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Here is something you wont find in many travel brochures. Hawaii, like other places on terra firma is a fallen world. Paradise only by weather not by perfection of human character. You will find some warning signs regarding theft in some parking lots around the island because some thieves think they are in the "tourism business" too. They like to take tourists valuables, but provide nothing in return but an empty car. Puddles of glass in a parking lot are an omen. If you must leave bags in your car (or anything that may even look valuable), covering them with a towel or blanket is a good idea. Out of sight, out of mind.



Don't leave your valuables unattended on the beach as thieves watch waiting for tourists to enter the water and forget about their valuables. Always have someone watch your valuables or leave them in a secure place like your room safe. Water wallets are great. They have room for several bills, a couple credit cards and a key. They cost about $5 at K-mart or about $8 at ABC stores in Waikiki. Your money will stay with you, safe and dry while you swim.



There are also some common scams you should be aware of. Some merchants in Waikiki have no posted prices and will quote different prices to different people depending on how much money they think they can shake out of you. Especially in the International Market Place. You should always shop around with them and never pay the first price they quote you.

There are men that walk around with colorful birds and offer to take your photo with their beautiful birds on your shoulder. Beware, I've heard stories about how they pressure people to pay high amounts for taking photos with their birds.

Some women have scams where they will put leis on couples walking down the beach, saying "aloha" and then ask for a "donation" for the leis. What you thought was a gift was a hook and they will pressure and manipulate you to "donate" for some alleged cause. Of course, if you don't donate, they want their leis back.

There are some talented and entertaining street performers up and down Kalakaua Avenue in the evenings. However, be careful not to get scammed. Some are performers/entertainers and some are just shady trench coat sidewalk salesmen. Basically, don't buy any products from them. It's illegal to sell things on the sidewalk, but performers can perform for donations. If you enjoyed their show, feel free to donate. If you buy a physical product from one of them, don't expect them to be there the next day where you can get a refund if the product was defective or not as described.

I often pondered the cause of such deprave behavior and I think I may have found an answer on a mural at Punchbowl Crater Memorial which is a quote from General Douglas MacArthur. Maybe you will see this plaque during your trip. The murals are beautiful, huge and document well many of the battles of World War II. Don't forget to lock your car. I inform you of these things, not to scare you, not because Hawaii necessarily has a higher amount of theft than any other part of the U.S., but because I want you to enjoy your vacation and build wonderful memories. Don't feed the bears!



Aloha,


This article was written on: January 18, 2010
Last updated: February 16, 2010

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