Hawaii Governor Josh Green, M.D., announced the reopening of Kaanapali, Napili, Honokowai and Kapalua, two months after Maui’s deadly wildfires. Approximately 70% of Maui’s economy relies on tourist spending, so travelers are encouraged to respectfully visit Maui to enjoy and support Hawaii’s second largest island. .
“Starting October 8, travel restrictions will be lifted and West Maui will once again welcome visitors, allowing people in Hawaii and around the world to resume traveling to this special place and provide economic relief,” Green said. “We can help people begin to recover.” This difficult decision is designed to bring hope for recovery to Maui families and businesses that have been severely impacted in every way by the disaster. ”
“The outpouring of concern and generous support from our guests around the world, who feel a deep connection to our island community, has been overwhelming and we are deeply grateful.” Four Seasons Resort Maui General Manager Ben Shank. “As we move forward, Maui finds itself dealing with the dual crises of a devastating tragedy on the Westside and a consequent impact on the island-wide economy. mourns Lahaina’s ohana and remains dedicated to assisting all those directly affected by the wildfires, while once again welcoming visitors to other areas of our open and beautiful island. We also recognize the urgent need.”
For those planning a vacation to Maui or considering booking a trip, here’s what local businesses and residents want travelers to know.
The town of Lahaina is not a tourist attraction
On August 8, a wind-driven wildfire burned 2,200 acres on Maui, killing 96 people and destroying more than 2,200 structures in the historically and culturally significant town. While West Maui reopens, nine square miles of Lahaina will remain completely closed until further notice.
“The town of Lahaina should not be part of the visitor route,” says Hawaii Operations Director Morgana Havas. Vacasa. “It is important that tourists do not attempt to travel there to get a glimpse of the affected areas as authorities and investigators are still investigating the area. We understand that people are curious. But we must allow recovery efforts to move forward.”
“People traveling to Kaanapali or Kapalua will drive past some of the damage and will inevitably see some of it, but the rest is not a tourist attraction. Photos of the fire damage should never be taken. But please come and enjoy the greatest place on earth,” said chef and founder Peter Merriman. Merriman’s Hawaii.
be respectful
“For a small island community, the devastation of the fires affected everyone, even if not directly. Please be considerate and patient when traveling to Maui. Kindness , be guided by the aloha spirit of unity, and love,” advises Monica Salter, Vice President of Global Communications and Social Responsibility. outriggeris once again welcoming visitors to Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort and Outrigger Honua Kai Resort & Spa.
Hotel workers also said guests often ask well-intentioned guests if they have been personally affected by the wildfires, but the very act of bringing up the topic upsets them because they are saddened. Additionally, visitors must have empathy and compassion, as not all Maui residents are ready to welcome tourists back.
“We encourage anyone visiting Maui in the coming months and beyond to practice respectful and regenerative tourism. For now, we encourage all of us to practice respectful and regenerative tourism practices.” This is an important time to re-instill the body,” says Kalei Uwe Koolani. Grand Wailea, cultural programming manager and leadership educator. “Follow yourself and others and leave the island better than when you arrived, learn and respect the local culture, support local businesses and participate in local volunteering. ”
use plenty
by Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, Approximately 3 million tourists visit Maui each year and spend $5.4 billion. Tourism is Maui’s economic engine, with 3 out of every 4 dollars directly or indirectly attributed to tourist spending.
“Travel to Maui is literally life-changing for small businesses and is one of the biggest ways we can help those affected by Maui. Reservations will go directly to those in need. “Think of it like donating to a relief fund, except one way,” Kyle Ingram explains. PADI Regional manager.
“Many of Maui’s residents make a living from tips, so those who come to Maui should be generous with their money and resources,” said Chef Merriman, who leads the award-winning Maui restaurant. monkey pod kitchen, Merriman’s, Hula Grill. “Many locals and residents have had their businesses burnt down, and for those who haven’t, half of them are now empty.”
flexible
For those attending the event Kaanapali BeachIt’s important to remember that these Lahaina-adjacent areas, including , Napili, Honokowai, and Kapalua, have just reopened. For example, plan to restock or stock up on groceries at Kihei or Wailea airports, as newly opened communities may have limited store hours and supplies at this stage.
Marriott Vacations Worldwide advises visitors to four oceanfront destinations time share Your next stay at Kaanapali Beach accommodations may be different than your past. Senior Manager Samantha Saunders said: “Given the circumstances, activities and dining options at our resorts and elsewhere on the island will be open with limited hours and limited service due to staffing. It is important to understand that you may be operating in , brand public relations, Marriott Vacation Worldwide.
“If there are experiences you can no longer have on Maui, find gratitude in the experiences you can have,” Ingram adds. “Travel, adventure and tour companies offer the best they can offer, whether people are looking for adventure on the water or underground. For example, at Mara Pier is no longer accessible by boat or shore diving, but all other Maui dive sites are open.”
don’t cancel your trip
“Now is the time for people around the world to show their support by booking travel, making restaurant reservations, and frequenting Maui retailers and attractions that support workers and their families.” It’s time to show that,” said Daniel Nahopii, the association’s chief administrative officer. hawaii tourism bureau.
“Most of Maui remains as beautiful as it was before, with no beaches or beaches. golf Although the course suffered damage, Hana, Iao Valley, and other breathtaking views remain untouched. Living on Maui, we always appreciate our visitors, but now more than ever. This is one of the best opportunities for volunteering ever,” continues Merriman. “All you have to do is come to Maui and enjoy your vacation responsibly and considerately, and you’ll be helping others.”
This article was created by Media decisions Syndicated by Wealth of Geeks.
Monica Fish helps her fellow adventurers live financially wise lives so they can travel and explore our beautiful world on a budget. She writes about smart timeshare ownership, vacation tips and tricks, travel and activities in the New York metropolitan area, and living frugally yet richly at her PlannerAtHeart.com.
