06/01/2001

Hawaii on a Shoestring

"Paradise." That's pretty much how everyone describes the Hawaiian Islands -- as paradise. Before I traveled there myself, I wondered whether this word was a bit of an exaggeration. But now, after spending several weeks vacationing there -- in both winter and summer -- I can speak from experience. It's a destination where orchids grow wild; home, hotel and restaurant windows remain open to the breeze because there are so few bugs; the sounds of tropical birds and Polynesian music surround you; temperatures range between 65 and 85 degrees all year; and the spirit of "Aloha" welcomes visitors from around the world. "Paradise." The Hawaiian Islands truly live up to their reputation.

The cost of entertainment there, however, is not so heavenly. Local residents pay rates similar to those in every other state; but visitors from "the Mainland" pay a higher rate; and tourists from foreign countries pay the highest rates of all. For example, if you decide to play 18 holes of golf -- greens fees for locals range from about $25-$50; mainlanders pay $75-$125; and foreigners pay $150-$225 -- for 18 holes of golf!

Differences in rates based on where one resides also exist for museums and other attractions. The fees for each category are no secret; they are posted in many establishments. When calling for tourist information, one is immediately asked whether he or she is a local, student, mainlander or foreigner.

Even though we fully understand the importance of tourist revenues to the Hawaiian economy, my husband and I discussed this practice with several people while we were there, because we felt it was somewhat discriminatory. We learned from a Canadian couple, however, that regular visitors can establish local status.

The Canadians told us that they visit for several weeks each year and stay in the same condominium each time. In order to obtain local status, they applied for a State Identification Card. To procure it, they went to the Territorial Building in Honolulu, filled out an application, presented their original documents of birth, marriage, adoption (if applicable) and Social Security card (for U.S. citizens); paid $15 ($10 if over age 65); had a photograph taken and received the card. The State ID is good for six years and qualifies the holder for local rates throughout the Islands.

During our most recent visit, in January of 2001, we established local status, too. We presented our original identifying documents to officials at the Territorial Building, listed our permanent address in Connecticut as our home address (no fudging required), provided the local address where we were staying as a contact (in case of emergency) and paid the fee.

By making otherwise expensive attractions more affordable, we made our Hawaiian getaway "paradise" in every sense of the word. Aloha!

Please send questions or comments to bbruno@snet.net.