Ekolu Lindsey, leader of Maui Cultural Lands, joins the show! We talk story about the origin of this organization founded by his father to protect native Hawaiian cultural resources. The conversation explores the history and significance of Honokowai Valley, Ekolu's unique perspective on concepts like kupono and aloha, the complex dynamics of tourism reopening in Maui, and his recommendations for how visitors can engage respectfully and give back.

What we discuss with Ekolu Lindsey:

• Origin story of Maui Cultural Lands and its mission to preserve Hawaiian history
• Importance of valleys like Honokowai as agricultural hubs feeding ancient communities
• Educating visitors on planes about respecting Hawaii's natural resources
• Concepts like kupono, malama, and kokua that shape Hawaiian values
• Experience and impact of volunteering at Maui Cultural Lands
• Passing on an appreciation of native ecosystems to future generations

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Maui Cultural Lands website
• Blog post: Thanksgiving in Hawaii
• Blog post: 9 Unique Ways to Volunteer on Kauai

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Emma Wheatley, from Pizza Madness Maui, graces our episode! Dive deep as we talk story about this beloved eatery in Kihei. Listen in for mouth-watering pizza tales, the challenges faced, and their inspiring pay-it-forward initiative.

What we discuss with Emma Wheatley:

• Unique pizza recipes that set them apart.
• Business challenges faced in the Maui market.
• Pay-it-forward program for those affected by the Maui fires.
• The significance of sourcing local ingredients.
• Tips for visitors dining at Pizza Madness Maui.
• Emma's favorite pizza recommendations.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Pizza Madness Website
• Pizza Madness Instagram

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

On this episode, we dive deep into Kauai's hidden treasures, from tubing escapades and lush gardens to local culinary delights. This episode offers insights into the authentic Hawaiian culture, captivating landscapes, and unforgettable experiences awaiting on Kauai. Join us as we uncover the Garden Isle's magic.

What we discuss on this episode:

• Unique experiences on Kauai for unforgettable memories.
• The one-of-a-kind tubing adventure in Kauai's sugar plantations with Kauai Backcountry Adventures.
• Visiting Limahuli Garden and Preserve, showcasing over a thousand plant species and traditional Hawaiian cultural sites.
• The program at Kauai Humane Society allowing visitors to take shelter dogs on day trips around the island.
• A food tour in Hanalei: meeting chefs, tasting local cuisine, and understanding the island's culinary traditions.
• Tasting the flavors of Hawaii at Koloa Rum Company, from traditional to tropical rum varieties.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Blog Post: 29 Best Things to Do on Kauai
• Episode with Koloa Rum's President

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

On this solo episode, we dive deep into the captivating tales and lesser-known stories of Oahu. This episode uncovers the island's hidden gems, from its royal ties to the intriguing legend of the guardian bird. Join us as we explore interesting Oahu facts and discover a side of paradise you've never seen before.

What we discuss on this episode:

• The unique indigenous bird of Oahu and its cultural significance.
• Controversies surrounding the Kaena Point Space Force Satellite Tracking Station.
• Significance of the Nuuanu Pali Lookout and its pivotal role in Hawaiian history.
• Ancient Hawaiian heiaus (temples) and their cultural importance.
• The transformation of Waikiki from a royal retreat to a world-famous tourist destination.

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

👉 Elijah Kalā, a voice of the Hawaiian community, joins the show! We talk story about the essence of traveling with aloha in Hawaii. The conversation delves into the heart of authentic Hawaiian experiences, community engagement, and the evolution of Aloha.

What we discuss with Elijah Kalā:

• How to be a part of the Hawaiian community while vacationing.
• Tangible ways to give back to the Hawaiian community during a trip.
• The true spirit of Aloha.
• Understanding and respecting Hawaiian cultural values for an authentic experience.
• The need for visitors to embody Hawaiian principles for a better experience.
• How travelers' mindset impacts the community of Lahaina and all of Hawaii.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Elijah's Instagram
• awakenedaloha.org
• evolutionofaloha.com
• nakiaiomaui.org
• Lahaina Strong Instagram
• helpmauirise.org

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Today, we dive deep into the West Maui reopening debate! We explore the delicate balance between tourism and the Lahaina community's healing after the tragic fires. This episode uncovers the phased reopening strategy, local grassroots movements, and the importance of traveling with Aloha in Hawaii.

What we discuss in this episode:

• West Maui's phased reopening
• Local concerns about the reopening timeline
• Lahaina Strong's grassroots movement and their demands
• The structured three-phase reopening approach
• Economic implications of reopening for Maui's tourism industry
• Traveling responsibly and with aloha to Maui

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Hawaii's Best Website
• Hawaii's Best Instagram
• Episode 108: TravelAge West
• Episode 106: Tutu's Pantry
• Episode 105: Ululani's Shave Ice
• Episode 103: Patrick Parker

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

✈️ Mindy Poder, Executive Editor of TravelAge West, hops onto the podcast! We discuss her insights on traveling to Maui, particularly during these times. Our conversation dives into the heart of local businesses, the changing travel landscape, and the responsibility tourists hold when visiting destinations like Maui.

What we discuss with Mindy Poder:

• Impact of disasters on tourism and its revival.
• Mindy's personal trip to Maui and her insights from the visit.
• The delicate situation in Maui post-disaster and its recovery.
• Examples of post-disaster tourism rebounds in global destinations.
• The importance of responsible tourism and definitions surrounding it.
• The role and advice of travel advisors regarding trips to Maui post-disaster.
• The anticipated tourism trends for the fall and festive season.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• TravelAge West Website
• Mindy's Maui Article 

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here.

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Weighing the pros and cons of driving independently or booking a certified tour, this episode emphasizes responsible tourism and respecting local communities. From charming towns to breathtaking landscapes, experience the wonders of Hana Highway while promoting sustainability and enhancing your journey.

-> Learn More Here <-

Episode Resources

• In-Depth Blog on Driving the Road to Hana
• Finding a certified Road to Hana Tour Guide
• Hana Highway Regulation Code of Conduct

Full show notes are available here.
(Episode first aired on April 12, 2023)

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

Ellie Salazar, Founder of Tutu's Pantry, joins the podcast! We dive deep into the captivating tale of founding and nurturing Tutu's Pantry in the heart of Maui. We discuss the story behind the brand, and Ellie's perspective on responsible tourism.

What we discuss with Ellie:

• The origin story of Tutu's Pantry
• The influence of Hawaiian culture on Ellie's brand
• The essence and importance of shopping local
• Ways to travel responsibly to Maui
• Best places to eat on Maui, as recommended by Ellie

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Tutu's Pantry Website
• Tutu's Pantry Instagram

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: hawaiisbesttravel.com/episode106

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)

David Yamashiro, co-founder of Ululani's Shave Ice 🍧, joins the show! We dive deep into the after-effects of the fires on Maui regarding tourism and the livelihood of the locals. The dialogue uncovers the resilience of Lahaina's community, Ululani's continued commitment to help, and the importance of supporting Maui's other untouched regions.

What we discuss with David Yamashiro:

• Economic strain on locals relying on jobs within the tourism industry.
• Ululani's commitment to aid the affected community.
• Introduction of new Ululani's locations.
• Details about the GoFundMe initiative for relief efforts.
• Appeal to tourists to continue visiting parts of Maui besides Lahaina.
• Challenges of rebuilding Lahaina and uncertainties about its future layout.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Ululani's GoFundMe Page
• Ululani's Website

👉 Full show notes and resources can be found here: hawaiisbesttravel.com/episode105

⎯
📲Connect

• Facebook Group
• Advertise Your Business (Podcast Sponsor Inquiry)

⎯
This Hawaii podcast is for travelers looking to plan a trip to Hawaii. Discover travel tips, itineraries, and traveling tips & hacks with guides to help you explore Hawaii. Whether you’re planning a Hawaii vacation to the islands, dreaming of a Hawaiian getaway, or visiting Honolulu, Maui, Kauai, Oahu, or Big Island we’ll help you travel with aloha.

Edge of the Ocean, Stick Figure (w/ permission)
Ukulele and Chill, Coby G (w/ permission)
Talk Story, Hawaiian Style Band (w/ permission)