to Hawaii a year ago from New York City. I was born in Puerto Rico and lived in NYC for over 30 years. I have no dependents here, make good living and recently bought a new home in Ward Village with a 50% down payment. Pro's about living in Hawaii: - Local Culture, Respectful and Kind People - Remarkable Stable Weather, Beautiful Beaches, Sunsets and Nature. - Low crime, violence - Island Vibe, Music, Outdoor activities Con's about living in Hawaii: - None 🤟 Mahalo 🌺

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Appreciate that you've followed the channel for so long. Glad Hawaii has been great for you. Ward is a nice place to live. 🤙

[@gordonames1892]

50 YEARS AGO WHEN I ATTENDED COLLEGE, MY GEO SCIENCE TEACHER MENTIONED THAT DURING THE 60S, THE CONSTRUCTION RUN OFF FROM HOUSING DEVELOPENTS IN KANEOHE WAS KILLING THE CORAL REEFS IN KANEOHE BAY!!!

[@AngelikaDV]

Great vid with some great insights! I know you hate sand so thanks for doing this! 🤙

[@HelloFromHawaii]

lol. Yeah, my feet got dirty and sand got in my slippers.

[@just_inhawaii]

I love how you tastefully open these cans of worms…and I genuinely mean that as a compliment. 🤙🏽

[@christopherturco197]

I agree with you. Chris looks at each topic dispassionately and addresses the facts. Doesn't let his emotions interfere with looking at things honestly.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Thanks. Try to get the conversation started and see where it goes.

[@katherinegaines9252]

Are living on each different island substancially different?

[@kithg]

I think the only way you understand living in any place is to do it. Visiting, tourist-ing so to speak, leaves too much out. And that’s certainly the case with Hawaii. And even living there, you have to be there for a while to “get it.” Anywhere, but especially Hawaii.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Yeah, agree, especially when it comes to Hawaii.

[@SunnyIlha]

Hawai'i would enjoy a lot of fun having it's own Pro Football Team. Hawai'i could be a special location to be a recurring venue stage for the Super Bowl possibly too.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

We gotta build a nice stadium first 😄

[@SunnyIlha]

@@HelloFromHawaii A really really nice one with shopping stores and food courts and one gigantic Dollar Tree and a gargantuan Big Lots where everyone can go even when there's no Game happening. Also spots for small sole proprietor kiosks and food carts. And some second had thrift shop stores. Haha, I can't stop......

[@Penta_Penguin_237]

Please Sir I need your precious opinion: I am 31 from Italy, In 2 years I will have 3 degrees, currently speak fluently 5 languages while I have studied 8 and I work as firmware developer in a French multinational company. Do you think I have a chance within the next two years to land a job in the tech sector in Hawaii? The 5 languages I speak: Italian, English, French, German, Chinese. Plus I have knowledge of Japanese, Spanish and Russian. The 3 degrees: Languages and cultures, Robotics, Applied artificial intelligence. The tech degrees have been undertaken under the stricter requirements of an international university in Germany.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for the comment. I would consider working remote, rather than try to find a tech job here. There may be some opportunities, but it could be limited given your qualifications.

[@Penta_Penguin_237]

@@HelloFromHawaii Thank you very much for being very direct. I think I will evaluate either mainland US or Australia.

[@steveelliott3109]

Love your videos

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@teslashawn]

Mahalo for another great video!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

🤙

[@ciaragardner703]

What particular island for volcano

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Big Island still has volcanic activity.

[@LaReinadeBrooklyn718]

4:26 cultural diversity - unpopular fact is just about every neighborhood on O’ahu there is an Asian population. I’ve been a resident here for the last 30 yrs and I come across way more Asians than I do Hawaiians, Blacks & Hispanics combined unless you’re in my home which is the cultural blend of my familia 🇩🇴

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Hawaii does have a large Asian population, which stems from the plantation days. But we also have a rising Hispanic population too.

[@catherinemartin9759]

I have lived in Hawaii. Since I was 10 and I left after 40 years. Because I got married and moved to Portland, OR. I always educate people about Hawaii. To respect the aina.

[@LilyGazou]

That’s a big change.

[@LifeisNowOrNever]

I’m from Barcelona and even lived in Jakarta. I’d live in Hawaii with an eye closed.

[@AngloFrancoDane]

Mostly agree, with a few exceptions. We do not drive fast. I visited Southern California recently and everyone was going 80 mph on one freeway. I don't think I have ever driven 80 mph anywhere in Hawaii. Seasons are overrated.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

I've been on H3 when people were going pretty fast. 😄

[@Keliiyamashita]

Con- Amazon doesn’t ship large items. Or many electronics. A huge bummer. Plus it takes longer than “next day” like the mainland.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Yeah, I was hoping to order a kids play set, but they don't ship here.

[@woodyahh2110]

@@HelloFromHawaii A change in amazon service's is in the works

[@silversurferhi]

As a born and raised kamaaina it is obviously expensive to live here but that's the price we pay to live here. Not much we can do about it since most things have to be shipped here. It is sad that many friends and family members have/choose to relocate for cheaper places but if they all stayed then we would be grumbling even more about being overcrowded on the islands.

[@marknewton6984]

Aloha from Florida Never leave! 😎

[@julierawlins5984]

I wonder if you feel that your children would benefit (or not) from living on the mainland for a portion or all of their lives. Then they can make the decision to move to Hawaii at a later date.

[@petermc164]

Volcanoes?! I'm from the Big Island (Hilo) and we don't blink an eye and could careless when there's a volcanic eruption. We're so used to it since it happens all the time and has no effect on our lives what so ever.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

😄

[@8675-__]

That may change SOON!

[@BlueEyed888]

VOG is bad for your health. Read up on it.

[@catherinemartin9759]

I am looking forward to moving back.

[@funkseoulbrotha]

I just want to call a tourist, "Hey, Mr Peanut Butta Cups!"

[@naomigriffith4250]

I've been away too long. Not hear that labeling before.

[@Mars-ev7qg]

Is there a significant Indian community in Hawaii? I'm talking about people from the country of India 🇮🇳.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

I'm not sure. Good question.

[@evalina98000]

Seasons n Hawai'i. Hilo kindergarten class n April, Kumu: Wat season is it? Keiki: It's da 🌧️ season! Kumu: Wat do u do during dis season? Keiki: We go Kona! ☀️ 🌊 ☺️

[@Netharshana]

My sister and I have visited Hawaii last year and it was one of our favourite travel destination. I find people here generally happy even working in lower-income jobs. Both of our uber drivers lived elsewhere in the states I believe Boston and Kentucky but moved to Honolulu as they just loved the nature and scenery and try to get by with their family. I didn't realize at the time there was a homeless crisis and mental health being on the rise. A big con for me is the roaches😅. Spotted one in the middle of the night in our hostel that scared me senseless. Heat is also a big concern for those who are unaware just how hot hawaii can be. We went during August and I ended up having a large heat rash on my arms. I remember speaking to a local and he told me, heat stroke is a common health concern there.

[@parkercroft7066]

Aloha Nephew, I enjoy all of your videos. Respect and mahalo. Maybe this is not something that you can do a video about, but I offer it to you because of the interests that you have shared. Hawai'i is currently experiencing the results of living in a manner that is too resource consumptive. The income disparity and resulting competition for limited resources (land, etc.) results in a culture that is not functioning for everyone. Pushed to the extreme it can become dis-functional for everyone (grid-lock). We are living in an excessively consumptive manner. If we lived more lightly on the land then our footprints would be less damaging. A hui ho

[@8675-__]

I agree completely!

[@laurakibben4147]

We thought it was weird when we started seeing them split their sock toes between their flippas thong. But for them, it meant winter coming 🤣

[@melbournechugging2999]

It's 5 years now living here and my time has come to move on got a job secured and by Dec. I'm out of here. I come to the conclusion Hawaii is not Paradise

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for sharing. Five years is about average. Hope you enjoyed your time here, though.

[@dogsense3773]

It was four years for me! What took you so long!

[@KevinNordstrom]

@@dogsense3773 hawaii is no different really from any other state. Its just a place. With big city problems and corrupt politicians. If I was a billionaire, id live there...but im fine with traveling and retiring with dignity. My advice to folks who are still in their working prime....move out of Hawaii or start voting different

[@ethangarcia3311]

🤙🏼

[@rayage777]

The volcano affects other islands from vog.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Good point.

[@melaniewantsabeer243]

Living here with no family is hard and I have autism so it's so isolating

[@garytellep5392]

I enjoy your videos with a slight criticism ease up on the local attitude lectures. I'm an Alaskan and proud of my unique state too but we don't make it painful for newcomers. In case you forgot Hawaii is a state and as a Veteran I paid my dues to live anywhere is this country that I choose something you yourself haven't done or haven't mentioned yet. So to be expected to do cartwheels for you or anyone else for membership is a bit much. Certainly wherever you choose to live it's reasonable to expect that you learn and respect it's history and residents but few places make it as painful as Hawaii. does. And frankly, unless you can trace your ancestors to the Polynesians who first landed in the Hawaiian Chain you're no different than a guy who relocates from Cleveland you just have a bit more tenure. The long-time attitude that people from the mainland are annoyances tolerated for their $$ has seriously backfired too since a good part of Hawaii is now owned and financed by people offshore.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Mahalo for the comment. 🤙

[@johntad751]

I'm from Hawaii and the only thing that is the top of my head is how slow Hawaii is.

[@seanlockwood5699]

Was stationed in Hawaii for four years. Locals really do have it tough. Much respect to them for all they endure.

[@Godislove2066]

It's true, no matter where we go, eventually it gets old. The only place it never gets old its NYC

[@andrewzenn1719]

Hawaii doesn't have the infrastructure for Ikea disposable furniture. Every Ikea item will be in landfill in less than 10 years. I just threw my broken chair away, and our bookcase is leaning and our table is delaminating. Restore won't be able to keep up with the donations. Hawaii is filled with pilfery. People steal gas with a garden hose. I was thinking about moving to a simple place in Hawaii., Knowing that Hawaii is so dependent on container ships really concerns me. Transplants die younger on outer islands. There just isn't that need for preventative care, and advanced care involves flying to mainland or Oahu. But those people are happy to spend their final years on hawaii.and enter hospice care younger.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Regarding the Ikea issue, I think it would be a great opportunity for a reuse business to take advantage of all of that extra material. It's already happening in the construction sector, where some of the materials can be salvaged and reused.

[@dennistani1986]

Correct, IKEA furniture has a life expectancy of 2 years......

[@mmc1730]

When I was there a cop beat me with his night stick for not completely stopping at a stop sign. It was a 4 way stop intersection in a farm area and you could see nothing was coming for miles. So that's a con.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Sorry to hear that.

[@mmc1730]

@@HelloFromHawaii Yeah, he said I didn't stop. I said I could see it was clear so I just slowed down. He got mad. I said "stop, slow down, what's the difference" Then he started hitting me with his night stick. Then he asked me "Now, do you want me to stop or slow down?" So I guess he did teach me there is a difference. 😁

[@dogsense3773]

When I was in the navy there the cops beat the hell out of a few guys on my ship

[@carolyninman3269]

Want an appliance or car or furniture in Hawai’i wait 6 months sometimes!!! Fresh fruits and veggies if not local are junk! It’s all good though lol cause I love my home!!! Wouldn’t live anywhere else!!!

[@JYAN2852]

Another con I think is the traffic and parking, especially in Oahu

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Oh, and roads and infrastructure.

[@JYAN2852]

@@HelloFromHawaii Yes roads and infrastructure too. Perhaps an idea for a new video 😁

[@naomigriffith4250]

Violent crime, like murder or kidnapping, would be difficult for the perpetrator to hide on an island. To escape, the person would need $$$ to fly out of the islands. Cost of living is probably the main con for Hawaii. My mother tried to persuade me to return home by saying that I could work 2 jobs to afford living in Hawaii. My response? Why should I work 2 jobs when the one job I have pays more than the 2 combined and I can buy more here? The high cost of living, though, limits how many people can live in or move to Hawaii. It's too bad that it impacts the locals. 😔

[@HiloBoiz808]

During covid and the draconian measures taken by the tyrannical government had one good side, I went surfing and fishing with my kids all the time.

[@evalina98000]

🏄🏽‍♀️ 1st Fri hardly any haumana n UHH afternoon class, Boston Prof, 🤔 "Where's everyone?" "🌊 up! Prof" 🏄🏽‍♂️

[@rickchapman3051]

I think the biggest thing I dislike is each island is run like it's a individual state until Oahu needs more money then they punish the outer islands with taxes and fees.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Interesting perspective. I know the rail tax impacted the neighbor islands, but I believe they benefited for years because of the TAT split. Now with the county surcharge, each county can get more revenue.

[@rickchapman3051]

Yes I agree except why are my taxes going to oahu rail. I haven't been there in years. Do i get a discount...ah no. As for TAT. It just makes underground vrbo that much more appealing. I mean really almost 20% tax for legal fees. Might as well petition to be a territory. Give up statehood.

[@9834-c2g]

Which demographic group predominantly perpetrated those attacks? Is there a specific group that stands out? There must be a reason for the rise on such attacks. Cost of living? I am just curious.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Not sure I understand the questions. Rise in crime?

[@9834-c2g]

@@HelloFromHawaii Yes, in the video you mentioned there had been attacks on elderly people.

[@vernonsheldon-witter1225]

I didn't before I came. I do now.

[@mkkaneta]

I think the reason the public schools are good is because the families place a high value on education.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Private schools?

[@8675-__]

Are you crazy? Public schools are terrible in Hawaii!

[@granta3044]

As someone who works in waikiki, it's fckn sad how tourists leave their brains at home when they become a tourist. Honestly we should work on sustainability since tourism only helps the rich and Hawaii supported more than a million people before the colonizers arrived, meaning it can be done. Like tourists can come but if we give em a visa they have to go.

[@HelloFromHawaii]

I'm sure it's tough in Waikiki, especially once Hawaii opened up. I remember when we stayed over the Fourth of July weekend.

[@LordVader.66]

I was in Waikiki In July 2019. It was a shock to see all the homeless everywhere. The amount of people muttering to themselves in an alley was a shock. I was extremely drunk, and bought a bag of herb off a dude and was smoking with him.. I was seen as an easy victim. Next thing I knew, there was 5 dudes hanging around in the shadows. Even in that state, I knew something was off. I randomly ran off into a bar across the street. I ducked into a bathroom and tucked my debit card and ID in my socks but left my numerous rewards cards into my wallet. When I came out the bathroom,all these dudes had followed me to that bar and had a bouncer take me out. They followed me out and down the street while the dealer shouted at me to "hold up." My hotel was right there and as they followed me in, I told the dude at the desk they were trying to rob me and he chased them off. I will never go back to Waikiki and go out after midnight. Big Island will be my next island. Had it not been for my "special" training, I would have been a victim in such a vulnerable state.

[@KevinNordstrom]

This right here is why I'm glad I can carry a firearm. Sadly every Hawaii law abiding citizen especially women....are a target victim from criminals who don't give a shit

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Good sense that you felt something was up. Just gotta be careful at night.

[@8675-__]

You're so lucky! They would have beaten you nearly to death for $5....those homeless people are often ICE HEAD ZOMBIES! They attack and rob tons of tourists and new comers (usually white or Japanese tourists) because they assume you have money or credit cards or valuables they can sell to buy ICE (METH). GOD was with you that night!

[@MegaFIare]

I've never been to Hawaii but this sounds like a situation you could have easily avoided. Most people are smart enough to avoid going out drunk and buying weed off a random dude on the street 😂

[@LordVader.66]

@@MegaFIare it is just a whole vibe there. You wouldn’t know until you’ve been there. Also, many many people sell it right out in the open. Cops walk by and do nothing about it

[@badtuna73]

Yeah. Hawaii is very slow pace. It's the good food that makes you slow, sleepy, and on cruise control. LOL!

[@HelloFromHawaii]

😆

[@e-dog-e619]

😊🤙🏿

[@e-dog-e619]

Me and my wife would love to move there. We have been there 6 times. We love oahu😊🤙🏿

[@Malini108]

GE tax is a con for business owners

[@HelloFromHawaii]

Everyone has to pay it and it gets passed on to consumers.

[@Malini108]

@@HelloFromHawaii I work as a licensed massage therapist at an injury clinic and I bill various insurance companies to get paid. What I am able to bill is based on the national average for the service. It doesn't get passed on to the consumers in this case.

[@8675-__]

I agree completely! People don't understand what it's like until they arrive. Because they look at everything on a computer and image a blissful lifestyle! That's definitely not the reality. Local folks are not warm and welcoming to new comers! They prefer you come as a tourist, stay a short time and leave all your money before you leave! Unfortunately a lot of locals will actually say this to you! 🤯🥸🤯

[@BobbyHo2022]

U know what's funny. I don't appreciate the beauty of hawaii until I got to the mainland. Then I realize how ugly it is.

[@stevenbaer9061]

Do Outsiders Really Understand the Pros and Cons of Living in Hawaii? I would have to say NO, otherwise they would not be 'outsiders'

[@meathook2448]

Ikea...oof! 🤣

[@pinkoceanflower3045]

Outsiders are making the cost of living higher for the Kamaaina’s causing more homelessness.

[@serf6355]

That’s quite a hat you got there…

[@stargazer5073]

It's soooooo expensive

[@mojojojo7923]

So I’m a white guy getting ready to retire. Do you think I’ll have a problem with racism here in Hawaii?

[@HelloFromHawaii]

A lot probably depends on where you live. Certain areas have more retirees from out-of-state so it may be easier to acclimate at first. But there will always be people who are prejudiced. Just know that not all locals are like that.

[@harrymiram6621]

Have SERIOUS issues w/bottom 3 Cons! WHO are these guys?! WHO made them the "Travel Police/Agent?!" They're only giving their superficial "opinions/observations/suggestions?"

[@Junksaint]

Multi-billionaire snobs should just visit more, not move there buying all the land

[@apachekeawe-aiko4900]

Howz it Braddah 🤙 CHEE HOO 🤙🌴🌊😎