Hawaii Vacation Connection By cover art

Hawaii Vacation Connection

By: Bruce Fisher
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  • Summary

  • The Hawaii Vacation Connection is a one-of-a-kind podcast that is produced live every Monday, straight from a recording studio in Hawaii Kai, Oahu. Hosted by Hawaii Aloha Travel owner Bruce Fisher, the podcast touches on an array of Aloha state news topics and is dedicated to Hawaii’s guests. Whether you’re a first time visitor or repeat traveler, the Hawaii Vacation Connection keeps you in the loop and in the local know.
    HAWAII ALOHA TRAVEL
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Episodes
  • Exploring Hawaii: All-Inclusive Package vs. À La Carte

    Exploring Hawaii: All-Inclusive Package vs. À La Carte
    May 19 2024
    When planning a dream vacation to Hawaii, one of the first decisions you'll need to make is whether to opt for an all-inclusive package or to purchase everything à la carte. While Hawaii isn't known for traditional all-inclusive resorts where you can eat and drink all day without limits, there are ways to create an all-inclusive-like experience by packaging your meals and activities together. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each approach to help you decide which is best for your Hawaiian getaway. All-Inclusive Hawaii Package: Convenience and Peace of Mind Pros: Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of an all-inclusive package is the convenience factor. With everything planned and paid for upfront, you can relax and enjoy your vacation without worrying about the details. Your accommodations, meals, and activities are all taken care of, allowing you to focus on the beauty and adventure that Hawaii offers. Budgeting Made Easy: Knowing the total cost of your trip in advance helps with budgeting. You won’t be caught off guard by unexpected expenses, making it easier to manage your finances and avoid overspending. Streamlined Planning: Booking an all-inclusive package can save you time and effort. You won’t have to spend hours researching and booking individual activities and restaurants. Instead, you’ll have a curated itinerary designed to give you a well-rounded experience of Hawaii. Exclusive Experiences: Some packages offer exclusive experiences and perks that might be harder to arrange on your own, such as private tours, reserved seating at shows, or unique dining experiences. Cons: Less Flexibility: While having everything planned can be convenient, it also means less flexibility. An all-inclusive package might feel restrictive if you prefer a more spontaneous vacation where you can change your plans on a whim. Potentially Higher Cost: Although packages offer convenience, they aren’t always the most cost-effective option. You might find that booking everything separately can sometimes be cheaper, especially if you’re savvy about finding deals and discounts. À La Carte: Tailor Your Own Hawaiian Adventure Pros: Customization: Booking à la carte allows you to customize your trip exactly how you want it. You can choose specific activities, dining options, and accommodations that fit your interests and preferences. Flexibility: You have the freedom to change your plans as you go. If you discover a new activity or restaurant that you want to try, you can easily adjust your itinerary. Potential Savings: By booking individually, you can take advantage of special deals and discounts. You might be able to find cheaper alternatives that fit your budget better than an all-inclusive package. Local Experiences: Going à la carte gives you the opportunity to explore more local and authentic experiences. You’re not tied to a preset itinerary, so you can discover hidden gems and unique spots that aren’t included in typical packages. Cons: More Planning Required: Booking everything separately requires more time and effort. You’ll need to do extensive research to find the best options and coordinate all the details yourself. Unpredictable Costs: Without an all-inclusive package, it can be harder to predict the total cost of your trip. Unexpected expenses can add up, making it difficult to stick to your budget. No Package Perks: By not opting for a package, you might miss out on exclusive experiences and perks that are only available through bundled deals. Conclusion: Which Is Right for You? Choosing between an all-inclusive package and purchasing everything à la carte ultimately depends on your travel style and preferences. If you value convenience, peace of mind, and a streamlined planning process, an all-inclusive package might be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer flexibility, customization, and the potential for savings,
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    16 mins
  • Will Hawaii Vacation Rentals Soon Be Banned ?

    Will Hawaii Vacation Rentals Soon Be Banned ?
    May 5 2024
    In this podcast, I discuss the realities of the proposed legislation to outlaw short-term Hawaii vacation rentals. In a bid to address housing shortages and soaring real estate prices, Hawaii has unveiled new legislation aimed at phasing out vacation rentals across the islands. The move comes amid concerns that short-term rentals have contributed to the state's housing crisis, squeezing out long-term residents and driving up rents. The proposed law, which is currently under review by state lawmakers, seeks to restrict the operation of vacation rentals, particularly in residential areas where they have proliferated in recent years. If passed, the legislation would gradually phase out existing vacation rental properties, to return them to the long-term housing market. Supporters of the measure argue that vacation rentals have exacerbated housing affordability issues in Hawaii, making it increasingly difficult for residents to find affordable housing. By curbing the expansion of short-term rentals, policymakers hope to alleviate pressure on the housing market and create more opportunities for permanent residents to secure housing. However, the proposed legislation has sparked debate among stakeholders, with some vacation rental owners expressing concerns about the potential impact on their livelihoods. Critics argue that the measure could undermine the state's tourism industry, which relies heavily on vacation rentals to accommodate visitors. Proponents of the legislation, on the other hand, contend that the long-term benefits of reducing vacation rentals outweigh the short-term economic impacts. By prioritizing the needs of residents and addressing housing affordability, policymakers aim to create a more sustainable and equitable housing market in Hawaii. As the debate continues, state lawmakers are facing pressure to strike a balance between the interests of vacation rental owners and the broader community. With housing affordability remaining a pressing issue in Hawaii, the outcome of the legislative process is likely to have significant implications for the future of the state's housing market.
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    18 mins
  • How to Island Hop in Hawaii

    How to Island Hop in Hawaii
    Apr 21 2024
    If you're considering visiting multiple islands during your vacation, here are some tips to help you plan how to island hop in Hawaii effectively. Visiting more than one island in Hawaii offers a rich tapestry of experiences, each island presenting its own unique charms and landscapes. From the vibrant energy of Oahu's Waikiki Beach and the historical sites of Pearl Harbor to the tranquil beauty of Maui's sunrise atop Haleakalā and the dramatic cliffs of the Na Pali Coast in Kauai, each island beckons with its own allure. Island hopping allows travelers to delve into Hawaii's diverse cultures, cuisines, and natural wonders, creating a journey filled with unforgettable moments and a deeper appreciation for the aloha spirit that unites these enchanting islands. How to get between the Islands By Air - The most common and convenient way to island hop in Hawaii is by taking inter-island flights. Most of the planes are modern jets. Southwest uses MAX 737s. Several airlines, such as Hawaiian Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Mokulele Airlines, offer frequent flights between the major islands. The flight duration between islands is usually short, ranging from 20 minutes to an hour depending on the distance. By Ferry - Since the pandemic, there's only a ferry between Maui and Lanai. Therefore, it's not suited for inter-island travel unless you want to go for a day trip. The ferry service connecting Lanai and Maui is managed by Expeditions. They offer dependable and budget-friendly transportation, operating seven days a week with multiple daily trips. The journey lasts approximately an hour, crossing the picturesque Auau Channel. Passengers are treated to stunning vistas of Maui County, encompassing the islands of Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe. On days of clear skies, lucky travelers may even catch sight of the distant Big Island of Hawaii. Private Charter- Unless you have big bucks, this is likely not an option. You can also charter private planes or boats to hop between islands. This gives you more flexibility in terms of scheduling and allows you to explore less-visited destinations. Cruise Ship - The NCL Pride of America is a great choice for traveling between the islands and it's like a floating hotel, so you only have to pack and unpack once. While this won't give you as much time on each island compared to staying there, it can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to experience the beauty of the islands. Hawaii Inter-Island Planning Tips Traveling between the islands gives you the opportunity to see more of what each island has to offer. Typically, you need at least three or four nights to get a fully immersive experience, so depending on how long you plan to visit, it probably makes sense to choose islands that contrast each other nicely. For example, choosing Oahu and Hawaii Island would be contrasting. Book in Advance - For most people, this must be done in advance because there is a lot involved. It's pretty much a travel day, and you have to have a hotel reservation and transportation reservation for many of the best attractions well in advance. More and more county-maintained parks and attractions require reservations. You also want to make sure you have preferred flights that align with your schedule. Pack light - Less is better when it comes to luggage. Not only does it help avoid baggage fees, but it also allows you to move quicker between the islands because you'll have less to lug around with you. Additionally, if you are traveling with more than three or four people, you'll need room for luggage in your rental car! Also be aware that things like Hiking poles, Spear guns, Surfboards, and guns may be prohibited or have restrictions. Flight timing—Check-in is typically at 3 or 4 PM for most hotels, so if you wish to travel to another island and check in immediately, it may not be possible. Consider traveling earlier and engaging in an activity before checking into your hotel. ...
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    15 mins
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