Have you ever wondered what it's really like to live in paradise? Wonder no more as Carol takes us behind the postcard-perfect beaches of Hawaii to reveal the authentic island experience that changed her life forever.

Carol's journey began as a college exchange student at the University of Hawaii, where her perspective on travel—and life—underwent a profound transformation. Far from the Brady Bunch or Gilligan's Island vision she expected, Carol discovered a Hawaii of high-rises, diverse communities, and an infectious "aloha spirit" that slowed everything down. "People would say, 'Oh, you must be from the mainland because you walk so fast,'" she recalls with a laugh.

The episode delves into the practical realities of Hawaiian living—from the creative housing solutions needed in one of America's most expensive markets to the respectful navigation of local customs and spaces. Carol offers fascinating insights into the distinct personalities of each island: bustling Oahu with its tourist-heavy Waikiki, honeymoon-perfect Maui with its whale watching opportunities, and the Big Island with its remarkable climate diversity and more affordable real estate options. Her insider tips are invaluable—like experiencing Diamond Head at sunset during a full moon or finding the perfect boogie boarding spot at Little Beach in Maui.

Perhaps most compelling is Carol's reflection on how her Hawaii experience launched a lifetime of global adventures. Inspired by Australian travelers she met who would "travel for one or two years at a time," she developed a pattern of working in restaurants, saving money, and taking month-long international trips every six to nine months. Her parting wisdom resonates deeply: "If you want to grow as a human being, you've got to travel." Whether it makes you more grateful for home or opens your eyes to new possibilities, Carol's Hawaii story reminds us that sometimes paradise isn't just a destination—it's the beginning of a journey.

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Map of Hawaii

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Hosts
Carol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.life
Kristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/

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