

The 2014-2015  
Honolulu  
Real Estate

Guide

The 2014-2015   
Honolulu   
Real Estate

Guide

North Shore, Kaneohe,  
Kailua, Hawaii Kai, Waikiki, Honolulu,  
Pearl City, Mililani, Kapolei,  
Waipahu, Ewa Beach, WaianaeAdrienne Lally & Attilio LeonardiWexford House Books
The 2014-2015  
Honolulu   
Real Estate

GuideNorth Shore, Kaneohe,  
Kailua, Hawaii Kai, Waikiki, Honolulu,  
Pearl City, Mililani, Kapolei,  
Waipahu, Ewa Beach, WaianaeAdrienne Lally &Attilio LeonardiPublished by:

Wexford House BooksSmashwords Edition
About the Authors

**Adrienne Lally** is a Hawaii real estate agent specializing in residential sales and property management. She is consistently rated one of the top 20 real estate agents in the state.

After extensive training, Adrienne has earned the Real Estate Broker (RB) designation, and Adrienne and her team have helped more than 400 Hawaii families avoid foreclosure.

A former soldier herself and currently a military wife, Adrienne met her husband, Chad, when she was stationed in Hawaii. The two were married on their surfboards, and now have three children.

Adrienne's philosophy as an agent centers on teamwork among her staff, extensive research on the local real estate market, and personal attention to clients' needs. She shares her extensive knowledge of the local market during her weekly radio call-in show every Thursday from noon to 1pm on KAOI AM 1110, repeating on Saturdays from 11am to noon on KHVH AM 830.

**Attilio Leonardi** joins Adrienne in their radio show and in business. An Oahu native with real estate in his blood, his younger days with his parents and three younger sisters were filled with school, beach, fishing, surfing, and skateboarding.

After graduating from Kamehahmeha Schools, Attilio managed a rock band and dabbled in door-to-door sales before finding his true calling in real estate. When he was just 19, Attilio purchased his first house, a 4-bedrom near his university.

Attilio is a Realtor, Certified Distressed Property Expert and Broker, and he combines his love of his home state with his expertise to bring his clients the islands' absolute best home buying and selling advice. He credits his beautiful wife Regina and three amazing children with giving him the energy to spend his weeks travelling between Hawaii's top destinations to sell and buy the area's best homes.
Acknowledgments

Thank you to Team Lally members Howard Nett, Cherie Fikani, Calen Kim-Walker, Abi Johnson, Lydia Bishop, Kimoli Thomas, Duke KimHan, Brandon Force, Benjamin Wilson, Nikki Roberts, Chris Tuncap, Renee Ube, and Rosal Juarez for their great work on behalf of our clients. I will forever be thankful to Justin Willingham, who we lost much too soon, and who will forever be a part of Team Lally

A big thank you to Matt Wagner from Radio and Television Experts (radioandtelevisionexperts.com) for pushing us to take our business to the next level. After two years of his urging, we finally came around and started our radio show, which has been a game changer for us.

Another thanks to Vyral Marketing's (www.getvyral.com) Frank Klesitz and our coach Scott Salari, who have helped us keep our video marketing fresh and innovative.

And we are forever grateful for Bob Corcoran and Diva Marie from Corcoran Coaching. Their advice and methods have helped us take our team to the next level.

Adrienne would like to say a personal thank you to my Mom and Dad, my three great kids, Aidan, Nadia and Chad Jr, my fabulous husband Chad, and God, for all of His blessings.

And Attilio would like to thank Adrienne Lally for accepting me on the team and allowing us to work together and take our team to new heights. It's been a great ride!

To my beautiful wife Regina Leonardi, whose support and endless positive attitude has made it easy for me to treat my work as a Realtor not as a job but as a calling. I can't forget my thanks to my three awesome children, Attilio Jr, Isabella and Angelo, who have helped directly in their individual ways and inspire me to create a legacy for them through Real Estate.
Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Why Move to Honolulu?

_PART I_ _Buying & Selling Real Estate in Honolulu_

Chapter 2 Top Tips for Honolulu Buyers

Chapter 3 Top Tips for Honolulu Sellers

Chapter 4 Buying a Vacation Property

C _hapter 5 Foreclosure and Short Sales: Buy and Sell Distressed Properties_

Chapter 6 PCS to Paradise: Military relocation to Honolulu

PART II Honolulu Neighborhoods

Chapter 7 Honolulu and Oahu

Chapter 8 Metro Honolulu

Chapter 9 Pearl City

Chapter 10 North Shore

Chapter 11 Kaneohe

Chapter 12 Kailua

Chapter 13 Hawaii Kai

Chapter 14 Waikiki

Chapter 15 Mililani

Chapter 16 Kapolei

Chapter 17 Waipahu

Chapter 18 Ewa Beach

Chapter 19 Waianae

PART III - Nearby Destinations: Maui, Kauai & Big Island

Chapter 20 Maui

Chapter 21 Kauai

Chapter 22 Big Island

PART IV - Interviews

Chapter 23 - Andy Pike - To Waipahu from on base, Tampa and Boston

Chapter 24 - Justin Willingham - To Waianae from Michigan

Chapter 25 – Derrell Saul – To Ewa Beach

Chapter 26 - Bill Curtis - To Ewa Beach from Chicago

Chapter 27 - Joanne Barratt - To North Shore from Los Angeles

Chapter 28 - Jason Cooper - To Nuuanu/Waikiki from Kailua

Chapter 29 - Angie Goya - To Mililani from Pearl City

Chapter 30 - Phyllis Podolske - To Hawaii Kai from Kaneohe, Iowa, Minnesota and Oregon

Chapter 31 - Sandro Tasson - To Maka Kilo from Italy

Chapter 32 - Paul L'Ecuyer - To Kaneohe from Metro Honolulu and Massachusetts

Chapter 33 - Gabe Amey - Home To Metro Honolulu from the mainland

Chapter 34 - Ron And Sabrina Najarian - At Home in Kailua

Chapter 35 - Michelle Nakanishi - At Home in Pearl City

PART V - The Newcomer's Guide to Honolulu

Chapter 36 Getting Settled

Chapter 37 The Job Market

Chapter 38 Childcare and Education

Chapter 39 Health Care

Chapter 40 Shopping Guide

Chapter 41 Cultural Life

Chapter 42 Climate and Environment

Chapter 43 Transportation

Chapter 44 Sports & Recreation
Chapter 1

Why Move to Honolulu?

There are many good reasons to become a malihini (newcomer) to Honolulu. The quality of life ranks high among these reasons – with the climate and natural beauty of the island itself perhaps the first perk to pop into peoples' minds. The climate in Honolulu is legendary, with temperatures rarely dipping below 70 degrees and seldom topping 90. The city and county of Honolulu maintains seven world-class beaches and many more parks that and botanical gardens that are among the more beautiful in the world.

But there is more to Honolulu than beautiful beaches and nearly perfect weather. It is also home to a wide variety of family activities, quality neighborhood schools, hopping nightlife and other perks that will draw families and singles alike. _Best Life Magazine_ named Honolulu number one on its list of "The 100 Best Places to Raise a Family." If you've been looking for a place with a low crime rate, Honolulu was found to have the lowest per-capita crime rate among U.S. cities with a population of over 500,000.

In addition, Honolulu's economy is strong, with unemployment standing at 3.8 percent in August 2013, compared to a national unemployment rate of 7 percent. Using Brookings Institution research, _BusinessWeek_ ranks Honolulu as having the 19th strongest economy among U.S. cities. Using information gathered by Moody's, _Forbes_ ranks Honolulu as the as the 19th best job market in the country. _Forbes_ also touts Honolulu as having the lowest unemployment rate among all major U.S. cities and says Honolulu is 34th among "fastest recovering cities."

Sperling's "Best Places" ( _www.bestplaces.net_ ) ranks Honolulu as the fifth best place in the country to "live, work, and play," and the tenth best city for dating. Honolulu ranks first in the diversity index category, which rates the likelihood of randomly meeting someone of a different race or ethnicity, and scores highest among cities in the dining out category as well.

All in all, Honolulu is a city that is both exciting for single people and very family friendly. Below is a collection of more accolades, amenities and facts that make Honolulu a great place to live:

  * BusinessWeek ranks Honolulu and Hawaii as the number one city and state for a long life with a life expectancy of 80 years.

  * Honolulu scored as the highest-ranking U.S. city among BusinessWeek's list of "The World's Best Places to Live," ranking at number 28.

  * Sperling's "Best Places" ranks Honolulu at number five on its recent listing of the 10 best places to live the U.S.

  * Using Brookings Institution research, BusinessWeek ranks Honolulu as having the 19th strongest economy among U.S. cities.

  * Forbes ranks Honolulu as having the lowest unemployment rate among all major U.S. cities.

## Economy

Honolulu is and always has been the business center of the Hawaiian Islands. In the mid-nineteenth century, Honolulu began its economic life as a port for whalers and a trade center for the nations of the Pacific Rim. Starting with trade in such goods as sandalwood, whale oil, and fur, Honolulu transitioned to being a trade center for sugar and pineapple markets. Today, still, one-fifth of the land in Honolulu County is zoned for agriculture, but fields are now giving way to new homes and commercial development. No longer reliant on sugar and pineapples, the agricultural economy is steadily diversifying. Aquaculture seems to have a particularly bright future. The cultivation of such "crops" as shellfish, finfish and algae has grown in recent years in Hawaii as a whole and in Honolulu County.

In addition to being the business and trading hub of the Hawaiian Islands, Honolulu, by virtue of its port and geographic local, is the transportation crossroads of the Pacific, linking East with West. The city's recently expanded harbor facilities handle cargo for several international steamship companies, and a Foreign Trade Zone is based there.

There can be no doubt, however that the Honolulu economy is powered by tourism, the military, the defense contracting industry, manufacturing and research and development. Tourism typically contributes $10 billion a year to Honolulu's economy. In addition, Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, Marine Base Kaneohe, and Schofield Barracks Army base provide revenues that are unaffected by the normal business cycles. As the home of the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Honolulu is a center for research and development, especially in the areas of oceanography, astrophysics, geophysics, and biomedicine. The city and county of Honolulu also contains many commercial, industrial and retail properties. Goods produced in Honolulu include jewelry, clothing, food and beverages, rubber products, construction materials, and electronics and computer equipment.

## Growth and Expansion

Like most U.S. cities, Honolulu's economy has contracted since 2008; however, after 11 straight years of expansion, the island of Oahu's economy has taken a relatively light hit from the nationwide recession. The high rate of government employment is partly responsible for the mildness of the recession in Honolulu. Also contributing to this relative stability is the diversified nature of the Honolulu economy and a continuing labor shortage in Hawaii compared to the labor supply in other major U.S. cities. Most economists predict growth to continue in Honolulu during 2014 and 2015, with upticks in personal income, real estate values, construction, employment and tourism.

## Real Estate

Although real estate values in Honolulu remain lower than the peak levels they reached before the recession, declines have been much less than in most other U.S. cities. In addition, recent data show that home values are again on the rise. The June 2013 median home sale price of $677,250 represents a 9% gain over the year before.

Generally, Honolulu home prices have been among the most stable in the U.S., with sellers only rarely having to cut their asking prices. At the same time, the number of home sales has increased significantly in the past two years. From January 2012 to January 2013, the number of single-family home sales in Honolulu jumped significantly, with median home sale prices increasing as well.

## Employment

Honolulu is consistently ranked as one of the best places to "live, work, and play." For example, Sperling's "Best Places" ( _www.bestplaces.net_ ) ranks Honolulu at number five on its recent listing of the 10 best places to live the U.S. As for the job part of that equation, **for 2013,** _newgeography.com_ **ranked Honolulu 22nd on its list of "Best Large Cities Job Growth."** Major employers include both large private sector employers, and state and federal governments. The Honolulu unemployment rate is well below that of the national average, and is continuing to drop. These characteristics add up to make Honolulu's strong job market both stable and diverse. Public-sector employment makes up about 22 percent of total employment in Honolulu and is one of the reasons for the stability and low unemployment rate. A decidedly white-collar town, 86 percent of the Honolulu workforce is employed in white-collar jobs, well above the national average. Overall, Honolulu is a city of sales and office workers, professionals, and service providers. The wide base of government employers provides protection from economic slumps. In addition to the numerous local, state, and federal agencies that employ more than 100,000 workers, there are also dozens of large corporations (and many more smaller ones) that employ workers in the areas of education, military contracting, medicine and financial services, just to name a few.

While Honolulu's public sector presence and diverse economy make for an overall strong job market, that's not to say it's a job seeker's paradise either. No region of the country is truly recession proof, and though Honolulu has fared considerably better than many comparable metropolitan areas, it's best for each potential job seeker to get the lay of the land and evaluate opportunities relative to their strengths, experience, and professional aspirations. Below is a collection of statistics and figures to help you become familiar with the opportunities that Honolulu may have to offer.

Honolulu County's four major industry sectors are government; trade, transportation, and utilities; leisure and hospitality; and professional and business services. These four industries account for about two-thirds of the total employment in Honolulu County. Since the economic fallout in 2008, Honolulu's job market has weathered the storm quite well, even in the face of a volatile economy.

In January 2004, the unemployment stood at 2.9 percent in Honolulu. By December 2009, it had risen to 5.3 percent. According to industry experts, the increase in unemployment was partly due to the significant growth trends Honolulu had experienced during the previous five years. But the unemployment rate had dropped to 3.8 percent by the time of publication and it continues to decrease.

## Safety and Crime

Honolulu is a safe place to live. Out of U.S. cities with a population of over 500,000, Honolulu was found to have the lowest per-capita crime rate.

Like any urban area, Honolulu has its share of high-profile crimes, and in recent years, the "Big Pineapple" has also seen a rise in property crimes and drug use. Generally, however the crime rate in Honolulu is below average for its size. Of course, you should take precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit, solitary or otherwise dangerous locations and secure your home in a reasonable way. To identify high-crime area, the Honolulu police department maintains an online mapping system that allows you to search reported crimes at _www.honolulupd.org/statistics/index.htm._

## Food

Honolulu is renowned for the multiplicity of ethnic foods available at area eateries. A person or family could eat on the island every day for weeks and not sample the same type of food twice. Types of cuisine available include food from the early immigrants -- Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Filipino, and Portuguese -- in addition to other cultures that have brought their food to Honolulu and Oahu more recently, such as the Vietnamese, French, Thai, Indian, Mexican, Spanish, Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern. There are certain terms you should be familiar with concerning food on the island that are descriptive of the type of restaurant and style of food based on the different origins of the cuisine.

Plate lunch refers to a favorite comfort food in Honolulu. It usually consists of an entree, two scoops of rice and one scoop of macaroni salad. This type of food is usually available of "mom and pop" lunch wagons and neighborhood lunch counters. Entrees typically include beef teriyaki, roast pork, shoyu chicken, hamburger steak, beef curry, mahi mahi, and meat loaf. A favorite lunch for business people, students, laborers, tourists and families on the go, these meals can be had in about five minutes for about five dollars. Plate lunch restaurants include Grace's Inn, Helena's Hawaiian Food, Ono Hawaiian Food, Rainbow Drive-In, Tsukenjo Lunch House and L & L Drive Inn, which operate multiple locations.

Bento was originally a term used by Japanese immigrants describing the lunch box. Today, bento refers to a lunch that includes rice, pickles and a few other samplings of food in a sectioned container. Another word often heard when talking about food in Hawaii is okazuya. The word originated in Japan but is no longer limited to just Japanese food. Okazuyas are found in neighborhoods all over Honolulu and Oahu and are eateries where patrons can pick and choose their own combination of ethnic foods in one shop. Okazuyas include Ebisu Catering Service, Fukuya Mitsuba Delicatessen and New Wave Kitchen.

Hawaii Regional Cuisine (HRC) is a product of local chefs taking advantage of the ocean's bounty to develop a truly distinctive, world-class cuisine. HRC usually feature fish, produce and other food fusing the ethnic food types found in Honolulu. Well-known restaurants featuring HRC are Alan Wong's Restaurant, twice named in _Gourmet_ magazine's "America's Top 50 Restaurants"; Indigo Eurasian Cuisine, a hip downtown Honolulu restaurant; Roy's Restaurant, offering Chef Roy Yamaguchi's signature Hawaiian Fusion cuisine at its three Oahu locations in Hawaii Kai, Waikiki and Ko Olina ("Roy's Classic" dishes include yellow fin ahi poketini.); Sam Choy's Diamond Head and Sam Choy's Breakfast, Lunch & Crab; On the Rise, offering diners with dishes like ahi katsu and New York steak alaea; and Chef Mavro Restaurant, featuring HRC with a French influence.

Honolulu and the island also have many fine dining and local style restaurants. Included among fine establishment are Hoku's, Chai's Island Bistro, Ciao Mein, Diamond Head Grill and Nobu Waikiki. Among local style restaurants are Don Ho's Island Grill, Kona Brewing Company at Koko Marin, Duke's Canoe Club and Duke's Canoe Club.

## Natural Attractions

Nature, culture and adventure are integral to life in Honolulu. There are a plethora of sea, land and air activities available to residents, in addition to art and cultural museums and attractions. The beauty, excitement and cultural life of Honolulu are available to residents of all ages, interests and budgets.

When it comes to exploring the bounty of natural beauty available to people living in Honolulu, activities include biking, horseback riding, parasailing, parachuting, gliding, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling and -- a sport originating in Hawaii \-- surfing. Of course, new residents may wish to join up with one of the many tour and excursion outfits that offer package deals featuring one of the many natural highlights of Honolulu. However, residents can choose to make their own experiences with the natural bounty of Hawaii.

For the hiker, Oahu offers many well-marked trails for all levels of experience and expertise. Diamond Head is one of Hawaii's most recognizable natural features. The trail up Diamond Head climbs 763 feet to the summit, which offers unparalleled vistas of the Honolulu area. Other popular hikes include Makapuu, Old Pali Highway and Manoa Falls. The Hawaiian Trail and Mountain Club (HTMC), 808-259-5443, _www.htmclub.org_ , which was established in 1910 and meets Sundays at 'Iolani Palace at 8 a.m., offers guided hikes over various trails on Oahu.

Another resource for the nature-loving family or individual is the 1,800-acre Waimea Valley Audubon Center, 808-638-9199, _www.audubon.org_. Located on Oahu's scenic North Shore, this natural wonder features botanical gardens, wandering peafowl and a 60-foot waterfall. Of course, when thinking of Hawaii, the first things that come to mind are beaches and the ocean. With over 60 beach parks and boasting more than 112 miles of shoreline, the island of Oahu has a beach for every interest from shell collecting, surfing, snorkeling, romantic walks, and people watching. Beaches on the windward side of Oahu regularly rank among America's top 10 beaches, including Kailua and Lanikai beaches. Winter on the North Shore of Oahu is famous worldwide for waves and surfing contests at Waimea Bay, Banzai Pipeline and Sunset. In the non-winter months, the Pacific is calm again, providing perfect conditions for snorkeling, swimming and scuba diving. On the Leeward coasts of Oahu, families and individuals can enjoy miles of uninhabited beaches, the most extensive coral systems in the state and pristine areas far from the hustle and bustle of the city. On the South Shore, where Honolulu is located, there are of course the famous Waikiki beaches thriving with high-energy people from all over the world, sun bathing, surfing and swimming in the gentle waters of the Pacific.

Many tour, cruise and excursion companies offer ocean outings for residents and visitors alike. People can sign up for outrigger canoe rides and catamaran cruises that offer the opportunity to search for dolphins and Humpback whales or swim with Green Sea Turtles and explore Hawaiian reefs in the protected National Marine Sanctuary.

## Cultural Attractions

The rich cultural diversity of Honolulu and Oahu are evident in the art, history and lifestyle of the island. Below is a selection of institutions and locales that reflect the diversity and richness of Hawaiian culture.

  * The Hawaii State Art Museum (HiSAM) is known to locals as the "people's museum." It contains works created by local artists and those inspired by the islands. Most of its works focus on the diverse culture and people of Hawaii.

  * The Contemporary Museum, located at the former Alice Cooke Spalding residence, in the residential community of Makiki Heights, is an innovative museum comprised of seven galleries with rotating works of art by celebrated international and local contemporary artists.

  * The Honolulu Academy of Arts is Hawaii's oldest and largest art museum. Founded in 1927, it is recognized for its outstanding collections of Asian, European, Pacific, American, and African art, which is shown in over 30 galleries surrounding six garden courts.

  * The Bishop Museum, established in 1889, leads visitors through an endless number of roads leading back through Hawaiian history. The Bishop is the principal museum of the Pacific and one of the world's leading scientific institutions. The museum features a permanent Hawaiiana exhibit, rotating exhibits in the new Castle Hall and planetarium shows.

  * The Hawaii Maritime Center is the state's maritime museum, portraying its seafaring heritage with exhibits focusing on the Pacific's rich seafaring history. Guests board The Falls of Clyde, the only fully rigged, four-masted sailing ship still left in the world. The Center is also home of the world famous voyaging canoe, Hōkūle'a.

  * The Queen Emma Summer Palace -- built in 1849 and nestled in the cool Nuuanu Valley of Oahu -- was once the country home of King Kamehameha IV and his wife, Queen Emma. Today, it houses their personal artifacts. Contact: 808-595-3167; www.daughtersofhawaii.org.

  * The 'Iolani Palace, built in 1879, is the only royal palace in the United States and was the official residence of Hawaii's last monarchs, King Kalākaua and Queen Lili'uokalani. Fully restored, the Palace is a concrete reminder of Hawaii's former monarchical grandeur.

  * Hawaii's Plantation Village offers a view of the time when sugar cane transformed the land, economy and culture of Hawaii. It is a collection of 30 original and replica plantation homes and buildings that is a living museum of a plantation village recreating the lifestyles of the different ethnic groups that helped to form Hawaii.

  * The Mānoa Heritage Center is a historic site committed to preserving and interpreting the heiau -- a term describing the Native Hawaiian garden -- the historic home, and the natural and cultural history of Mānoa Valley. This historic locale is comprised of Kūka'ō'ō Heiau, a Native Hawaiian garden and the historic home Kūali'i. The heiau and historic home are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Currently, only Kūka'ō'ō Heiau and the Native Hawaiian garden are open to visitors.

  * Pearl Harbor is a national landmark and is also home to three historic attractions. The USS Arizona Memorial was constructed above the USS Arizona -- sunk during the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor -- as a memorial to honor those who lost their lives during that attack on the United States naval fleet. The Battleship Missouri Memorial is a living museum offering visitors a real-life picture of aboard the historic USS Missouri or "Mighty Mo." Guests are able to climb aboard the most celebrated battleship ever built. The battleship's decks were the site of the signing of the Japanese surrender ending World War II. Located near the USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri Memorial, the USS Bowfin Submarine and Museum is a renovated World War II submarine and museum.

  * The Polynesian Cultural Center is Hawaii's top visitor attraction. Located on Oahu's North Shore, the center is a complex of seven Pacific Island villages on 42 acres. The Center offers hands-on cultural experiences and interactions, along with staging a canoe pageant, hula show, lū'au and a spectacular evening show.

## Lifestyles for Singles

Ethnically and socially diverse, Honolulu offers a fit for every person and every lifestyle. The city proper is cosmopolitan, diverse and teaming with the excitement of many cultures and lifestyles. The "laid back" island living combines with the bustling metropolitan excitement of the city to provide the best of both worlds to single residents. Whether you are hankering for a Chinatown experience, with its unique food and entertainment, or feel like settling down for a day the beach, Honolulu has an experience for every mood.

Sperling's "Best Places" reports that over 35 percent of adults in Honolulu are single, ranking it 22nd among U.S. cities. _Honolulu Magazine_ ( _www.honolulumagazine.com_ ) offers a regular feature, "Single in Honolulu," providing advice and information for single people on the island. _The Honolulu Advertiser_ ( _www.the.honoluluadvertiser.com_ ) is another good resource for singles on Oahu.

Honolulu has earned a number of accolades from publications ranking cities in a variety of categories, highlighting the city's appeal to a people with wide range of interests and preferences.

  * Mercer ranks Honolulu as the top U.S. city in its "Quality of Living" ranking for international cities.

  * Trifler (trifler.com) ranks Poipu Beach, Kauai, fourth among the world's top ten beaches.

  * For 2013, The American Institute for Economic Research (AIER) ranked Honolulu No. 9 in the small cities category among cities for college students.

## Lifestyles for Families

Although Honolulu is home to more than one million people, many of its neighborhoods feel more like small towns, where neighbors know one another and families quickly form friendships at every generational level. _Best Life_ magazine ( _bestlifeonline.com_ ) ranked Honolulu number one on its list of "The 100 Best Places to Raise a Family." Honolulu also offers a vast array of activities, organizations and locales designed with families in mind. Most museums and many of the area's annual festivals and events offer children's programs and family friendly activities. For more information, check venue or event Web site. Among the top attraction for families are the Hawaii Children's Discovery Center (808-524-5437, _www.discoverycenterhawaii.org_ ; Castle Performing Arts Center, _www.k12.hi.us/~cpac_ , 808-233-5626; and the Honolulu Theatre for Youth, 808-839-9885, _www.htyweb.org_.

Both _Island Family Magazine_ ( _www.islandfamilymagazine.com_ ) and _Hawaii Parent_ ( _www.hawaii-parent.com_ ) provide listings of festivals, activities and places that offer family-oriented events, a family dining guide, and a slew of comprehensive directories for childcare, education, and other family-oriented services.

## Sports

There are no professional sports teams in Hawaii, but in Honolulu, the University of Hawaii provides plenty of action, including NCAA Division I football. Women's and men's NCAA volleyball is also quite popular, with some of the more competitive matches played in front of sell-out crowds.

Water sports are king in Hawaii, especially on Oahu, which has nearly 600 surfing sites, including the famous Banzai Pipeline. The North Shore is host to some of the most important surfing and body board events in the world. During the winter, waves reach 20 to 30 feet in height, with some breakers reaching as high as 40 feet. During the summer is the best surfing is on the south shore of Oahu. Outrigger canoe racing is another fastest of the island's favorite spectator sports. In January 2000, public school authorities were considering making it an official sport.

Given the year-round, summer-like weather, Hawaii is a golfer's paradise, boasting nearly 40 golf courses in the Honolulu area. In addition, the Wendy's Champions Skins Game, is hosted by the Wailea Resort on Maui, Hawaii's second-largest island and a short flight from Honolulu. This tournament features four of the sport's greatest legends in two days of "skins" competition. (Past participants have included Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, Lee Trevino, Tom Watson, Gary Player and Raymond Floyd.) The Mercedes Championships at Kapalua, Maui, kicks off the PGA TOUR in January, and the Sony Open follows, usually a week later, on Oahu with another week of competition by the best golfers in the world.

## Childcare and Education

Honolulu boasts high-quality neighborhood schools and a wide variety of childcare options. Many resources are available to families new to Honolulu. PATCH, 808-839-1988, _www.patchhawaii.org_ , is a non-profit advocacy agency that offers a free searchable online database of childcare centers and providers and, on request, will provide a comprehensive list of all childcare providers. PATCH's Web site also contains links to nanny referral services and wide-reaching parenting information, including state resources for a variety of issues. Special services are available to military families at _www.patchhawaii.org/families/military._ There is a single, statewide public school district in Hawaii. The statewide district is comprised of 289 schools (including 31 charter schools and two special schools) on seven islands. With a total enrollment of nearly 178,000 students, it is the 10th largest school district in the United States. There are administrative offices in seven geographic locations, including Honolulu.

As an alternative to traditional public schools, the school system operates 31 public charter schools that receive public money and do not charge tuition. Each charter school administers its own admissions process which includes a lottery where the number of qualified applicants exceeds the number of available seats. To find out more about Hawaiian charter schools residents can contact the Charter School Administrative Office or go to its Web site at _www.hcsao.org/hicharters/profiles_ _._

There is also a wide range of private schools in the city and county of Honolulu. The Hawaii Association of Independent Schools (808-973-1540, _www.hais.org_ ) lists contact information for its 36 member schools in Honolulu. _Honolulu_ magazine _www.hidili.com/islandFamilyMagazine/islandBaby_ \-- in conjunction with the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools \-- publishes an annual Private School Guide.

Honolulu is also home to many fine colleges, universities and junior and community colleges. Among these are the University of Hawaii at Manoa, which offers undergraduate and graduate in a wide range of disciplines, as well as degrees in law and medicine. Chaminade University of Honolulu and Hawaii Pacific University are other notable universities in Honolulu.

## Medicine

Honolulu and Oahu are home to 11 major hospitals, six of which are teaching hospitals. Hawaii ranks first in the United States in life expectancy, with about 76 years for men and 81 years for women. People living in Hawaii are considered among the healthiest in the world. The state has 240 doctors and 82 dentists for every 100,000 people.

Queen's Medical Center is the largest private hospital in Hawaii, with 505 acute care beds and 28 sub-acute beds. The center has more than 3,000 employees and over 1,200 physicians on staff. As the leading medical referral center in the Pacific Basin, Queen's offers a comprehensive range of primary and specialized care services. Another notable medical center in Honolulu is Shriner's Hospital for Children. Established in 1923, the Shriner's Hospital is the second oldest hospital in a network of 22 Shriner's Hospitals in the United States, Canada and Mexico and has provided orthopedic health care to over 23,000 children from Hawaii and seventeen other countries in the Pacific Basin.

## Transportation

Perhaps to in part to its notorious traffic snarls, Honolulu ranks fourth in per capita use of mass transit in the United States. TheBus ( _www.thebus.org_ ) is the public transportation service in the city and county of Honolulu with a ridership of approximately 71.7 million per year. Many residents opt for the city's Park & Ride service, which maintain parking lots in outlying area where patrons leave their cars and ride the bus.

To beat the traffic many people choose to get around by bicycle – and get some exercise in the process. To facilitate and promote bicycling, the City & County of Honolulu has adopted a plan, viewable at _www.honolulu.gov/dts/bikeway_ , to make its streets safe for bicyclists. Plans include adding more dedicated bicycle paths and improving safety conditions for cyclists. In addition, all buses are equipped with bike racks.

To relieve traffic congestion, Honolulu Transit is currently planning a 20-mile elevated rail line that will connect West Oahu with downtown Honolulu and Ala Manoa Center. The system will feature electric, steel-wheel trains capable of carrying more than 300 passengers each. Trains are projected to carry more than 6,000 passengers per hour in each direction with new bus routes providing direct connections to the stations.

Because of its location, Honolulu offers excellent air travel options to residents and visitors. Honolulu International Airport serves the city and county of Honolulu and located five miles northwest of downtown Honolulu and 10 miles from Waikiki Beach. One unique aspect of the airport is the Reef Runway, which is the world's first major runway built offshore. This runway is also an alternate landing site for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Space Shuttle in association with Hickam Air Force Base, which shares Honolulu International Airport. Twenty-four commuter and overseas airlines service Honolulu.

# PART I

Buying & Selling  
Real Estate  
in Honolulu

Whether buying, selling, moving up to a higher-priced home or trying to avoid foreclosure, anyone with a real estate transaction in their future could use some advice. In this section you'll find a wealth of information about buying and selling real estate in Honolulu, as well as specifics on foreclosures, short sales and military relocation.

Chapter 2

Top Tips for Honolulu Buyers

## Get Your Financing Figured Out

Before you know what homes to consider, you need to know how much you can afford, and that comes down to the monthly payment amount. Between loan products and new lending rules, variable interest rates and credit score surprises, most buyers are looking in the wrong price range (too high or too low). Ask your realtor for a referral to a local mortgage lending specialist with at least five years' experience. Based on your preferred monthly payment, income, and credit scores, he will review all your loan and down-payment options and write you a "pre-qualification letter" stating what purchase price you can afford. The seller's realtor will need this letter in order to consider your offer. A "pre-approval letter" (as opposed to a pre- _qualification_ letter) requires more labor on your part to provide additional paperwork and verification, but it is important to obtain one. Particularly in an economic slump, it will show the seller that you are a serious buyer who is financially prepared to make a purchase.

You will get the best advice and rates from a mortgage broker who specializes in residential loans, and has access to a large variety of loan products. Loan officers who work for one of the big lenders tend to focus exclusively on their own products. Retail banks are busy with a wide variety of services such as checking, savings, business and auto loans, and normally offer limited lending options, so they are rarely competitive. One exception is a credit union. If you are a member of one, or are eligible to be through your employer, you should talk to them about your purchase.

Shop for the best rate for your family, but think twice about switching away from a lender who invested his time to give you advice and help, just to save an eighth of a point. Anyone can quote you a lower rate, but that lender may drop the ball later and cost you money or delay your closing. Do not use Internet lenders, out-of-state lenders, or any lender who was not referred to you, unless you like surprise rate hikes the day before your closing, when it is too late to react.

A great mortgage broker can sometimes even lower your rate _after_ you lock it in, by moving you to a different lender if the rates go down before closing. The best brokers will call and offer it without you having to ask. Find that broker.

Finally, when your mortgage broker asks for additional paperwork, get it to him immediately. He cannot control what the underwriter will ask for or when, and if you are late, your closing might be also. Be sure you always choose a local Hawaii lender; ask your Realtor for a referral of someone who works in the state.

## Use a Real Estate Agent

All commissions are paid by the seller in the Hawaii, so for a buyer, the help of a real estate realtor is free. A good realtor will help you find the right home in the right area, guide you away from big mistakes, and negotiate a better deal for you. Some buyers think they will save money by not having an agent. Think again. The seller has agreed to pay a certain commission rate to the listing agent, regardless of whether the buyer is represented or not. If you don't have a realtor, the listing agent will keep the entire amount, and you will miss out on the benefit of professional advice.

Beware of realtors who offer you part of their commission as a "buyer rebate." This may be a sign they are struggling to survive as a realtor, and as a result may not be competent to represent you.

## Start Early

Most buyers purchase a home that does not match their original criteria 100 percent. If you start looking too late, you might buy the wrong home. It makes sense to start looking and exploring long before you are ready to buy to give yourself time to learn and think about what you see. Your criteria for your next home will evolve and change as you look at homes. Meet with a good real estate agent and tell him your criteria. Then spread out a map and ask him what areas are appreciating, and what areas to avoid.

Your realtor will start sending you properties by email. Sort through them and pick the ones you like the most. When you have time, drive by these homes and see what you think about the neighborhood, the shopping, and the commute to work. You will find neighborhoods you never knew existed. At this stage you are trying to figure out in which geographic area you want to live. If, while driving around, you see a "for sale" sign in front of a property you like, ask your realtor for more information.

Continue to look for homes on Realtor.com, KW.com, BestHawaiiRealEstateSearch.com, and the search page on your realtor's Web site. You will find homes you like that do not meet your original criteria. No problem. Tell your realtor about these, change your criteria if you want to, and he will send you more homes to consider.

If you see a home you absolutely love, call your realtor and tell him you want to see it ASAP. No harm in looking, and if it is the perfect home, maybe it makes sense to move a little earlier than you planned.

## Move Up in the Down Market

This is the most profitable time in the history of Honolulu to sell your current home and purchase a more expensive home. Here is a simplified example: Let's assume the average price of a home in Honolulu has dropped 10 percent over the past 18 months. So if you own a home that would have been worth $200,000 in a normal market, you may only get $180,000 for it now, or $20,000 less than you hoped. However, you should be able to purchase your next home at a 10 percent discount also, so you get a $400,000 home for $360,000, which is a $40,000 savings. In total, you took a $20,000 loss and earned a $40,000 gain, and ended up with a $20,000 profit. It gets better, though. In reality, the lower-priced homes depreciated less than the higher-priced homes. So if your $200,000 home only depreciated 5 percent, but the $400,000 home depreciated 15 percent, then you would lose $10,000 on your current home and gain $60,000 on your next home, for a $50,000 profit! Compare this to moving up in a strong market, when any appreciation on your lower-priced home is wiped out by the price increase of your next home. You are actually taking a loss on the transaction. Keep in mind that getting a bargain on the higher-priced home does not necessarily mean negotiating a big reduction off the list (or "asking") price, because the list price may have already been adjusted downward to the right price.

## Know Your Criteria

Here is a list of criteria for you to think about:

Tell your real estate agent everything you want in your next home. If your search results in too many homes to choose from, you can add to your criteria. If not enough homes match your criteria, you can make your criteria less specific.

## Understand DOM and Fee Simple vs. Leasehold

DOM is "Days On Market." This number is important because the longer the home has been on the market, the more likely the seller is to accept a lower offer. Reports printed by your realtor from the Honolulu Multiple Listing Service (MLS) will show each property's complete MLS history, including price reductions. This report is only available to realtors, not the public, so be sure to ask for this report on any property in which you have a serious interest.

When you find a home you like, how do you know it is priced correctly? Look up the homes that have sold recently in the same subdivision and find those that are of comparable quality to the home you like, considering overall condition, upgrades, lot size, and other factors.

Another number to consider is $/SF, or "Sales Price per Square Foot" for each of these. Usually, the home you like should sell for a similar $/SF to others nearby. However, you should also keep in mind that in Hawaii, home prices are tied much more closely to the amount of land and the location and size of a home than to the features of a house. For example, a modest home on a larger, useable lot may go for a higher price than a larger house with high-end features that sits on a small lot. Therefore, $/SF is less useful to buyers in Honolulu than it would be in most mainland markets. (See more on Honolulu home values below.)

Ask your realtor to print out and help you analyze a "Quick CMA" report for the properties in which you are interested. This report will automatically calculate DOM and $/SF for you.

Another area in which Hawaii real estate transactions differ from those on the mainland is the prevalence of leasehold, in which buyers agree to ownership of a property for a specified period of time, after which it reverts back to a previous owner. The type of real estate transaction most people are familiar with is considered "fee simple." In these transactions, the person who buys the property becomes its owner forever, or at least until he sells it to another person. In a "leasehold" sale, the owner agrees to transfer ownership rights of the home to the buyer for a set period of time, usually between 50 and 100 years, with a set renegotiation time before then. During that time, the buyer owns the house, but not the land underneath it. At the renegotiation date, the terms of the agreement can be changed. If the full time period expires, the buyer may be allowed to renew or buy the property outright.

While it may sound less than ideal, the leasehold system has helped make property more affordable for many Honolulu buyers. Leasehold purchases can also have tax benefits, so you should check with a tax expert to see if that would be the case for you. Your realtor will also guide you through the differences between fee simple and leasehold properties so that you can decide which is best for you.

## Understand How to Determine  
the True Value of a Property

A home is worth whatever a buyer is willing to pay and a seller is willing to accept. The best source to estimate the true market value of a property is an experienced, busy real estate agent, because they are working with buyers and sellers in the current real estate market, and they have access to the best data (from the MLS). They will also correctly adjust for quality and feature differences in homes, as well as the size and location of the property.

The second best valuation source is an experienced, busy appraiser. They have access to the same data, but they work for banks, not buyers and sellers. In addition, they are constrained by inflexible appraisal rules which do not allow them to consider some relevant information and comparable properties.

Inexperienced realtors and appraisers can be wildly inaccurate. Web sites like Zillow.com calculate market values without the input from human experience or judgment and they use incomplete data from county tax records. The "value" found in the county tax records is not useful, because it is calculated for the purposes of property tax assessment. Further, in Honolulu, this number is updated only once every year, while the market value of a property may change more quickly.

An experienced local realtor will understand the Honolulu real estate market better than any of these measures. This is particularly important in Honolulu, where home values differ significantly from in other areas on the mainland. One major difference is that the value of a Honolulu home relies more heavily on its size and location than price per square foot. It's not unusual, for instance, for the land a house sits on to be appraised at a higher value than the house itself. The emphasis on land is due to its scarcity on the island of Oahu. In addition, building permits for new homes can be difficult to obtain, so some buyers are looking for a house that they can rebuild or improve using existing permits. In general, properties closer to town will fetch a higher price. Some beachside areas, such as Kailua, will be quite pricey, with others, such as the Leeward Coast, including Ewa Beach and Waianae, can be quite reasonable.

## Know Where to Find the Best Deals in Honolulu

The highest inventory of homes in Honolulu is at the $400,000 to $500,000 price point in the leeward part of Oahu. These are the areas where builders added to the supply of housing in our market, which decreased prices for both resale and finished new construction homes. The higher price ranges have decreased by larger percentages, so while a home that was $500,000 might now sell for $425,000, a home that was at $1,500,000 may now sell for $900,000.

If you like appreciation (and projects), the best deal is to find a home that has all the "right things" wrong with it (out-of-date or worn out carpet, countertops, wallpaper, fixtures, and so on) and fix them yourself. You will want to look for properties listed at a lower price than other properties in the same area, which theoretically means the property in question could sell for that higher price if you bring it up to snuff. Most of these are "as-is" properties, which means you still get a chance to inspect it thoroughly after putting it under contract, and can terminate if you do not like what you see. Enlist your realtor (and his inspector and contractor friends) to help make sure you do not get stuck with a lemon.

For all the properties mentioned in this section, be prepared to stay in the home for several years until the market turns around. It always does.

## Ask Two Key Questions in a Competitive Situation

Even in a challenging market, you could find yourself competing against another buyer for a low-priced property. The listing agent is prohibited from disclosing details of any offers received, so she will ask both buyers to return with their "best and highest offer." She will then choose one buyer with whom to negotiate a final agreement acceptable to the seller. When considering your offer price, ask yourself, "If WE lose this property at this price, will I regret not offering more?" If so, you might want to increase your offer. Conversely, ask yourself "If WE get this property at this price, will WE regret paying that much?" If so, consider decreasing your offer. Rarely will the other buyer offer more than list price, so if you feel the property is a bargain, consider offering just a little over list price. Even $100 over can create goodwill with the seller and get the property for you. Finally, offering to close in less than 30 days may be very attractive to some sellers, especially if it is a bank-owned property.

## Walk the Neighborhood before Making an Offer

Before committing to purchase a home, take a few slow walks through the neighborhood at different times of day. Listen for barking dogs. Look for children playing if that is important to you (the law prohibits your realtor from discussing "familial status"). Introduce yourself to a few neighbors, tell them which home you are thinking about, and ask them what they know. Neighbors love to talk and you might be glad you listened.
Chapter 3

Top Tips for Honolulu Sellers

## Make Buyers Fall in Love with Your Home

Buyers keep looking until they fall in love. They are not looking for "a" home; they are looking for "the" home, their "dream" home. They are tired of seeing homes (9 out of 10) that are not ready for sale. They want a clean, fresh, move-in-ready home. Most do not want to do even minor projects.

As a seller, you must understand the mind of the buyer. Buyers do not buy homes; they buy the feeling they get when they are looking at a home. They are not using their brains to decide, they are using their hearts. And in good markets or tough markets, when a buyer finds the right home, they will fall in love, and that home will sell for the highest possible price.

We have witnessed a buyer considering two identical homes on the same street, in the same neighborhood, with identical lots, and pay $15,000 more for the one that spent $750 preparing the home for sale. WE have seen homes sit on the market for a year, then sell in 30 days (at a higher list price) after a few small adjustments to improve the buyer perception of the home.

If you want to sell your home for the highest price in the shortest amount of time, emphasize or add elements with which buyers will fall in love, and fix or remove issues that will cause them to hesitate.

There are a few investor types out there who truly decide with their brain, and whose first priority is a good deal. But we do not want anyone getting a good deal on your home, right? So we can ignore them. What we want is a buyer to come to your home, fall in love, and impulsively write an offer at (or near) your asking price. So we will concentrate on those buyers instead.

## Make a Profit When You Sell with Smart Investments

By making the right investments in your home, you will not only cause buyers to fall in love, but you will also make a profit. Depending on your neighborhood, your price point, and the size of your home, the following improvements will generally produce at least $2 or more in increased sales price for every $1 you invest. And anything that increases your price will also reduce your "days-on-market."

  * Granite countertops in the kitchen. They are almost a necessity in Honolulu if you expect your home to sell for top dollar. You should be able to get them for $45 per square foot, installed. Go with a standard, lower-priced choice. For higher-end homes, consider granite in the master bath as well.

  * Stainless steel appliances. You should be able to get a refrigerator, oven, microwave, and dishwasher for under $2500. If your current appliances are white or cream color, this is especially important. Black appliances may be okay if they are fairly new.

  * Replace old carpets. If they are over five years old, they will not look new when cleaned, unless they are very good quality. New carpet also helps a home smell new.

  * Remove wallpaper. Buyers today strongly dislike wallpaper, except for a very subtle pattern in the powder room.

  * Refinish dull and scratched hardwood floors. Shining floors make a stunning impact on buyers.

Paint. Go with a medium beige in the inside, darker than what was, in the past, considered "builder beige". It makes the home look more expensive and makes white trim "pop". Paint your front door and shutters black.This advice is subject to modification based on the specifics of your home, and over time as buyer tastes evolve. In a few years buyers will probably love wallpaper again. We recommend getting the advice of a staging consultant who works with realtors. Most interior decorators do not specialize in preparing homes for buyers.

Fixing problems is always better than offering an allowance, because to make up for the problem you will have to reduce your price more than it would have cost you to fix it.

## Do These Easy Things

Here is a list of low-cost, easy improvements which will pay for themselves many times over:

  * Clean every inch of your home. Get help if you need it.

  * Spread new mulch. Use dark brown "triple-shredded stained bark." The stain keeps it looking better much longer. Pine straw is cheaper but it also looks cheaper.

  * Plant many, many flowers. More than you think you need. Flowers may be the single best investment you can make to sell your home.

  * Remove clutter. Remove personal pictures. Remove everything from horizontal surfaces except a few decorations.

  * Remove window treatments. Leave blinds.

  * Remove basketball goals, play sets, and tree houses. These will turn some people off, and no one will ever say "I would have bought that home if only it had a basketball goal." If you have a flat driveway they can install one after the sale. Especially remove trampolines. They make many mothers nervous.

## Use Temporary Storage Containers

Our sellers have had very good experiences using temporary storage containers (such as PODS ) to store clutter while preparing their home for sale. Some sellers end up using them for the entire move, often in combination with hired labor. The other alternative is hauling material to and from a storage location, which is less expensive, but more work for you.

## Get Your Improvements Permitted and Inspected

If you have made any structural changes to your property that were not permitted and inspected, you will have to tell the buyer on the required Residential Property Disclosure Statement. That will make most buyers nervous, and even if they are not concerned, they will use it as a negotiating lever. As a result, it is almost always better to get the space inspected and make any necessary repairs. If you did it right in the first place, it is usually not a big deal. The inspections are inexpensive and fairly quick. If you have questions, call the city or town (or the county if you are not in an incorporated area) and ask them anonymously.

## Price Your Home Realistically

The price you want, or need, to get for your home does not matter to buyers. Yes, making smart investments and otherwise preparing your home for sale will definitely increase the value, but if your asking price is too much above that value, it will not sell. In fact, because the market is much more price-sensitive than most sellers realize, you may not even get any showings.

Do not make the mistake of thinking, "I'll price it high, because the buyer will make a low offer, and We'll meet in the middle." That is not how it works. Buyers very rarely make low offers, at least in the first 30 to60 days a home is on the market. Buyers do not like conflict, they do not want to make sellers upset. Neither do their realtors, because they hope to work with the listing agent many times again in the future. The buyers have the data, they know what the comparable properties sold for, and if your home is overpriced they assume you will only accept offers close to your list price. Rather than argue about it, they will just ignore your home.

I am not suggesting that you under-price your home to motivate buyers to come see it. Your well-prepared home is motivation enough, and you deserve every penny you can get from the sale, right? An _accurately-priced_ home will sell just as quickly as an under-priced home (in fact, under-priced homes look suspicious to buyers). But price cannot be an obstacle either. If your home is prepared correctly, the fair-market value for your property will be near the top of the range of the comparable homes that have sold recently. List your home at about two percent above fair-market value, and that is enough "negotiating room" for most buyers to feel like they "won."

## Understand How Buyers Find the Home They Purchase

You have prepared your home for the market and priced it realistically. Now you need to market it effectively. In order to do that, you need to know how buyers in Honolulu find the home they purchase. Almost every buyer searches for homes on the internet, but except for a small percentage, that is not how they find the home they actually purchase.

The vast majority of Honolulu buyers become aware of the home they actually purchase through a real estate agent. That is because most buyers purchase a home different from the criteria they originally defined, and good realtors find homes buyers miss when searching on their own. So as a seller you should be marketing more to realtors than to buyers. Easier said than done, because realtors get so bombarded with emails and flyers that they just end up deleting or throwing them away. The key here is to realize that 10 percent of the realtors sell 80 percent of the property. You need to find out who these realtors are and somehow get them to pay attention to your home. The only way We know to do that is to have your realtor bring buyers to see their listings, and ask the other realtor to return the favor.

A much smaller, but significant, number of Honolulu buyers become aware of the home they purchase through a friend who lives in the same neighborhood as the home being sold. The best way to make this fact work for you is to call your neighbors and invite them to come to see your home, then ask them if they know any friends or relatives that might want to live in the neighborhood. They will be especially curious to see your home if you have made significant improvements to prepare it for sale.

Other Honolulu buyers find the home they buy because they saw the "for sale" sign while they were exploring the neighborhood. To maximize this traffic, have a high-quality sign, preferably one hanging from a post. A better sign is more noticeable, and it adds to the perception of quality of your home. Also, skip the brochures in front of your home. Most of them get picked by neighbors anyway, and real buyers use them more to eliminate your home than to schedule a showing. Most buyers will call the number on the sign if they are interested, and you or your realtor can sell your home more effectively than a brochure.

Another significant segment of buyers do actually find the home they purchase through the Internet. There may not be a lot of people who find their homes this way, but do not ignore it. Ask your realtor to list it on Realtor.com and Remax.com, and see if he can arrange to get it listed on the websites of the other real estate firms in town. Re-list your home on Craigslist every three days so it does not get too far down on the page. Definitely list it on Zillow.com and Trulia.com (two of the most popular real estate Web sites), and if you search you will find at least 30 other real-estate related sites on which to place it.These suggestions come from our experience with hundreds of buyers and sellers in the Honolulu. You might find different statistics on home sales available from the National Association of Realtors are different, but they are national statistics. Every local market is different, and you have to market to the buyers in your market, not a market in a different part of the country.

## Sell Your Home Quickly

Realtors set up searches in the Multiple Listing Service for their clients, so that when a home comes on the market that meets their buyer's criteria, it gets sent to the buyer automatically. So when your home is activated in the MLS, it will be emailed to hundreds of potential buyers all at the same time. Some of these buyers just started looking, so even if they see and love your home, they are not ready to make a decision. They need to see more homes first, and might not have their financing figured out. Most buyers, though, have been looking for a while and are ready to buy immediately, when they find the right home. These buyers are the key to success, and you have one chance at them. They will see the listing and look at the pictures and the price, and decide whether or not to schedule a showing to see your home. If they decide "no," they will never see your home again. If they decide to come see your home, they will decide to either buy it, or not. If they decide "no," they will never see your home again. If you do not sell your home to one of these ready-to-buy buyers, you may be in for a long wait, because every buyer who sees your home from then on will be a "new buyer" who is not ready to buy yet.

If your home is prepared right, priced right, and marketed right, you should be able to sell it quickly, in any market, to one of these "ready-to-buy" buyers. In less than 30 days. And the faster you sell your home the better price you will get. Here is why: if a buyer walks into your home and falls in love, and the home has been on the market only a few days, they will think, "If we love it, someone else will love it too. We can't let someone else get it first. So let's make an offer today, and let's make it close to asking price. We are not going to let a few thousand dollars get between us and our new home."

After your home has been on the market 30 days, this sense of urgency among buyers is gone. Buyers start saying "Hmm, if this home is so great, why hasn't anyone else bought it yet? We wonder what's wrong with it." Or, "WE like it, but it's been here this long already. It'll be here for a while longer. Let's keep looking in case We find something better." Not good for you.

If you over-price your home you will get less in the end, because buyers will ignore it until you fix the price, and by then you will have missed all the "ready-to-buy" buyers. Do not have the attitude of "I'll wait for my price". The longer your home sits, the lower it will go. After 90 days buyers will think you are desperate, and they will start to "low-ball" you.

Selling a home is a pain. But, you have the choice of: (1) experiencing that pain, at the beginning, for the short amount of time required to get your home ready the right way, or (2) trying to avoid pain at the beginning, and experiencing pain for six months (or more) of price reductions and showings. Constantly having your home ready for showings is stressful. Especially if you have kids or pets.

You have one chance to get the best price in the shortest amount of time. Do the work, be realistic, and get it over with.

## Hide the Pets

I know you love your pets. I love mine too. But buyers do not like pets. In our experience, 70 percent of buyers will not consider buying your home if they see you have a cat. Too many people are allergic, or have friends or relatives who are. Thirty percent of buyers will not consider your home if they see you have a dog. To a lesser extent, it is the same for hamsters, ferrets, rabbits, turtles, and so on. So, as much as possible, take the pets out of the home during showings, and hide the evidence left behind (pet food, bowls, litter boxes, and beds). For the average home, this effort will increase your sales price by over $5,000, and reduce the days-on-market by 50 percent. It's worth the trouble.

## Make Price Adjustments Quickly  
Based on Showing Traffic

An insufficient number of showings means your home is overpriced. In our market, if you get three or fewer showings in the first two weeks, the market is telling you your home is overpriced by at least 5 percent. If you get between 4 and 12 showings, you home is 4 percent overpriced. If you get 12 or more showings in the first 30 days, but no offer, your home is about 3 percent overpriced. For higher-priced or very unique properties, you should expect slightly fewer showings, but the conclusions remain the same. Adjust your price immediately. The longer your home is on the market, the lower the eventual price will be.

## Be Smart About What Offer You Accept

It is very difficult for a seller to back out of a Hawaii real estate contract, so think carefully before signing on the dotted line.

We advise not considering a contract that is contingent upon the sale of a home that does not already have a contract on it. Your buyer may not have properly prepared their home for sale, and/or may be unrealistic about asking price. Sometimes a seller will accept such an offer, while retaining the right to continue marketing their property, while giving the buyer a 48-hour notice when another offer is received to either terminate their offer or drop the contingency. In the case where the buyer's home is already under contract, it depends upon how good the contract is. Have your realtor contact the listing agent for the buyer's home. If everything looks solid, you should feel good about moving forward.

Make sure the buyer's financing is in good shape. Certainly ask for a pre-approval letter, but we also recommend having your realtor ask permission to contact the buyer's lender to see how much research the lender has really done.

For homes below $450,000 it is very common for buyers to ask for "seller paid closing costs." Think of these as "buyer-financed closing costs," and when considering an offer, mentally subtract this amount (found in page 12, in the Q Section of the Hawaii Offer to Purchase Real Estate) from purchase price on the first page of the offer, because that is the price the buyer is really offering you, and negotiate accordingly. The buyer often needs this money to purchase your home because they do not have enough cash to cover both the down payment and closing costs such as inspection, appraisal, loan origination, etc. The risk to the seller is that the home must appraise for the total amount, including the closing costs. If it does not, the buyer will ask you to reduce your price to the appraised value (still including closing costs), and if you refuse they might be unable to close.

## If Buying Also, Go For a Simultaneous Close

If you are both selling and buying a home, the timing is important. If you sell your home before you find the next one, you will end up moving twice, once into a temporary location, then later into your new home. If you buy your new home before you sell your current home, you will end up paying two mortgages for a while (which also requires the approval of your lender). However, with a smart strategy, you might be able to sell and buy on the same day.

The key is to work on finding your next home while preparing your current home for sale. With the right advice from a good real estate agent, and a realistic price, you should be able to get a contract on your home within 30 days. If you have done your homework on the buying side, you will already have a few top choices for your next home. If so, go ahead and get your top choice under contract, contingent on the closing of the existing contract on your home. If not, negotiate a longer closing date on your current home to give you more time, and get to work finding the right home. In either case, you should be able to arrange the same closing date for both homes.

In Hawaii, escrow companies do most of the work involved in real estate closings. These companies will hire attorneys to complete some of the paperwork, but on closing day, you will sit down with an agent from an escrow company, not an attorney, as is the case in most states. Hawaii also requires that you have all of the funds necessary for buying your home available two days before you close.

If you do not need the cash from your current home in order to purchase the next home, and your lender approves you for a loan on your next home while you still own your first home, it can be very convenient to close on your new home a week or so early to make the move easy.

If you do not have enough money to close on your new home until you sell your old one, you should arrange to use the same escrow company for both transactions so that you can close on the same day. When both transactions are handled by the same escrow company, that company is holding the funds you'll need to buy before your home is actually sold. Because Hawaii requires adequate funds in escrow before closing, you would need to have adequate funds independent of the home you are selling if you want to complete both transactions at once using two different escrow companies.

No matter how much you prepare, keep this important fact in mind: although 95 percent of real estate closings happen on time, they can be delayed for a dozen different reasons, many of which (such as the buyer's lender) are out of your control. The standard contract allows a buyer ten days delay without penalty, but in most cases delayed closings will take place by the end of the next business day. Try to stay calm, and prepare in advance. When choosing a moving company ask them how much it will cost you if they have to hold onto your belonging for an extra day or more (see the "Storage Container" section above for a different strategy).

## Get an Experienced,  
Full-Service Realtor and Listen to Him

Not all realtors perform equally. In Honolulu the top 50 agents do 90% of the business. Ten percent of realtors are responsible for over 80 percent of all sales in any given market. A tough real estate market is a "professional's market." You need a full-service realtor to help you do everything right so your home will be the one buyers choose. "Limited service" realtors do not have time to help you get everything right, and trying to sell your home by yourself will leave you helpless. In Honolulu, 80 percent of buyers find their home through a realtor, and realtors do not like "For Sale by Owner" properties because they are difficult to deal with.

A busy, experienced realtor is by far the best qualified person to calculate an accurate fair-market-value for your home. He works with buyers and sellers all the time, and has his finger on the pulse of the market. Good realtors have ongoing, productive relationships with other good realtors, and can get them to bring buyers to your home.

Find a good realtor and listen to him. He might upset you in the beginning when he tells you the truth about your home and the market, but he knows that is better than upsetting you every day for six months while your home sits unsold.

A good realtor knows how to negotiate the best price for you. He will prove it to you by sticking to his commission rate when you meet him. If he does not believe in himself enough to charge his full commission, then you should not believe in him either. Just tell him to get to work and earn it. Real estate is like any other business. You get what you pay for, and paying less will cost you more in the end.

## Seek an Expert if You Are Facing Foreclosure

The recent economic downturn had a negative impact on property values for many homeowners, leading some people to foreclosure, or at least to the brink of foreclosure.

Others have even abandoned homes whose values had dropped precipitously at the same time their monthly payments were increasing.

If you owe more on your home than it is currently worth, commonly known as "upside down" on your mortgage, seek out a realtor who is experienced in short sales. Two designations to look for are realtors who are Certified Distressed Property Experts (CDPE) and have earned Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource Certification (SFR). Realtors with training and experience in these areas may well be able to save your home from foreclosure.

Make sure to ask your agent how many short sales they have successfully completed. Anybody can get a designation, but you need an agent with a proven track record. You don't want someone practicing their short sale skills on you.

Chapter 4

Buying a Vacation Property

In Honolulu, investing in a rental property catering to vacationers can double your income compared to renting to local residents.

Vacationers are in it for the short term. They may be willing to pay a rate for a weekend or one or two weeks that would break someone living there year-round. If your tenants are flying out to Oahu, they have money and they're willing to spend it to enjoy a great vacation. If you can deliver the experience they're looking for, you can do very well with a vacation rental. Success requires picking a property you can rent out profitably and investing enough to make it an attractive place to stay.

## Finding the Right Place

You can scour the entire island for promising, profitable rentals, but it'll be easier if you can narrow things down. If you plan to use the property yourself, even if it's just a couple of weeks out of the year, ask what's important to you in a Hawaiian vacation. Would you prefer somewhere in downtown Waikiki or an isolated villa with no one around? Is it most important to you to have a rental close to a national park, great restaurants, mountains or the beach?

Once you have a rough idea of what you want, the best next step is to fly out to the island yourself. If you've no real idea of what sort of rental you want to invest in, visiting and touring around may help you decide. In-person visits are also essential for making a good buy.

It's possible to learn a lot of information about locations and rental properties online, but a dishonest seller can cover up a lot of problems that way. There are also subtle details you can only pick up if you're there in person. Is the neighborhood surrounding a particular property attractive or run-down, for instance? If you're thinking of buying into a condo hotel, how is the resort's room service? Does the time-share resort bustle with vacationers or is it largely empty? Is it peaceful and quiet or party central?

You can also use your trip to find the support team you're going to need. A licensed Hawaii real-estate agent with experience in Honolulu is a must if you're not familiar with the real-estate market. If you know anyone who's invested in real estate in the same area, ask them for recommendations. Check that any agent you do business with has a valid license and look for any negative information about them online.

## Price and Financing

If you're going to take out a mortgage, talk to an island lender or mortgage broker about what you can qualify for. Many lenders require a down payment of 20% to 25% on a rental property, so you'll need to have the money ready before you go shopping.

Don't just look at the down payment and the overall cost of the property. Look at your monthly PITI—Principal, Interest, Tax and Insurance — and decide if it'll strain your budget. You don't want to pay so much that you have trouble handling other debts or long-term financial plans.

If things work out well, your rental income will cover your monthly maintenance or PITI payments and then some. That's not a guarantee, so be careful. _Forbes_ says that when lenders factor your rental income into their calculations, they assume a 25% vacancy rate. This may give you a more realistic idea of what to expect. While you can deduct expenses — maintenance fees, repairs, mortgage interest — from your rental income, but the purchase price and losses from having your rental stand empty aren't deductible.

_Forbes_ also recommends that you set the rental rate so a month's income, if fully booked, is 10% to 20% above your monthly payments. If that makes your rent too high to be competitive, you may need to look for another property.

The VRBO — Vacation Rental by Owner — website can help you appraise properties. If you find a rental you like, look at VRBO's website for other rentals in the same town or area. Find properties with a comparable number of bedrooms and similar amenities and see what they rent for. This gives you a feel for what you can charge to stay competitive. If the property is already a rental, the owner or the resort can also provide you with figures on rental prices and occupancy rates.

If you're looking at several properties with different prices and rental rates, the gross rental yield and the capitalization rate make it easier to compare them. **The gross rental yield** is the estimated annual rent income divided by the property cost; the cost includes purchase price, closing costs and any improvements you pay for. With a 27% rental yield, it'll take you roughly four years to recoup the property cost, no matter how much the purchase price is. The **capitalization** rate works the same except you subtract annual expenses from the annual rental income before doing the calculations.

When you figure your monthly expenses, don't forget landlord insurance. This will cost you more than a regular homeowner policy, but it's essential to protect you against losses from storms or destructive tenants. It also pays for lost income if you have to close the rental for repairs. You also want a policy with plenty of liability coverage so that whether your guests suffer injuries or cause them, you're protected. A million dollars in coverage isn't out of line for landlords.

## Types of Ownership

Buying a house or a condo and renting it out is one way to become as a landlord, but there are alternatives. Other options may make it easier, and sometimes cheaper, when you're dipping your toe into the rental market in Waianae or Ewa Beach.

Condo hotels are run like hotels, but you can buy individual suites as if it were a condominium. Suites typically range in size from a studio apartment to two bedrooms. Any time you're not using the unit yourself, you can put it into the hotel program and rent it out, splitting the revenue with the hotel. Many condo hotels are established chains, however, be aware that a hotel that's under one name brand this year can switch to another in a couple of years.

As hotels, the resorts offer amenities for your guests—restaurant meals, room service, a tennis court, depending on the hotel—so you don't have to worry about that. Maintenance fees are relatively high compared to buying into a time-share resort. If you plan to use your unit yourself, be aware that some hotels restrict how much time you can spend in a unit yourself.

Time-shares let you divide up ownership with multiple other investors. One time-share may have, for instance, 52 owners, each with a week of time they can use themselves or rent out. In some time-share plans, you actually co-own the unit, in others the resort is the owner and you only buy the time. Beyond that, there are a bewildering variety of plans available. Some allow you to use different weeks in different years, for instance, while others keep the week constant but move you around different units at the resort. If you own the deed, you pay a share of the mortgage and property taxes. If you only buy time, you pay maintenance fees. Units range from studio apartments to four-bedroom villas.

Fractional ownership sounds a lot like time-sharing, and the two terms are often used interchangeably. Like a time-share, you co-own the rental with several other people. Typically, a fractional property has only six owners or less, each with a right to at least two months' worth of time there. The properties are usually bigger than time-shares, often large homes. You pay a share of the mortgage and a share of the maintenance costs, based on how much time you control the property for.

These alternatives have advantages. With fractional ownership and time-shares, you only need to fill a couple of weeks or months to make money, instead of trying to draw tenants year round. Time-share resorts and condo hotels already have a management company in place to run the property.

On the downside, co-ownership of a rental that stays busy most of the year means less income for you. You also have less control over the property and amenities than if you own 100% of the rental.

## Laws and Rules

Short-term renters aren't welcome everywhere. They're in town to have fun, then go home, so they have no idea of local rules—noise ordinances, for instance—and no need to care. Some communities and neighborhoods solve the problems by banning short-term rentals.

You may think that's unfair, but thinking so won't help you avoid fines if you rent out a house where the zoning or the homeowners association covenants forbid vacation rentals. Do your research before you buy; your real-estate agent should be able to help.

Even if the neighborhood allows renting, renters still have to comply with the rules. Loud parties that violate local noise ordinances, or garbage sitting on the street three days before pickup will alienate your neighbors and could end up getting you fined. Make sure renters know the rules, either by telling them when they contact you or leaving a flier in the rental.

## Vacation Rental by Owner

The Internet makes it relatively easy to advertise a rental in Kailua or Hawaii Kai to vacationers anywhere in the world. You don't even have to set up your own website. Advertising through the VRBO website, for instance, lets you promote your rental to more than 12 million monthly visitors. The site lets vacationers search geographically, so they can check any part of Oahu for places to stay. You can pay a higher advertising rate to have your property turn up more prominently in search results.

VRBO's rate system allows you to set regular rates, higher rates for a particular season — winter is the peak tourist season in the islands — or for particular events such as Christmas week or the Fourth of July. You set the rental rates, handle the bookings and communicate with customers.

VRBO makes it easier for vacationers to find you, but it can't close the deal for you. Use the site to promote your rental with lots of first-rate photos and a video tour. Walk through your rental once it's ready for market and note down all the features you want to highlight. These may be the new flat-screen TV you installed, the view of the surf from your kitchen window or the native Hawaiian art on the walls. You may want to show yourself or your family enjoying the property, to add a little personal presence. If videography isn't in your skill set, hire a professional.

## Preparing to Rent

If you want to charge your guests the highest possible rate, you have to offer them a prime experience. Amenities and furnishings should be the best you can afford.

If you invest in a time-share or a condo hotel, you may not have a lot of wriggle room in what you can offer the guests. Resorts of this type often standardize individual suites to keep the quality consistent. Before you make an offer, check out the property yourself and see if it's the level of quality you want to associate with. If a condo hotel has mediocre meals and sub-part room service, you're probably better off looking elsewhere.

If you're buying a house or a non-hotel condo, either alone or through fractional ownership, check out the competition. If you're competing with a half-dozen rentals in the same area that offer flat-screens, cable television and central air-conditioning and you don't offer any of that, that's going to hurt. You want to look at least as appealing as the other rentals, and preferably better. The beach may be the main draw, but comfortable beds, attractive furniture, fresh linens and kitchens with modern appliances all count with guests. If the house needs major remodeling or upgrades to stay competitive, factor that in when you're figuring the gross rental yield.

You can also stand out from the crowd with little things. If you know the area well enough to tip guests off to the best restaurants or fun activities for children, share the information. When you work through VRBO you can find out what the guests want to know, and tailor the rental by providing helpful extras such as a stock of diapers for families that need them.

## Property Management

Being a landlord can take a lot of work. If renters have complaints, they expect to have them resolved, ASAP. If they cause problems for the neighbors, the neighbors want things resolved just as fast. Any damage to the house—a party that gets out of hand, a child writing in lipstick on the wall—has to be fixed up fast so you're ready for the next renters. A rental that's closed for cleaning generates zero income for you. Repairs that aren't made, such as a leaky roof, can lead to more damage and more expensive repairs down the road.

Managing the property can require answering tenant complaints late at night, regular visits to the rental, negotiating with contractors or rushing out at short notice to replace stolen towels. If you live near the rental, you can handle the job yourself—assuming you want to—but it's next to impossible to pull that off from the mainland. To keep your rental marketable, you need a property management company. The manager serves as your stand-in, dealing with contractors, renters and any unexpected problems.

This takes a lot of the burden of owning a rental off your shoulders, but it won't come cheap. It wouldn't be unusual to spend 30 percent of your rental income on manager fees, which cuts into your bottom line. You can't afford to pick a company that's not worth the money—your success may depend on it.

Ask your real estate agent or other owners you know for recommendations, then vet any strong candidates thoroughly. Interview the manager in person. Find out what you get for your money. Ask for references and actually call them. Check on the DCCA website and look up the company online to see if there are lawsuits against them, or Better Business Bureau complaints on file.
Chapter 5

Foreclosure  
and Short Sales:  
Buy and Sell Distressed Properties

Homeownership is the cornerstone of the American dream. Yet, the United States is experiencing one of the most troubling housing markets in its history. With 65 percent of Americans owning a home, the mortgage crisis has had not only a severe financial impact but a psychological blow for many Americans whose homes are now worth less than they were when they bought them. In 2009, according to the Mortgage Bankers Association, there were 6.7 million distressed properties, which is a property that has to be sold to pay off a mortgage because of defaulted payments. Included in that percentage for 2009 were the 10 percent of prime mortgages were in default, the 41 percent of subprime mortgages are in default, the slightly more than 17 percent of Federal Housing Administration (FHA) mortgages that were in trouble, and the nearly 10 percent of Veterans Administration (VA) mortgages that were in default.

While most indicators show these numbers improved by 2103, Hawaii has not escaped the pain of the down market. In 2009, Hawaii had the 10th highest foreclosure rate in the nation. In November 2010, it had the 12th highest foreclosure rate, with one in every 404 housing units in foreclosure. In 2011, the troubling housing market continued to be devastating for the Hawaiian market, though the rate of foreclosures improved after several years of rising. According to RealtyTrac, in January 2011, one in every 512 homes received a foreclosure filing.

The number of Hawaii foreclosures has decreased after hitting record highs. From April of 2012 through April 2013, only 466 new homes filed for foreclosure in the entire state of Hawaii, an enormous decrease from previous years. The 2011 foreclosures were found mostly on Oahu, with a significant number on Hawaii Island and Maui and a handful on Kauai.

In addition, investment markets and second homes, with their traditionally strong sales, have been hurt by the housing slump. So, what options are there for homeowners who are in danger of losing their home? And are there opportunities for others lurking behind the foreboding numbers?

Let's examine two options that homeowners might consider in an effort to save their homes: short sales and foreclosures. Both of these options present opportunities for sellers to get out of homes they can no longer afford – and for buyers to find good deals on their next home. However, each process is complicated and fraught with pitfalls. To navigate this difficult process, the advice a reputable realtor with extensive experience in distressed properties is invaluable, whether you're buying or selling.

## Short sales –- Seller's Perspective

When the owner owes the lender more than the house is worth and the homeowner needs to sell the property, a short sale can be the solution for the distressed homeowner. A short sale occurs when the home is sold for less than the value of the loan. Short sales can be a solution for sellers who are upside down on their property – that is, they owe more on their property than it is worth -- and can no longer make their mortgage payments. In 2009, short sales accounted for 10 percent of all properties for sale in the Oahu MLS. This wasn't the case a year earlier, when short sales were creating anxiety among home buyers, sellers and real estate agents who sometimes harbored unrealistic expectations of the short sale process. The number of sales improved as people became accustomed to the length of time involved in a short sale, the difficulties involved in completing a successful short sale, the qualifications needed to get a short sale approved, the required documents, and so on. In order for a short sale to work, the lender must approve and accept less than the full payoff of the loan. It's important to note that not all lenders will accept this lower payment, especially if it makes more sense to foreclose on the property.

With the rules in Hawaii tightening for the lenders, we have seen banks encourage delinquent homeowners to participate in the short sales through seller moving incentives. We have seen them range from $2500 - $35,000 depending on the investor behind the loan.

In light of today's housing crises, short sales have become very popular. But who qualifies for a short sale? If you're interested in seeking a short sale as a solution to your property woes, you must be able to answer _yes_ to all of the following questions:

  * Has your home's market value dropped?

  * Is your mortgage in or near default?

  * Are you experiencing financial hardship?

  * Do you have no assets?

Let's explore each section a little more closely. First, you must be able to prove that your home is worth less now than the unpaid balance that you owe to the lender. A comparative market analysis (CMA) can determine the value of your property and the price point of comparable homes. The CMA will contain information such as sold listings, pending listings, active listings and comparable home information, such as square footage, amenities, location and construction.

If your mortgage is in or near default, you might qualify for a short sale. Even if you are not currently in default, you may be eligible. Once upon a time, a lender wouldn't consider a short sale if the homeowner was current on his mortgage. That's no longer the case. So even if you're current on your mortgage payment but you know that in the future you won't be able to pay for the mortgage, you may still qualify for a short sale. This situation is known as "imminent default."

You must meet the financial requirements to qualify for a hardship in order to be considered for a short sale. A financial hardship can mean any of the following: divorce, unemployment, death, medical emergency and bankruptcy. To get started, you will need to prepare a hardship financial package to the bank. While each bank has its own short sale guidelines, most banks will require the following documentation:

  * Completed financial statement

  * Two years of tax returns

  * Two years of W2s

  * Recent payroll stubs

  * Last two months of bank statements

  * Seller's hardship letter

  * Letter of authorization

  * HUD-1 or preliminary net sheet

  * Comparable market analysis

Lastly, you must show that you have no assets. If your financial documentation shows that you have any assets, the lender might not agree to a short sale, believing that you are capable of paying the difference in price. However, having assets might not completely preclude you from being approved for a short sale. Some lenders might grant the short fall and require the seller to pay back the difference. Or, in some cases, the lender might reduce the amount the seller has to pay back.

### Consequences of Short Sales

While short sales might meet the needs of some homeowners, they are not without consequences. Short sales affect credit ratings. Appearing as a 'foreclosure in redemption status' or a 'pre-foreclosure that's been redeemed,' a homeowner can expect, according to some, a drop of 200 to 300 points on one's credit rating, depending on one's credit score prior to the short sale. If you do not actually become delinquent on your mortgage, the drop will not be as severe, and will vary depending on your circumstances.

Homeowners should also consider the tax implications of a short sale. Even if you sell your home as a short sale, you still might be on the hook for the taxes. The homeowner who sells his home, whether voluntarily or involuntarily, may still owe Uncle Sam, who will send the homeowner a 1099 with the outstanding balance. A realtor experienced in short sales should be able to guide you through the tax implications of the move – or point you to another professional who can.

## Short sales –- buyer's Perspective

Before buying a home that's being sold as a short sale, you need to do your homework. Homes that are sold as a short sale can seem like a bargain, and sometimes they are. However, on occasion these home prices can be too good to be true. For example, just because the seller has lowered the price doesn't mean that the lender will accept it. It's also important to understand that a short sale doesn't always mean that the home has lost any value. There can also be the case when the homeowner overpaid for the home and a short sale would bring the home in alignment with neighboring homes. Additionally, short sales can take a notoriously long time to be approved. So, if you're anxious to get into a new home relatively quickly, a short sale may not be your solution.

Before bidding on a short sale home, the following areas should be researched:

  * Amount of mortgage owed. You'll want to find out how much is owed on the home. Since the primary lender will get the bulk of the proceeds from any sale, the secondary lender, who'll need to agree to the sale, might get a very small amount from the sale proceeds and therefore may reject the offer. So, find out how many loans make up the mortgage and how much is owed on each loan.

  * Qualifications of the short seller. Since all short sales require a package to be submitted to the bank, you'll want to find out if the seller has submitted a short sale package to the listing agent, who will submit the short sale documentation to the lender. At a minimum, the short sale package should contain the following documents:

    * Tax returns

    * W-2s

    * Financial statement

    * Bank statements

    * Seller's hardship letter

    * Payroll stubs

These documents are required, so be sure that the seller has submitted them to the listing agent.

  * Short sales offers. Because short sale homes will receive many offers, you'll want to find out about your competition, i.e. how many offers have been submitted. Your goal is to make an offer below, but near, the market value that will still beat your competitors.

  * Comparable sales. Because of the length of time it can take for your bid to be accepted, what is initially a pending sale can eventually become comparable to other sales. In other words, because these bids can take so long to be accepted they can turn out to be comparable to bids of other homes in the neighborhood, possibly eclipsing your lower bid. Since short sales can be priced at a very low, almost 'too-good-to-be-true' price, you'll need to understand that banks won't accept offers that are too low since they're in the business of making money, not losing it, and they want to recoup as much money from the sale of the home as possible. As a result, your bid should be priced near market value.

  * Realtor experience. How many successful short sales has the listing agent completed? This is huge, if it's their first one there are sure to be lots of surprises.

If you're thinking about buying a home through a short sale, it's important to understand that just because a house is listed as a short sale doesn't mean that it will necessarily sell that way. It simply means that the home seller and listing agent are hopeful that it will be a short sale. The bank has the ultimate decision if the planned short sale will come to fruition. It's also important to remember that if the home has two mortgages, both lenders have to accept the offer.

While there's no magic formula that will help you know what decision a bank will make on a short sale, here are some reasons why banks will reject a short sale offer:

  * Short sale documentation is incomplete. Because some documents might get lost or misplaced, you would be advised to have a list of and multiple copies of your documents in the event that the package is incomplete.

  * Seller doesn't qualify for a short sale. The seller must be able to demonstrate financial hardship. If the seller has any assets, the bank may reject the offer.

  * Short sale is priced too low. If the bank believes that it can make more money by selling the home at market value, then the short sale will be rejected. Banks want to see proof as to why the home is a short sale and will require a comparative market analysis (CMA) to justify the short sale price.

  * The bank doesn't own the mortgage. Beware! As you know, just because a bank services a mortgage doesn't mean that it owns it. If the bank realizes that it doesn't own the mortgage, it will be unable to accept a short sale offer as it no longer owns the property. This can sometimes take a while for the involved parties to realize, resulting in frustration for the potential buyer.

  * The buyer doesn't qualify for a short sale. In this case, the buyer who wants a short sale home has to qualify for it just as any other mortgage. Credit history, employment and debt ratios will be factors to determine if the buyer qualifies for the short sale.

Since the banks have the ultimate decision in determining the approval or disapproval of a short sale, negotiation is the key. Your strategy should be to understand the value of the property and make offers at or below that value regardless of the current list price. Then, you need to get lucky by making the offer at the right time, when the bank has just reduced the list price or is about to. Since you do not know when that will be, just keep making offers with the guidance of your realtor.

## Growth in Foreclosures

While the number of foreclosures in Hawaii fell in 2013, there are still many distressed homeowners in the state. In fact, experts say the recent decline in foreclosures has more to do with foreclosure prevention programs and other processing procedures that tend to slow down the foreclosure process than with an actual decline in the number of distressed homeowners.

There were 466 foreclosure filings in Hawaii in 2013, according to RealtyTrac. In general, Honolulu experiences fewer foreclosures than the rest of the state. The rate of foreclosure for Honolulu in January was the lowest of any region in Hawaii. The following areas on Oahu ranked as the highest for foreclosures: Ewa Beach, Kapolei, Waipahu, Waianae, and Waikiki. On the Big Island, Kailua-Kona is considered the foreclosure capital of the state. Other problem areas on the Big Island include Waikoloa and Pahoa. Maui's foreclosure problem spots were Kihei, the state's second most distressed neighborhood, along with Lahaina, Kahului and Wailuku.

## Foreclosure –- Seller's Perspective

A foreclosure occurs when the property owner can no longer make principle or interest payments on the loan, leading to the property being seized and sold by the institution that holds the loan, usually a bank. There are many reasons why a property goes into foreclosure, including but not limited to:

  * unemployment

  * medical/health problems

  * divorce

  * death

  * excessive debt

Just because a homeowner is in default doesn't mean that the situation will lead to foreclosure. Some lenders are willing to work with homeowners if they deem the homeowner's financial problems are temporary. Also, courts of equity may intervene if the lender tries to repossess the property when the borrower defaults. This action will grant the borrower an equitable right of redemption if the debt is repaid. However, it's important to note that in Hawaii there is no statutory right of redemption. This means that the borrower may not be able to reclaim the property post-foreclosure even if they pay the defaulted amounts three days before the foreclosure sale. In Hawaii, there's also judicial foreclosure proceedings whereby the lender can go to court but the court will determine the final judgment of foreclosure. As part of a publicly noticed sale, the property is then sold by a sheriff. The complaint, known as the lis pendens, is filed in court and provides public notice about the foreclosure.

If you are facing foreclosure, your first step should be to consult a realtor with experience in distressed properties, particularly one with Certified Distressed Property Expert (CPDE) certification. An experienced realtor can guide you through your options – perhaps helping you to save your home from foreclosure.

There are several different types of foreclosures in the United States:

  * Foreclosure by Sale occurs when a judge decides the day that the property will be sold. At this point, the homeowner still has a chance to save the home if the entire mortgage payment can be made. If not, the homeowner will lose the property with the proceeds going to the auction, the lender and the homeowner (respectively).

  * Foreclosure by Power of Sale, available in some states, including Hawaii, occurs if a power of sale clause is included in the mortgage. This process doesn't require court supervision and tends to be quicker than the Foreclosure by Sale proceedings. This is the leading method of foreclosure in Hawaii.

  * Strict Foreclosure (Deed in Lieu of foreclosure), takes place when there is very little equity in the property. In this case, the judge will issue law days, thereby allowing the homeowner time to get caught up with the delinquent payments. The length of the law days vary from each state and each homeowner's situation.

Borrowers need to know about the possible consequences of a Deed in Lieu of foreclosure. In this case, the borrower may give the deed to the lender thinking that this forgives him of the mortgage. Not so! Giving the deed to the lender will stop the foreclosure, but doesn't mean that the lender will forgive you of your debt. Borrowers need to understand that the lender can still sell your house for whatever price they can hope to get and come after you for the remaining balance. Returning the deed also doesn't prevent any of this from showing up on your credit report. So before you consider turning in your deed, turn to a reputable realtor with experience in foreclosures. His representation could save you from owing money on a home you don't own.

It's also important to note that a borrower has a right to contest a foreclosure. By asking the court of equity for an injunction, or a temporary restraining order if the repossession is immediate, the borrower may effectively stop the foreclosure. Borrowers can also challenge the validity of the debt. In this case, the lender must prove that the debt is valid. This action can stop the foreclosure and allow the borrower to sue for damages.

You might think that once a foreclosure occurs that the homeowner won't owe any more monies on the property. However, some homeowners will receive a tax bill from the lender for the amount that wasn't recouped. This can occur because in the eyes of the IRS, you are not paying back money that you borrowed, thus it's viewed as income. Exceptions are a cash-out refinance, as well as if the borrower's debts exceed his assets and he files a Form 982 with the tax return. This action can clear this financial obligation.

## Foreclosure –- Buyer's Perspective

During this troubling housing market, many people are interested in purchasing foreclosed properties. While this can be a good opportunity to buy a home at an excellent price, the potential homebuyer should carefully research the process of buying foreclosed homes in consultation with a realtor with experience in distressed properties. In Hawaii, it's important to note that most foreclosures can take from 60 to 90 days. This might be delayed even further if the borrower goes to court to contest the foreclosure, files for bankruptcy or seeks to delay the foreclosure proceedings.

There are three ways that a buyer can purchase a foreclosed property – buy from the seller before the property is foreclosed, buy the property at an auction, or purchase the home after the foreclosure, directly from the lender. In Hawaii, there is also the possibility of deficiency judgment, whereby a property may be obtained when it sells for less than the full amount of the debt. Buyers can look up foreclosed properties in the classified newspaper ads under Foreclosure Notices, Auction Sales or Sheriff Sales. Buyers can also research properties held by Federal Housing Administration (FHA), Veterans Administration (VA) or Housing of Urban Development (HUD).

Even though many foreclosed properties are not available for inspection before purchase, buyers should make every effort to inspect the property. Buyers should also research the property's market value. Before receiving the title, the buyer should research the title to determine if there are any liens or other potential problems.

If you purchase the property from the bank, you should realize that some homeowners may be angry due to the loss of the home and damage the property. If there's damage with these 'as-is' properties, the former homeowners will likely not pay for any damages. You, the new homeowner, will have to pay for any damages. It's not uncommon, for instance, for angry homeowners to smash out windows, flood the home and remove copper and wiring. Also, in Hawaii, some borrowers are choosing not to pay their mortgage due to anger over the government financial bailouts and the lost value of their properties.

In addition, the new homeowner may need to evict the homeowners once the title is received. This can be a tricky proposition since the homeowners may be long gone and the property is taken over by people other than the previous homeowners, such as relatives, friends and even squatters. You'll need to get legal assistance to help with eviction if you're not familiar with the process.

Buyers of foreclosed properties should consider the following:

  * Foreclosure proceedings vary from state to state. For example, in states with non-judicial foreclosures, including Hawaii, lenders don't have to go to court to before starting the foreclosure process. In these states, the foreclosure process can proceed much more quickly. In states with judicial foreclosures, the lender has to go to court to start foreclosure proceedings. This slows down the foreclosure process.

  * Buyers are typically allowed a period of redemption to catch up on the late mortgage payments, including interest and principal payments.

  * Missing required documentation, such as information about equity and offers placed, can result in the sale being revoked.

  * The new homeowner must be willing to evict people from the property.

Distressed properties can be a bargain for some buyers. However, research should be done to understand the pros and cons, as well as the consequences for buying short sale and foreclosed properties. Buyers and sellers should stick to the adage – if it seems too good to be true, it just might be. 
Chapter 6

PCS to Paradise: Military relocation to Honolulu

Not only does Uncle Sam want you, so does the State of Hawaii. Billions of dollars pour into the Hawaiian economy each year from the armed forces. In fact, the military is second only to tourism as a source of revenue for the islands. The largest industrial employer in the state is Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard. Military memorials and museums are also the leading tourist destinations in Hawaii. What's more, Armed Services members are known for their volunteerism in projects like "Adopt-a-School," and environmental cleanups. And there are more military-age people actually _in_ the military in Hawaii than in any other state, nearly 5 percent of the population.

So will Hawaiians be happy to see you if you are stationed in their island state? You betcha.

## Before Arriving

You have a lot to think about now: housing, neighborhoods, schools, moving your household goods Once you've received your PCS orders, you will want to make an early visit to your Relocation Office or Housing Office for advice about how to proceed, but there are also many online resources available to assist you.

_http://benefits.military.com/misc/installations/Landing_Page.jsp_ will provide you with links to your new base and what you need to know about relocating there, including preparations that vary depending on your branch of service and the specific base to which you are transferring.

<http://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/tf/movingand>_relocation/101_ contains basic information to begin arranging your move. The "Military Installations" link describes bases from the standpoint of information newcomers would want to know, so that you can learn basic facts about what your new base will be like. This information may help allay any qualms you or your children have about your move.

The "Plan my Move" tool at _www.militaryonesource.com_ helps you plan a three-month calendar of things to do to prepare for your move.

There are also a number of guides to military relocation specifically to Hawaii. They include:

_http://virtual.mybaseguide.com/publications/g30/military-in-hawaii,_ an online handbook with sections for each branch of the military and a wealth of relocation information, such as what to do when you arrive at the airport, how to arrange for a rental car, security clearance, medical and dental services, family services, and recreation facilities. It also includes the history of the various bases and the missions of the units housed on the bases.

_www.pacom.mil_ is the Web site for the U.S. Pacific Command. The "Newcomers" menu contains important official information about how to check-in and a number of very useful links to base newspapers, local military commands, elementary and higher education, housing offices, and family service centers.

A wealth of vital information for military relocations, from services to entitlements, is available online at _www.afcrossroads.com/relocation/military.cfm#_. This site is a clearinghouse for links to other sites, including parenting, spouse networks, education, employment, elder care, housing, and on and on.

_www.military.com_ offers information about what to do when your PCS orders arrive, whether you should buy or rent, and guides to renting, buying, and selling.

You will also want to consult the worldly-wise wife at _www.marriedtothearmy.com_. Her advice on moving comes with experience.

You can get information about hotels and motels near bases and make secure online reservations at _http://military-hotels.us_.

You can determine your housing allowance for your new location at: www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/basic-allowance-for-housing-rates, or at: www.defensetravel.dod.mil.

### Homeowner's Assistance Program

In some cases members of the military may find themselves unable to sell their existing homes at a fair price due to base closures or personnel adjustments. The Homeowners Assistance Program is designed to help military homeowners in these circumstances. You can access their Web site at: _www.spk.usace.army.mil/organizations/cespk-re/hap/index.html_.

### Transporting Personal Effects

Newcomers to Hawaii are often dismayed by the smaller house size common to the islands. You will have to make some very judicious choices about what to bring. Storage space is severely limited, so leave as much of your winter wear (which you won't need anyway) and heavy equipment behind as you can. Also, keep in mind that super-sized furniture may not fit in a Hawaiian house or apartment. Large appliances are generally provided upon arrival to military members who plan to live in military housing. Other equipment, like lawnmowers, can be rented on base. For example, Hickam's Equipment Rental Center, ( _http://hickamservices.com/recreation-equipment-issue.asp_ ), includes camping supplies, sporting goods, bicycles, and party items like popcorn machines. These may be taken off-base as well. You will probably want to consult the housing office at your new base for advice on what to bring and what to leave behind.

Military and civilian Department of Defense moves have now been centralized for all Armed Forces personnel and are handled through _www.move.mil_. At this site, regardless of which branch of the military you serve, you can book your shipment, track it, and file claims at the end, if necessary. Alternatively, you can arrange everything through your base Transportation Office, which will assign you a counselor to assist you.

"It's Your Move," _www.transcom.mil/j5/pt/dtrpart4/dtr_part_iv__ _  
app_k_1.pdf_ , is a guide to moving your personal effects for all branches of the Armed Forces. It includes a chart of weight allowances by rank, owner responsibilities, prohibited items, links to relevant IRS forms pertaining to moving expenses and losses, and how to make a claim for items damaged or lost in your move. You can also get information about making a claim for lost or damaged items at: _www.militaryfamily.org/get-info/support-family/moving/settling-in.html_.

The Web site _www.military.com/finance/pcs-moving-guide/moving/  
what-to-do-and-who-to-contact.html_ also provides advice about transporting your personal effects.

### Your Vehicle

You are entitled to ship one privately owned vehicle (POV) at government expense. To ship more than one, you will need to consult your Transportation Office about restrictions. Shipping a long-term leased vehicle requires written authorization from the leasing company. The timing for shipping varies, depending on the branch of service. You can find information about how and when to ship your POV at _www.military.com_. For information about where to pick it up and driving in Hawaii, see _www.mybaseguide.com/army/hawaii/transportation.aspx_ , or track your vehicle through, _www.whereismypov.com_.

## Military Families and Relocation

The Armed Forces have provided numerous resources to help your children acclimate to the disruption of relocation. A listening ear may be what your children need most at this time, but you will also want to have the information necessary to answer your children's questions and calm their concerns. Here are some of the excellent Web sites containing tips for both parents and kids:

Links for both parents and kids are available at: _www.afcrossroads.com/relocation/kids.cfm_.

  * The Military Child Education Coalition Web site includes "Ask Aunt Peggy," a feature answering all sorts of questions that parents and children have about their moves, which can be found at www.militarychild.org/about-us/ask-aunt-peggie. The best part: you can email Aunt Peggy your own question at: peggie.watson@militarychild.org. The site also contains a resource for parents to make decisions about which schools their children will attend at their new location, www.militarychild.org/military-parent/schoolquest, and a check list of things to bring for transferring students.

  * Military Youth on the Move offers reassurance for the most common concerns kids have, such as, "But I won't know anyone!" and is grouped by age, http://apps.mhf.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/  
f?p=MYOM:HOME:4321078052988725.

  * "Military Families on the Move," is a brochure produced by the Military Family Research Institute at Purdue University and is addressed to the child about to move. You can find it online at www.cfs.purdue.edu/mfri/pages/moving_website/kids_brochure.pdf.

  * Advice and a very helpful reading list of books for kids about moving can be found at: www.military.com/finance/pcs-moving-guide/pcsing/military-children-pcs.html.

  * Justmoved.org is a Christian group dedicated to helping women and children reconnect after a move. The site also contains links for military families.

  * There is also a support group for military spouses at www.hawaiimilitarywives.com.

### School Registration

Hawaii has one central Department of Education, which makes all public school assignments based on geographic location. Although you can request a geographic exemption, neighborhood schools are one of the key factors in selecting a housing location. For detailed information about educational options for your children, consult the "Childcare and Education" chapter of this book. Here are some recommended Web sites for military members:

www. _yourmilitaryinhawaii.com_ includes links for parents about schools in Hawaii and what they will need to get their children registered.

If you plan to homeschool your children, you can find helpful links at _www.militarychild.org/military-parent/links_.

STOMP, _www.stompproject.org_ , is an organization dedicated to helping military families with a special needs child. Their staff members are available to help you make decisions and transition your child to the new location, even if the need is as basic as establishing an IEP (Individual Education Plan) in the new school.

Aloha, Military Families and Students provides information about transitioning into Hawaiian schools, _http://militaryfamily.k12.hi.us_.

### Pets and Relocation

One of the best ways to provide continuity and stability for your family, and especially your children, is to bring your pets along. You should know, however, that Hawaii is rabies-free and consequently has very strict regulations for bringing in cats and dogs. Most importantly, you should be aware that your pet will have to undergo quarantine upon arriving in Hawaii.

Pets that have been properly vaccinated, have an implanted microchip and pass other requirements are eligible for a quarantine of five days or less. Others may be held for up to 120 days at the owner's expense.

To avoid a very costly and stressful quarantine of cats or dogs, it is vital to follow precisely the elaborate and somewhat intimidating regulations detailed in the Department of Agriculture Web site: _http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info_. You can find more information on bringing your pets to Hawaii in the "Getting Settled" chapter of this book. You may also want to contact the authorities directly with your questions:

Animal Quarantine Station

99-951 Halawa Valley Street

Aiea, Hawaii 96701-5602

E-mail: RabiesFree@hawaii.gov

A number of animals are prohibited for entry or ownership in Hawaii, including alligators, geckos, gerbils, ferrets, hamsters, hermit crabs, snakes, wolf hybrids, and some birds. For questions about whether it is permissible to bring a particular animal, contact the Plant Quarantine Non-Domestic and Microorganism office, 808-832-0566 or 808-837-8413.

Be advised that some military branches have outlawed certain breeds of dogs on base and in government housing. Since each military branch has its own policies for pet ownership, each should be consulted independently.

General guidelines for military personnel relocating with pets can be found at: _www.afcrossroads.com/relocation/pets_relo.cfm_ , and also _www.military.com/Resources/ResourceFileView?file=Relocation_Pets.htm_.

The Humane Society has advice for military members relocating with pets at _www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/military_personnel_  
making_arrangements_for_your_pets_.

Hickam is one of several bases with its own veterinary clinic. Information about the clinic and base regulations for pets can be found at _http://hickamservices.com/vet-clinic.asp_.

## Where to live? making Decisions about Housing

You probably already know the main arguments in favor of living in military housing: the ready-made support system that comes from living in a military community; greater mobility and flexibility in case of reassignment or deployment; use of government-issued appliances, and so on. A decade ago, the chief reason military families chose to live in government housing was economic—it simply cost less money, requiring no out-of-pocket expenses for rent, utilities, or appliances. Being able to live in military housing has traditionally been an important benefit of being in the military.

More recently, however, the Department of Defense claims it has made the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH, which service members receive if they do _not_ live in military housing) more accurately reflect actual local housing markets. This _should_ mean that if you rent a house on the civilian market, you will have no out-of-pocket expenses—the same cost benefit as living in military housing. To determine whether a rental would in fact result in no out-of-pocket expenses for you, start by determining your personal housing allowance. You can find the BAH rate tables at _http://www.military.com/benefits/military-pay/basic-allowance-for-housing/basic-allowance-for-housing-rates.html._

If you want to go a step farther and look into home ownership, you can find tools available to compare rental versus purchase costs, estimate loans (including VA loans), and calculate mortgages at www.ginniemae.gov. The "Community Housing" menu at _https://onestop.army.mil_ provides comparative information on living on and off base, in addition to tools for determining whether renting or buying is your better option.

Of course the best argument in favor of buying a home is the VA Home Loan. A VA Home Loan is a loan offered by private lenders but guaranteed by the VA. Active duty personnel are usually eligible to apply for a VA Home Loan if they have served at least 181 days of regular duty. (An application is not a guarantee of receiving the loan.) There are several good reasons to buy a house with a VA Home Loan. The biggest enticement for first-time home buyers may be that you can purchase a home or condo with no down payment. (There are certain fees attached to closing, and you must be able to pay them, however.) Another important benefit is that your loan can be guaranteed up to $741,250, which is significantly more than most home loans. Banks like that part of the bargain and may be more willing to offer you the loan you need. For complete information about VA Home Loans, including eligibility, benefits, calculators, forms, advice about working with a broker, and how to locate a lender, visit _www.military.com/Benefits/Home-Buying_.

Purchase of property is one of the ways to establish residency in a state. Before taking steps to change your residency, you and your spouse will want to consider how it will affect you. Where do you want to vote? What kind of impact would a change of residence have on your taxes? Will a change of residence alter your child's college tuition rates? A guide to these issues, "MSRRA: Consider These Factors Before Declaring a Home State," can be found at _www.military.com/Finance/content/0,15356,207800,00.html_ _._

So what is the Honolulu housing market like? According to the U.S. Army Garrison, Hawaii, Directorate of Public Works ( _www.25idl.army.mil/dpw/housing/civilianRenting.htm_ ), you can expect community rentals in Hawaii to range from $1,000 for a studio apartment to $2,800 for a four-bedroom house. The average cost of a condo is $280,000; that of a single-family home, $600,000. Yes, that is a little higher than what is available on the mainland.

If you plan to purchase a home – or at least considering it – you should contact a real estate agent with experience in military relocation. Such an agent will be able to walk you through the pros and cons of various housing types and to make sure you receive all of the benefits for which you are eligible.

## TO BUY OR NOT TO BUY

Buying may seem expensive, but paying rent can add up. Here is how much an enlisted with dependent will spend on non-deductible rent payments. Buying means that you are investing this money instead of giving it away.

BAH (2014) | 1 YEAR | 2 YEARS | 3 YEARS | 5 YEARS | 10 YEARS

---|---|---|---|---|---

E 1-4: $2,607 | $31,284 | $62,568 | $93,852 | $156,420 | $312,840

E-5: $2,709 | $32,508 | $65,016 | $97,524 | $162,540 | $325,080

E-6: $2,952 | $35,424 | $70,848 | $106,272 | $177,120 | $354,240

E-7: $3,189 | $38,268 | $76,536 | $114,804 | $191,340 | $382,680

E-8: $3,447 | $41,364 | $82,728 | $124,092 | $206,820 | $413,640

E-9: $3,696 | $44,352 | $88,704 | $133,056 | $221,760 | $443,520

## Temporary Lodging

You can arrange for temporary lodging for your arrival in Hawaii at _http://military-hotels.us/hawaii_. For more specifics, consult the information about your individual base given below. To obtain a TLA for non-military lodging, you will first have to apply to the nearest military inn available, and receive an authorization letter from them if no space is available.

### On-Base and Government Housing

If you choose to investigate the military housing option, information about on-base housing and procedures for filing applications are located under "Government Housing" at _http://benefits.military.com/misc/installations/  
Base_Content.jsp?id=2140._ Another Web site providing information about on-base and off-base housing is _https://onestop.army.mil_.

### Off-Base Housing Location Services

If you choose to investigate private housing options, you can take comfort in this fact: Hawaii may be new to you, but military personnel are not new to Hawaii. There are many realtors and listings specializing in military relocation. Seeking out a realtor with experience in military relocation will be the best way to ensure that your new home meets your needs, and that you take advantage of any perks available to you when you make the purchase.

The Automated Housing Referral Network, _http://ahrn.com_ , is a Department of Defense service available to all military members to help with relocation. It assists with locating off-base housing.

The Housing Services Office (HSO) is located at the Fort Shafter Family Housing Office, 808-438-1609, 808-438-1522, 808-438-4811 and 808-438-3820. Among its numerous services, it offers computerized listings of available rental housing, briefings on renting, scheduling appointments to view rentals, transportation to view prospective rentals, lease review, complaint mediation, BAH rates, school information, in-depth maps of Oahu, security deposit for utilities waiver information, and information on the Housing Relocation Assistance Program (HRAP).

Go to _www.teamlally.com/HawaiisMilitaryRelocationGuide_ to find a helpful guide on military relocation to Honolulu.

You can find links to tenant-landlord rights and also utilities companies at _www.25idl.army.mil/dpw/housing/otherLinks.htm_.

Hawaii Military Housing and Real Estate Services, _www.militaryforsaleforrent.com/state/Hawaii.html_ , provides off-base listings for sale or rent near bases and includes a housing allowance calculator.

_www.militarybyowner.com_ lists both rental and sales offerings near bases.

### Hawaii State Disabled Veterans Benefits for Residences

The State of Hawaii provides two important supplements to federal veterans' benefits for housing. These can be viewed at _www.military.com/  
benefits/veteran-benefits/hawaii-state-veterans-benefits._ Qualified, totally disabled veterans can receive up to $5,000 to purchase or upgrade a home to make it handicapped accessible. Tax exemptions are also available for domiciles of disabled vets.

## Military Installations

There are currently 20 active military bases on the island of Oahu. WE have listed some of the amenities available at the major bases below. Some of the other bases on the island are Aliamanu Military Reservation, Barbers Point Naval Air Station, Bellows Air Force Station, Coast Guard ISC Honolulu Sand Island, Fort DeRussy, Fort Shafter Army Post, Helemano Military Reservation, Wheeler Army Airfield, and Kilauea Military Camp. You can find information on your base by checking _http://benefits.military.com/misc/installations/Browse_Location.jsp_.

## Air Force: Hickam Air Force Base

Hickam is located only nine miles from downtown Honolulu between Pearl Harbor and Honolulu International Airport.

Amenities on base include restaurants, a golf course, fitness club, and library (including services and links for kids, _[http://hickamservices.com/  
kids.asp](http://hickamservices.com/kids.asp)_)

A resource that may be worth bookmarking on your computer is _http://hickamservices.com/local.asp_ , which contains links to local education, employment, government, libraries, newspapers, landlord–tenant information, public transportation, motor vehicle registry, military, recreation, and other useful sites.

### Temporary Lodging

The Royal Alaka'i , Building 1153, 808-448-5400, Reservations: DSN 315-448-5888, COM 808-448-5888; Toll Free 888-235-6343, Ext 442, _http://hickamservices.com/lodging.asp._ The rates at the Royal Alaka'i are substantially less than amenities off-base. According to the Web site, individuals or families who PCS (Permanent Change of Station) in to Hickam receive top priority for lodging availability and can make reservations for up to 30 nights. If space is unavailable, a Temporary Lodging Allowance (TLA) Authorization Letter to stay in commercial, off-base lodging can be obtained from the Front Desk.

### Childcare

Air Force personnel who PCS in to Hickam are eligible for 20 free hours of childcare per child within 60 days of their arrival.

Family childcare is available on-base from age two weeks to twelve years. Individual providers set their own rates, but all on-base providers who regularly care for the children of others more than ten hours per week are required to be licensed and receive training from the licensing agencies.

More complete details about available services and applying to be a childcare provider are available at the Hickam Web site, _http://hickamservices.com/familychildcare_new.asp_ , or the Hickam Family Child Care Office, 808-448-1988.

### Youth Programs

Hickam maintains an array of youth programs targeting different age groups ( _http://hickamservices.com/youth-center.asp_ ). Fitness, tutoring, special events like Easter Egg Hunts, before- and after-school programs, and a large number of interest clubs for teens are only part of what is available.

An excellent Web site collecting all sorts of information, homework help, and fun for kids is: _www.afcrossroads.com/kids/crossroads_teens.cfm_. The information is helpfully grouped by age and ranges from preschool to teen.

### School

Most children living on-base attend one of five K–12 neighborhood public schools: Mokulele, Hickam, and Nimitz Elementary; Aliamanu Intermediate; and Radford High School. In fact, Radford High's student body is 80 percent military affiliated. Children living off-base attend at their nearest geographic location. Geographic exemptions can be requested. You can find all the information you need to get your children started in school at the "Education, Public and DoDDS Schools" link at: _http://benefits.military.com/misc/installations/Base_Content.jsp?id=2140._

### Housing

There is no limit to the number of pets permitted in family housing. Appliances are also provided to families. The procedure for obtaining on-base housing can be found through the Hickam link at benefits.military.com. It is a two-part procedure, which must be initiated prior to arrival.

## Army: Schofield Barracks,  
Fort Shafter and Tripler Army Medical Center

Schofield Barracks is located about seventeen miles from Honolulu, near the Wahiawa and Mililani. Fort Shafter and Tripler Army Medical Center are located in Honolulu.

### Before You Arrive

Newcomers should consult _www.garrison.hawaii.army.mil/sites/newcomers/  
_ _relocation.asp_ for information relating specifically to life on your new base (like a garrison organization chart and welcome from your commander) and links to vital information and base services, such as a Spouses Club, and medical and behavioral services.

The Army Housing Web site is: _www.armyhawaiifamilyhousing.com_ , where you will find information about the privatized housing available.

A welcome video at _www.armyhawaiifamilyhousing.com/node/1185_ will familiarize you with houses and neighborhoods near the army bases.

You can obtain a leasing consultant by contacting one of the  
regional army housing offices at: _www.armyhawaiifamilyhousing.com/  
our_residents/Become_a_Resident_.

Army families will want to bookmark _http://mwrarmyhawaii.com_ , the Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation (FMWR) Web site, to keep in touch with all special events and programming designed for army families in Hawaii. FMWR hosts weekly orientations for new families.

And of course you can find supplemental information on all subjects at: _www.myarmyonesource.com/default.aspx_.

### Temporary Lodging

You can obtain information about conveniently located IHG hotels at: _http://mwrarmyhawaii.com/lodging/ihg-army-hotels_. Tripler Army Hotel, 877-711-8326, is located near the Tripler Army Medical Center, while Fort Shafter DVQ is located on the base, 877-711-8326; 808-839-2336. The Inn at Schofield can be contacted at 800-490-9638 or _www.innatschofield.com_.

### Personal Effects After Arrival

The Joint Personal Property Shipping Office, Pearl Harbor (JPPSO-Hawaii) is responsible for temporary storage or delivery of your personal property once it arrives in Oahu. You can call the JPPSO at 808-473-7760.

### U.S. Army Child, Youth and School Services

There are five Army Child Development Centers on Oahu, providing full-day, part-day, or hourly services based on need. Childcare in a home environment is available through the Family Child Care program. You can find details at: _www.mwrarmyhawaii.com/child-development-centers_ , or at:

AMR CYSS Program Registration Office

Bldg. 1782, 808- 833-5393

Schofield Barracks CYS Program Registration Office

556 Heard Ave

Schofield Barracks, Hawaii

808-655-5314

Children living on post at Schofield Barracks attend schools in the Central Oahu School District.

School Support Services and the School Liaison Officer provide programming and assistant to support the transition of school-age army offspring. SKIES Unlimited runs Schools of Arts, Sports, Life Skills, and Academics to provide Army youth with supplementary opportunities for success. CYSS also runs a Sports and Fitness program for ages 5-18, Youth Sponsorship to aid in relocation and transition, Middle School/Teen Programs, Outreach Services, Before- and After-School Programs, Day Camps, and many more services, which you can find at: _www.mwrarmyhawaii.com/cyss-welcome-page_.

Fort Shafter has a Youth Center, 808-655-0451, and a Teen Lounge, 808-438-1487, with computer labs and recreational opportunities.

### Pets

The Army has strict rules regarding pets. Pit bulls, including "American pit bull terrier, Staffordshire, American Staffordshire bull terrier, crosses of these breeds, and any dog with characteristics similar to these breeds" are prohibited on Army installations on Oahu.

Residents of privatized housing are not allowed: pit bulls, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Chows, wolf hybrids, or any dog exhibiting aggressive behavior. Animals deemed exotics, including reptiles, ferrets, and rats, are also prohibited.

For further specifics, consult: _www.garrison.hawaii.army.mil/sites/  
newcomers/relocation.asp_.

An FMWR kennel is available for cats and dogs:

FMWR Boarding Kennels

99-951 Halawa Valley Street

Aiea, Hawaii 96701-5602

808-368-3456

### Housing

You can find links to all the information you need, including floor plans for military housing and help deciding whether to rent or buy, at _https://onestop.army.mil_.

For off-base housing in the Schofield Barracks area, consult AHRN.com.

On-base housing is privatized through Army Hawaii Community Homes, which maintains eleven communities, 808-275-3700, _www.armyhawaiifamilyhousing.com_.

Army Hawaii Family Housing

Schofield Barracks

690 Glennan Avenue,Building 690

Schofield Barracks, HI 96857

Housing for Fort Shafter is handled through: 808-275-3800, http://fortshafterhousing.com, or:

Army Hawaii Family Housing

111 7th Street, Bldg. 1004

Fort Shafter, HI 96858

Fort Shafter rentals are available on-base through the Housing Office, 808-438-1518.

Off-post housing for Fort Shafter is handled at: Housing Services Office (HSO), 808-438-6198

## Navy: Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is roughly eight miles west of Honolulu and only two miles west of Honolulu International Airport. Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam (JBPHH) is in the process of combining two bases to provide support for both Navy and Air Force. It is a huge base with services comparable to a small city. A free shuttle bus operates on-base from 9:00 AM until 9:00 PM.

### Before You Arrive

You can find links to relocation information at: _<http://apps.mhf.dod.mil/pls/psgprod/f?p=MI:CONTENT:286885489083>__5568::NO::P4_INST_ID:2200._

The U.S. Pacific Command Web site, _www.pacom.mil/ABOUT/  
newcomers.shtml_, contains a link to a "Naval Housing Checklist" with vital information for members of the Navy relocating to Hawaii. It is highly recommended that you consult that checklist. Among the other information contained there, you will find that it is mandatory to contact the Navy Housing Office (DSN: 315-474-1903/4; or 808-474-1903/4) 30 days prior to your arrival in Hawaii in order to make an appointment with a housing counselor. You must see a counselor within 72 hours of arrival in order to be eligible for TLA. You are required to make this appointment even if you have already made your own housing arrangements, plan to rent or buy a home, or will live with family or friends.

### Temporary Lodging

You can make online reservations for Navy Lodge Hawaii, Pearl Harbor Naval Station, at: _www.navy-lodge.com/index.html_. If bringing a pet, you must phone ahead: 1-800-NAVY-INN.

### Childcare and Schools

The Navy operates several Child Development Centers, but there may be waits for admission. You can call the KIDS LINE, 808-473-5437 to apply for applications and information prior to arrival. Home Providers are also available. For more information about childcare, new parent support, and youth programs, see the "Families" menu at _www.greatlifehawaii.com_.

Most Naval offspring at Pearl Harbor and Naval neighborhoods attend schools in Oahu's Central District, although some attend the Leeward District.

### Housing

The Housing Office is called the Navy Aloha Center, 808-474-1820 or DSN 315-474-1800. There is generally a waiting period for available military housing. You can view anticipated wait periods for different areas by checking the following link online: _www.cnic.navy.mil/hawaii/OperatingForcesSupport/OperatingSupport/WaitingPeriods/index.htm_. Your family may receive priority if you are enrolled in the Exceptional Family Member Program. Housing areas exist up to one-hour commuting distance from Pearl Harbor. Forest City Military Communities, www.fcnavyhawaii.com, has entered into partnership with the Navy to privatize military housing and revitalize neighborhoods.

Two dogs or cats total are allowed in Navy housing. Birds, guinea pigs, and fish are also allowed. There are size and breed restrictions in some neighborhoods. "Pitt Bulls, Rottweilers, Chow Chows, Doberman Pinschers, German Shepherds, Siberian Huskies, Perro de Presa Canarios, Wolf hybrids, and dogs that have any of their breed lineages including dogs referred to as American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier, Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, and Staffordshire Terrier" are prohibited. Assistance animals for people with special needs are exempt from these restrictions. Most exotic pets and rodents are prohibited. Permitted pets must be registered.

The Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC), 808-474-1999, is available to provide information and referral for resources available in the community and at other nearby military installations. Arrival services include a sponsor program and information on housing, schools, home buying, and Lending Closet. Families who choose to live in private residences, whether rented or owned, are _not_ issued appliances, although they may temporarily borrow from the Loan Closet. The Fleet and Family Support Center also offers periodic sessions on Home Buying Skills.

Use of the Automated Housing Referral Network (AHRN.com) is recommended to locate off-base, private housing, whether for purchase or rental. The Housing Services Office (HSO) at Fort Shafter is also available for Navy use.

## Marine Corps Base Hawaii

Marine Corps Base Hawaii (MCB) consists of two main bases: Camp Smith, overlooking Pearl Harbor, and MCBH Kaneohe Bay. Kaneohe Bay is the larger of the two. It is located roughly twelve miles northeast of Honolulu and twenty miles from Honolulu International Airport on the Windward side of Oahu. MCBH has fabulous amenities ranging from a golf-course and bowling alley to beaches and picnic areas.

### Relocation Information

Because of the small size of Hawaiian housing, personnel are authorized and encouraged to arrange for non-temporary storage at their CONUS (continental U.S.) location.

It is advisable to consult the "Must Know Items" at: _http://img.military.com/misc/installations/Base_Content.jsp?id=2155._

Relocation information is provided at: _www.usmc-mccs.org/  
rap/index.cfm?sid=ml&smid=1._

There is also a Marine Corps Relocation Assistance packet available for download at: _www.usmc-mccs.org/rap/curriculumguide.cfm?  
sid=ml&smid=10_. This includes information about buying or selling a home.

Everything you want to know about MCBH, from childcare and youth programs to shopping options, is provided at: _www.mccshawaii.com._

There is a Lending Locker available for borrowing small appliances, linens, kitchen items, and some infant and toddler items, 808-257-7790.

A welcome video can be viewed at: _www.usmc-mccs.org/rap/  
video/disc6.cfm._

For information about what you will need to do immediately upon arrival, consult: _www.mcbh.usmc.mil/info/inbound.htm_.The Housing Assistance Office for MCBH Kaneohe Bay is:

MCBH Kaneohe Bay

Marine and Family Services

Relocation Assistance Program

Bldg. 216, C Street, Rm 59

Kaneohe Bay HI 96863-3073

808- 257-7788, DSN 457

### Temporary Lodging

The Cottages at Kaneohe Bay, 808-254-2806, is the main facility for Marines Corps personnel arriving on Oahu.

### School Registration

A School Liaison Office, 808-257-8897, is available to facilitate your child's transition into school.

_www.mcbh.usmc.mil/g1/SL_parents.htm_ is a Web site with links that can help you determine where your child should attend school. Assignments to public school are made by the Department of Education.

### Pets

"Full or mixed breeds of Pit Bulls, Rottweilers and canid/wolf hybrids are prohibited" from government or PPV housing. Pet ownership is limited to a total of two dogs or two cats or one of each. Breeding of pets, even unintentionally, is prohibited. You can view the full regulations for pet ownership on base at: _[www.mcbh.usmc.mil/PAO/MCO%20P  
11000](http://www.mcbh.usmc.mil/PAO/MCO%20P11000)_ _%2022%20CHANGE%206%20-%20PET%20POLICY.pdf._

### Housing

Forest City Military Communities, www.fcmarineshawaii.com, is the PPV partner for the Marine bases in Hawaii. On-base private rental housing, Section 802, is also available at MCBH Kaneohe Bay; for more information, call 808-257-4005. The MCB Hawaii Housing Office can be reached at: DSN 457-1257, COMM 808-257-1257 or 866-224-7942, _www.mcbh.usmc.mil/g4/housing/homepage.htm_. The latter Web site includes a link for checking where you are on the housing wait-list. You can be wait-listed prior to arrival, but housing assignments are not made until you actually arrive. You are, however, permitted to accept and move into housing up to two weeks before your family arrives. Housing application forms can be downloaded at: _www.mcbh.usmc.mil/g4/housing/  
advapp.htm_.

## You are required to check-in with Housing Office even if you plan to arrange for private housing.Coast Guard: Integrated Support Command

USCG Integrated Support Command (ISC) Honolulu is located near the Honolulu International Airport, about nine miles from Honolulu.

The Coast Guard has an extremely thorough relocation to Hawaii handbook that you can download at: _www.uscg.mil/mlcpac/ischonolulu/  
relocation_handbook.asp_. Since you will find virtually everything you will need in the handbook, WE are including only a few other points of interest.

You must check in with your unit and local Housing Officer for TLA to commence. If you are accompanied by family, you may check in with your local Housing Officer no later than the next day after arrival.

Coast Guard housing is now privatized on Oahu and maintained by Army Hawaii Family Housing, which does not allow pit bulls. Placement on their waiting list cannot be made until after your arrival. You will receive all necessary information when you check-in with the Housing Officer.

The Family Resource Specialist, 808-842-2089, will provide information about childcare. Residents of KKH/Red Hill Housing are part of the Central school district.

Forty-five percent of Coast Guard personnel do not live in government housing because of the very limited amount of government housing available to Coast Guard members.

#  PART II

# Honolulu  
Neighborhoods

From quiet residential neighborhoods, to oceanfront condominiums, to everything in between, there's something for everyone in Honolulu. In the following pages, you'll find descriptions of some of the most desirable neighborhoods in Honolulu, including their histories, current amenities and relevant real estate statistics.  
Chapter 7

Honolulu and Oahu

No matter where you're from you've probably heard of Honolulu. Unless you've spend time in Hawaii, however, you may never have heard of Oahu. In reality, what most people call "Honolulu" is actually the island of Oahu. That is, the names are used interchangeably these days to mean the entire island on which the capital of Hawaii sits. Technically, though, Honolulu makes up only one small part of the island of Oahu – the urban center on the island's southeastern shore.

The local government structure on Oahu backs up the practice of calling the whole island "Honolulu." Established as a consolidated city-county in 1907, the City and County of Honolulu is divided into nine administrative districts that encompass the entire island of Oahu. Honolulu's urban district serves as the state's largest city and capital, while the county consists of a diverse group of unincorporated subdivisions, which are unofficial towns and cities. Some are surfing paradises and tourist havens, like North Shore and Waikiki, and others, like Kailua and Mililani, are residential bedroom communities for business professionals seeking a quieter life.

The spectacular scenery that dominates Honolulu, as well as its laid-back island vibe, makes it a desirable real estate hotspot. Today the housing trend in Honolulu is still strong compared to some mainland areas. In fact, according to the Honolulu Board of Realtors, in 2013 the residential real estate market continued to enjoy strong sales, with thousands of homes changing hands at a median home price of $575,000.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
HONOLULU COUNTY QUICK FACTS  
(Source: U.S. Census, Honolulu Board of Realtors)

Population (2012) | 976,372

---|---

Population growth, 2010 to 2012 | +2.4%

Median Age (2012) | 37.6

Land Area | 596.66 miles

Persons per square mile | 1,586

Median Household Income (2011) | $71,263

OAHU RESIDENTIAL RESALES  
(Source: Honolulu Board of Realtors)

 |   
 | Type of Home | Median Sales Price | # Sold

---|---|---|---|---

 |   
 |   
 |   
 |

2013 |   
 | Single family | $685,000 | 3,341

 |   
 | Condominium | $330,000 | 4,800

2012 |   
 | Single Family | $620,000 | 3,078

 |   
 | Condominium | $317,500 | 4,203

2011 |   
 | Single Family | $575,000 | 2,974

 |   
 | Condominium | $300,000 | 4,029

2010 |   
 | Single Family | $592,750 | 3,051

 |   
 | Condominium | $305,000 | 3,934

SALE PRICE BY NEIGHBORHOOD  
Median Sales Price  
(Source: Honolulu Board of Realtors)

 | Single-Family Homes | Condominiums

---|---|---

 |   
 |

Metro Honolulu | $722,500 | $320,000

Diamond Head/Waikiki | $936,000 | $437,500

Hawaii Kai | $850,000 | $539,000

Kailua | $774,500 | $415,000

Kaneohe | $663,800 | $400,000

North Shore | $797,500 | $325,000

Central Oahu/Mililani | $580,000 | $307,500

Leeward Coast/Waianae | $380,000 | $154,000

Ewa Plain | $465,000 | $299,000

Makakilo/Kapolei | $560,000 | $299,000

Waipahu | $550,000 | $280,000

Pearl City | $627,300 | $302,900
Chapter 8

Metro Honolulu

While the various Oahu neighborhoods listed in this chapter are often referred to collectively as "Honolulu," this name most literally applies to the neighborhoods nearest the city center. Located on the southeastern shore of Oahu, Honolulu is the 12th largest municipal government in the U.S., with a population of approximately 905,000 residents.

As the capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is the largest city in the Hawaiian Islands and the main airport and seaport location. Previously named Kou, Honolulu means "place of shelter," and evidence shows that the first settlement in the area was as early as the 12th century. According to history, after Kamehameha I conquered Oahu, he moved his court to Waikiki in 1804. In 1809, his court relocated back to what is now downtown Honolulu. Kamehameha III moved the permanent capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom to Honolulu in 1845, and in the years that followed the area was transformed as a modern city and the center of commerce in the islands. The introduction of modern air travel helped bring rapid growth in development and tourism to the city.

One of the area's darkest historical events occurred in 1900, when the Great Honolulu Chinatown Fire took place, in which fires set to incinerate garbage in response to the bubonic plague raged for 17 days, leaving 7,000 residents homeless.

The city of Honolulu is made up of various districts. Downtown Honolulu is known as the financial, commercial, and governmental center of Hawaii. The tallest building is the 438-foot First Hawaiian Center, located on King and Bishop Streets. The Hawaii Pacific University's downtown campus is also located there. The Arts District is a 12-block area on the eastern edge of Chinatown, bounded by Bethel & Smith Streets and Nimitz Highway and Beretania Street. It is home to numerous arts and cultural institutions and part of the Chinatown Historic District. The Capitol District is the eastern part of downtown and is the current and historic center of Hawaii's state government. It incorporates the Hawaii State Capitol, Honolulu Hale (City Hall), Iolani Palace, State Library, and the King Kamehameha I statue.

Downtown Honolulu is also home to various cultural opportunities, such as the Honolulu Symphony, which was established in 1900 and is the oldest U.S. symphony orchestra west of the Rocky Mountains. The Honolulu Academy of Arts has the largest collection of Asian and Western art in Hawaii, as well as the largest collection of Islamic art, in the Shangri La estate. The Hawaii State Art Museum also boasts a collection of traditional Hawaiian art. Other attractions include the Honolulu Zoo, the main zoo on the Hawaiian islands, the Waikiki Aquarium, as well as many botanical gardens. Named the fittest city by _Men's Fitness_ in 2004, Honolulu is also home to the Honolulu marathon, and the NCAA football Hawaii Bowl and Pro Bowl.

Real estate in the city of Honolulu is diverse, with a wide range of architectural styles to choose from. From luxury high rise condos to modest inland homes to stylish estates, the city offers something for every budget and buyer.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 9

Pearl City

Located along the north shore of Pearl Harbor, Pearl City is part of the surrounding Honolulu metro area and is 9 miles northwest of the city itself. Rising as high as 95 feet above sea level, Pearl City boasts a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean and offers numerous opportunities for hikers, beachgoers, and nature enthusiasts.

Situated on four ahupuas, which are traditional Hawaiian divisions of land, Pearl City lines up the coast of Oahu. Historically, the area was known for its pearl harvesting as the Pearl River drew many western explorers, and was discovered to be a bountiful resource for oysters. In 1815 King Kamehameha I commissioned Francisco de Paul Marin to focus his pearl trade in Hawaii. In the mid-1800s, cattle-raising become common in the mountains of Pearl City, which destroyed the forests and mountains, eventually harming the oyster population in the Pearl River. In the late 1800s, Pearl City became crop-producing farmland for Hawaii's sugar production. Today crops such as pineapple, rice other tropical fruits are grown and sold locally.

Modern day Pearl City relies heavily on its booming year-round tourism industry, as well as its international trade commerce thanks to the area's revitalized business ports. The area also offers many parks, including the Pearl Harbor National Wildlife Refuge, Pearl City Kai Playground and the Pacheco Playground. For other forms of entertainment, the Pearl City Shopping Center is a premier shopping destination for tourists. The Signature Theatres is an elegant movie house popular with local residents. Pearl City is also home to such higher education institutes as the University of Hawaii - West Oahu and Leeward Community College.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 10

North Shore

Located 26 miles from the bustling nightlife and fast-paced culture of Honolulu, Oahu's North Shore feels a world away. As part of the north-facing coastal area of the island, between Kaena Point and Kahuku Point, it is home to some of the largest waves on earth, attracting surfers worldwide. Notable surfing spots on the North Shore include Waimea Bay and Sunset Beach), and the winter months are when the surf is the highest.

The North Shore was thought to have been settled in the Waialua and Ko'olauloa Districts along the North Shore around 1100 AD, where communities thrived along valleys, streams, and bays, such as the Anahulu River and Waimea Valley. For centuries residents lived in villages along these waterways, growing sweet potatoes and taro.

The first Westerners landed at Waimea Bay in 1779 to replenish fresh water supplies from Captain Cook's ship. They noted that the area around Waimea River was "well cultivated and full of villages and the face of the country is uncommonly beautiful and picturesque."

It wasn't until 1832, when Christian missionaries came to Waialua District to build a mission that development really began on the North Shore; the Emerson House and a Protestant church in the heart of the village was established at that time. Today, that church is known as the Queen Liliu'okalani Protestant Church, named after Hawaii's last queen, who vacationed in Hale'iwa. At the end of the 19th century, the area was further expanded by Benjamin J. Dillingham, a wealthy businessman who built the Hale'iwa Hotel.

One of the draws of real estate on the North Shore is that it's an often forgotten hidden treasure of the Hawaiian Island Chain. It's also more sparsely populated than some other parts of the island. Just an hour's drive from Waikiki Beach, the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, Ala Moana, and Iolani Palace, it offers a completely different feel.

Some of the most popular things to do on the North Shore include: the Polynesian Cultural Center, the Dole Plantation, the Waialua Sugar Mill, the Laie Hawaii Mormon Temple, North Shore Surf and Cultural Museum, the North Shore Country Market, and Pupukea Marine Life Conservation District.

Must-see outdoor attractions are the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing event, the James Campbell National Wildlife Refuge, and taking in the incredible views from Pu'u O Mahuka Heiau and Ka'ena Point.

The main road through the area is the Kamehameha Highway (highways 99 and 83). There is a bypass around Haleiwa called Joseph P. Leong Highway, which is useful in avoiding the two-lane road through Haleiwa.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 11

Kaneohe

Situated on the southeastern coast of Oaju, Kaneohe extends from the foothills of Koolau Range to Kaneohe Bay. The name Kaneohe means "bamboo man," as according to an ancient Hawaiian legend, a woman once compared her husband's cruelty to the sharp edge of a bamboo stalk. As one of the two largest residential communities on the windward side of Oaju, the community boasts magnificent waters and the picturesque Koolau Mountains as a prime backdrop.

In the early 1900s, Kaneohe became a prime sugar-producing area, with plantations and refineries luring people from all over the world to work as sugar plantation farmers. Kaneohe Bay also played a vital role in World War II, as the first bomb site of the war occurred in Oaju. As a result, the community was forced to rebuild both physically and economically, as the war also had a big part in abruptly ending Hawaii's sugar production industry.

Due to its abundant rainfall, Kaneohe has historically been an important agricultural area. Today, bananas are the only remaining crop that is grown commercially. Because Kaneohe's silty beaches are not suitable for swimming, the community is less of a tourist destination than other beach areas, making it mainly a residential community. However, it does boast seven-mile Kane'ohe Bay, Hawaii's largest bay. Another of Kaneohe's must-see coastal locations is He'eia State Park, with low stone walls that enclose the saltwater lagoon built by ancient Hawaiians. Another nearby destination, Coconut Island, is featured in the rolling credits of _Gilligan's Island_.

Inland, Kane'ohe offers several public gardens, including the nature reserve of the free Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden. The Senator Fong's Plantation, near Kahalu'u in northern Kane'ohe, also let visitors admire flowers, fruits and orchids from the comfort of a tram. Another must-see site is the Buddhist Byodo-In-Temple.

Adjacent to the community of Kailua, and about thirty minutes from downtown Honolulu, the commercial center of Kaneohe is located mainly along Kamehameha Highway. Kaneohe is also home to the Marine Corps Base and the Windward Mall. For recreation, Kaneohe boasts three golf courses: the Pali Golf Course, the Ko'olau Golf Club, and Bayview Golf Course.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 12

Kailua

In Hawaiian, Kailua means "two seas," named because of the two lagoons in the district that run through Kailua Bay. Mainly a residential community, Kailua is just 30 minutes from Honolulu and has a population of about 36,000 residents. The community is accessible from the Pali Highway (Route 61).

According to an archaeological excavation report, the earliest settlers in Kailua are believed to have dwelled on the slopes of the Kawainui Marsh as early as 500 AD. In the 16th century, Kailua replaced Waikiki as the residential seat of the Alii Aimoku of Oahu. According to historical accounts, the biggest event in Kailua was in 1795 when King Kamehameha I conquered O'ahu in his mission to unite the Hawaiian Islands. The King granted old Kailua to the chiefs and warriors who had helped him. The land that they received was used for agriculture, such as the cultivation of rice, taro and sugarcane, and eventually to raise cattle. Kailua is home to numerous ancient temple ruins, including the ones at Ulupo Heiau State Historic Site, a temple whose construction was attributed to the legendary Menehune and which later became a luakini, dedicated to human sacrifice.

Often called Hawaii's best beach, Kailua Beach is about two miles long and crescent-shaped. It's a popular location for surfing and bodysurfing due to its light to medium waves. Kailua Beach also has steady trade winds that make it one of the world's best kitesurfing and windsurfing spots.

Kailua is known for its strong sense of community, holding Christmas and Fourth of July parades every year. To add to its family reputation, to the town also holds block parties, Little League games, and canoe paddling events.

Real estate in Kailua offers ample opportunities for both buying and renting. Many neighborhoods offer a plethora of single-family homes, as well as condominiums and townhomes. Known predominately as a beach community, most residential areas are no more than a few miles from the beach. Architecture tends to be modest post-war post and pier bungalows, or mid-century bungalows, plantation or ranch-style homes, mainly built between 1945 and 1965. For more modern construction, luxury homes and estates can be found in other areas of Kailua, such as in Lanikai and Beachside. Thanks to its beautiful commute to Honolulu, gorgeous beaches, and proximity to Marine Crops Base Hawaii, the property values in Kailua have held up much better than most other areas on Oahu, despite the current economic downturn.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 13

Hawaii Kai

Located in the in the southeastern end of Oahu, Hawaii Kai is an upscale residential community that was once the ancient site of numerous "Kuapa," also known as fishponds. It is located near the smaller neighborhoods and communities of Portlock, Haha'ione, Ka'alakei, Mariners Ridge, Queen's Gate, and Kalama Valley. The community is close to the beautiful Haunama Bay, an internationally known destination for snorkeling, sunbathing, and sightseeing. Hawaii Kai is also just fifteen minutes from the shopping, sightseeing, and dining attractions of downtown Honolulu – giving it easy access to the big city amenities but the feel that you're worlds away.

Hawaii Kai was largely developed by Henry J. Kaiser around the ancient Maunalua fishpond and wetlands area known as Kuapā. Beginning around 1959, the Koko Marina was dredged from Kuapā Pond, which transformed the shallow coastal inlet and wetlands into a marine embayment. In 1961, the 521-acre fishpond was developed into residential tracts. These residences also featured a marina and channels separated by land and islands where house lots and commercial properties were developed. Today, all of the low-lying lands around the marina have since been developed, with neighborhoods reaching back into the valleys and up the separating ridges. Small ponds and streams run through the low-lying valley.

Nearby attractions to Hawaii Kai include Koko Head Crater botanical garden, Queen's Gate Golf Course, Makapu'u Lighthouse, Sea Life Park, the "From Here to Eternity" cove, and Hanauma Bay. Sandy Beach is a picturesque beach park that's popular with the locals due to its "off-the-beaten path" location. It also is known for its powerful waves, making it a hot spot for body surfing.

Primarily a residential community, Hawaii Kai real estate features many beautiful estates with views of the Pacific Ocean. The community offers amenities including country clubs, golf clubs, and other recreational opportunities. Residential communities offer great opportunities for children to play in community parks. While Hawaii Kai features older, larger homes, there are also many new townhouses available. The community also features upscale dining, a multi-movie cinema complex, and large shopping centers nearby, such as the Hawaii Kai Towne Center.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting

Chapter 14

Waikiki

Known in Hawaiian as "spouting fresh water" because of the streams that once separated Waikiki from the interior of Oahu, this community was originally a hotspot for Hawaiian royalty. The first recorded history begins in 1790 when Kalanikupule, the chief of Oahu, hijacked a ship to start an attack against Kamehameha I. This began the battle of Nuuanu Pali when Kamehamela defeated Kalanikupule and took control of Oahu.

In the late 1800s King Kalakaua invited famous guests to his private beach house, such as Robert Louis Stevenson, who wrote many novels on Oahu. It became a vacation destination for the rest of the world in 1901 when its first hotel, the Moana Surfrider, was built at Diamond Head. Due to the area's extreme swampiness, which caused serious mosquito problems, the swamp was replaced with the Ala Wai Canal in 1921. At that time more hotels were built, confirming Waikiki as a destination for wealthy tourists.

Located on the South Shore of the island, Waikiki extends from the Ala Wai Canal, which was dug to drain former wetlands, on the west and north, to Diamond Head on the east. The community is home to the "Father of modern surfing," Duke Kahanamoku, who won Olympic gold medals in the 100-meter freestyle in 1912 and 1920. He later became a Hollywood actor and helped spread the popularity of surfing and the spirit of Hawaii around the world. The statue of him at legendary Waikiki Beach is a symbol of the community.

Today, Waikiki is populated with a plethora of high-rises and resort hotels. The beach is fairly short and the surf there is known for its long rolling break, which makes it perfect for any type of surfing. Though Waikiki is known as a great vacation destination, thousands of residents call it home, primarily in high-rise condos and apartment buildings that offer unparalleled ocean and mountain views, and amenities such as pools and barbecue stations.

Offering great views of the Honolulu skyline, Waikiki residents also enjoy world-class shopping, entertainment, and dining on the main strip of Kalakaua Avenue. Other Waikiki attractions are the Waikiki Aquarium, as well as the nearby Honolulu Zoo and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. Waikiki is also adjacent to the Ala Moana Shopping Center, known as the world's largest open air shopping center, and just a short distance to the specialty stores and theaters of Ward Centers.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 15

Mililani

Located near the center of Oahu, Mililani is a planned community that sits on former red clay plantation fields. The land was originally owned by Castle & Cooke, one of the Big Five companies in Hawaii, and the goal of the community was to bring together a top-notch group of architects and planners who could design a community that would meet the needs of Oahu's escalating housing demands.

The first homes in Mililani were built in 1968, with 112 offered for sale and a waiting list of 2,000. A true master-planned community, Mililani has no driveways or parking on the main streets to make it safer and to keep traffic flowing. When the Interstate H-2 opened in 1976, travel time from Honolulu to Mililani was cut in half, making the community a desirable bedroom community for Honolulu commuters. In 1986, Mililani was the first Hawaiian community to receive the distinction of All-America City.

Mililani's location on a plateau between two volcanic mountains makes the town physically situated between the two large gulches of Waikele and Kīpapa. The older part of Mililani to the west of Interstate H-2 is known as Mililani Town. The newer portion, located to the east of Interstate H-2, is Mililani Mauka. A more secluded part of Mililani is called Launani Valley, which is a separate master-planned development that consists of town homes and single family communities.

The town boasts its own commercial shopping center, community centers, parks, and schools. The Mililani Town Association serves as the community's homeowners association; it enforces design standards and manages recreational facilities, such as several pools.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 16

Kapolei

Kapolei is located on the former site of sugarcane and pineapple plantations, on land that was originally part of the estate of industrialist James Campbell. While Kapolei is often referred to as a city, it is not an official municipality. Also called The Second City of Kapolei, the community is named after a volcanic cone, Puu o Kapolei. "Puu" means "hill," and "Kapo lei" means "beloved Kapo," with Kapo referring to a mythological goddess.

As the island's fastest-growing town, Kapolei is currently being developed as an urban alternative to Honolulu. According to town projections, by 2025 there will be 7 million square feet of commercial space and 65,000 jobs in the Kapolei region. The initial construction of residences in the area began in the late 1980s, and commercial development followed shortly thereafter. New road construction, such as the Manawai Street-Kama'aha Avenue extension in 2006, is helping reduce traffic congestion on Kamokila Boulevard and Farrington Highway. A $2 million road to extend Kamokila Boulevard from Kapolei Parkway to Roosevelt Avenue also began in 2007.

Many Kapolei residents commute into Honolulu for work, and its location next to Interstate H1, make it an enticing bedroom community. However, it is predicted that in the next 20 years there will be 40,000 new jobs in the Kapolei region, too.

A new addition to the area is the 200,000-square foot Kroc Center, a community center run by the Salvation Army that features childcare, an aquatics center, a state-of-the-art gym, classrooms, meeting space and more.

Real estate in Kapolei includes single family homes, condos, townhomes, and rentals. The large number of new homes, shopping malls and movie theaters that are being built around town, as well as Hawaii's first water park, the Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park, are drawing many to call Kapolei home.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 17

Waipahu

A former sugar plantation, Waipahu is named after an artesian spring that once gushed from the ground and was enjoyed by Hawaiian royalty. Before western civilization discovered Hawaii, natives considered Waipahu the capital of Oahu. In 1897, the Oahu Sugar Company was incorporated in Waipahu where it remained in operation until 1995.

Located 11 miles northwest of Honolulu, both Interstate H-1 and Farrington Highway run east-west through Waipahu. The community is made up of modern residential subdivisions that feature detached homes, townhouses and condominiums.

Waipahu also offers a wide range of shopping and recreational attractions. The Waikele Premium Outlets are nearby, as well as golf courses including the Waikele Golf Course. Another Waipahu attraction is the Hawaii Plantation Village, a living history museum that sits on 40 acres opposite the Waipahu sugar mill. The town also features an athletic field built in 1923 and now called Has L'Orange Park.

There are also opportunities for higher education near Waipahu, such as Leeward Community College, Honolulu Community College, Kapiolani Community College, and Brigham Young University \- Hawaii Campus.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 18

Ewa Beach

According to legend, Ewa Beach got its name from the myth that while the Gods were playing a game of 'ulu maika,' one of their stones went astray. They called the spot where it landed Ewa, which means "stray" in Hawaiian. Situated on the southernmost portion of Oahu, the term "Ewa" is also a reference to the direction of Ewa Beach, which is westward along the shore. The main thoroughfare through town is Fort Weaver Road (State Rte. 76), which runs north to Waipahu. Ewa Beach is bordered by Iroquois Point and Pearl Harbor to the east, Barbers Point (Kalaeloa) to the west, Ewa and Kapolei to the North and 3.5 miles of shoreline to the south.

Due to its fertile soil and vegetation, Ewa Beach was a prime sugar production site in the mid-1900s. When this industry crumbled in the 1940s, Ewa Beach became known as a tropical destination for locals and tourists. Its close location to the site of the Pearl Harbor bombing during World War II affected the community only slightly, and it bounced back quickly to confirm its standing as a prime vacation destination – as well as a place for people who want a little piece of paradise to call home.

With spectacular views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, Ewa Beach offers a flavor of old Hawaii, but is only about 20 miles from everything Honolulu has to offer. Known to get more sun than any other spot on Oahu, popular activities include surfing, swimming, boogie boarding, fishing, and hiking. Other recreation attractions include the West Loch Golf Course and the New Ewa Beach Golf Club. Landmarks include Ewa Beach Park, Ewa Beach Community Park and One'ula "Hau Bush" Beach Park.

Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting
Chapter 19

Waianae

Located on the west side of Oahu, Waianae was founded in 1907. One feature that Waianae is known for is the ruined walls of Ku'ilioloa Heiau. Virtually surrounded by water, this three-tiered structure is said to mark the place where the first coconut tree brought from Tahiti was planted in Hawaii. According to legend, Kamehameha offered sacrifices here before launching his first invasion attempt against Kauai.

Popular beaches in Waianae are Wai'anae Kai Military Reservation Beach and Nene'u Beach. Due to the breakwaters constructed to protect the boat harbor at its northern end, the main sandy beach in Waianae is the only one on the Leeward Coast where swimming is safe year round. There are also many parks including the Pililaau Community Park, Waianae Regional Park, and Kaupuni Neighborhood Park. Waianae hosts the Thomas Square Artfest every year. For shopping, the Waianae Mall Shopping Center is a popular tourist location.

Real estate on Waianae offers many types and styles of homes for sale, such as single family detached, townhomes and condominiums. The town is also known for its community events and outdoor activities. Just 22 miles northwest of Honolulu, it's an attractive bedroom community for many residents looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

# Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting

#  PART III

# Nearby Destinations: Maui, Kauai &  
Big Island

Maui, Kauai & Big Island are nearby islands that provide a wealth of opportunities for Honolulu residents to enjoy terrific restaurants, cultural activities, or just the good old outdoors. Read on to find out more about what these exciting destinations have to offer residents of Honolulu. .

State of Hawaii Office of Planning
Chapter 20

Maui

Maui is the second largest of all the islands that make up the state of Hawaii, and with a population of nearly 118,000 in 2000, it's also the third most populous. Maui got its name from the legendary demigod Maui, who is said to have pulled the islands from the sea. The island is also frequently called Valley Isle for the isthmus between its northwest and southeast volcanoes, which merged into one island when lava flows cooled. Its eastern sides are marked by deep valleys and steep ravines that run down to rocky shorelines. The island is part of a much larger set of islands, including Lana'i, Kaho'olawe and Moloka'i. When sea levels are reduced, they are all joined together into a single island because of the shallowness of the channels connecting them – but don't expect to see this anytime soon: the last time sea levels were low enough to show the land-bridges was 20,000 years ago.

Originally discovered and settled by Polynesians from Tahiti and the Marquesas, Maui was also "discovered" by Captain James Cook in 1778. Cook never actually landed because the rocky shoreline prevented him from finding a suitable spot to go ashore. Soon after, in 1786, the French admiral Jean Francois de la Perouse made landfall. (He would actually visit Maui again in 1788.) It wasn't much later that Europeans realized the value of the islands' vast rainforests as well as the potential whaling industry – and the potential to "civilize" the natives. Missionaries came in droves, nearly destroying the native culture by forcing the natives to wear clothes, outlawing the hula, and other changes. However, they also created the 12-letter Hawaiian alphabet and began making written records of the history of the culture.

In 1790, King Kamehameha attacked Maui from his base on the Big Island – though he wasn't successful in this attempt to take over Maui, he returned a few years later and managed to bring the island into his growing Hawaiian empire.

As the whaling and logging industries faded in Maui, today's major industries took over: agriculture and tourism. Maui's major exports are coffee, macadamia nuts, fruits such as papaya and pineapple, sugar and tropical flowers. Maui has also become an important center for astronomical research, thanks to its clear views of the night sky, elevation and climate, which allows year-round observation.

Maui is also well known as the leading whale watching spot in Hawaii. Each year, humpbacks migrate south from Alaskan waters and winter in and near the Au'au Channel between the islands. Between October and April is prime whale sighting season, as they mate and give birth in the warm waters during those months.

Today Maui draws visitors from all over the world. Some come for the incredible natural sights, some come for the food, some for the culture – and some come just to drink it all in. There's a little something for everyone in Maui that makes it well worth the trip from Oahu.

## For the Art Connoisseur

Maui is perhaps better known for its nature and historical offerings than for its art scene, but there is at least one place you can always find excellent performances and exhibits: the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, _www.mauiarts.org_. Established in 1994, the center hosts more than 1,800 events each year, ranging from traditional Hawaiian arts to major national and international performers. Hula performances abound, as do symphony recitals, dance performances and children's art exhibitions. The center hosts ongoing traditional cultural programs for both children and adults. On the calendar this year are acts such as John Legend, a ukulele festival and the Mark Morris Dance Group.

### Music

Maui is rife with music. On any weekend you can find local musicians at the bars, clubs and restaurants. There are concerts and exhibitions throughout the year all over Maui – check _www.visitmaui.com_ for the latest information.

## For the Foodie

Maui boasts an ever-growing number of renowned restaurants. The following are just a few highlights to look out for on your visit to the island.

Kaso Sushi Bar – Many of the locals consider this the best sushi on the island – and in an island full of sushi, that says a lot. Kaso may be located in a small strip mall, but don't let that deter you. They serve very traditional Japanese cuisine – and if you aren't sure what to order, ask for the chef's choice and allow him to create a very special, completely one-of-a-kind meal for you.

Capische – An _Opentable.com_ Diner's Choice winner in 2009 and the recipient of Wine Spectator's Award of Excellent, Capische serves an innovative French/Italian menu in a spectacular setting. Choose the dining room with a view of the south shore, or relax to the sounds of soft piano in the martini bar. _www.capische.com_

Lahaina Grill – Located in the historic Lahaina Inn, the Grill has been voted the Best Maui Restaurant a whopping 11 years in a row in a _Honolulu Magazine's_ reader poll. It has also been Fodor's Choice twice and has received 5 _Opentable.com_ awards. With a signature meal called the Cakewalk (a sampler of kona lobster crab cakes, seared ahi tuna cake, and a sweet Louisiana rock shrimp cake) as well as 350 wines to choose from – this is one eatery that should go on your "must visit" list. _www.lahainagrill.com_

David Paul's Island Grill – The menu at this eatery has been called both "new island cuisine" and "high-end comfort food" – either way, you are sure to get a fantastic meal at David Paul's. Listed as one of Gourmet's Americas Top Tables, _Bon Appetit's_ Restaurant of the Month and given three stars by _Conde Nast Traveler_ (not to mention countless other awards and commendations for both the chef and the restaurant), David Paul buys only the freshest island ingredients and lets the food speak for itself. Be sure to take a walk through the wine cellar – and pick the label you'd like to accompany your meal. _www.davidpaulsislandgrill.com_

## For the History Buff

For those interested in soaking up some of the history of the area, a visit to the following is definitely in order.

Lahaina Kaanapali Railroad – Known locally as the "Sugarcane Train" this historic steam engine relives the way Islanders traveled at the height of the sugarcane industry. Travel over a 325-foot curved wooden trestle – and be on the lookout for humpback whales in the waters below, especially between the months of December and April. _www.sugarcanetrain.com_

Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum – Located right next to Hawaii's largest working sugar factory, this museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the sugar industry in Maui. The museum addresses not only the establishment and growth of the industry itself, but also sugar's influence on the development of water resources and the ethnic makeup of the island. Exhibits include a display on the inner workings of a sugar mill and plantation as well as pioneers in the sugar industry. _www.sugarmuseum.com_

Whalers' Village Whaling Museum – From 1825 to 1860 Maui was a major center for the whaling industry, due to the winter migration of whales to the area. The Whaling Museum features a recreated forecastle of a whaling ship as well as exhibits of ornaments made from whale ivory. It also contains one of the largest scale models of a whaling ship, allowing you to get up close to what life was really like on one of these vessels. It also houses a prize collection of 19th-century scrimshaw. The museum is located in Whaler's Village, one of the premier oceanfront shopping districts – in case not everyone in your party is interested in baleen and spears.

## For the Nature Lover

Maui is lucky to be full of natural features – and centers that feature nature. While you are there, be sure to take a drive down Hana highway – a 68-mile stretch of road that connects Kahului with Hana. This very winding, narrow stretch of pavement takes you through lush, tropical rainforests with waterfalls galore. And at the end you'll find the Seven Sacred Pools. See below for our list of off-road highlights.

Haleakala National Park – Legend has it the great demigod Maui imprisoned the sun in Haleakala in order to lengthen the day. The park is known for its volcanic features and unusually clear night views. While there, be sure to catch the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala volcano, and spend the day exploring the crater. Pay special attention to the famous cinder cones scattered over the two-mile-wide crater. _www.nps.gov/hale_

Waimoku Falls – The falls are found inside Haleakala National Park, at the end of the Pipiwai Trail, and are the largest in Maui. Water tumbles its way down a 400-foot wall made of sheer lava into a rocky pool below. The hike to the falls is about four miles round trip, and come prepared to get muddy.

Iao Valley State Park – In central Maui, this gorgeous park is home to the Iao Needle – a 1,200-foot rock peak overlooking Iao Stream. The park also has historical significance: it was here that King Kamehameha fought the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790. This was another attempt of his to unify the islands under his rule – and this time, he won. While you are in the park, take advantage of the rainforest walks and the interactive exhibits at the nature center.

Maui Ocean Center – Visit a living reef with moray eels, octopi, sea horses and nocturnal fish. Or take in the sea turtle lagoon, with land and underwater views of the turtles. Check out hammerhead harbor to get up close and personal with hammerhead sharks, and take the little ones to the tide pool, to touch, pick up and interact with water life native to Maui. The Ocean center is dedicated to perpetuating coastal life and native species, all while showcasing Hawaii's language, mythology and history. _www.mauiocencenter.com_

## Can't-Miss Events

As you can see, Maui is full of exciting places to go and interesting things to see. There are also many festivals held on the island each year that may be of interest. Here are a few more places and activities you might want to consider during your trip to Maui.

International Festival of Canoes – Canoes came to Maui with the original settlers, and this festival celebrates and preserves that heritage. Watch canoe-carving demonstrations, long board surfing, thatched-roof making and participate in cultural arts lessons. At the end of the festival, watch the parade of canoes and the sunset launch of canoes completed over the course of the festival. _www.mauifestivalofcanoes.com_

Maui Onion Festival – Georgia has the Vidalia, and Maui has the Kula – onion. The kula onion is believed by many to be the sweetest in the world. This annual festival in Whaler's Village includes recipe contests, cooking demos and a special onion pairing dinner. _www.whalersvillage.com/onionfestival_

**East Maui Taro Festival –** Most people associate poi with Hawaii, and for good reason. This festival celebrates the importance of the taro (from which poi is made) in Maui's history and culture throughout the years. Look forward to poi poundings, a farmer's market and especially the taro pancake breakfast. _www.tarofestival.org_

**Source Interactive Arts Festival –** Perhaps Hawaii's version of Burning Man, this huge interactive arts festival is one in which the attendees ARE the art. Source suggests attending the festival with a heavy dose of grace and good attitude – and an open mind to boot. _Sourcemaui.com_ Maui's wide variety of cultural opportunities makes it the perfect weekend trip for those living on Oahu. For more information on what to do and where to go check out _www.visitmaui.com._
Chapter 21

Kauai

Kauai, another island neighbor to Oahu, is the oldest of the main Hawaiian islands. It's only 552 square miles, making it the fourth largest of the islands. As the 21st largest island in the U.S., it had a population of just over 58,000 in 2000. On Kauai, you'll find everything from cities and towns to tiny rural hamlets. Encircled with beaches that make up nearly half the total shoreline, this gorgeous island is also known as the Garden Isle, because of its lush tropical greenery.

The first settlers arrived in the 5th century AD and brought with them taro, the plant that would soon become a staple of the Hawaiian diet, and remains one even today. Centuries later, James Cook would visit the island as part of his tour of the Pacific.

There is no known meaning of the name of the island – officially, that is. Some legends say that the island was named by a famous Polynesian navigator, who chose to name it after his favorite son. Kauai was once known for a very distinct dialect based on old Polynesian languages, which has since died out. The island is also known for the Legend of the Menehune – little pixie-like people who are supposedly talented in construction and engineering and who are capable of building things like aqueducts and fishponds overnight. The Menehune are believed to live in the woods and today are blamed when things go wrong, such as losing keys or getting a flat tire.

Kauai was the last island to be brought under the rule of King Kamehameha, the ruler who brought together the islands that make up the modern state of Hawaii. It didn't join peacefully, however. Kamehameha was turned back twice before he finally managed to gain control of the island, peacefully this time. For years the people of Kauai lived as vassals of Kamehameha until their ruler, Kaumuali'I, ceded the island completely upon his death.

Kauai is a volcanic island with peaks reaching as high as 5,243 feet. At its height, Mount Wai'ale'ale is 5,148 feet. The eastern side of this mountain is one of the wettest places on earth with an average yearly rainfall of 460 inches. Because of the immense amounts of water traveling down the mountain and carving the rock, there are numerous valleys and canyons with tremendous waterfalls. The western side of the island is Waimea, which hosts the Grand Canyon of the Pacific – Waimea Canyon. The canyon is more than 3,000 feet deep and is part of Waimea State Park.

Like Maui, Kauai has a history in the sugar industry, and today its economy is supported almost exclusively by tourism. Many of the old sugar plantations are now used for ranching as well. Only the 118-year-old Gay & Robinson Plantation remains devoted to the sugar industry, although Kauai also farms tropical fruits and coffee. The island is also a wonderful place for whale watching during the winter and early spring.

## For the Art Connoisseur

Kauai is not exactly a booming arts center, but there are privately owned galleries all over the island, and many of the historical museums also have art displays. One of the best galleries is the Nani Kauai, _www.Nanikauai.com_. It specializes in local art, and features photography, paintings, jewelry and even vintage signs and reproductions.

## For the Foodie

Despite having so many rural areas, Kauai is known for some really fantastic food destinations, making it well worth the trip.

Plantation Gardens – Sit outside in the outdoor lanai seating surrounded by tiki torches for the full feel of old Polynesian Hawaii. All the vegetables on the menu are organic and from local farms, while the fish is caught fresh daily by local fishermen. Specializing in Pacific Rim cuisine with a regional influence, this is one spot you'll want to hit. _www.pgrestaurant.com_

Bar Acuda – Food & Wine magazine called it "the one great restaurant on Kauai" – and they just might be correct. This tapas and wine bar has a menu that starts with honeycomb from the North Shore with Konana Farms goat cheese, Mizuna greens and apple. Yum. _www.restaurantbaracuda.com_

Merriman's -- Chef Peter Merriman is known as a pioneer in the Farm-to-Table movement – and true to form, 90 percent of his ingredients are locally caught or grown. His innovative menu includes kalua pig, fern shoot salad and striped marlin sashimi. Take your pick of a mountain or ocean view – the dining room offers both – and pick a wine from the 1,000-bottle cellar. _www.merrimanshawaii.com_

Hanalei Dolphin – Hanalei is actually two restaurants plus a fish market – and not surprisingly is known for the freshness of its fish. Located on the banks of the Hanalei River, the restaurant offers a vast menu of fish caught in local waters and served in a no-nonsense fashion – just broiled. The chefs prefer to let the fish speak for itself. _www.hanaleidolphin.com_

## For the Nature Lover

Kauai is a nature lover's paradise. With endless trails, parks and preserves – not to mention botanical gardens – anyone who appreciates a little time in nature will be in heaven. Many companies on the island offer guided hikes and horseback rides, as well as helicopter and airplane tours. Visit _gohawaii.com_ for a comprehensive list of these vendors.

Waimea Canyon State Park – This park is a huge canyon – more than 10 miles long and 3,000 feet deep in some places – located on the west side of Kauai. The canyon was formed by water from the Waimea River, fueled by extreme rainfalls on the central peak of Mount Wai'ale'ale. The 1,866 acres contain many hiking trails, but not all are easily accessible, so it's best to do your homework before setting out into the park. More details can be found by following the links at _www.hawaiistateparks.org_.

Napali Coast State Park – Extending from Ke'e Beach to Polihale State Park, the 6,175 acres of Napali feature cliffs rising over 4,000 feet and five major valleys. Much of the park is inaccessible by car, but hikers, kayakers and helicopters are common sights. The park also provides the only access to the Kalalau Trail and Kee Beach State Park, where there are tremendous lagoons and coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and swimming – not to mention a tropical beach surrounded by coconut trees, ironwood trees and ti, an evergreen plant native to Hawaii. Follow the links at _www.hawaiistateparks.org_ for complete information on park access and trails.

Spouting Horn Park – On Kauai's south shore is what may be one of the coolest natural features of the island – a "geyser." Water has been known to shoot more than 60 feet into the air when the waves force it up into a lava tube and out into the open, often making a rather eerie hissing noise. Ancient Hawaiians believed that a lizard goddess names Kai Kapu was trapped in the tube by a fisherman, and the hissing sound was her angry roar of frustration. _GoHawaii.com_ has links to more information on this natural wonder.

Na'Aina Kai Botanical Gardens – More than 200 acres of forest and farmland make up these gardens, with more than 13 themed gardens, including a hardwood plantation and a maze created out of more than 3,400 mock orange plants and topiaries. Don't miss the Bog House, which contains an amazing collection of carnivorous plants, including bogwort and pitcher plants. Kids will love the Under the Rainbow children's garden, which includes a tree house, slides, pond, bridges, tunnels and even a train. Throughout the gardens you'll notice the owner's large bronze statuary collection.  
_www.naainakai.org_

Allerton Gardens – These gardens, found on the south shore of the island, occupy 80 acres next to Lawa'i Bay and were once home to the revered Queen Emma. The gardens concentrate on native plantings and feature special garden rooms, pools, mini-waterfalls, fountains and statues. You may recognize the gardens upon your visit: they have been the backdrop to such films as South Pacific and Jurassic Park. _www.allerton.ntbg.org_

## For the History Buff

For those of you who prefer to while away your afternoon soaking up the history of a location, there are several places on Kauai that you won't want to miss.

Kauai Museum – Featuring two floors of permanent exhibits and three rotating exhibit galleries, this museum focuses on the history of the island from its earliest settlers through the territorial period. The museum frequently hosts movie nights, book signings and other events, like the May Day Lei Festival.

Kilauea Light Station – First dedicated in 1913, the 52-foot lighthouse was hugely significant to ships making the Orient Run – it helped them navigate around the islands and stay on course. Today it's one of the most intact lighthouses in the country and sees more than 500,000 visitors a year. The keeper's dwelling is located apart from the lighthouse itself and is constructed entirely of volcanic rock found on the site. _www.kilauealighthouse.org_

Wai'oli Mission House – The mission house was built in 1837 in the beautiful Hanalei Valley. Today it remains much the same, capturing a brilliant image of rural missionary life in the 19th century. Take a guided tour and see the historical furnishings as well as traditional plants and trees that would have been on the grounds at the time it was in use. Find out more by following the links at _hawaiimuseums.org._

## Can't-Miss Events

Kauai is full of adventure – from waterfalls to rainforest to pieces of living history. The island also hosts several festivals each year that you might be interested in checking out.

Emalani Festival – Held each year on the second Saturday in October, the Emalani Festival offers one of the most authentic Hawaiian experiences, with hula masters and their dancers creating the event. The festival commemorates the journey Queen Emma took to the upland forests in 1871. Each year focuses on a different aspect of her legacy, so you'll want to come back time and again to experience the live music, historical displays, dance and an appearance by "Queen Emma" herself.

Koloa Plantation Days – This annual festival commemorates the history of the sugar industry on Kauai, including how the need for labor let to the tremendously multi-cultural population that lives there today. Past events have included golf tournaments, a triathlon, ethnic cooking demos and tastings and luaus. _www.koloaplantationdays.com_

Coconut Festival – This annual festival has been featured on the Food Network's "All-American Festivals" and is devoted to promoting and preserving the Coconut Coast region. There is a children's stage and a market with local artisans and Polynesian products – and of course everything you can possibly imagine to eat out of a coconut.

May Day Lei Festival – Showcasing the talents of today's lei makers, this festival works to preserve the art form. As a visitor, you'll be able to watch the lei-making contest, sample food and, of course, learn to make your own lei.Although Kauai is largely known as a rural island, it had much to offer visitors. Make a weekend trip to take in a festival or hike the trails, and you won't regret it. Check out _Kauai-hawaii.org_ for more information on where to stay and what to do.
Chapter 22

Big Island

When most people think of Hawaii, they are thinking of the Big Island. Its proper name is Hawaii, but it is locally known as the Big Island to help differentiate the individual island from the group of islands that make up the whole state.

The island is 4,028 square miles, making it the largest island in the United States and larger than all the other Hawaiian islands combined. There are competing theories as to the origin of the name: Some say it was named after Hawai'iloa, the Polynesian navigator who first discovered it. Others say the name is derived from Hawaiki, the place from which Polynesians are believed to have originated. The Big Island was home to King Kamehameha, who waged years of warfare designed to unite all the islands into one state.

The Big Island was formed from five separate volcanoes that erupted in a very specific order, each creating lava flows that overlapped the other. Today, the island still has active volcanoes and is considered to be growing. In fact, between 1983 and 2002, the island produced enough land (created from lava flows) to increase its size by 543 acres. The island is not terribly populous, with just over 175,000 residents in 2000.

Like the other islands, the Big Island originally built its economy on the back of the sugarcane trade. However, in 1996, the last big plantation closed and the island now makes its money on the tourism trade – although it is also known for its orchid agriculture. Thanks to the orchid industry, the island is unofficially known as the Orchid Isle. The Big Island is also known for being a prime spot for astronomy and you will find many telescopes located at the top of Mauna Kea.

## For the Art Connoisseur

The Big Island is teeming with small galleries with small art exhibits of both local and national artists. There are a few places you'll want to keep an eye on for bigger theatre and musical performances, too.

Kahilu Theatre Foundation – The Foundation offers a 24-concert performance season, presented in the cozy 490-seat Kahilu Theatre. Past seasons have included the Kamuela Philharmonic and American Bluegrass Masters. There are also free community events, such as a pianola artisans showcase and film showings. _www.kahilutheatre.org_

Volcano Art Center – The center is a wonderful community resource, offering classes, workshops, performances and special events throughout the year. A spring art camp, lampworking demos and a native species art hike along Kamehame Beach are just a few of their offerings. Check their Web site to see what performances are scheduled for the time of your visit, as things change often. _www.volcanoartcenter.org_

## For the Foodie

The Big Island is a haven for foodies, even those who shy away from resort-style dining. There are wonderful eateries to be found in every nook and cranny.

Kilauea Lodge – Just a mile from Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, the Lodge is a local favorite, being particularly popular for its fantastic breakfasts. In fact, Honolulu Magazine and the Tribune Herald both voted it best bed and breakfast on the island (so think about booking a room here, too). Go for the Sunday brunch, which includes smoked salmon Benedict and the famous volcano loco moco. While you are there, be on the lookout for Meatloaf and Lambchop, the resident cats. _www.kilauealodge.com_

Daniel Thiebeaut – Located in the restored century-old Chock In Store, this restaurant features an eclectic décor that includes lots of vintage Hawaiiana – but its best feature is the menu. Entrees include grilled bacon-wrapped beef tenderloin in a Thai red wine sauce with herb spaetzle – and the always fresh daily specials, many of which are vegetarian. _www.danielthiebeaut.com_

Monettes – Kobe beef tastings. Winemaking. Whale watching. Benefit events. Monettes has it all, including a new menu each day centered on local ingredients and paired with international items. And let's not forget the award-winning wine list of over 1,000 labels. _www.monetteshawaii.com_

Bamboo Restaurant – Despite its common name and being slightly off-the-beaten path, this restaurant is a favorite among the locals – and gets rave reviews from tourists regularly as well. The menu features fresh, locally caught fish prepared in a variety of ways, and there is local music on Friday and Saturday nights. While you're there, be sure to order one of their trademark passion fruit margaritas.

## For the Nature Lover

Like the other islands, the Big Island is full of natural beauty – and with myriad ways to experience it you'll never be bored.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park – This park houses two of the world's most active volcanoes, the most famous of which is Kilauea. You can tour the volcanoes, but also make time for the 10.6-mile Crater Rim Drive that traces Kilauea's caldera. Make sure your time in the park also includes a stop at the Thomas A. Jagger Museum, the Thurston Lava Tube and the Puu O'o vent. _nps.gov/havo_.

Pu-uhonua O Honaunau National Historic Park – Right on Honaunau Bay in south Kona, this park is a true immersion experience. The park was once a refuge for ancient Hawaiian outlaws. If the lawbreakers could make it to this area, they could undergo a sacred ceremony that would allow them to return to society. Take advantage of the walking tours that include a hike down the black lava shoreline, past ancient carved wooden images of the gods and a sacred temple called Hale Okeawe Helau. _nps.gov/puho_

Sadie Seymour Botanical Garden – A relatively small botanical garden, the Sadie Seymour is located on just 1.5 acres on the grounds of the Kona Outdoor Circle Educational Center. The gardens were founded to help beautify the Kona community and feature the plants of Hawaii arranged in 11 tiers according to their geographic origin. The gardens also contain an archeological site called Heiau, once used for the construction and blessing of canoes. Find out more on the Kona Circle Web site, _konaoutdoorcircle.org_.

Imiloa Astronomy Center – The Hawaiian islands are well known for being near-perfect places to observe the night sky, with their high peaks and clear, warm weather that allows for year-round observations. The astronomy center explores the origins of the cosmos and Earth's role in that development, as well as space explorations throughout history. There are daily live presentations on a variety of topics. While you are there, be sure to visit the full-dome planetarium – the surround sound will leave you feeling as though you are floating amongst the stars themselves. _www.imiloahawaii.org_

## For the History Buff

If you prefer to spend a bit of time taking in the history of the Island, there are many museums and historical areas that you might want to explore.

Lyman Mission House & Museum – The mission house was originally built in 1839 by missionaries from New England, David and Sarah Lyman. In 1931, the property was established as a museum and the home was completely restored. Today it houses exhibits including a collection of fine art artifacts and pieces revolving around the natural history of the area. There are also special exhibits throughout the year that demonstrate life as it was for missionaries 150 years ago. _www.lymanmuseum.org_

Hulihe'e Palace – For the latter half of the 19th century, this two-story palace was used by royalty as a vacation home. In 1925, the government purchased the property and today it is maintained and operated by the Daughters of Hawaii as a museum. The home showcases period furniture and historical items and the grounds contain several gardens and fish ponds. Each month, the museum sponsors a public concert dedicated to one of Hawaii's monarchs. _www.huliheepalace.org_

Kona Historical Society – The Kona Historical Society brings history to life on a 19th century coffee plantation. You'll also visit the H.N. Greenwell store, experiencing a general store as it existed in 1890. Look into the jeep and boat tours of the area and stop in at the stone oven to watch a bread baking demonstration. The society also offers a walking tour of historic Kailua village. _www.konahistoricalorg_ As you can see, every island in Hawaii has unique experiences to offer. Plan a day trip, a weekend or even a week – no matter which you choose, you'll experience something fantastic.

#  PART IV

InterviewsIn this section you will hear from 13 people about their experiences in their various Honolulu neighborhoods. You will learn how they chose the area in which they live, if they would make that same choice again, and why. They will tell you who they think would like their part of Honolulu, and who would not. And finally, they will tell you what they do for fun! 
Chapter 23

Andy Pike

## To Waipahu from on base, Tampa and Boston

Andy is a financial planner with Quo Vadis Financial Management.

How long have you lived in Waipahu?

I've lived Waipahu for ten years.

Is your home a house or condominium?

WE live in a freestanding house, although the plot is zoned as a condominium. The zoning is just a peculiarity of the way the town ordinances are applied.

Where is Waipahu and what is it like as a community?

Waipahu is west of the city of Honolulu. It's an interesting kind of town because there is a diverse population. It's outside of the city of Honolulu but in Honolulu County. There is an older section that could be called "lower income" and then there is a newer section where the houses and streets remind you of a typical modern suburban setting. It's a pretty big and diverse suburb of Honolulu.

Did you have your heart set on Waipahu or did you consider buying in other neighborhoods in and around Honolulu?

WE looked at a lot of neighborhoods around Honolulu. To tell you the truth, the price of the house was really the determining factor in where WE ended up. I was getting ready to retire from the military and so WE wanted to control costs as much as possible. So when WE worked with the realtor, it was pretty much price driven. As you probably know, Honolulu real estate is not cheap. I don't know what the exact number is, but the average price of a house here is well over $400,000. But up until the last couple of years, house prices have appreciated steadily, so buying a house here is really a good investment.

Is Waipahu more of an urban or suburban environment?

The older part of town was, back in the day, just a small town that was not really considered a suburb of Honolulu. But now where the newer houses are -- that's much more like a suburb and there's a lot of houses going up still. WE have a small shopping center and other things that you would see in any suburb, although WE don't have a lot of strip malls and stuff like that.

Do you worry about crime in Waipahu?

WE don't worry about it in our part of town, no. And Honolulu generally has a very low crime rate.

Do you have children and is it easy to find childcare in Waipahu?

Yes, WE have a nine-year-old. Of course, WE don't worry about childcare during the school year. But after school and during the summer, my wife is stay-at-home mom, so We're lucky. WE don't have to worry about daycare. When WE do go out, our babysitters are the older children of people WE are friends with around the neighborhood.

Speaking of your neighborhood friends, was it hard to meet people when you moved to Waipahu?

Not really. Our neighborhood is kind of a new construction. So as new houses were built and new people moved in, WE would meet them. And people here a very friendly, and, as you know, the whole atmosphere around Honolulu is very laid back. People enjoy the easy kind of living here and they like to socialize. WE have lots of barbecues and house parties in our neighborhood.

Do you work in the city of Honolulu? What's your commute like?

I work in at a financial planning firm in Aiea, which is east of Waipahu and quite a bit closer in to the city. It's a pretty big established city. There's a lot of everything in Aiea. As for the commute, if there's absolutely no traffic, it takes me about 15 minutes to get to work. But if the traffic is heavy, it can take me as long as an hour to get to work. That's why I prefer to come into the office early. It shortens my commute.

Would you have any advice for the newcomer regarding transportation or traffic in Waipahu and the city of Honolulu?

Naturally, an awful lot depends on where you work because traffic here . . . well, pretty much it's a crapshoot. Because We're on an island, there's really only a few ways to get from West to East, and if there's any kind of bad traffic, then you're just plain stuck. I live about 11 miles from work, and a few times it's taken me about an hour to get to work. The city's planning to put in a rail system. I think construction on that is supposed to start in 2012 and it's going to go from pretty far out West into downtown Honolulu. When that's up and running, I'll probably use that quite a bit instead of driving. WE also have buses that run out here all the way into the city of Honolulu, but I haven't used that. There's a park-and-ride lot not too far from my house and a lot of people use that, especially if they don't need their cars in their job or if they work in downtown Honolulu. I also know people who get up and drive into work at five o'clock in the morning -- like I do sometimes.

How has the real estate market changed since you bought you house?

Prices went up quite a bit until the recession hit. Our house's value went up to about $600,000, and WE paid about $350,000 when WE bought it. Of course, like everywhere else, real estate values have taken a hit over the past couple of years. I think the last time I checked our house was valued at about $520; it's been as low as $480,000. The market is kind of depressed. It's seriously a buyers market. From my perspective as a financial planner, I have a lot of clients who move away from here who can't sell because of loan to value problems; so they end up renting their houses and they can't rent for their mortgage payments. Right now, I spend a lot of time helping people figure out how they're going to keep their places until the market picks up again.

Do you like the quality of life in Waipahu?

Yes, it's comfortable to live here. As I said, the lifestyle in all of Hawaii is kind of laid back. There's not the hustle and bustle of your typical big city. I've lived in Boston and Tampa. It's nothing like there.

What surprised you most about moving to and living in Waipahu?

What I would say about Waipahu and Hawaii in general is that the cost of living is a little bit higher than the other places I've lived.

What would you say is the one "can't miss" event or place that a family living in Waipahu and Hawaii should be sure to experience?

Well, of course there are parks here in Waipahu and all around the island. WE spend a lot of time at the beach. Sometimes WE like to go to the North Shore and watch the surfers. That's always a good show. There's just so much of that island stuff to do. As far as activities, there's a big Chinese festival in Honolulu every year and that's kind of neat. Then there's the Punahou School Carnival, which is a fundraiser for the school and it's a big draw. It seems like half the island goes to that.

What places should you avoid if you don't want to see a lot of tourists?

That's easy. You need to stay away from Waikiki. There's also a big shopping center -- it's called the Waikele Outlet -- between here and where I work that draws a lot of tourists. But WE shop there, and, you know, seeing tourists is not necessarily a bad thing.

Did you live in Hawaii before you moved to Waipahu and, if so, how would you compare where you lived before and living in your neighborhood?

I lived on one of the military bases here for a couple of years. And, truthfully, there's really no comparison. Obviously, I prefer Waipahu to living on base. Now, though, living quarters on the bases are really being upgraded. They've contracted out living quarters to private companies and are building some very nice on-base housing. Basically, the first thing a private company does is tear down the old quarters and rebuild it. It's all updated and very spacious and new. There's still a little bit of the old housing left but that's going to be gone soon, too, and replaced by housing that is really a big step up for military personnel.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Waipahu or in other parts of Honolulu?

That's a tough question because there are so many good restaurants. There's a really good fast-food kind of place WE like to go. It's called Loco Moco Drive Inn. They have a couple of locations and serve pretty much Hawaiian food. In fact, loco moco is the name of a Hawaiian dish. It's good comfort food and usually consists of a beef patty on a bowl of rice with an egg on top with gravy. Then there's a Japanese restaurant WE like right here in Waipahu that's called Kunio. Then there's a Korean restaurant downtown called Sorabol.

Is there anything that you don't like about living in Waipahu or living in Hawaii?

I'd have to say that the traffic situation is not good, mostly because there's just not many ways to get from here into the city. Also, when I want to travel off island, it takes five hours just to get to California. And so, going anywhere on the mainland is a full day of travel and that can be a pain. But that's the price of living in paradise.

What advice would you give people who are house hunting in Honolulu and especially in Waipahu?

Well, for one thing, you should work with a realtor. It's better to have a realtor working for you than to try to do it on your own. Then I would say you probably want to scope out where your work is relative to where you want to buy. Part of the problem is that as you go east from here, the closer in you go, the more expensive houses become. The houses aren't necessarily that much bigger or nicer; it's just like most places -- the location of the house is a big factor in price.

Do you have an anecdote that encapsulates your living experience in Waipahu?

I would say probably that the New Years, Fourth of July and Chinese New Years celebrations here are unique. People here love fireworks. Some of these guys on my block will spend thousands of dollars on fireworks. A couple of houses down on both sides of me, they really put on a show. You don't need to go down into Honolulu on New Years because my neighbors put on shows that are just as good. One thing -- you better be prepared to stay up until two or three in the morning, because that's how long their shows go on. There's basically a sulfur haze over the neighborhood that doesn't clear until well into the next day. That's one thing everybody looks forward to every year.
Chapter 24

Justin Willingham

## To Waianae from Michigan

Justin was a beloved member of Team Lally who WE tragically lost much too early in 2011. Although he is gone, We've chosen to include his interview in this book in order to help his spirit and expertise live on.

Please tell me a little bit about yourself.

I'm a single 21 year old with no children. I repair computers for RE/MAX as well personal computers. I was born in Macomb, Michigan, which is highly known for General Motors.

How long have you lived in Waianae?

I've lived in Waianae for 6 months. But when I was younger I lived here for 3 years.

Is your home a house or condominium?

My rental home is a 5-bedroom, 1-bathroom house.

Where is Waianae and what is it like as a community?

It's set far back toward the west side of the island. It's in a very quiet location.

Is Waianae more of an urban or suburban environment?

I think it's more suburban because it's not a huge city. It's also very laid back.

Do you worry about crime in Waianae?

Yes, crime is everywhere. I just do not choose to seek it out.

Was it hard to meet people when you moved to Waianae?

It was hard because I normally stay to myself. But soon I started to love the people and began to open up.

Do you work in the city of Honolulu? What's your commute like?

I currently work in Kapolei and the bus takes a while but it's actually nice to have "me" time.

Would you have any advice for the newcomer regarding transportation or traffic in Waianae and the city of Honolulu?

For Honolulu, don't be a person with "Road Rage" because from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. the traffic is horrible. Really the bus is the most amazing thing on the Island. It's cheap and much less expensive then gas.

What surprised you most about moving to and living in Waianae?

The cost of rent for the 5-bedroom house I live in is $1,750 per month.

What would you say is the one "can't miss" event or place that a family living in Waianae and Hawaii should be sure to experience?

I guess the "can't miss event" is during the holidays. The people of Hawaii band together to take care of each other. That is really a true event... to see people helping each other.

What places should you avoid if you don't want to see a lot of tourists?

Ha, ha. Waikiki. But really the Island is a mixture of everything and without tourists Hawaii would not be Hawaii. So WE must take pride that WE are not in as bad of shape financially as the rest of the U.S. So WE embrace the tourists!

Did you live in Hawaii before you moved to Waianae and, if so, how would you compare where you lived before and living in your neighborhood?

The funny thing is I've always lived in Waianae, even when I lived here before as a child. Being from the mainland I'd much rather live in a city environment. The quiet calm area just isn't enough for me.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Waianae or in other parts of Honolulu?

Yes, a small little place called Waianae Chinese Kitchen. They have the most amazing food. Also, in Ala Moana the Curry House is a place that I've just discovered.

Is there anything that you don't like about living in Waianae or living in Hawaii?

The fact that it takes almost 2 hours to get into town, and an hour to get to Kapolei.
Chapter 25

Derrell Saul

To Ewa Beach from Oklahoma

How long have you lived in Ewa Beach?

It's been 29 years this month in Hawaii and about 26 in Ewa Beach.

Where is Ewa Beach, and what's it like as a community?

It's on the leeward part of Hawaii. It's West Oahu. In the 80s and 90s Ewa Beach was filled with sugar cane fields. The cane fields are all gone now and most of it has been turned into thousands and thousands of homes. The main road that runs all the way through here used to have only two or three stop lights and now there's a couple dozen. The community really has grown. I used to view it as older but now there's a lot of newer houses and a lot of nice houses.

Did you have your heart set on Ewa beach or did you consider buying in other neighborhoods in and around Honolulu?

Actually the first home we bought 20 years ago was about two miles from the one we bought last year. When we moved out of base housing and bought that house we never really had our heart set on Ewa Beach. At the time that was what fit into our budget. When we bought the house last year we didn't know we'd stay in Ewa Beach, but it ended up still being the best fit.

Is Ewa Beach more of an urban or suburban environment?

It's a suburban environment. It has some strip malls, some gas stations, but the rest is housing developments and golf courses.

Do you worry about crime in Ewa Beach?

Ewa beach is big. There are some rough areas. My current neighborhood is one of the nicer neighborhoods and in this neighborhood I don't worry about crime at all. There's always neighbors home, always people around.

Was it hard to meet people when you moved to Ewa Beach?

It's probably easier to talk about the new neighborhood. We just moved in July. It was very easy to meet the people in the neighborhood. They are extremely friendly and outgoing. We love our neighbors on both sides and across the street. They are really neat people. Even when we were moving in, people were driving by and would slow down to smile and wave and introduce themselves.

Do you work in the city of Honolulu? What's your commute like?

I work in Pearl Harbor. It's about a 14-15 mile drive, and on a normal day when school is in session, it's about 40-45 minutes.

Would you have any advice for the newcomer regarding transportation or traffic in Ewa Beach and the city of Honolulu?

It can take a long time to get around. I would advise people to be patient and just accept it. You are not going to change it. Plan appropriately. I have to be at work at 7:30. I always leave at 6:30 and drink coffee and listen to the radio while I drive. I just make that my time in the morning.

How has the real estate market changed between the time you bought your first house and your most recent purchase?

There was a 20-year period in between purchases. It's a lot more expensive these days. But what struck me was that there were so many beautiful homes on the island and so many in our price range. It was like every day we'd look at homes and be like, oh wow. With the advent of so much technology, the actual purchasing process is much less painful. A lot can be done digitally without driving all the way to the Realtor's office.

Do you like the quality of life in Ewa Beach?

Most things here are really terrific. When people think of overall quality of life they think about how nice your home is, your access to shopping, restaurants and all that. Overall it's pretty good. We love our neighborhood. We're across the street from a golf course and across from a shopping center. The cost of living in Hawaii is higher, but he wages we get here are higher than we would make on the mainland so it balances out a little bit.

What surprised you most about moving to and living in Ewa Beach?

I've always thought of Ewa Beach as older, and we didn't think that we would want to stay there. Once we got to a position where we were looking to buy a new home, we thought we wanted out of Ewa Beach. We looked at some of the other places and they were quite a bit more expensive. I had originally resisted moving deeper into Ewa Beach, but there are actually beautiful places to live here.

The neighborhood I live in right now is just fabulous. It looks like an upscale neighborhood. It's clean and the people are friendly. A couple of years ago I would have never dreamed that was possible in Ewa Beach. It's now a really nice part of the island and it's much less expensive than other places.

What would you say is the one "can't miss" event or place that a family living in Ewa Beach and Hawaii should be sure to experience?

There is so much history here, and to me it is just fascinating. Whether it is the WWII history or the ancient history there is so much to experience. Of course the mainland has history too, but there's not the ancient history like there is here. When you come to Hawaii, if you want to make this your home, it's important to allow yourself to be assimilated into local culture and make that spiritual connection with the islands that the locals have. When you do that it becomes home.

What places should you avoid if you don't want to see a lot of tourists?

If you really want to avoid tourists, stay away from Waikiki. That's the hub. Sometimes its two to three years between my visits there. I think visitors oftentimes appreciate going to see things that appeal to local people. It's not that touristy things are all bad. When you visit, you should go to a luau, you need to go to Arizona Memorial and things of that nature.

Do you travel between the islands much?

I do occasionally. My wife does more than I do. I do love the neighboring islands. My favorite place to go and escape is Volcano National Park on the big island. It's just breathtaking and awesome.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Ewa Beach or in other parts of Honolulu?

There's some smaller affordable places that local people go to. We have all the chain restaurants nearby, and I enjoy those. Ewa Pointe Chinese is a great Chinese Restaurant. It's just terrific. It's definitely the best Chinese food I've ever eaten.

Is there anything that you don't like about living in Ewa Beach or living in Hawaii?

Of course, it is expensive to live here. It's a good sign I struggle with that question. I would just say that things are expensive and there is traffic and congestion. I don't like those things but it's the cost of living in paradise.

What advice would you give people who are house hunting in Honolulu and especially in Ewa Beach?

I'll answer this with a story. Before we bought our home we looked at another home in another area, near here, that was brand new. We found one there we really liked. I was pretty much sold. One day my wife and son drove to look at it right when school let out. It was a traffic nightmare and we knew we couldn't live there.

I'd suggest people go look at the home on a Saturday or Sunday, but also in the morning during rush hour and afternoon when everybody comes home from school. You get a much better feel for how the neighborhood is going to be like because the open house day is not what the neighborhood is going to be like.
Chapter 26

Bill Curtis

## To Ewa Beach from Chicago

Bill Curtis owns Ohana Plumbing and Contracting in Ewa Beach, http://ohanaplumbinghawaii.com.

How long have you lived in the Ocean Pointe area of Ewa Beach and where were you living before this?

We've lived here about four years. Before WE came to Ocean Pointe, my wife and I lived in Chicago. Let me tell you, that's a big change!

What part of the island is Ocean Pointe on?

We're on the western side of the island in the town of Ewa Beach.

What's your home like? Is it a house or condominium?

WE have a four-bedroom house.

What's Ocean Pointe and Ewa Beach like as a community?

This is an up and coming neighborhood. WE have a big new commercial harbor coming in. They say it's going to be the biggest harbor on the island. Down towards the harbor, there's lots of golfing going on. There's also a new Ernie Els golf course down there.

Did you have your heart set on the Ocean Pointe neighborhood and Ewa Beach? Why did you choose it?

We weren't really all that familiar with the different neighborhoods and towns on the island. But after WE started looking around and seeing what housing prices were in comparison to Chicago, WE found out that Ewa Beach is a good area for getting the most for your money house-wise. WE paid around 450 for this house. In Chicago, that will put you in some pretty big houses!

Is Ocean Pointe more of an urban or suburban neighborhood?

It's definitely more of suburban neighborhood.

Do you have many concerns about crime where you live?

Not really. WE don't have some of the stuff you'll see in some of the bigger neighborhoods or in the city of Honolulu. You see some petty stuff happening like everywhere else, but for the most part, the neighbors are really nice. Everybody kind of watches out for each other.

Do you have children and is daycare easy to find in Ewa Beach?

WE have a one-year-old and a newborn. As far as daycare goes, We're lucky because my wife's sister looks after the kids. That's kind of a funny story, because WE moved out here without having any family living in Honolulu, but once WE got here and started telling everybody how much WE liked it, my wife's sister came out here. And so, by the time WE started a family, WE had family in Hawaii.

Was it hard to meet people when you moved to Ocean Pointe?

No, not really. The neighbors around here are real friendly. There's quite a few neighborhood activities that people can join. For instance, there's an informal women's fitness group that kind of fits in to how people are living. I see a bunch of moms out in the mornings -- with strollers -- getting some regular exercise and socializing at the same time.

Where do you work in Honolulu and how is your commute back and forth to work?

My situation is a little different because I don't really have a commute. I have a plumbing business, and so I go all over the place around the island. The situation is that when you're going around the suburbs, it's not bad at all during the day. Of course once you get into the city and especially downtown, it does get congested. But, in comparison to where I came from, it's really not that bad at all.

What would your advice be to the newcomer about transportation and commuting in Honolulu?

Actually, the traffic here is really pretty good. We're near Fort Weaver, and it used to be a real hassle getting around Fort Weaver, but they put in a new road to get around Fort Weaver and it's a lot better now. Another thing is that I found that the people in Honolulu are more like defensive drivers, which is a nice change from the kind of driving habits a lot of people in Chicago have.

How has the real estate market in Honolulu changed since you bought your house?

Well, WE got a pretty good deal on this house because it was a foreclosure. But since WE bought this place, prices have gone down -- I know that. But it' looks like prices are going back up now -- or at least they're not dropping anymore.

How do you like the quality of life in Ocean Pointe?

This is a great place to live -- and it's getting better. They just built a couple of new schools out here. One is, I think, a middle grades through high school, so that's a good thing. With these new schools and all the new developments in Ewa Beach -- like the new harbor, new shopping centers, new housings and new golf courses -- I would say they are making a good thing better. Of course, living in Hawaii is great and things in Ewa Beach are definitely improving.

What surprised you most about moving to Hawaii?

I would say the weather. It's always the same -- beautiful. You don't have worry about whether you have to wear a sweatshirt. Like in Chicago, one day it might be nice out, then the next day you go out and it's cold; so you have to go back inside and change your clothes to handle the weather. Also, We're on the west side of the island, where it's dry; so you don't have to worry about dressing for rainy weather on this side of the island.

What would you say is the one can't-miss event or activity that a family in Hawaii should look forward to?

I would say that it's all the great beaches and other outdoor activities. The weather allows you to do something outside anytime you want. WE like to go to the beaches, but WE also like to go up around Diamond Head and hike the trails. There the climate is tropical; so you're basically walking through a rain forest when you take the trails. You see so many incredible things up there. It's just beautiful. WE also like to go kayaking on the East side of the island. You can paddle out to these small islands \-- they're about three miles out -- and when you get out to them, you look back at Oahu and wow!

What places should you avoid in Honolulu if you don't want to see a lot of tourists?

Waikiki is really where most of the tourists hang out.

Do you find Hawaii and Ocean Pointe specifically an expensive place to live?

Ocean Pointe itself is pretty reasonable. Food in Hawaii tends to be kind of expensive because so many things have to be shipped in from the mainland or other places.

What's your favorite restaurant in Honolulu?

It's Hoku's. It's located in the Waikiki area on the other side of Diamond Head. It's a fine dining type of restaurant.

Is there anything you don't like about living in Ocean Pointe or Hawaii?

No, not really. But I would say that WE probably would like to move over to the east side of the island at some point if WE can afford it. To me that area is a little more desirable. Here it's drier. On the east side of the island, it's greener, more of a tropical environment.

What advice you give to people who are house hunting in Hawaii, especially in the Ewa Beach area?

People should look for things like grocery stores and places that are convenient to shop at. Here, WE just lost a food store, so there's really only one place to shop for food right now. But the area is growing so fast I'm sure that will change.

Do you have an anecdote that encapsulates your experience living in Ocean Pointe?

Well, it's not really an anecdote, but living here is such a nice change of pace. In Chicago, it was always rush-rush-rush and the people seem more uptight. Here, it's more laid back and the people are more relaxed. I think there's also something about this place that helps with people's attitude in living.
Chapter 27

Joanne Barratt

## To North Shore from Los Angeles

Joanne is a professional photographer and owner of Island Style Images, www.IslandStyleImages.com.

How long have you lived in Haleiwa on the North Shore?

We've lived here for nine years. Before WE moved here, WE (my 11-year-old daughter and I) lived in Los Angeles.

What part of the island of Oahu is Haleiwa on?

We're on the North Shore, about 45 miles north of the city, but We're still in Honolulu County. The whole island of Oahu is in the county of Honolulu.

Is your home a house of condominium?

WE live in a duplex.

What's Haleiwa like as a community?

The North Shore is kind of a Mecca for surfers during the winter. Every winter the Vans Triple Crown of Surfing is held here. That's because the waves here are huge, probably the biggest in the world. This draws not only surfers but also spectators. So there's a lot of what you might call tourist activity surrounding the surfing here, and then there's the so-called off season when things around here are much more small town and quiet. But one thing always stays the same. This place is beautiful, great for people who appreciate the outdoors, the beach and rural living. It's a great place to raise children if you want them to appreciate nature and getting to know everybody in the town.

Did you have your heart set on living on the North Shore? Why did you choose it?

Coming from Los Angeles, I really did have my heart set on the North Shore. It was everything that I wanted for myself and for my little girl.

Is Haleiwa more of an urban or suburban community?

It's really neither. The North Shore is really out in the country, but it's not the country as mainlanders define it. That's because WE live on an island and everything is close by, really.

Do you have concerns about crime in Haleiwa?

Not here in Haleiwa; It's a safe place to live. Everybody knows everybody else pretty much.

Have you found it easy to find childcare in Haleiwa? And what about the quality of the schools?

When my girl was younger, it was easy to find childcare, but now that she's older, it's really not a concern. The school has an afterschool program, but she's not in it. I work at home and she has so many activities going on -- like surfing, skateboarding and outrigger canoeing – that she really doesn't need to be in an afterschool program. As far as the schools go, I think they're amazingly good -- as good as any private school. My degree is actually in elementary education. I've taught in schools, and our little elementary school is fabulous!

Did you find it easy to meet people when you moved to Haleiwa?

Very. This is a very friendly community.

Since you work at home, you don't commute, but what would you tell people considering living on the North Shore about commuting to Honolulu city?

Well, most people here don't like to commute to town -- that's what WE call the city. It's only about 45 miles to town, but by island standards, that's a long way. There's good roads all the way there -- 99 and then the H2 Interstate -- but once you get close to Honolulu, the traffic gets pretty bad.

How has the real estate market changed since you moved to Haleiwa nine years ago?

Lots. It's seems to be out-of-control expensive, to me at least. Little two bedroom shacks are going for maybe a million. Of course, most of those are teardowns, where people knock down the house and build big beautiful houses.

Do you like the quality of life on the North Shore?

I love it! I moved here specifically for the quality of life, and I'll probably never leave here. As I said, the place has all the good things that California doesn't have and none of the bad things that California is famous for -- smog, congestion, crime.

What surprised you most about moving to Hawaii and the North Shore specifically?

What surprised me? Probably how easy it was to fit into the community. People are so friendly here. That really did surprise me.

What would you say is the one can't-miss event or activity that a family living in Hawaii or the North Shore should look forward to?

I don't know, the whole thing I guess. But if I had to say, it would be understanding the lifestyle and the culture. You need to be sure that you like it, because it's definitely different. It's outdoors. It's surfing. Everything around here is based on the ocean. My place is only about 100 yards from the beach. In fact, I just came back from there.

You've probably already answered this, but how would you compare living in California to living on the North Shore?

Well, California was way too crowded. It wasn't a good place to raise my child. I moved here specifically because of that. It was so that she could be raised to respect nature and the ocean and being part of it rather being in a city with congestion and smog. WE have no smog here; the air is clean.

Do you find it expensive to live on the North Shore?

Yes, very. Everything is expensive. A gallon of milk is seven dollars; a loaf of bread is six or seven dollars. It's culture shock when you move here. Now WE have reverse culture shock when WE go to the mainland. When WE go to the store there, WE want to buy ten of everything because it's so cheap! Of course, the reason it's so expensive here is because everything has to be shipped in.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Haleiwa?

I like two here on the North Shore. One is Haleiwa Joe's, and the other is Lei Lei's Bar and Grill. There both good places to eat.

Is there anything you don't like about living on the North Shore or in Hawaii in general?

I would have to say the number of people addicted to crack cocaine. WE don't have that problem right here, but everywhere around the island, I guess everybody has some worries about drug crime. There are pockets in every part of the island where this is a problem. And, of course, people who are addicted are going to commit crimes to support their habit.

What advice would you give to people who are house hunting on the North Shore or on the island generally?

Well, it does take a good amount of money to buy here. The other thing is they need to be prepared for the difference in lifestyle. It's completely different. I know a lot of people who come from the mainland and left after a couple of years because they find out they don't like the lifestyle here.

Can you think of a specific anecdote that encapsulates your experience living on the North Shore?

Well, only that when I came to the North Shore, I found home. I have a really deep connection with this area and the people -- the land and the ocean. I just love it here. There are people who don't because it's a different lifestyle.
Chapter 28

Jason Cooper

## To Nuuanu/Waikiki from Kailua

Jason, whose name was changed to protect his privacy, is a commercial photographer.

How long have you lived in Nuuanu and where were you living before this?

I've lived here for 12 years, but I've lived in Honolulu since I was about 12. My parents moved here from Kansas and I grew up in Kailua, which is on what you might call the northeast side of Honolulu.

What part of the island is Nuuanu on?

Nuuanu is near the center of the island just north of downtown Honolulu. Despite that, WE are living right up against the mountains and it's kind of secluded.

What's your home like? Is it a house or condominium?

It's a five-bedroom house.

What's Nuuanu like as a community?

Nuuanu is a very old community. The King of Hawaii used to come here in the summer because it's cooler here due to its geographic location in what's called the Punchbowl. For example, it's usually about ten degrees cooler here than it is downtown where my office is. As to the "feel" of this neighborhood, believe it or not, there is still some association with the older Hawaii when people talk about this area. It's generally associated with what you could call "old money," although that is certainly changing. What is here are a couple of gated communities. They are older, probably dating from the 70's. And then there are quite a few older houses built in the 60's, which is when my house was built. In my particular neighborhood, I think the best word for the ambiance of this place is to say it's cosmopolitan, which is probably a good way to describe Hawaii in general. For instance, one of my neighbors was born in India and on the other side of me is a woman of Japanese decent. And, as I said, I'm from Kansas. There are also all different income levels in this area.

Did you have your heart set on the Nuuanu neighborhood? Why did you choose it?

No, not really. It was more a function of finding the right property that is close to my work. Even though Nuuanu is pretty much isolated, it is only about two and a half miles from downtown Honolulu. It's about as close as you can be to the city and still be sort of outside the city in the country.

Is Nuuanu more of an urban or suburban neighborhood?

Well, this feels more like the country out here, even though it's close in. When people think of Nuuanu, they do think about it as being out in the country.

Do you have many concerns about crime where you live?

No, not really.

Do you have children and is daycare easy to find in Nuuanu? And how would you judge the quality of the schools?

Well my children are pretty much grown (I live with my 18-year-old son), but I do know that there is a very well-developed childcare system in Hawaii. I think this is because in most families both parents tend to have jobs -- and it's been that way for a long time. So I think that's why there are so many childcare options in Honolulu. I would tell people that there are many different options to choose from as far as childcare goes. As far as the schools go, I think they are better than most people would say they are. There's also a thriving private-school community.

Was it hard to meet people when you moved to Nuuanu?

I had no anticipation of it being hard to meet people and it wasn't. But I would like to say that people here -- and I think in Hawaii generally -- are always cordial and respectful. But there is also a tendency for people to keep to themselves to a degree. I think this is because living on an island where space is at a premium, houses here tend to be smaller and closer together. This, I think, causes people to both want and respect privacy because of the close proximity of your neighbor. Don't get me wrong. People are not standoffish or rude by any means. I speak to all my neighbors on the street and things like that, but everybody also is respectful of each other's privacy. I think this also has to do with the Asian influence here. There is more of Asian feel to Hawaii as far as cultural norms.

Where do you work in Honolulu and how is your commute back and forth to work?

I work in downtown Honolulu and my commute is not bad at all. For one thing, I'm only a little more than two miles from my office. And the other thing is that I tend to go in to work at off-peak hours.

What would your advice be to the newcomer about transportation and commuting in Honolulu?

I would tell them that while the traffic can be bad, you're never that far from anywhere. Another thing is that Honolulu has an excellent public transportation system. It's called TheBus, and I believe it's been rated as the top system in the United States.

How has the real estate market in Honolulu changed since you bought your house?

Well, I would say that it's fluctuated quite a bit since I've been involved with the market. I've had a property since about 86 – a condo in Waikiki -- and over that time period, I've seen a general upward trend. But from any, say, five-year period to the next, it has varied by as much as 30 percent, I'd say.

How do like the quality of life in Nuuanu?

I love it. I think the quality of life is the most compelling reason to live in Hawaii. The real estate values are maybe too high, I think. On top of that if you are looking to have the typical house with a big backyard and maybe a pool -- which you could easily afford for what the average Hawaiian house costs -- then Hawaii is not for you. But I come from Kansas and the weather there -- with the cold winters and hot summers -- that's tough living in my opinion. Hawaiian living is relaxed, and I think the tropical weather has a lot to do with that. As well, I think that people here have an acceptance of different ethnicities and lifestyles, which is a real plus. I think that comes from the fact that everybody is a minority in Hawaii. Finally, there is the great natural beauty of the place.

What surprised you most about moving to Nuuanu?

Nothing, really. The only thing I would say is that living right up against the mountains there are potentially more natural hazards. I've never seen this, but my neighbor did tell me that a boulder rolled down off the mountain once before I moved here. It didn't hit a house or anything, but when I heard that I was a little surprised. That didn't occur to me when I moved here.

What would you say is the one can't-miss event or activity that a family in Hawaii should look forward to?

I think definitely the beaches. There are so many and each has qualities of its own. So I would advise people not to confine themselves to one beach.

What places should you avoid in Honolulu if you don't want to see a lot of tourists?

Waikiki. But I really don't have any problem with tourists, and I don't think most people living here do, either. Most people understand that tourism is the lifeblood of our economy, and so they are very accepting of people who visit here.

Do you find Hawaii and Nuuanu specifically an expensive place to live?

Sure, by the standards of most places on the mainland, it is expensive, but that is one of the compromises you make to live in paradise. The real estate is expensive, and you will not get as much house or acreage for the money that you will get on the mainland. Food and other necessities are also high, but that's obviously because almost everything WE need has to be shipped in from the mainland or other places. I don't know if this is good or bad, but recently Walmart has located here, and that might put downward pressure on prices. But I don't' see how Walmart will alter the cost of living here much.

What's your favorite restaurant in Honolulu?

That would be Chef Mavro, which is on the fringe of Waikiki. I think Chef Mavro is from Provencal in France. The menu is a set menu, which means that when you order, you are ordering a full dinner with multiple courses. Each course is paired with a different wine. It's definitely a dining experience, and you can plan on it taking a couple of hours. So it's not an eat-and-go kind of place.

Is there anything you don't like about living in Nuuana or Hawaii?

Well, I don't have this complaint, but I hear it a lot -- especially from people who are from New York City or Los Angeles or places like that. They complain that there really isn't much of an intellectual community here, and that is paired with the criticism that people aren't "professional" enough. And they are kind of right. If you're very ambitious and into your job, this probably isn't the place for you. In my line of work, it's like that. I know a number of other photographers and they are not tremendously ambitious or competitive. For that matter, neither am I. Islanders would say, on the other hand, that the people who make these complaints are workaholics. And I guess I agree. To Hawaiians, your job is not the most important thing in your life.

What advice you give to people who are house hunting in Hawaii, especially in the Nuuanu area?

Persistence is very important. And also lower your expectations, but I don't really mean that in a bad way. I think that the average price of a house in Hawaii is over $500,000. That kind of money on the mainland will get you a large house with maybe a pool and a two-car garage. Here, that money is going to put you in a house that is probably 20 to 30 years old. You're going to be living very close to your neighbors -- easements are extremely small. It's very Asian style. And also someone moving here should be aware of the general cost of living here. Another thing is you need to be prepared for a different culture. There is a big native and Asian influence on this culture. It's inevitable that the culture is different because no matter what your ethnicity is, you are going to be a minority here. I find that to be a good thing. Some people might not. And so people considering a move to Hawaii should be ready to adapt to the culture.

Do you have an anecdote that encapsulates your experience in living in Nuuanu?

Let me tell you about my relationship with a couple of my neighbors. That will do as well as anything to give you an idea of what it's like to live here. On one side, there is a man from India. He is a professor and came here after being a professor in Madison, Wisconsin, for a number of years. I think he and I are good friends, which might seem unlikely. But to me, it makes perfect sense because WE are really a couple of Midwesterners and WE think a lot alike. On the other side of me, is an older lady of Japanese ancestry, a really nice lady. She has dog, and I see her most days either walking the dog or going to get her paper. We talk; We're cordial. But I really don't know her that well, only that she is a quiet person who likes her privacy. So you see, living here is a mixture of friendliness and reserve or a respect for privacy.
Chapter 29

Angie Goya

## To Mililani from Pearl City

Angie is an escrow officer with First American Title in Aiea.

Can you briefly tell me a little about yourself?

I'm married and have lived in Mililani since 1977. My husband and I do not have any children.

Where is Mililani and what's it like as a community?

Mililani is located in the center of Oahu. It's very family-oriented and is a typical American suburb. WE really enjoy living in Mililani.

Did you live in Hawaii before you moved to Mililani and, if so, how would you compare where you lived before and living in your neighborhood?

Yes, I grew up in Pearl City. Mililani is very similar except Pearl City is an older community and the residents are older. Mililani has younger families, so I believe there are more activities here.

Did you have your heart set on Mililani or did you consider buying in other neighborhoods in and around Honolulu?

WE actually wanted to live in Mililani.

Do you worry about crime in Mililani?

A little, as crime can be anywhere.

Was it hard to meet people when you moved to Mililani?

WE have met our neighbors, but with most couples both the husband and wife work, so our time spent with the neighbors is a little limited.

Do you work in the city of Honolulu? What's your commute like?

No, I work in Aiea, which is about 15 to 20 minutes away from my home. When there's traffic, I can still get to work within about 30 minutes, unless there is a major accident on the freeway.

Do you have any advice for the newcomer regarding transportation or traffic in Mililani and the city of Honolulu?

If you work in Honolulu, try to stagger your hours. I believe this would alleviate some of the stress of traveling to work.

How has the real estate market changed since you bought your house?

There has been so much growth in Mililani since WE moved here over 30 years ago. As for the market, it's constantly changing, as it should. This way the market is corrected as time goes on.

Do you like the quality of life in Mililani?

Yes, very much so. Everything WE need is nearby, such as shopping, medical and more. WE could use a few more restaurants right in Mililani that offer a variety of eating experiences. Maybe smaller, simpler, healthier options and not fast food restaurants.

What would you say is the one "can't miss" event or place that a family living in Mililani and Hawaii should be sure to experience?

I don't think there is just one event or place, but there are many fairs and sports events for children. I think it's a nice family area to enjoy everyday life.

What places should you avoid if you don't want to see a lot of tourists?

Waikiki. WE don't get there often, but once in a while I like to walk through Waikiki. WE don't mind the tourists at all; they keep Hawaii alive and well.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Mililani or in other parts of Honolulu?

WE enjoy dinner at Kunio's in Waikele or Macaroni Grill in Ala Moana.

Is there anything that you don't like about living in Mililani or living in Hawaii?

I have nothing to really complain about.

What advice would you give people who are house hunting in Honolulu and especially in Mililani?

Take your time and be sure of the home you are buying. Get to know its location and the home itself. Be sure you are comfortable in it, financially and spiritually.

Do you have an anecdote that encapsulates your living experience in Mililani?

Life is simple, enjoy.
Chapter 30

Phyllis Podolske

## To Hawaii Kai from Kaneohe, Iowa, Minnesota and Oregon

_Phyllis runs the Real Estate Book of Hawaii and Oahu,_ www.treb.com.

Tell me a little bit about yourself and your community.

Hawaii Kai is in the city of Honolulu, on the eastern side of the island of Oahu. I have a business here selling advertising to realtors.

Where are you from?

I'm from Colorado, my husband is from Minnesota. WE met in Iowa. WE lived in Iowa, Minnesota and Oregon. WE moved to Hawaii Kai because WE wanted to. Before WE moved to Hawaii Kai, WE lived in Kaneohe, where it rains a lot.

How did you come to Hawaii Kai?

WE had an opportunity to start a business here. WE didn't need to. WE were living in Oregon. WE weren't really retired. The house was paid for and WE watched the traffic go by. Here, WE had this opportunity and WE decided to become part of the traffic (laughter). Now WE are the traffic. We're not watching it anymore.

I worked in Hawaii in the 90s and really loved the people here. Everybody talks about the weather, but that's not the deal for me. It's the people. People are wonderful.

Describe the people.

They're very embracing and allowing. Not judgmental people in any way. Very accepting of everyone and interested and they embrace you and include you as a part of their ohana (family). The spirit of aloha is what the deal is. People are nice to each other. People drive very differently here than on the mainland. If people are trying to merge into traffic everybody stops and waves them on. If there's a four-way stop it's like it's a giant contest about who can wave the other person on the most. It's aloha. They're very respectful. It's very nice.

What do you like most about Hawaii Kai?

I like the people the most. And I love the weather. I like our community. WE live on the marina with our kayak. I never thought I could live here. When I worked here in the 90s I thought it was only rich people who lived here. But here I am (laughter).

Hawaii Kai is very private, quiet and on the dry side of the island. WE have trade winds here in Hawaii that cause a lot of rain on the windward side of the island and on this side WE get just enough rain.

What do you like dislike about Hawaii Kai?

(After a long pause). There's only one road in and one road out. If there's a car accident on the road it's a long time getting home. But WE have great shopping, great restaurants, and great weather.

Have there been major changes since you've moved there?

We've only been here since 2006, so there have not been many major changes. WE live on the marina. There are many mountain valleys that that extend up from the marina into the mountains. There are a lot of houses up there. So there are mountain people and water people. We've got Costco, Safeway, Ross.

WE have lots of ocean sports. Kayaking, parasailing, jet skiing, water skiing in the marina, fishing, surfing, body boarding, and snorkeling. There's a famous snorkeling place about five minutes from my house and is called Hanauma Bay, the beautiful bay that's the marine preserve. It's maintained by the state and has lots of beautiful fish. This is where Obama was body surfing when he was a candidate. (Can't do it while he's president). Surfing, body surfing and hang gliding. There are mountains and wide open areas to land your kite off a cliff. Why would someone do that? They do.

Are there many non-Hawaiians?

Yes. There are a lot of stories about Hawaii Kai and why Hawaiians have lost their land and have been marginalized from their land. But there's no ethnic majority in Hawaii Kai, no majority group. There are a bunch of minorities. Roughly, Caucasians are about 30%, Japanese are about 39%, and Chinese are probably about 27%. There are revolving bunch of ethnicities who import here for about one or two decades. Many people are now coming from Brazil. Asians probably dominate in numbers. There are lots of military people on Oahu. However, African Americans are not heavily represented.

What's the family makeup?

Total households are about 10, 700. There are 8,400 family households. There are 3,400 households with children. There are more people like me, just me and my husband live here. More older people. Lots of retirees.

Is the cost of living high?

Yes. Very high. A townhome with about 1,350 square feet on the marina costs about $700k. It costs less to live in the marina in Hawaii Kai than on the ocean anywhere else, where homes can cost over $1 million. The only downside is that it's expensive to live in Hawaii. To live on the ocean in Kaneohe would cost over $1 million.
Chapter 31

Sandro Tasson

## _Sandro Lawn Services and More: 808-347-4462_ To Maka Kilo from Italy

How long have you lived in Maka Kilo? What brought you there?

I've been here about a year-and-a-half. I came here to visit friends of mine in the military. They were moving to Hawaii and I'm not sure I could've found it on a map, but I said, "Sure let's do it." I went back and forth to visit a few times till I finally got married (my wife is in the Coast Guard), and that's how it went. We really love it here.

Where is Maka Kilo, and what's it like as a community?

Maka Kilo is on the west side, but not on the west coast. It's on the windward side of Oahu, on the southern end of the western slopes of Waianae. Truly beautiful. Not crowded, either. You don't have too many big stores. It's on a hill, so pretty much all the houses have a great view of Pearl Harbor. Some people can see the farms of the highlands. It's windy, but the temperatures are great up here. You don't even need AC. It's a little cooler than down the hill.

How's the weather?

The weather here is good. It's warm during the day, and a little chilly at night. There's a little wind. We open the windows most of the year. The weather here is the best thing about this place. You can go to the beach every day if you want, or go hiking, wear T-shirts and short every day. That's pretty nice.

Did you have your heart set on Maka Kilo or did you consider buying in other neighborhoods in and around Honolulu?

We were looking to buy a house for two-and-a-half years, just browsing, basically. Then we found this one and fell in love with the place. The view is fantastic, and it's so quiet—we have some great neighbors. We said, "This is the house we want." Adrienne told us it would be a tough one to get, but I said, "I can wait 10 more years, I don't care. Don't show me any other houses." And somehow Adrienne made it happen.

How was it starting your own business?

I moved first with a tourist visa to see how it was—those last three months. When I started looking at colleges I applied for student visa to allow me to stay longer. But by then I was running low on money, and I didn't have time to work while going to college. So I went back to Italy. My previous boss hired me the day after I landed, doing landscaping work.

My friends called and invited me back to visit in Honolulu. I quit my job again and came here. I met my future wife, who was living next door to my friends. We eventually got married. After the wedding you have to wait five or six months for green card. As soon as I got my green card I started working at Home Depot. I saved up for a small truck and small lawn mower. In the beginning I was happy to get one new customer every other month, and now the phone's ringing all day. America is great; if you work hard you'll see results.

Is your area small-business friendly?

Yeah, I think so. I had previous experience in a country where they taxed you 60%. Gas in Hawaii may seem expensive at $6 a gallon, but in Italy it's $11. I mean, Italy is a nice country, but the taxes kill you. Retail taxes are 23%. Here they really make stuff easier for business. You can actually get permits right away.

Was it hard to meet people when you moved to Maka Kilo?

No. My wife's from Boston—she said the mainland is different, that they don't like people from other countries. But Hawaii is a multiethnic island. You have people from all continents and everybody here is welcoming and nice. You hear about the Aloha spirit, but you have to see it to really appreciate it and how friendly everybody is.

Is it hard to get to know the island natives?

I've got black hair and brown eyes. If I get a tan I can blend in a little. As long as I don't talk, I'm good. Depending on what area you go to, I think if you respect the locals and respect the places, everybody will be cool. Like most places, if you don't act stupid, you'll get along just fine.

Would you have any advice for newcomers regarding transportation or traffic in Maka Kilo and the city of Honolulu?

The traffic here is horrible. Even if you leave at 5 a.m. it will take you an hour to get to work on account of the traffic. I suppose if you're from California you'd like it because it seems like the Autobahn compared to Bay Area traffic, but it's still a mess. Definitely try to buy a house near where you work or you'll waste three hours a day stuck in traffic. My wife has to leave at 3:30 every morning to make her 5:30 shift. Without traffic it'd be 25 minutes. Even coming back it could be an hour, an hour and 20. I guess people don't mind because they take life a little slower around here.

How has the real estate market changed since you've been on the island?

My house went up at least $100,000. If I wanted to sell it now, it'd easily sell for $100,000 more than what I paid for it. In Oahu there are more buyers than sellers; it's the only place where the value just doesn't drop. The houses keep their value because the land is so limited.

Do you like the quality of life in Maka Kilo?

I love it. Like an example, when you're driving and you need to merge, everybody waves you in. It's a very easy going place, I think. Over here, everybody says hi to you, even people you don't know.

What surprised you most about moving to and living in Maka Kilo?

There's so many things. Like I said before, coming from Italy, America is just a happier place. You can save money and do what you want to do. In Italy everyone drives small cars. Over here I can afford to drive a V8 truck and still pay less than what I'd pay in Italy. There's so many things. Hawaii is a beautiful place—even driving to a job is like being on vacation. The ocean is so blue, the mountains are so green. We just really love living in Maka Kilo.

What would you say is the one "can't miss" event or place that a family living in Maka Kilo and Hawaii should be sure to experience?

I would tell them to go to the windward-side beaches. Waimanalo Beach is one of my favorite places on earth. It's not crowded, and the water is _so_ blue. The little ocean waves, all the palm trees, the snow-white sand. It's stunning.

How do you cope with the higher cost of living?

My wife is in the military so she's making the money and paying the mortgage. I have juice money. Without the military salary there's no way we could afford it. We'd have to rent a room. Some people here work three jobs to afford living here. They don't really—they take it easy, but you still have to work so many hours, it wears you out. We have a house that has four bedrooms. We don't have any kids yet so we rent rooms out—we have three people renting from us. And a bedroom here costs $800 bucks. The people in our neighborhood who can afford to buy a house are all either older or in the military.

Do you travel between the islands much?

I went to Maui a few times to buy vehicles. In Hawaii the trucks are beat up a little bit from work or they have a lot of mileage. But I went two times to Maui. It was worth it to fly there and have the truck shipped here. The whole process only took twenty minutes. I would like to go back for an actual visit and really see the island, though.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Maka Kilo or in other parts of Honolulu?

I like this new restaurant called Le Nonne. It's an Italian place. It just opened and the owner is this guy from Tuscany—he's really doing his best to make Italian food as authentic as possible even if you don't have fresh produce.

Is there anything that you don't like about living in Maka Kilo or living in Hawaii?

The traffic probably. That's about it. We only have one freeway and if there's an accident you are talking about hours. If there's a big crash, the freeway will shut down for four or five hours. There's just no moving.

What advice would you give people who are house hunting in Honolulu and especially in Maka Kilo?

There's some areas you can afford, some condos or small houses. Some other areas you have to take your time and take a look. It depends on your budget. Some houses are so close to each other you could high five your neighbor from your window.

For house hunting, after spending so much money you want to make sure to take your time and pick out the one you really like, and to find a Realtor who really cares about your decision. Adrienne and Attillio are good people. I usually don't recommend people, but those two take pride in their work—they really care and do everything they can to make you happy. They will tell it to you straight and not let you make a mistake.
Chapter 32

Paul L'Ecuyer

## To Kaneohe from Metro Honolulu and Massachusetts

_Paul is an attorney who specializes in mortgage foreclosure rights_ (www.hawaiiforeclosureseminar.com) _and is part owner of Platinum Mortgage Partners._

Can you briefly tell me a little about yourself?

I'm divorced with one son who is 14. My hometown is Leominster, Massachusetts but I've lived in Hawaii since 1977.

How long have you lived in Kaneohe?

I've lived in Kaneohe since 1992 and my current residence is a townhome.

How would you compare where you lived before to living in your current neighborhood?

Before I moved to Kaneohe, I lived mostly in Metro Honolulu areas. When I was young that was great as there was access to clubs, restaurants and social events like the theater. As you become more family-oriented, the non-Metro areas are enjoyable.

Where is Kaneohe and what's it like as a community?

Kaneohe is on the Windward side of the Island of Oahu. It's approximately 12 miles north of Honolulu. It's a middle-class community and is a great place for boating and fishing enthusiasts. It's definitely a self-contained community with all the basic necessities.

Did you have your heart set on Kaneohe or did you consider buying in other neighborhoods in and around Honolulu?

Kailua would have been an area that I would have considered. However, my district in Kaneohe is closer to Kailua and the school district is aligned with Kailua. It works out well since the property tax base is lower in Kaneohe but it has the proximity to the more upscale Kailua.

Is Kaneohe more of an urban or suburban environment?

Since it's a large geographical area it's really both. There are some very rural farm areas of Kaneohe and then there's the central business district and mall area.

Do you worry about crime in Kaneohe?

Not really. Kaneohe doesn't really have any large violent crime. There's just the occasional domestic violence and drug-related incidents. Crime in Hawaii in general is very low.

Was it easy to find childcare in Kaneohe?

My son is 14 now but when he was young there were many options for preschool and childcare.

Was it hard to meet people when you moved to Kaneohe?

No, it wasn't. Kaneohe has its own sports leagues, school leagues, Chamber of Commerce affiliates, and YMCA, so if you're open, there are opportunities.

Do you work in the city of Honolulu? What's your commute like?

I have a home office and also Honolulu offices. Even in rush hour my commute on a rainy day is 45 minutes at the most. The average time is 30 minutes, unless there are road accidents.

What advice would you give newcomers regarding transportation or traffic in Kaneohe and the city of Honolulu?

If you don't need to get out of the office during the day or have after work commitments, the bus express system is wonderful. It is one of the cheapest and best public transportation systems in the country and is always ranked high for safety.

Has the real estate market changed since you bought your townhome?

Yes. I bought at the tail of the last "spike" and then saw values drop in the early-to-mid 90s. It took a decade to come back. Of course everyone knows WE have seen a slide recently but that too will rebound. Kaneohe and Kailua are very desirable areas to live due to the proximity to town via the three major surface arteries.

How would you compare living in Kaneohe with living in metro Honolulu?

Some prefer to live in metro Honolulu but you don't get the feel of a real community there like you do in Kaneohe or Kailua.

What's the quality of life like in Kaneohe?

It's a great beachside community with very few major upscale establishments. For me, that's what makes it a relaxed place to retreat after a week of work in busier Honolulu.

What surprised you most about moving to and living in Kaneohe?

The biggest surprise was that the weather was not as drastic, and the commute was not as difficult, as many Metro residents claimed it to be. My commute was actually faster than when I lived in metro Honolulu.

What would you say is the one "can't miss" event or place that a family living in Kaneohe and Hawaii should experience?

There is an old-fashioned Christmas parade and lighting ceremony. It's truly a thing of the past and feels like old-town America.

What places should you avoid if you don't want to see a lot of tourists?

Waikiki, of course. As for Kaneohe there really are few tourists other than at the Buddhist Temple at Valley of the Temple.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Kaneohe or in other parts of Honolulu?

In Honolulu, Kincaides offers good, affordable food. In Kaneohe there really are none that I can think of.

Is there anything that you don't like about living in Kaneohe or living in Hawaii?

The cost of living and the taxes are the two downsides to living here.

What advice would you give people who are house hunting in Honolulu and especially in Kaneohe?

Be patient and know that if you choose townhome or condominium living over single-family homes, there are trade offs. However, it all comes down to lifestyle and time. A home takes a lot of maintenance in Hawaii due to the weather, which many people moving from the mainland don't understand.

Do you have an anecdote that encapsulates your living experience in Kaneohe?

I moved here with my family right out of high school. I was here less than a month and was walking to work in Waikiki when I heard "Hey Paul." Since I didn't know a soul I ignored it. Then I heard "Hey L'Ecuyer" and turned around to see a classmate from high school who shared a locker with me in my junior year. He was stationed at a local military base. That happens more often than people can imagine, even though Hawaii is the most isolated land mass in the world, and is nearly 3,000 miles from the nearest land mass. It really is a small world.
Chapter 33

Gabe Amey

## Home To Metro Honolulu from the mainland

_Gabe is a branch manager for the mortgage company HomeLoan Financial,_ www.Hawaiivaloans.com, _which specializes in helping first-time homebuyers and veterans get VA loans._

Tell me a bit about your background and how long you've lived in Hawaii.

I was born and raised in Honolulu, but I left for a few years and returned 5 1/2 years ago.

What do you like most about living in Honolulu?

The central location. There's minimal traffic compared to living in areas outside of Honolulu, referred to as 'town.' I have an easy commute, although traffic can be really bad for those who work in Honolulu and live on the west side of the island. WE have good access to stores and restaurants. Everything is in about a 5 to 10 mile radius in Honolulu. There are all kinds of groups of people of different nationalities in one location, which is great. Honolulu is the best location for lots of activities.

Can you elaborate on the different cultures?

There are people from different socioeconomic backgrounds. Honolulu has a melting pot of different cultures. Locals, along with whites, Chinese, Filipinos and Asians are all here. You experience this diversity in the restaurants, foods and activities.

What types of activities are there in Honolulu?

There are parks. There's Alamaona Beach Park with its events. The Aloha Tower Market Place, which has a nice shopping area, ship cruises, and lots of events. There's the Shell with its concert pavilion area. There are lots of concerts. There's also Kapiolani Park with its soccer games, rugby matches, and joggers. This park is located in Waikiki on the slope of Diamond Head.

What do you like the least about Honolulu?

Traffic is bad. The city is very crowded, especially if you want to be somewhere that's a little more laid back and relaxing. It's also very expensive. You pay a premium to live in town. If you buy a house in Mililani, for example, that same house can cost 50 to 100 percent more in town. A new home in Mililani for $600,000 could cost $1million in town. The closer to the beach you are, you'll find the pricier homes.

What about traffic?

My advice for newcomers would be to work in town and consider the traffic implications if you live outside of town. Double check the traffic to determine how far you live from how far you work.

Where do you like to go eat?

Honolulu has an eclectic mix of cultures. As a result, there are diverse foods, such as Thai, American, Asian, and Filipino. There are lots of different foods that can satisfy just about anyone.

What are some of your favorite restaurants?

One is called Ono. They have great Hawaiian food. It's a hole in the wall, but serves authentic Hawaiian food. For a party of two, you pay about $15 to $20. There's also LaBamba. It has great Mexican food. It's BYOB, so you bring your own booze, beer, or wine and invite your friends. You can have a party there. My favorite meal is steak and tortillas, with Spanish rice, refried beans, lettuce and tomatoes. You make your own burrito. They also have the best guacamole. This is one of the best guacamoles I've ever had.

What types of sporting events do you attend?

I don't attend a lot of sporting events. The University of Hawaii has football games. But I don't attend a lot of other events.

Are taxes high?

Property taxes are lowest in the country, but you pay more in groceries, housing, and gas. While the property taxes are low, most other expenses cost more in Hawaii. Gas costs about $3.50 to $3.80 per gallon.

How are the schools?

WE have good public schools. Most of the private schools are in Honolulu. There are about 10 to 12 private high schools. For example, Punahou High School, where Obama attended. There's also Iolani, which ranks high near Punahou. And there's Kamehameha – a school for children with native Hawaiian blood. There's also St. Louis, an all-boys Catholic school, where I attended. Most schools have a student/teacher ratio of 1/20 or 25. There is 1 teacher for every 20-25 students.

We're also experiencing problems with the public schools. WE have Furlough Fridays, which means every other week teachers are furloughed in the public schools. There are no such problems in the private schools.
Chapter 34

Ron And Sabrina Najarian

## At Home in Kailua

Ron and Sabrina own and operate the auto repair shop RNS Automotive in Kailua.

Please tell me about yourselves.

WE have been married for 16 years and reside in Kailua. WE have a 23 year-old son and are fostering a 1-year-old boy with the expectation of adopting him.

How long have you lived in Kailua?

WE have always lived in Kailua and currently own a beautiful house in Maunawili.

Where is Kailua and what's it like as a community?

Kailua is on the Windward side of Oahu. WE love the small-town feel with an updated look. Being small business owners, WE love the fact that the businesses in Kailua respect and support each other. Kailua is also a very family friendly suburban town with beautiful parks and beaches. In fact, Lanikai Beach has been voted #1. In our subdivision of Maunawili, WE are surrounded by mountains but are only 10 minutes away from the beach.

Did you have your heart set on Kailua or did you consider buying in other neighborhoods in and around Honolulu?

It was always Kailua! WE love the quality of life here.

Do you worry about crime in Kailua?

Not so much, especially with neighborhood watch.

Have you found it easy to find childcare in Kailua?

WE have been blessed with a wonderful network of friends who always lend a helping hand. It was never hard to meet people when WE moved here.

What's your commute like? How is the traffic heading into the city of Honolulu?

Our shop used to be located in Mapunapuna. With the new H3 Freeway, getting to work was a breeze. If you're commuting into the city of Honolulu, you should leave a little earlier during peak traffic times.

How has the real estate market changed since you bought your house?

It has its ups and downs but our home in Maunawili has always had equity. It has doubled in value.

What would you say is the one "can't miss" event or place that a family living in Kailua and Hawaii should be sure to experience?

The Kailua town party and the 4th of July parade with fireworks to finish the evening off on Kailua Beach. Honolulu also has wonderful local plays at the Daimond Head Theatre, The Hawaii Theatre & the Paliku Theatre at Windward Community College.

What places should you avoid if you don't want to see a lot of tourists?

Waikiki would be a place to avoid.

Do you have a favorite restaurant in Kailua or in other parts of Honolulu?

WE like Willow Tree for Korean. WE also like Buzzes for the salad bar, steak and seafood – and Assagios and Zias for Italian.

What advice would you give people who are house hunting in Honolulu and especially in Kailua?

Check out the neighborhoods during the day and evening. Also, be sure to ask people who live in the area for the pro and cons.
Chapter 35

Michelle Nakanishi

## At Home in Pearl City

Michelle is a personal trainer at 24 Hour Fitness in Aiea.

Please tell me a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised in Pearl City and have lived here for 37 years. I'm married and have two children.

Where is Pearl City and what's it like as a community?

Pearl City is in Central Oahu and is a middle-income community. It's more of an urban area and less suburban.

Is it easy to find childcare in Pearl City?

I have 3-year-old twins and have found it easy to find childcare here.

Do you work in the city of Honolulu? What's your commute like?

I work in Pearl City and only have a 5-minute drive to get to work.

Would you have any advice for the newcomer regarding transportation or traffic in Pearl City and the city of Honolulu?

The traffic isn't as bad as it is on the mainland. There just aren't that many alternate routes from one end of the island to the next.

How has the real estate market changed since you bought property in Pearl City?

I own a house and for me the value of the property has gone up.

Do you like the quality of life in Pearl City?

Yes, I enjoy the quality of life here and do not worry about crime in Pearl City. It's also easy to meet people here.

What surprised you most about moving to and living in Pearl City?

It's surprising how it has become such a central location to live in.

What would you say is the one "can't miss" event or place that a family living in Pearl City and Hawaii should be sure to experience?

The beach is really a can't-miss place. To avoid tourists, Waikiki and North Shore would be the places to avoid.

Is there anything that you don't like about living in Pearl City or living in Hawaii?

The only downside is that property tax is high and seems to be going up.

What advice would you give people who are house hunting in Honolulu and especially in Pearl City?

It's very important to have a good real estate person help you out.

Do you have an anecdote that encapsulates your living experience in Pearl City?

Overall Pearl City is a fun place to live and a very good place to raise a family.

# PART V

# The  
Newcomer's  
Guide  
to Honolulu

Getting settled in a new home can take time, but with information on your side, it doesn't have to be painful. Our guide will help you master everything from hooking up the electricity to finding the best place to play golf.

Chapter 36

Getting Settled

So, you're migrating to beautiful and bustling Honolulu, Hawaii. Thousands before you have been drawn here by the region's climate, economy and attractions. Before you can establish roots in your new home, though, you'll need to take care of the basics, such as hooking up utilities, getting your car registered, and finding a doctor.

## Utilities

Honolulu residents have some choices to make when it comes to the basic utilities they use in their homes. The city government oversees the water supply, wastewater, and solid waste and recycling. There are mandatory recycling laws in place in Honolulu, so you'll want to check those out at www.opala.org. The Board of Water Supply oversees all water use and billing, while consumers have more options when it comes to things like cable and Internet. You can set up all your utilities on your own, or employ a company like Connect Utilities (www.connectutilities.com/directory/states/Hawaii/Honolulu.html) to help you connect everything at once.

### Electricity

Unless you are renting a home where utilities are included, your first step will likely be to hook up the juice, so to speak. Almost all of the electricity in Honolulu is provided by Hawaiian Electric Industries, Inc., which owns Hawaiian Electric Company, Hawaiian Electric Light Company and Maui Electric Company.

The largest provider of electricity in Honolulu is Hawaiian Electric Company, 808-548-7311, www.heco.com. The rates vary based on which subsidiary provides your electricity and where exactly you live; however, the average residential rate is about 28 cents per kilowatt hour. The company does provide energy efficiency rebates and tax credits for employing solar energy.

### Natural Gas

If your home uses natural gas for heating, cooling or to operate a gas range or other appliances, you will need to contact The Gas Company, 808-535-5933, www.hawaiigas.com, the only gas company in the area, to set up service. The company charges based on a metered rate, and may sometimes charge based on an estimated usage rate, which is based on the average of the previous six months' charges.

### Telephone

Hawaiian Telcom provides local telephone service to most Honolulu homes, and also offers both long distance and wireless plans. Other long distance options are available through companies such as AT&T. Prices generally start at about $40 a month for local landline service. Plans with unlimited long distance are becoming more common, and usually depend on your monthly usage.

AT&T, 888-757-6500, www.att.com

Hawaiian Telcom, 808-643-0813, www.hawaiiantel.com

As broadband Internet access has become more common, a number of companies have started offering low-cost telephone service using a broadband Internet connection. Some of the most established Internet phone services are Vonage, 800-519-4007, www.vonage.com, and Net2phone, 973-438-3111, web.net2phone.com. These plans can cost as little as $25 a month, but keep in mind that if you choose one of these companies for phone service, your phone won't work when your Internet is down.

### Area Code

The area code for Honolulu is 808. That includes all islands out to the Midway Islands.

### Cell Phones

Both AT&T and Hawaiian Telcom, listed above under "telephone," offer cell phone service. In addition, here are some of the many companies that offer wireless service and phones.

Verizon Wireless, 800-922-0204, www.verizonwireless.com

Sprint, 888-211-4727, www.sprint.com

T-Mobile, 800-T-MOBILE, www.t-mobile.com

VirginMobile, 888-322-1122, www.virginmobileusa.com

Cell phone service will start at about $30 a month for a single phone, and the prices will go up from there as you add services, phones and minutes. A family plan with two phones and 200 minutes will run about $60 a month with most companies. This is an increasingly popular option, as some families choose to give up their landline phone in favor of using cell phones. Many companies offer free or low-price phones when you sign up for their service.

Another increasingly popular option for people who don't use their cell phones much is the pay-as-you-go plan. Under these plans, you pay about $20 for 200 minutes. Usually you have to add minutes to the phone every month in order for the minutes to roll over, or every three months to keep the same phone number. VirginMobile has a variety of pay-as-you-go options, as does AT&T and smaller companies such as BoostMobile, 866-402-7366, www.boostmobile.com.

### Internet

Oceanic Time Warner Cable, www.oceanic.com, the area's largest provider of cable television, dominates the market for high-speed Internet service as well. Oceanic Time Warner also offers bundled cable TV, high-speed Internet and telephone service with unlimited long distance starting at about $150 a month. Each is more expensive separately.

Hawaiian Telcom, 808-643-0813, www.hawaiiantel.com, also offers Internet to the Honolulu area. Like Time Warner, they offer a bundling service starting at around $50 per month.

You may also be able to get satellite Internet service, which is quite common in rural areas. Companies like Dish Network, www.local.dishnetwork.com/hi/, Wild Blue (a Direct TV service), www.wildblue.com, and Hughes Net, www.hughesnet.com, offer satellite Internet service. You will need to enter your new address at the Web site or with a customer service representative in order to determine if service is available at your new home.

### Water and Sewer

The Board of Water Supply, 808-748-5000, www.hbws.org/cssweb/  
display.cfm?sid=1069, controls your water service in Honolulu. When you call to start service, be sure to have on hand the date you want to start, your new address and your billing address, if it is different from the address of service.

New Honolulu water customers do not have to pay a deposit or hookup fee; however, the person setting up the account must be the same person who will be responsible for paying the bill. The water charges are calculated based on usage and your meter reading, starting at around $1.75 per 13,000 gallons. A full chart of water charges can be found on the Water Supply's Web site.

Water restrictions are common throughout the island in times of drought, usually limiting outdoor watering to evenings and mornings on certain days of the week. Honolulu does enact voluntary restrictions often, and also offers lots of information on water conservation as well as special programs and rebates. Check with the Water Supply Board to get a list of its water restrictions.

Honolulu operates on a sewer system that is regulated by the city. There is a sewer base charge of $50.40 per month for a single family home as well as a sewer usage charge. The usage charge is calculated by your monthly water consumption, although each family is also given two credits: one for water used in a non-sewage purpose (such as gardening) and one called a "lifeline", which allows customers to pay only the base charge for the first 2,000 gallons of water used. More information on sewer usage and charges can be found on the Honolulu government Web site, www.honolulu.gov/env/wwm/faq/sewer_service_charges.htm.

### Garbage and Recycling

The City of Honolulu picks up garbage and recyclable items twice a week from homes throughout the city. This schedule is always evolving, as more and more recycling is integrated into the disposal process. The city's Solid Waste Services, 808-768-3401, www.opala.org, is still working on getting standardized containers to everyone, so you may need your own 35-gallon container for waste and recycling. Bulky items are picked up for free at your home once a month. The city also picks up yard waste, which is used to make mulch and compost that is available for free to the general public.

## Driving in Hawaii

To register your vehicle(s) in Hawaii, you will need to register it/them in your home county or city. Hawaii requires annual registration of vehicles, and you can be fined for a lapsed registration; so it's a good idea to take care of your car matters soon after you arrive.

### Driver's Licenses, State IDs, and Automobile Registration

To make any changes to your current licensing or registration, you must visit a driver's license office in person. You will be required to bring along certain documents, including your current registration and license, and other identifying documents. To transfer your out-of-state license to a valid Hawaii license, you must visit a driver's license office and fill out all the relevant documents. You will need to bring along your current license as well as an original social security card (not a photocopy). To find the phone number of the DMV office closest to you and general information about obtaining a driver's license go to http://www.co.  
hawaii.hi.us/vrl/dlgeninfo.html.

To get a Hawaiian license, you will have to not only prove your identity but also take a written and eye test. If you fail the tests, you will have one additional opportunity to take the tests before a road test will be required. The whole process can cost anywhere from $10 to $40 depending on the length of time the license is valid (you have choices) and your age.

Drivers as young as 15 1/2 who have taken a driver's education course are eligible for a learner's permit, which must be signed by both parents. The permit must be held for 180 days before a road test is allowed. Until the age of 19, drivers are issued provisional licenses. Young drivers go through tiered rules that become less strict the longer they drive without any violations.

Licenses are issued for a period of two to eight years, and cost $3 a year. All applicants for driver's licenses will have to pass a vision screening and a written test covering road signs and driving knowledge. Handbooks are available online or at the licensing offices.

State ID cards are administered by the Attorney General's office and not the DMV, as in other states. The ID card is purely for the purposes of identification and does not grant permission to operate a moving vehicle. To obtain the card, you must visit the office in person, as well as provide your proof of your residency (such as a bill), an original social security card, a birth certificate or passport, alien resident card, and change of name documentation, depending on your situation. If you are under 65, you will have to pay a fee of $15 cash; if you are over 65, the cost is $10. Much more information and specifics are available on  
the Attorney General's Web site, _[http://hawaii.gov/ag/hcjdc/main/  
hawaii_id_cards](http://hawaii.gov/ag/hcjdc/main/hawaii_id_cards)_.

### Automobile Registration

Vehicle registrations are required to be updated yearly in Hawaii and your fee will be determined by the weight and usage of your vehicle. Proof of vehicle inspection is required for any registration, and proof of insurance is required for inspection – so your first order of business is to make sure that your insurance is up to date and legal in Honolulu. After that, you can get your car inspected, and then registered. As with most states, inspections can be conducted at service stations, car dealerships and mechanics. More information on car registrations can be found on the Honolulu government Web site, _[www.honolulu.gov/csd/vehicle/  
mvinformation.htm](http://www.honolulu.gov/csd/vehicle/mvinformation.htm)_.

### Parking

Parking is ample and mostly free throughout the suburban areas that surround Honolulu. Downtown Honolulu is a different story; so knowing the ropes can prove helpful when it comes to parking downtown. There are free parking garages, free validated parking for certain activities, and paid parking garages available throughout the city.

If you wish to stay in the same place longer than a couple of hours, you will have to choose one of the parking lots scattered throughout the city. Lots vary in price, so you may want to do a bit of research before heading out. Most of the lots in Chinatown start at about $3 for every half hour, with a flat rate of $7 to$8 during certain times. The rest of downtown is fairly similar, with the visitors' spots experiencing a slight bump in price. VisitHawaii.com is a good resource for both finding and pricing parking.

### Violations, Towing and Theft

Hawaii has created a Web site for its legal system, including traffic violations:  www.courts.state.hi.us/self-help/traffic/traffic_cases.html. If you receive a parking citation or moving violation, you have 21 days to pay your fine, which you may do in person or via the state's online payment system. If you do not pay within the set time, your fine is sent to a collection agency and a "stop" may be placed on your license, keeping your from renewing your license until the debt is settled.

If your car is towed from a private lot in the city, a price scale set by the state protects you. The tower cannot charge you any more than $75 per tow and $7.50 per mile towed. They are only allowed to charge you $25 per day for storage. If your car is towed, you will need to contact the private towing company directly to arrange to get it back.

If you suspect your car has been stolen or broken into, call 911 immediately.

## Broadcast and Print Media

### Television

Television reception is spotty in Honolulu if you don't subscribe to cable or satellite service. Most households can expect to get all the major networks without an antenna. For access to the hundreds of stations available these days, you'll have to purchase cable or satellite service.

Cable access:

Oceanic Time Warner Cable, 800-892-2253, www.oceanic.com

Satellite service is the other way to buy access to more channels. Those companies include:

Direct TV, 877-897-8131www.directv.com

Dish Network, 888-581-9813, www.dishnetwork.com

Because the infrastructure is different on the islands than in the continental United States, you may have to call to find out what the limitations are in your service in the area.

### Honolulu Television Stations

KHET (Statewide public television), Channel 11, www.pbshawaii.org

KGMB (CBS affiliate), Channel 9, 808- 847-3246, www.hawaiinewsnow.com

KITV (ABC affiliate), Channel 4, 808-535-0400, www.kitv.com

KHNL (NBC affiliate), Channel 13, 808- 847-3246, www.hawaiinewsnow.com

KHON2 (CW affiliate), Channel 11.2, 808-591-2222 www.khon2.com

KHON2 (Fox affiliate), Channel 2, 808-591-2222, www.khon2.com

### Radio

Honolulu radio listeners can access a wide variety of local and national programming through stations based in Honolulu and beyond. Below are just a few of the stations available to you once you reach Honolulu.

KHPR 89.3 FM, 808-995-8821, Hawaii Public Radio, www.hawaiipublicradio.org

KYHU 90.3 FM, University of Hawaii, www.ktuh.org

KQMQ 93.1 FM, The Q – The Beat of Hawaii, 80s Rock

KIKI 93.9 FM, I94 – Hawaii's Hottest Music, Hip Hop, www.hot939.com, 808-550-9200

KUMU 94.7 FM, Lite 94.7, Adult Contemporary, www.kumu.com, 808-947-1500

KAIM 95.5 FM, Christian Music, www.thefishhawaii.com, 808-296-3474

KHNR 97.5, News Radio, www.khnr.com, 808-533-0065

KDNN 98.5 FM, Hawaiian Style & Reggae, www.ir985.com, 808-550-9200

KHUI 99.5 FM, Hot Adult Contemporary

KCCN 100.3 FM, Ethnic, www.kccn100fm.com, 808-275-1000

KINE 105.1 FM, Ethnic, www.hawaiian105.com, 808-275-1000

KSSK 590 AM, Adult Contemporary, www.ksskradio.com, 808-520-9200

KHNR 650 AM, News/Talk, www.khnr.com, 808-533-0065

KORL 690, Children's Radio

KGU 760 AM, Christian Talk, www.kguradio.com, 808-533-0065\

KHVH 830 AM, Talk, www.khvhradio.com, 808-550-9200

KZOO 1210 AM, J-Pop, www.kzoohawaii.com

KKEA 1420 AM, Sports Radio, www.sportsradio1420.com, 808-534-7107

iHeart Radio: Listen to hundreds of radio stations from more than 150 US cities. A Team Lally favorite! http://www.iheart.com/

### Newspapers and Magazines

The Honolulu Star Advertiser, 808-538-6397, www.honoluluadvertiser.com, Local Magazines

Honolulu Magazine, 808-534-7541, www.honolulumagazine.com

Hawaii Business Magazine, 808-537-9500, www.hawaiibusiness.com

Honolulu Streets Magazine, 541-621-1830, www.honolulustreetsmagazine.com

Pacific Magazine, www.pacificmagazine.net

Hawaii Skin Diver, 808-843-8182, www.hawaiiskindiver.com

Hawaii Fishing News, 808-395-4499, www.hawaiifishingnews.com

### Blogs

A number of blogs (that's Web logs to the uninitiated) are cropping up where people discuss all kinds of local issues. These tend to come and go pretty quickly, but here is a sampling of what's available at the moment:

The Tasty Island, <http://tastyislandhawaii.com/blog>

City Pulse, www.honolulumagazine.com/Honolulu-Magazine/City-Pulse

Guilty Pleasures,  www.honolulumagazine.com/Honolulu-Magazine/Guilty-Pleasures

The Hitt List, www.honolulumagazine.com/Honolulu-Magazine/The-Hitt-List

Volcanic Ash, www.volcanicash.honadvblogs.com

Homespun Honolulu, www.homespunhonolulu.com

## Official Documents

### Voter Registration

Hawaii has come late to the party as far as early voting, although voters in the past could effectively vote early by registering for absentee voting, which did not require (and still doesn't) that a voter be absent from the state to employ this option. However, you still must register at least two weeks before and election in order to vote on Election Day at your assigned precinct. You can register to vote when you get your new license, at any of the licensing offices, but Hawaii also encourages mail-in registrations, so pick up a form at a local library, post office, satellite city hall, or any school in the University of Hawaii system. You can also print a form from the Web site, <http://hawaii.gov/elections/>. The HI Board of Elections, 808-453-8683, <http://hawaii.gov/elections/> is the place to find all the information you need about elections, including polling and one-stop voting places, upcoming election dates and sample ballots.

In Hawaiian primaries, you must select a political party (Democrat or Republican) and vote ONLY for candidates of that party on your ballot in order for your vote to count. Votes that do not adhere to this process will not be counted. In the general election this restriction is lifted and you may vote for whomever you like, regardless of which party you declare.

### Library Cards

Hawaii operates 24 libraries throughout the island of Oahu, as well as bookmobile services and libraries on the other islands. Most offer computer access, children's activities such as weekly story times, classes for adults, and other activities. A full list of libraries and the activities they offer are available from the state library, www.librarieshawaii.org.

You can apply for a library card at any library, and the card is good for all Hawaii library locations. To get a card you will need to bring a photo ID that has your current address or a photo ID with a bill, lease or other document to prove that you are a permanent resident. Residents from outside Hawaii can still get a card good for 5 years for a $25 fee, or a visitor card for just 3 months for $10. The visitor card may not be renewed. Once you have a card, a lot of library business can be done online, including requesting and renewing books, using a four-number PIN that you choose when you apply. Books can be returned to any location.

The library system also offers a telephone reference service where librarians answer questions that require short, factual answers. To reach them, call 808-586-3621. You may also use the online "Ask a Librarian" feature, _www.formstack.com/forms/?981621-yPo0Axi31z_ .

The university libraries at area institutions are also available for research, though most will not allow you to check out materials unless you are a student there.

## Passports

"Think ahead" should perhaps be your mantra these days when you're preparing for international travel. With the process for obtaining a U.S. passport getting ever stricter, you will need to allow at least 6 weeks to get a passport, and at least three weeks if you pay an extra $60, plus shipping, to expedite service.

The U.S. State Department, 877-4-USA-PASSPORT, www.travel.state.gov/passport, issues passports from its 15 regional offices. The Hawaiian passport office is one place to obtain your passport, Prince Jonah Kuhio Kalanianaole Federal Building, 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Suite I-330, Honolulu, HI 96850, but you can also apply in person at some area post offices. Forms are available at these locations and at the passport Web site:

3600 Aolele St., Honolulu, 96820

2330 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, 96815

335 Merchant St., Honolulu, 96813

2754 Woodlawn Dr., Honolulu, 96822

100 N. Beretania St., Honolulu, 96805

1450 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, 96805

1170 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, 96817You must apply in person if you are applying for the first time, are under 16 (or were when your current passport was issued), lost your passport or suspect it was stolen, or your name has changed. Otherwise, you may send the forms and documents by mail. Generally you will need to provide a birth certificate and picture ID for a new passport, as well as two passport photos. Contact the passport office for alternative forms of ID if you don't have these handy.

## Pets

Your dog, cat, or more exotic pet will likely find Honolulu as hospitable a home as you do, as long as your landlord or neighbors are welcoming. To bring Fido to Hawaii, however, you will also have to pass through some strict regulations for dogs, cats and other pets.

### Bringing your Pet to Hawaii

Because Hawaii is rabies-free, most pets will have to undergo a quarantine period of up to 120 days upon entering the state at your expense. To avoid a long quarantine, which can be both costly and stressful, your best bet is to qualify for the 5-day-or-less or direct release from the airport. Your pet should qualify for this program if it has been properly vaccinated, has an implanted microchip and passes other requirements.

To qualify, though, it is vital to follow precisely the elaborate and somewhat intimidating regulations detailed in the Department of Agriculture Web site: http://hawaii.gov/hdoa/ai/aqs/info. You should begin this process early. It takes a minimum of four months preparation to bring an adult dog or cat. A puppy or kitten under ten months will not be able to qualify.

There are a great many regulations for bringing pets into Hawaii. Animals past forty days' gestation are not permitted entry. If your pet has special medical needs, you must arrange its quarantine at an approved veterinary hospital prior to arrival in Hawaii. Airport regulations prohibit animals being released from crates at the airport, so you will need a way to transport the crate to your vehicle and then load it onto your vehicle; there are no baggage carriers available at the quarantine station. If you are anticipating direct release, your flight will need to arrive no later than 3:30 p.m., or there will not be time for your pet to receive inspection, and it will need to remain overnight. You may want to contact the authorities directly with your questions. Direct all queries to the following addresses: Animal Quarantine Station, 99-951 Halawa Valley St.,  
Aiea, Hawaii 96701-5602 or send an email to RabiesFree@hawaii.gov.

A number of animals are prohibited for entry or ownership in Hawaii, including alligators, geckos, gerbils, ferrets, hamsters, hermit crabs, snakes, wolf hybrids, and some birds. For questions about whether it is permissible to bring a particular animal, contact the Plant Quarantine Non-Domestic and Microorganism office, 808-832-0566 or 808-837-8413.

### Licensing and Pet Laws

Dogs and cats over four months of age in Honolulu must be registered, and must have a rabies vaccine to register. The cost of a dog or cat tag is $10 each for spayed or neutered animals and $28.50 for fertile animals. The Hawaiian Humane Society, www.hawaiihumane.org, 808-356-2227, has more information as well as the forms you need to register your pet.

The city's leash law prohibits dogs and cats from roaming unattended within the city limits, though this law is rarely enforced unless there is a specific complaint. Dogs must remain leashed while in public, unless they are in a designated off-leash area. Dogs are also not allowed on private property except by the owner's consent, so be sure to walk your pet only in public or designated areas. Roaming dogs and cats will be brought to the Humane Society, www.hawaiihumane.org. To report a roaming animal, call 808-946-2187.

Local laws mandate that pets receive adequate food, water and shelter. Pet owners are also required by "pooper scooper' laws to clean up after their dogs and cats.

Because of the unique environment in Hawaii, certain animals are not allowed into the state. Other animals may have to be quarantined for a period of 5 days before being released to their owners.

### Spay/Neuter and Rabies

The only mandatory spay/neuter law in Honolulu applies to cats aged 6 months or older that are allowed outside. Indoor cats are not required to be spayed/neutered, nor are dogs, though it is highly recommended.

### Acquiring a Pet

There is no shortage of rescue groups and shelters where cats, dogs, or even rabbits and birds await new owners. Even purebred dogs are available, largely through rescue groups who focus on particular breeds. Most will charge an adoption fee of about $65 that covers vaccinations and spaying or neutering. A good place to start any pet search is with your local shelter, where knowledgeable staff can find your pet of choice or point you to another source: Hawaiian Humane Society, 808-356-2218, _www.hawaiinhumane.org._

### Pet Recreation

Honolulu runs several parks and beaches where dogs can roam free for a spell without running afoul of local leash laws.

Ala Wai K-9 Playground, next to Ala Wai Elementary School (not an official dog park)

Bark Park, Diamond Head Rd. at 18th Ave.

Hawaii Kai Dog Park, Keahole St. at the end of the Hawaii Kai Park & Ride

Moanalua Dog Park, Moanalua Community Park off Pu'uola Rd.

Mililani Dog Park, 95-1069 Ukuwai St.

McInerny Dog Park, Hawaiian Human Society

Area 19 Dog Park: Ewa Gentry Beach

## Crime and Safety

If you've been looking for a place with a low crime rate, congratulations! In 2008, Honolulu was found to have the lowest per-capita crime rate out of cities with a population of over 500,000.

Like any urban area, Honolulu has its share of high-profile crimes. In recent years, the island town has also seen an uptick in property crimes and drug use in both urban and rural areas. But generally, the crime rate in Honolulu is below average for its size. Of course, that doesn't mean you shouldn't take precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit, solitary or otherwise dangerous situations. If you want to know how often certain crimes occur in certain areas, the Honolulu police department keeps an online mapping system that allows you to search reported crimes: <http://www.honolulupd.org/statistics/index.htm>.

Should you need to contact law enforcement, Honolulu (and the entire island of Oahu) is served by the Honolulu Police Department. To find them during an emergency, though, use only one number: 911. For all other matters, here is a list of the non-emergency numbers and jurisdictions for each department:

Honolulu Police Non-Emergency Number, 808-529-3111

Criminal Investigative Division, 808-529-3115

Juvenile Services Division, 808-529-3202

Fatal or critical accident investigations, 808-529-3499

Central Receiving Division, 808-529-3331Hawaii is also served statewide by the sheriff's department, 808-587-3621, which has jurisdiction across all islands and counties. They provide security to many of the state's hospitals, visiting dignitaries and Fort Ruger. Their particular duties vary in scope and function, but their mission is to always work in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies throughout the state, including the Honolulu police department.
Chapter 37

The Job Market

More often than not, relocating to a new state and city is a life-changing decision, one that can affect your family, your day-to-day lifestyle, and especially your employment picture. The quality of job opportunities tops the priority list for most people looking to relocate, and as such, a city or region's job market weighs heavily on magazines' and Web sites' "Best Places to Live" or "Best Places to Relocate" lists and ratings.

Honolulu is consistently ranked as one of the best places to "live, work, and play." For example, Sperling's "Best Places" (www.bestplaces.net) ranks Honolulu at number five on its recent listing of the 10 best places to live the U.S. And when it comes to the "work" aspect of that equation, Honolulu's job market ranks 32nd among the nation's top 100 job markets. Major employers include both large private sector employers, and state and federal governments. The U.S. Department of Labor reported that the unemployment rate for the Honolulu metropolitan area was 3.8 percent in December 2013, compared to a national employment rate of 7 percent. These characteristics add up to make Honolulu's strong job market both stable and diverse.

Public-sector employment makes up about 22 percent of total employment in Honolulu and is one of the reasons for the stability and low unemployment rate. This wide base of government employers provides protection from economic slumps. In addition to the numerous local, state, and federal agencies that employ a little over 100,000 workers, there are also dozens of large corporations (and many more smaller ones) that employ workers in the areas of trade and utilities, leisure, education, health services, military contracting, and financial services, just to name a few.

While Honolulu's public sector presence and diverse economy make for an overall strong job market, that's not to say it's a job seeker's paradise either. No region of the country is truly recession proof, and though Honolulu has fared considerably better than many comparable metropolitan areas, it's best for potential job seekers to get the lay of the land and evaluate opportunities relative to their own strengths, experience, and professional aspirations. Below is a collection of statistics and figures to help you become familiar with the opportunities that Honolulu may have to offer.

## What Jobs are Out There?

For 2013, _newgeography.com_ ranked Honolulu No. 22 on its list of "Best Large Cities Job Growth." And while this ranking is high, certain industries and occupations are favored in the Honolulu economy.

Honolulu County's four major industry sectors are government; trade, transportation, and utilities; leisure and hospitality; and professional and business services. These four industries account for about two-thirds of the total employment in Honolulu County.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor numbers for December 2013, the government is the largest employer in Honolulu, employing, as stated, over 100,000 people. In addition to the city being the state capital, the federal government also employs a substantial number of people, especially in the military. In the category of trade, transportation and utilities over 80,000 people are employed. This makes sense because Honolulu has recently expanded its harbor facilities – including a bustling foreign trade zone — and the city is at the transportation crossroads of the Pacific.

The leisure and hospitality industry employs over 64,000 in Honolulu, and education and health services employ over 60,000. Honolulu offers a wide range of career opportunities for those in educational services. It is home to the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Hawaii Pacific University, and Brigham Young University-Hawaii. All together, there are over 65,000 college students in Honolulu and approximately 34,000 students in the Honolulu Public School District. There are also some 30 private elementary, middle and secondary schools in Honolulu. The list of the largest employers in the healthcare industry is supplied in the list of Honolulu's largest employers below.

Of the 444,000 people employed in Honolulu, the professional and business services sector employs approximately 56,000 people in Honolulu in December 2013.

The fastest growing industry in the city from July to December 2013 was the leisure and hospitality sector; however, computer and electronic manufacturing, transportation and healthcare also saw increases in employment. Other important elements of Honolulu's economic base include trade and transportation, general construction, research and development, and mining, logging and construction These growing industries also pay better salaries to their employees than the median salaries in the leisure and hospitality industry.

Honolulu also is the top city in the U.S. in attracting investment money from Asia. In 2008 (the latest available data), over $9.95 billion dollars were invested by Asian companies and individuals in the city's economy. And so another attraction to Honolulu is the multinational flavor of companies and diverse population there. This dynamic inflow of money is complemented by stable public sector employment to keep unemployment low and generate new jobs.

Here is a list of major industries by non-farm employment sectors that complement the major employment sectors of government; trade, transportation, and utilities; leisure and hospitality; and professional and business services:

Mining, Logging, and Construction22,900

Financial Activities 21,100

Other Services20,600

Manufacturing 11,300

Information Technology 6,700

### In-Demand Jobs

If defense contracting, manufacturing and health services are some of the fastest growing industries in Honolulu's economy, it's no surprise that some of the hottest jobs listed below are associated with these kinds of companies. Of course, there are many more job categories that are strong in the Honolulu economy. Consequently, this list is not definitive but only an indication of current trends in the job market.

Mechanical Engineer

Traffic Technician

Network Analyst

Software Engineer, Applications

Research Scientist

Healthcare Professional

Education Professional

### Honolulu's Largest and Best Employers

In addition to the government agencies (at both the state and federal levels) that have made their home in Honolulu, a number of corporate powerhouses have also established themselves in the area. Thanks in part to Hawaii's position as a nexus of trade from West to East, its militarily key position and the natural beauty of the islands, many business and government giants have chosen to locate large facilities in Honolulu, and they've brought thousands of jobs with them.

Below is a selection of the area's largest employers. The list includes government agencies and organizations as well as private and publicly owned corporations.

Federal Government: The Federal Government maintains job listings by state. For Hawaii that address is _http://federalgovernmentjobs.us/job-location/hawaii-hi.htm._ There are numerous federal offices in Honolulu and they are listed in the yellow pages. If you have a job lead relating to a specific government office, it may be advantageous to contact that office, but the jobs site is probably your best bet for getting through the maze of government bureaucracy.

City and County of Honolulu, 650 S. King St., 10th Floor, Honolulu, HI 96813, 808-768-8500 (Human Resources Department), www.honolulu.gov; Honolulu County employs approximately 8,000 people in departments administering and supporting the running of the city and county.

State of Hawaii, Princess Ruth Keelikolani Building, 830 Punchbowl St., Honolulu, HI 96813-5094, 808-587-1540, _www.state.hi.us_ ; The State of Hawaii employs over 8,000 in Honolulu.

University of Hawaii at Manoa, 2500 Campus Rd., Honolulu, HI 96822, 808-956-8111, _www.manoa.hawaii.edu_ ; Over 20,000 students attend the University, which employs 1,272 faculty. Princeton Review named the University a "Best Western College" and an "America's Best Value College." The undergraduate program in International Business ranks 19th in the country by U.S. News & World Report: America's Best Colleges 2009.

State of Hawaii Department of Education, Office of Human Resources, Teacher Recruitment, 680 Iwilei Rd., Suite 490, Honolulu, HI 96817, 800-305-5104, _http://doe.k12.hi.us/personnel_ ; Hawaii's public schools are consolidated into a single statewide school system. Application for employment is made through this agency, with the exception of Hawaii's charter schools. Within the state system, there are seven school districts throughout the state. A single application automatically enters eligible candidates for all vacancies in Hawaii's seven districts.

Charter School Administrative Office, State of Hawaii, 1111 Bishop St., Suite 516, Honolulu, HI 96813, 808-586-3775, _www.hcsao.org_. There are 27 public charter schools in Hawaii. Their focus is "to address the particular educational needs of native Hawaiians." Each charter school makes its own hiring decisions, so applications must be made to individual schools. A listing of each school and contact person is contained in the HCSAO Web site.

Starwood Hotels and Resorts - Hawaii, 2155 Kalakaua Ave., 3rd Floor, Honolulu HI 96815, 808-921-4000, _www.starwoodhotelshawaii.com_ ; Starwood employs 5,500 people in 11 hotels and resorts in Hawaii with four being located in Honolulu and offering over 4,000 guest rooms for the Honolulu area. The four hotels in Honolulu have a 24-hour Job Hotline at (808) 931-8294.

Marriott International, 2155 Kalakaua Ave., Suite 710, Honolulu HI 96815, 808 792-8882, _www.marriotthawaii.com_ ; Marriott employs 5,200 people in Hawaii, operating four hotels on Oahu and ten total in Hawaii. In 2007, Fortune Magazine recognized Marriott as one of "America's Most Admired Companies." It was also named the most admired company in the lodging industry, for the eighth consecutive year.

Hawaii Pacific Health, 55 Merchant St., Honolulu HI 96813, 808 535-7401 _, www.wilcoxhealth.org_ ; Employing 4,300 people, this diverse organization operates three hospitals in and near Honolulu. One segment of the organization, Wilcox Health, operates a hospital in Lihue on the island of Kauai, and numerous clinics around the islands.

Hawaiian Electric Industries, 900 Richards St, Honolulu HI 96813, 808-543-5662, _www.hei.com_ ; Employing 3,407 people, this diversified company supplies power to 95 percent of Hawaii's population through its electric utilities, Hawaiian Electric Company, Hawaii Electric Light Company and Maui Electric Company. The company also provides a wide range of financial services to individuals and businesses through American Savings Bank, one of Hawaii's largest financial institutions.

Hawaii Health Systems Corp., 3675 Kilauea Ave., Honolulu HI 96816, 808-733-4020, _www.hhsc.org_ ; This "public benefit corporation" is operated by the state of Hawaii and is the nation's fourth largest public hospital system, employing 3,400 people. The corporation is made up of 13 hospitals and clinics that provide medical services to citizens on four Hawaiian Islands.

Alexander & Baldwin, PO Box 3440, Honolulu, HI 96801, 808-525-6611, _www.alexanderbaldwim.com_ ; A conglomerate headquartered in Honolulu, this company's major lines of business are ocean transportation, property development, management and food products.

HTH Corporation, 2490 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, Hawaii 96801, 808-923-8338, 800-367-2373, _www.hthcorp.com_. The HTH hotel collection includes the 837-room Pacific Beach Hotel and the 359-room Pagoda Hotel. In addition to the two Hawaii hotels, HTH Corporation owns office buildings and residential buildings throughout the island of Oahu. HTH Property Management manages all of the property assets for the corporation, which includes office and retail space within each of the hotels.

Kaiser Permanente, 2828 Paa St., Honolulu, HI 96819, 808-432-5850, _www.kp.org_ ; Provides integrated health care service to businesses & individuals. Kaiser operates facilities on the islands of Oahu, Kauai, Hawaii and Maui, serving 222,594 members in the state.

Wavecom Solutions, 1132 Bishop St., Suite 800, Honolulu HI 96813-2822, 808-326-9545, _www.wavecomsolutions.com_ ; This telecommunications company offers a range of integrated telecommunication products and services including local dial tone, high speed Internet, long distance, and special access and enhanced data services. Wavecom Solutions has more than 10,000 submarine and terrestrial fiber miles connecting the six major Hawaiian Islands.

dck pacific construction, 707 Richards St., Suite 410, Honolulu, HI 96813, 808-533-5000, _www.dckww.com_ ; A general contracting company predominantly focused on military and hospitality construction, dck is heavily involved in Hawaiian projects but does business in the Middle East, North America, and Guam as well.

General Dynamics, _www.generaldynamics.com_ , has two large operations in Honolulu. The first is General Dynamics Information Technology, which provides systems integration, hardware and software products, and engineering, management and support services. It is located at 155 Kapalulu Place, Honolulu, HI 96819, 808- 835-3520. The second is General Dynamics DCS, 3375 Koapaka Street, Honolulu, HI 96819-1869, 808-833-3151. This branch of the company is involved with Data Collection Systems in reconnaissance and surveillance applications.

Raytheon Technical Services Co., 2828 Paa St., Honolulu, HI 96819-4430, 808-441-6417, _www.raytheon.com_. Raytheon is an aerospace company with wide ranging capabilities. Raytheon Technical Services "specializes in training, logistics, engineering, product support, and operational support services and solutions for the Mission Support, homeland security, space, civil aviation, counter proliferation and counterterrorism markets."

ALTRES, Inc., 967 Kapiolani Blvd., Honolulu, HI 96814-2104, 808- 591-4900, _www.simplicityHR.com_ ; Hawaii's largest human resources company, this company serves as the human resources "back office" for hundreds of Hawaiian businesses. Founded in 1969, it could be a good networking link for job hunters.

BAE, 999 Bishop St., Suite 2700, Honolulu, HI 96813, 808-441-2500, _www.baesystems.com_ ; BAE is a government research and development concern focusing on remote sensing and photonic technologies and products. This company is the largest private sector ship repair company in Hawaii in the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard.

The Boeing Company, PO Box 30834, Honolulu, HI 96820, 808-533-3100, _www.boeing.com_ ; Boeing provides engineering and logistic services in support of the C-17 aircraft fleet.

Lockheed Martin, 3375 Koapaka St., Suite B-205, Honolulu, HI 96819-1862, 808-254-1532, _www.lockheedmartin.com;_ Lockheed supports various military operations in Hawaii, including testing of the U.S. Missile Defense Agency's Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) weapon system at Pacific Missile Range Facility (PMRF) on Kauai.

Northrop Grumman Corporation, 737 Bishop St., Suite 2850 Mauka Tower, Honolulu, HI 96813, 808-529-9500, _www.northropgrumman.com;_ Northrop supports Naval operations at Pearl Harbor in a number of capacities, including communications, logistics and emergency response management.

Monsanto Company, 2104 Lauwiliwili St., Suite 101K, Kapolei, HI 96707, 808-879-4074, _www.monsanto.com_ ; Monsanto operates seven locations in Hawaii. It is an integral part of Hawaii's burgeoning seed industry, which is now the state's largest agricultural commodity, valued at $176 million per year.

Booz Allen Hamilton, 733 Bishop St., Suite 3000, Makai Tower, Honolulu, HI 96813-3219, 808- 545-6800, _www.boozallen.com_ ; This company is a nationally recognized consulting firm.

Maui Divers Jewelry, 1451 South King St., Suite 210, Honolulu, HI 96814, 800-253-6016, _www.mauidivers.com_ ; This company touts itself as the largest jewelry manufacturer and retailer in Hawaii.

## Honolulu by the Numbers

When _newgeography.com_ ranks its "Best Cities for Jobs," a number of indicators are factored into the rankings: median household income, unemployment rate, income growth, cost of living, and job growth. It's these factors that many economists and industry observers use to evaluate the health of a particular job market and economy.

Setting all accolades aside, it's only reasonable for potential job seekers to ask: How does Honolulu fare in terms of these indicators? And the answer is: quite well.

### Demographics

Honolulu and Hawaii boast the most diverse populations in the United States. Following is a breakdown of population by ethic group:RACE/ETHNICITY, 2012

Source: U.S. Census Honolulu County

White 22%

Black 2.8%

Asian 43.3%

Native Hawaiian/Other Pacific Islander 9.6%

Persons reporting two or more races, 21.6%

Persons of Hispanic or Latino origin 8.8%

### Median Household Income

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Honolulu County had an estimated median household income of $71,262, "out earning" the state average by nearly $4,000. Moreover, the median household income for Honolulu County also outpaced the U.S. average by nearly $20,000.

But what do stats like the median household income mean when it comes to things like the "Best Cities for Jobs" ranking? Median household incomes are calculated by adding the income received during a calendar year by all of a household's members (15 years old and over) and then finding the average of that figure across a particular region. This figure is considered to be a general indicator of economic well being of households in that particular region. As a result, through an expert's eye, Honolulu's households as a whole are likely faring pretty well when compared to counterparts in the rest of the country. _Median Household Incomes, 2011_

United States $50,221

Hawaii $63,741

Honolulu County $67,019

Cook County, Illinois (Chicago) $52,516

San Francisco County, CA $70,247

Dade County, FL (Miami) $41,367

### Unemployment Rate

Since the economic fallout in 2008, Honolulu's job market has weathered the storm quite well, even in the face of a volatile economy.

In January 2004, the unemployment stood at 2.9 percent in Honolulu. By October 2011, it had risen to 5.6 percent, which compares to a national unemployment rate of 9.0 for the same month. Continued improvement is expected on the horizon in Honolulu. Additionally, most experts agree that unemployment in Honolulu will continue to fall in 2014.

### Cost of Living

The quality of life in Honolulu is legendary. The mild climate, the beauty of the island and the ocean combine with a culture that is more relaxed and healthy than so many other cities the size of Honolulu. But it can also be a pricey place to live. When considering employment offers from companies in "The Big Pineapple," take into account that the cost of living index is 163.3, compared to the U.S average of 100. That means you'll be paying more than 50 percent more for many products than you would on the mainland. (These numbers come from the ACCRA Cost of Living Index, which takes into account the variances in the cost of consumer goods and services for each region; it is considered one of the more dependable measures of the cost of living in U.S. metropolitan areas.)

The high cost of living in Honolulu can be attributed to several factors, including Hawaii's geographic isolation, which makes it necessary to import many of the necessities of life. At the same time, the scarcity of land on the small island of Oahu drives up the price of real estate. Housing is a big factor in the cost of living in this island paradise. So remember to do your homework on what a salary in Hawaii is going to have to be to provide you and yours with a satisfactory lifestyle. _City Cost of Living Index for selected cities:_

New York (Manhattan) 217.1

New York (Brooklyn) 177.8

San Francisco, CA 162.9

Orange County, CA 146.0

National Average 100.0

## How to Look for Jobs

Now that you've read about what kind of jobs are out there and what companies are likely to offer those jobs, a more important question remains: how do you find those jobs? With the pervasiveness of the Internet, "hitting the pavement" has been replaced by "hitting the search engines."

Nearly every major corporation these days posts job openings on their corporate Web sites. Others may choose to use online job-posting sites such as CareerBuilder.com or Monster.com to get the word out about open positions. As a result, your fingers can actually do a lot of job-hunting footwork. Here are some of the best resources for sniffing out job openings in and around Honolulu.

Corporate Web sites are some of the best resources for job postings, especially if you have a particular company in mind for which you would like to work. Employment opportunities are usually posted under the human resources sections of company Web sites. Some companies only advertise job openings on their Website so it's a good idea to regularly check company sites to see if anything has opened up.

CareerBuilder, _www.careerbuilder.com_ , is one of the largest online job-posting sites available today. According to CareerBuilder, more than 300,000 employers post more than 1 million jobs on the Web site. Job seekers can browse job openings for free and can even post their resumes for recruiters to review.

Monster, _www.monster.com_ , is another popular online job-posting site. Since its launch in 1994, Monster has become well known as a go-to place for potential job opportunities. Like on CareerBuilder, job seekers can search the site for free and post their resumes for potential employers to review.

CraigsList, _www.honolulu.craigslist.org_ , is probably best known as the place to post online ads to get rid of your unwanted junk. It can also be a great source for job opportunities, both big and small. CraigsList has become a main source for job leads, as many employers prefer to avoid the costs associated with posting jobs on sites like Monster and CareerBuilder. Job postings on CraigsList can be hit or miss, but if you have the motivation and time to sift through the postings, it's likely you'll find a great job lead.

Indeed.com, _www.indeed.com_ , is a great resource if you're not too keen on searching through dozens of job postings on CareerBuilder, Monster, and CraigsList. Indeed.com is essentially a search engine that pulls information down from job-posting sites and puts them into one free, searchable database. _Indeed.com_ doesn't always catch every post, but it can be a great time saver if you're in a time crunch.

_The Honolulu Star_ partners with Monster.com to offer job listings in Honolulu.

_The Honolulu Advertiser_ has a similar partnership with _CareerBuilder.com_.
Chapter 38

Childcare and Education

For families with children, one of the highest priorities when moving to a new city is finding quality childcare and quality schools. The task can be a daunting one when moving to Honolulu because, like many other quickly growing areas, there are hundreds of childcare options and a large number of public schools and private schools from which to choose.

Childcare and education options can significantly influence where you and your family purchase your home, especially if you're choosing to enroll your children in a public school where location determines which school your child will attend. As such, it's advisable to begin researching childcare and education options as early as possible. Below is a collection of resources that can be valuable in your research. They include a number of local and national agencies and other Web sites that provide tips and suggestions, maintain comprehensive directories, or operate helpful hotlines in addition to other services.

Please note that the inclusion of businesses, schools, agencies, and other service providers in this chapter are not an endorsement of any kind. To ensure your child receives the best care or education, never underestimate the value of thoroughly researching childcare centers, agencies, and schools.

## Childcare

When it comes to childcare in Honolulu and the surrounding areas, families are not without their options, and more often than not, it's not finding quality childcare that's the issue. Rather, it's narrowing down the options and then picking the 'right' option for you that can be tricky and overwhelming.

Luckily, there are some terrific resources available to families new to the area that can help bring the daunting task down to a more manageable level. A great place to start is PATCH, 650 Iwilei Road, Suite 205, Honolulu, 96817, 808-839-1988, _www.patchhawaii.org_. PATCH, according to its Web site, is a non-profit "advocacy agency [created] to improve the availability and accessibility of quality childcare programs in Hawaii." PATCH offers a free searchable online database of childcare centers and providers, while a comprehensive list of all childcare providers is available by request. Referrals can also be made over the phone. PATCH's comprehensive Web site also provides links to nanny referral services and wide-reaching parenting information, including state resources touching on a variety of issues. Special services are available to military families ( _www.patchhawaii.org/families/military_ ).

## Daycare

Whether you're considering a family daycare home, a childcare center, or a church-organized daycare, there are numerous options in and around Honolulu. For a comprehensive list of businesses offering childcare services, look under 'Child Care' and 'Day Care Centers & Nurseries' in the Yellow Pages. An extensive list of facilities can also be found at _www.thestateofhawaii.com/child-care_.

## What's Here

Honolulu offers a number of different types of daycare options ranging from small-group environments to preschools to more typical childcare centers. All licensed facilities must meet minimum safety, staff, and adult-child ratio requirements. Licensing oversight for child care providers (usually required by law for 3 or more unrelated children) is conducted by the Department of Human Services ( _http://hawaii.gov/dhs/self-sufficiency/childcare/services_ ). The Honolulu unit is:

Child Care Connection Hawaii Unit I

Pohulani Elderly Housing Project

677 Queen St., Room 400A

Honolulu, HI 96813

Phone: 808-587-5266

Childcare options are licensed according to three main classifications. The licensing standards for each are available at _http://daycare.com/hawaii._ PATCH provides a helpful grid considering the pros and cons of these three types ( _www.patchhawaii.org/files/content/families/licensing/  
Options%20Chart.pdf_)

**Family Childcare Homes** are operated out of a childcare provider's home. State law limits the capacity for a licensed family childcare home to six children, of whom no more than two children can be under 18 months of age. With an additional worker, there can be as many as four children can be under 18 months.

**Childcare Centers** include day nurseries, preschool/nursery school groups, preschool child play groups, parent cooperatives, drop-in childcare centers, and group childcare homes. Honolulu is home to numerous privately owned childcare centers as well as chain childcare centers. Some of the better-known Hawaiian childcare chains available in Honolulu include: The Cole Academy ( _www.thecoleacademy.com_ ), Rainbow Schools ( _http://rainbowschools.com_ ), Kama'aina Kids ( _www.kamaainakids.com_ ), and Seagull Schools ( _http://seagullschools.com_ ), which operates the Early Education Center in Honolulu.

' **License Exempt' programs** are not monitored by the state. These include programs that promote native Hawaiian language, whose staff members are exempt from usual staff training requirements. Someone who provides care for up to two children not related to the provider is also exempt.

### Questions to Ask

Regardless of what type of daycare center you're considering, there are basic questions you'll want to ask to evaluate the quality of care your children will receive and whether it's the right fit for your child and your family.

**Childcare provider and/or the childcare center manager** : Licensing merely means the center or provider has met minimal state requirements. You will need to investigate further to determine whether the program satisfies your other requirements. A very useful downloadable pdf file is available from the University of Hawaii at Manoa ( _http://uhfamily.hawaii.edu/  
publications/ChildCare/ChildcareTextnCover.pdf)._ This brochure, entitled "Choosing Childcare," includes detailed questions to ask and worksheets for screening childcare sites. Child Care Aware ( _www.childcareaware.org/en/resources/pubs.php_ ) also has a number of downloadable brochures on choosing quality childcare, including care for special needs children. These are available in English and Spanish. This Web site contains other useful tools for making your childcare decisions, including a detailed work sheet for budgeting childcare ( _partners.leadfusion.com/tools/naccrra/  
budget09/tool.fcs_).

**Other parents** : Don't be afraid to ask other parents what their experiences have been like. Ask questions about what they like and dislike about the center's program and procedures, the dependability of the childcare provider, and whether they and their children feel comfortable at the center or home.

**Yourself** : You are first and foremost looking for a childcare option that fits what your family and your child need. Make sure you carefully consider how your family's schedules and, more importantly, values fit into the structure of the childcare center's programs.

## Nannies

Families who choose nannies as their primary childcare providers often point to the one-on-one attention and flexibility that's commonly associated with having a nanny (as compared to daycare centers or other group settings) as some of the most important reasons behind their choice. But this one-on-one attention does come at a price.

According to a 2006 survey released by the International Nanny Association, a private non-profit organization, full-time live-in nannies in the Pacific region, including Hawaii, California, Oregon, Washington State, and Alaska, earned an average of over $600 per week. Actual salaries vary widely based on where the family lives and the nanny's experience. In addition, families who directly employ nannies are required by federal law to pay Social Security tax and sometimes state unemployment taxes on the nanny's salary. In-home nanny care is not licensed or regulated by the Hawaiian Department of Human Services.

### Nanny Placement Services

If you're a first-time nanny seeker or prefer services that help you prescreen nanny candidates, placement agencies can help with the logistics of finding a nanny for your family. These agencies screen candidates and perform background checks. Even so, always verify the status of these checks with the agency before hiring any nanny. Agencies do require placement fees, deposits, and sometimes other fees for their services. Contact the agency directly for detailed information on their fees and requirements.

**Aloha Nannies** , 808-394-5434, 350 Ward Avenue, Suite #106-29, Honolulu, 96814, _www.alohanannies.com_

**Care Options** , 1221 Kapiolani Blvd. Suite 6-E, Honolulu, 96814, 808-593-CARE, _www.careopts.com_

**Your Child's Nanny** , 888-85-NANNY, _www.yourchildsnanny.com/hawaii.php_

### Finding a Nanny on Your Own

If you prefer to find a nanny on your own, there are a number of resources at your disposal:

**4EverythingNanny.com** , _www.4nanny.com_ ; provides helpful how-to articles and a classified ads section

**International Nanny Association** , 888-878-1477, _www.nanny.org_ ; provides helpful tools for your nanny search and hiring process

**NannyAnswers.com** , _www.nannyanswers.com_ ; a catch-all Web site for frequently asked questions about nannies

**Nanny Locators.com,** _www.nannylocators.com_ ; features advertisements of people seeking nanny positions.

**eNannySource** , _www.enannysource.com_ ; also features advertisements.

### Nanny Taxes

As mentioned above, families who do not use placement agencies but rather directly employ nannies are expected to pay taxes on the salaries paid to their nannies. The 'Nanny Tax,' as it is called, includes Social Security and Medicare taxes and federal unemployment tax. You may also be required to pay state unemployment taxes and/or state disability taxes.

There are several Web sites and agencies that can guide you through the particulars of the Nanny Tax and help you determine how much Nanny Tax you owe. Some resources include:

**Internal Revenue Service** , _www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc756.html_

**The Nanny Tax Company** , 800-747-9826, _www.nannytaxprep.com_ ; provides tax-filing services

**NannyTax Inc.** , 888-NANNYTAX, _www.nannytax.com_ ; provides tax-filing services

## Au Pairs

The terms 'au pair' and 'nanny' are often used interchangeably, but there are notable differences between the two. As such, while a nanny may be a good fit for one family, an au pair may be a better fit for another.

Au pairs are typically between the ages of 18 and 26 and usually remain with a family for one year. Unlike nannies, au pairs aren't necessarily seeking professional careers in childcare; their yearlong commitment provides work experience but also functions as a cultural exchange program. Families with au pairs act as 'host families'; the au pair provides childcare, and in return, the host family provides room, board, use of a vehicle, and a small stipend. Host families are also encouraged to facilitate continued education of the au pair while he/she is working in the U.S. Compensation for au pairs can be considerably less than nannies, ranging from $176.85 to $250 per week (approximately $9,000 to $13,000 per year, respectively).

Agencies that can assist with au pair screening and placement include:

**Au Pair in America** , 800-928-7247, _www.aupairinamerica.com_

**AuPairCare Live-In Childcare** , 800-428-7247, _www.aupaircare.com_

**Cultural Care Au Pair** , 800-333-6056, _www.culturalcare.com_

**GreatAupair** , 775-215-5770, _www.greataupair.com_

**InterExchange AuPair USA** , 1-800-AUPAIRS, _www.aupairusa.org_

## Babysitters

Babysitting is no longer just a neighborhood business; babysitting is now big business, which can be both good and bad for newcomer families.

The best babysitters are usually ones suggested by close friends of coworkers, but if you're new to the area, those solid referrals may be hard to come by—at least in the beginning. The growth of babysitting as a business, however, has given rise to a slew of babysitting agencies that will screen potential babysitters and narrow the field for your family. This can be a great way to find a babysitter if you're new to the area.

These agencies can be helpful resources, but know that they all charge fees for their services, whether it's a one-time 'finders' fee or a membership fee to browse their pool of potential babysitters. Contact each agency for specific details on fees and memberships.

The state Web site _www.daycare.com/hawaii/_ provides contact information and comprehensive information about the requirements for a daycare center in the state. Some local and national babysitter-finder agencies include:

**www.Care.com** ; a database of sitters, nannies, and other in-home service providers

**Sitters Unlimited** , P.O. Box 88505, Honolulu, 96830, 808-674-8440, _www.sittershawaii.com_

**Keiki Sitters** , _www.keikisitters.com_

**Sittercity** , 888-748-2489, _www.sittercity.com_ ; provides large database of local babysittersIf you prefer to avoid the added fees for these services, community bulletin boards are places that teens often use to advertise their babysitting services or that parents can use to advertise a babysitter opening. Churches, synagogues, or other faith-based organizations might also be helpful resources.

Tapping into the local population of college students may also prove to be helpful. The **University** **of Hawaii at Manoa** , **Hawai'i Pacific University** , and **Chaminade University of Honolulu** are all four-year universities located in Honolulu, and they more than likely have a number of students looking for small side jobs. Checking in with the student employment service, posting fliers around campus, or running an ad in the college paper are all ways to find potential babysitters. Remember to request references for each candidate and to conduct your own thorough interview before hiring any babysitter.

Once you've found a babysitter, now comes the all-important question of how much to pay them. **Sittercity.com** offers a Rate Calculator (( _babysitters.sittercity.com/rate_calculator.html_ ), which calculates an approximate rate based on geographic location, age of the babysitter, number of children that will be cared for, and the babysitter's experience. For example, according the calculator, a 20-year-old babysitter with two to four years experience should be paid approximately $12.50 per hour to care for two children in Honolulu (zip code 96814).

More and more, families face the question of elder care. Information about elder care in Honolulu can be found at Pohulani Elderly Housing Project, located at 677 Queen Street, Room 400, Honolulu, Hawaii 96713, 808-587-5266.

## Parenting Publications

There are two parenting magazines available in _Hawaii. Island Family_ magazine, www.islandfamilymagazine.com, is distributed monthly through schools, doctor's offices, Longs Drugs, and other retail locations. Its Web site includes a calendar of family-friendly events. _Island Family_ is owned by PacificBasin Communications, which also publishes _Honolulu Magazine_ , _www.honolulumagazine.com_ , in conjunction with the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools, _Honolulu Magazine_ also publishes an annual Private School Guide.

_Hawaii Parent_ , _www.hawaii-parent.com_ , magazine publishes six issues per year and is distributed through schools and daycares, hospitals, supermarkets, libraries, and numerous retail and organizational offices. Some past issues are available on their Web site.

## Schools

### Parent Resources

Here are some resources with which to begin your school research:

**Hawaii Association of Independent Schools** (HAIS), Ala Moana Pacific Center, 1585 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1212, Honolulu 96814, 808-973-1540, _www.hais.org,_ lists 36 member schools in Honolulu. Not all independent schools are members.

_Honolulu Magazine_ , _www.honolulumagazine.com/Honolulu-Magazine/May-2008/Grading-the-Public-Schools508/2008-Public-Schools-Database/index.php_ provides a report card for all public schools in Hawaii.

**Hawaii State PTSA** , 765 Amana St., Suite 308, Honolulu, 96814, 808-943-2042, _www.hawaiistateptsa.com_

**Project Appleseed** , _www.projectappleseed.org_ , is a campaign dedicated to improving public education. Its Web site includes helpful tips for evaluating public schools.

**Hawaii's Public Schools, Department of Education** , _http://doe.k12.hi.us_ , P.O. Box 2360, Honolulu, 96804; Physical address: 1390 Miller St, Honolulu, 96813, 808-586-3230.

### Public Schools

Hawaii administers a single statewide school district comprised of 289 schools (including 31 charter schools and two special schools) on seven islands. With a total enrollment of nearly 178,000 students, it is the 10th largest school district in the United States. There are administrative offices in seven geographic locations, including Honolulu.

Public schools in Hawaii are grouped into 'complexes,' which consist of a high school and the middle and elementary schools that feed into it. As many as four complexes are then grouped into a 'complex area,' supervised by a complex area superintendent. Oahu has nine complex areas; a map of them is available at _http://doe.k12.hi.us/  
myschool/map_oahu.htm_. There are 39 elementary schools in Honolulu, nine middle schools, six high schools, and two special schools (the Hawaii Center for the Deaf and Blind, and Anuenue, a school promoting and perpetuating native Hawaiian language and culture) _._ Hawaii is very proud of its ethnic and cultural diversity, which is represented and celebrated in the public school system.

### Challenges

The Department of Education of Hawaii has adopted a system of furlough days in order to address its budget shortfalls. In 2009-2010 teachers at non-charter, public schools were required to take between 17 and 24 days furlough, depending on their particular employee status. In the 2010-2011, furlough days were reduced to six, indicating that the economic health of the state school system has improved. These are known as Furlough Fridays, and they have been incorporated into the school year calendar. They have also resulted in daycare nightmares for working parents. A number of special programs have arisen to address the special daycare need on those days.

Because of budgetary constraints, Honolulu students in grades 6 – 12 must live at least 1.5 miles from school to qualify for school bus service. High school students living on select city bus routes are expected to use the city buses. The school bus fare is $60 per quarter. The city bus pass youth fare is $25.00 per month for unlimited use.

Students with special needs comprise 52 percent of all public school students. This fact, too, poses fiscal and pedagogic challenges for the school system.

### Registering Your Children

Hawaii's Compulsory Attendance Law mandates that all children aged 6 to 18 years old be required to attend school, unless they have an approved exception. The After-School Plus (A+) program provides after-school programming at all elementary schools for 20,000 latchkey children.

Children who will be five years old on or before August 1, may enroll in regular kindergarten, while children who reach five years of age between August 2 and December 31 may enroll in junior kindergarten.

  * To register your child for school, you will need the following documentation:

  * Birth certificate

  * Proof of current address

  * Certificate of release and proficiency from the last school attended

  * IEP (Individualized Education Plan, for special needs children), if necessary

  * Current medical records, including:

    * Examination by a licensed physician within 12 months of date entering school;

    * A tuberculosis clearance test (Mantoux) performed in the U.S. within the last 12 months;

    * Immunizations: DTaP/DTP/Td (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis), Polio, MMR (measles, mumps, rubella), Hepatitis B, Hib (Haemophilus influenza type b, for children under 5), varicella (chicken pox).

### Evaluating Schools

Public schools play a critical role in many families' home-buying decisions. All parents want their children to excel in school, and to be comfortable in their learning environments. The ultimate question is: how do you determine which school is best for your child?

The Accountability Resource Center Hawaii (ARCH), provides 'School Status and Improvement Reports,' which can be accessed by clicking on the school's name at _http://arch.k12.hi.us/school/ssir/2009/honolulu.html_. _Honolulu_ magazine performed its own assessment of public school grades, available at _www.honolulumagazine.com/Honolulu-Magazine/May-2008/Grading-the-Public-Schools508_. Further information about complexes and neighborhood demographics can be found at h _ttp://uhfamily.hawaii.edu/Cof_Data/profiles/profiles.asp._

But a word of caution about so-called 'school report cards': While the school data provided by report cards are indeed helpful, it's important not to solely base your decision on these numbers as raw numbers don't always tell the whole story.

According to Project Appleseed, in addition to considering your family's lifestyle and your child's personality, a number of factors should be considered when evaluating a school:

School philosophy as outlined in the school's statement of philosophy or mission statement

Instructional approaches

School facilities/personnel resources

School policies

School reputation

School safety

Curriculum

Family and community involvement issuesMany of these factors can be evaluated by looking at the school's Web site and by personally visiting the school you and your family are considering. Contact each individual school to discuss the options for a possible on-campus visit. Moreover, don't underestimate the value of asking neighbors, friends, family, and coworkers about their experiences with the schools their children attend.

### Charter Schools

For parents looking for a public-education alternative to traditional public schools, charter schools are a good option to consider. Charter schools are public schools with limited enrollment, and they often incorporate characteristics associated with private-school education, such as smaller class sizes or rigorous curriculum for college- and university-bound students. Hawaii's charter schools are exempt from the furlough days imposed on other Hawaiian public schools.

Funded with public money, charters are not required to meet all the rules and regulations of traditional public schools but are subject to accountability for producing certain academic results among their students. Because charter schools receive public money, they do not charge tuition. However, each school does have an admissions process. The particulars of the process vary from charter school to charter school, but the basic process is the same: Students and their families submit an application to the school(s) of their choice. Students meeting the admission requirements for the school are then entered into a lottery, and numbers are picked at random to determine which students will be granted available openings. For admission requirements and for particulars on each school's admission process, it's best to check each school's Web site for details. A directory of all 31 Hawaiian charter schools is available at the Charter School Administrative Office, _www.hcsao.org/  
hicharters/profiles._

### Private and Parochial Schools

After much consideration, some parents decide a private or parochial school is the best option for their child. There are a wide range of private and parochial school offerings in Honolulu. They include both large and small school settings and both religiously affiliated schools and those without religious ties. _Island Family_ magazine offers an online guide to private schools, available at _http://viewer.zmags.com/publication/  
7f2ac9e8#/7f2ac9e8/1._

Another excellent resource for private schools is the Hawaii Association of Independent Schools (HAIS), Ala Moana Pacific Center, 1585 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1212, Honolulu 96814, 808-973-1540, _www.hais.org._ Their Web site lists the contact information for 36 member schools in Honolulu. Not all private schools are members, however. Here are some non-member schools in Honolulu:

Assets School

One 'Ohana Nui Way, 96818

www.asssets-school.net

808-423-1356Cathedral Catholic Academy

1728 Nu'uanu Ave., 96817

www.ccahawaii.org

533-2069St. Patrick School

3320 Harding Ave., 96816

www.saintpatrickhawaii.org

808-734-8979Holy Family Catholic Academy

830 Main St., 96818

www.holyfamilycatholicacademy.org

808-423-9611Hoaloha Kai Montessori School

1339 Hunakai St., 96816

www.hoalohakai.com

808-735-5165

### Homeschooling

By law, families are permitted to homeschool their children. The State of Hawaii defines homeschooling as 'a viable educational option where a parent instructs the parent's own child.'

It is vital that families who choose to homeschool their children carefully review the requirements and regulations set forth by the Department of Education ( _http://doe.k12.hi.us/myschool/homeschool_ ). Required forms can be downloaded at that Web site or requested at:

Student Support Branch

Hawai'i Department of Education

475 22nd Avenue

Room 209

Honolulu, Hawaii 96816

808-203-5510Below are some (but not all) basic requirements for homeschooling children. Parents who plan to homeschool their children must:

Submit a notice of intent to homeschool the child to the local public school's principal. This is done either by a letter containing required information or by using a Form 4140.

Provide annual progress reports and required test scores for grades 3, 5, 8 and 10 on each home-schooled child. After the 2009-10 school year, additional testing for grades 4, 6, and 7 will also be required.

Create a structured curriculum to be available for inspection in the event of suspicion of educational neglect.

The Department of Education provides a list of homeschooling support groups and options for partnership with charter schools at _http://doe.k12.hi.us/myschool/homeschool/homeschoollist.htm_. These support groups include the Hawaii Homeschool Association ( _www.hawaiihomeschoolassociation.org_ ), the Military Home Educators Network ( _http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mhen-Oahu_ ), and the Christian Homeschoolers of Hawaii ( _www.christianhomeschoolersofhawaii.org_ ). National homeschool organizations include **American Homeschool Association** , 800-236-3278, _www.americanhomeschoolassociation.org_ , and the **Home School Legal Defense Association** , 540-338-5600, _www.hslda.org_
Chapter 39

Health Care

It is inevitable that you are going to get sick. Even the low stress lifestyle of Honolulu, Hawaii cannot prevent it. According to city-data.com, there are more than 16,000 primary care physicians, specialty care physicians, nurses, and medical technicians to serve the Honolulu area in your time of need.

## Hospitals and Medical Centers

### Queen's Medical Center

This non-profit, acute care facility is the largest private hospital in Hawaii. According to its Web site, _www.queensmedicalcenter.net,_ the hospital has 505 acute care beds and 28 sub-acute beds. The medical center has more than 3,000 employees and over 1,200 physicians on staff who offer everything from primary care to a whole spectrum of specialized services. The Queen's Medical Center has received accreditation from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO). Queen's is also affiliated with VHA Inc. The Queen's Medical Center was the first hospital in Hawaii to be awarded the highest institutional honor for hospital excellence from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). This "magnet status," held by less than five percent of U.S. hospitals, is considered by many to be one of the highest achievements a hospital can attain.

1301 Punchbowl St.

Honolulu, Hawaii 96813

808-538-9011

### Hawaii Medical Center

This full-service acute and tertiary-care system, _www.hawaiimedcent.com_ , has two campuses on the island of Oahu. Hawaii Medical Center East is located near downtown Honolulu, while the West location is at Ewa Beach. The Ewa Beach location provides general hospital care, while the downtown location focuses on physician specialty referrals. That location also houses the Transplant Center of the Pacific. Web address: _www.hawaiimedcent.com_.

Hawaii Medical Center East  
2230 Liliha St.  
Honolulu, HI 96817  
808-547-6011Hawaii Medical Center West  
91-2141 Fort Weaver Rd  
Ewa Beach, HI 96706  
808-678-7000

### Kaiser Foundation Hospital

The Kaiser Foundation Hospital is a short-term hospital. According to the hospital's Web site, _www.kp.org_ , it maintains 278 beds. Of the 4,400 employees, there are 400 physicians practicing primary care and all major medical specialties. The Kaiser Permanente Hawaii has the _highest breast cancer screening rate_ for women ages 42 to 69, according to the National Committee on Quality Assurance's (NCQA) Quality Compass® report for 2009. The hospital is fully accredited by NCQA. The Kaiser Foundation Hospital has achieved NCQA's Excellent _Accreditation_ status. The hospital is also accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. This hospital was the first and only health-care organization in Hawaii to receive the Hawaii State Award of Excellence. UNICEF and the World Health Organization have designated this hospital as a "Baby Friendly" facility.

3288 Moanalua Rd.

Honolulu, HI 96819

808-432-0000

### Kapiolani Medical Center for Women and Children

For more than 100 years, this non-profit hospital has been providing medical care to women and children. At its Web site, _www.kapiolani.org_ , you can learn more about the hospital, which started out as two separate entities. One was the Kauikeolani Children's Hospital and the other was the Kapiolani Maternity Home. They combined into one hospital in 1978. This combined facility houses the state's only pediatric emergency room and intensive care unit. Their neonatal intensive care unit has specialists available twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. The University of Hawaii uses this hospital as a training facility for their pediatric and ob/gyn programs. The Center is the state's first women's center as well as the state's only breast center and women's cancer center, offering a variety of screenings, diagnostics, and cancer prevention and treatment.

1319 Punahou St.

Honolulu, HI 96826  
808-983-600

### Kuakini Medical Center

According to the Kuakini Medical Center Web site, _www.kuakini.org_ , this hospital is a non-profit organization licensed by the Department of Health and approved to maintain a maximum of 250 acute care beds. Kuakini Medical Center (KMC) is accredited by JCAHO (Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations). The hospital has accreditation programs in medical residency, surgical residency and geriatric fellowship under the John A. Burns School of Medicine. Kuakini Health System is a recognized leader in the areas of cancer (oncology) care, cardiac care, gastroenterology services, geriatric care, pulmonary disease treatment, and research. They sponsor several federally funded and internationally recognized research programs.

347 North Kuakini Street

Honolulu, HI 96817

808-536-2236

### Leahi Hospital

Leahi Hospital is part of the Hawaii Health Systems Corporation, which has 12 other facilities around Hawaii. Leahi Hospital ( _www._ _leahi_ _.hhsc.org_ _)_ began as a center for tuberculosis care, and continues to focus on tuberculosis while also providing nursing home and adult day health services. Leahi provides long-term care or short-term restorative care. Individuals with or suspected of having tuberculosis are admitted to the tuberculosis unit. Leahi Adult Day Health Center (LADHC) is a day program designed to provide a variety of health, therapeutic, and social services to restore individuals' capacity to care for themselves. To help the individual maintain relationships in the community, the Center stresses partnerships with the client, the family, and the physician.

3675 Kilauea Avenue

Honolulu, HI 96816

808-733-8000

### Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific

Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific, _www.rehabhospital.org_ , is a private, non-profit organization that is the only acute care medical rehabilitation organization serving both Hawaii and the Pacific. For more than 52 years, the hospital and its outpatient clinics on Oahu, Maui and Hawaii have been dedicated to providing comprehensive, cost effective rehabilitation. Each year, the organization treats nearly 8,000 patients recovering from strokes, brain injury, spinal cord injury, orthopedic injuries, or sports injuries, and those individuals requiring general rehabilitation.

226 Kuakini St.

Honolulu, HI 96817

808-531-3511

### St. Francis Medical Center

St. Francis Medical Center, _www.stfrancishawaii.org_ , is a Catholic organization whose hospice program is the oldest and largest in the State of Hawaii. It was created in 1978 to ease the physical discomfort of terminally ill patients and allow them to face "death with dignity." In order to qualify, hospice patients must have an attending physician who believes the patient has a life expectancy of six months or less and must have completed curative treatment. They offer bereavement support and respite care to family members. This medical center was the first to bring Lifeline, a personal emergency response service, to Hawaii in 1983. This service allows anyone who is at home in an emergency to activate a device that will bring emergency services and medical care twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, and 365 days a year. Within seconds, a certified Lifeline professional responds, assesses the situation and summons appropriate help. St. Francis also offers home care services, adult day care, and a community outreach program.

2226 Liliha St.

Honolulu, HI 96817

808-547-6883

### Tripler Army Medical Center

Built after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, Tripler, _www.tamc.amedd.army.mil,_ is now the only federal tertiary care facility in the Pacific Basin, serving more than 250,000 service members and their families. The Pacific Region Medical Command, whose members have been deployed to Iraq and other areas of conflict, is based at Tripler.

1 Jarrett White Rd.  
Honolulu, Hawaii 96859-5000  
(808) 433-6661

### VA Pacific Islands Health Care Center

VA Pacific Islands, _www2.va.gov/directory/guide/facility.asp?id=151_ , serves veterans throughout the Pacific Basin at the state-of-the-art Spark M. Matsunaga Medical Center. The facility provides diagnostic, medical, mental health and specialty care at its main clinic and five community clinics throughout Hawaii and Guam. The VA also houses a residential Post Traumatic Stress Disorder program and runs a nursing home in Honolulu. The VA Pacific Islands is affiliated with Tripler and the University of Hawaii.

459 Patterson Rd.  
Honolulu, HI 96819-1522  
808-433-0600 or 808-433-6661

## Urgent Care Clinics

There are times when you get sick or hurt and it is not a life threatening emergency. In these cases it can be easier, less expensive, and faster to visit an urgent care clinic. There are several in Honolulu.

Urgent Care Clinic Waikiki

2155 Kalakaua Ave.

Honolulu, HI 96815-2354

808-924-3399‎

_www._ _waikikiclinic.org_ _Concentra Urgent Care_

545 Ohohia St.

Honolulu, HI 96819-1935

866-944-6046‎

_www.concentra.com_ _Kahala Urgent Care_

4218 Waialae Ave.

Honolulu, HI 96816-5320

808-735-0007‎

_www.kahalaurgentcare.com_ _The Medical Corner_

300 Rodgers Blvd.

Honolulu, HI 96819-1832

808-836-3900‎

www.themedicalcorner.com

Travel Medicine Clinic

300 Rodgers Blvd.

Honolulu, HI 96819

808-836-3900‎

www.gothemedicalcorner.com
Chapter 40

Shopping Guide

The second-most important private industry in Hawaii is tourism. In 2009, tourism contributed $10 billion to the state's $66.4 billion GDP, or about 15 percent. As the economic center of Hawaii, Honolulu has a retail industry that is designed to cater to the tourists who visit the area. However, this bustling island city also offers shopping malls and shopping centers that cater to the locals.

## Shopping Malls

**Ala Moana Center** , 1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, 808-955-9517, _www.alamoanacenter.com;_ This mall is located on 50 acres and has three levels, 1.8 million square feet of retail space and 260 different shops -- one of the largest open-air shopping facilities in the world. In this mall, you will find the biggest names in haute couture partnered with top name stores like Neiman Marcus and Macy's. Stores such as Williams-Sonoma, Town & Country and Pacific Harley-Davidson may appeal to your more practical side.

**Aloha Tower Marketplace,** 1 Aloha Tower Dr., Honolulu, 808-566-2337, _www.alohatower.com_ ; This is a favorite shopping spot locals and visitors alike. Located at Honolulu Harbor, it features over 80 apparel stores, kiosks, gift and specialty shops.

**Hawaii Kai Towne Center,** 6700 Kalanianaole Hwy., Honolulu, 808-396-0766, _www.hawaiikaitownecenter.com_ ; Accessories, furniture, designer fashions and beachwear are a few of the items you can find at this center.

**International Marketplace,** 2330 Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki, 808-971-2080, _www.internationalmarketplacewaikiki.com_ ; This is an open-air bazaar in the heart of Waikiki. It has over 150 gift shops, carts, stands and booths.

**Kahala Mall,** 4211 Waialae Avenue, Honolulu, 808-732-7736, _www.kahalamallcenter.com;_ This is an enclosed shopping mall that is located in one of the island's most prestigious neighborhoods. It has 90 specialty shops.

**North Shore Marketplace,** 66-250 Kamechamecha, Haleiwa, 808-637-4416; This marketplace offers swimwear, gift shops, art galleries and specialty stores. The unique architectural facades of the shops are a contrast with the modern coffee galleries and rustic surf shops.

**Pearlridge Center** , 98-1005 Moanalua Rd, Aiea, 808-488-0981, _www.pearlridgeonline.com_ ; This mall is the island's largest enclosed shopping center in Hawaii and has a bit of a split personality. While the **Uptown Pearlridge Center** is sophisticated and decked out in rich-looking hues of brown burnished wood and subtle gold accents, the **Downtown Pearlridge Center** takes on a more industrial look with sheet metal, rivets and cutting edge sculptures. The 11-acre complex is home to 170 stores.

**Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center,** 2201 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki, 808-922-2299, _www.royalhawaiiancenter.com_ ; A four-story, open-air market consisting of over 110 shops, this is Waikiki's largest shopping spot. This shopping center combines upscale European boutiques with casual shops.

**Victoria Ward Center** (the Ward Warehouse, Ward Centre, Ward Farmers Market, Ward Village Shops and Ward Gateway Center), 1240 Ala Moana Blvd., Honolulu, 808-591-8411, _www.victoriaward.com;_ This is the place to shop if you are looking for a fast-paced trendy vibe. This unique collection of centers is located within four city blocks and features more than 120 specialty shops, many of which are found nowhere else in the world.

**Windward Mall,** 46-056 Kamehameha Hwy., Kaneohe, 808-235-1143, _www.windwardmall.com_ ; This is a shopping experience with a few old favorites. With 120 stores, this mall has nationally recognized chains like Macy's, Sears and Borders and also has unique Hawaiian stores. A big plus is the indoor play area for children.

## Outlet Malls

**The Waikele Center and Premium Outlets,** 94-790 Lumiaina St., Honolulu, 808-676-5656; This is the island's only premium outlet center. It offers more than 70 stores with designer and name –brand merchandise at an everyday savings of 25 percent to 65 percent.

## Department Stores

**Macy's,** 808-945-5590, _www.macys.com_

**Neiman Marcus,** 808-951-8887, _www.neimanmarcus.com_

**Sears,** 808-947-0299, _www.sears.com_

## Discount Retailers

These discount stores offer a wide variety of products and services. But unlike the comparable stores on the mainland, groceries are not available in these stores and none of these stores are open 24 hours, so check out their websites for hours of operation, product availability and available services.

**Kmart,** two locations in Honolulu, _www.kmart.com_

**Target,** 808-441-3118, _www.target.com_

**Walmart,** 808-955-8441, _www.walmartcom_

## Household Shopping

### Appliances/electronics/cameras/computers

**Best Buy,** 478 Alakawa St., 808-525-7182, _www.bestbuy.com_

**Better Home Appliances,** 808-737-3055, _www.betterhomeappliances.com_

**Officemax,** two locations in Honolulu, _www.officemax.com_

**Sears,** 1450 Ala Moana Blvd., 808-947-0211, _www.sears.com_

### Beds, bedding, and bath

**America's Mattress,** two locations in Honolulu, _www.americasmattress.com_

**Slumberworld,** two locations in Honolulu, _www.slumberworldhawaii.com_

### Carpets and rugs

**American Carpet One Floor and Home,** 808-206-9480, _www.carpetone.com_

**Flooring America,** 808-735-3005, _www.floooringamerica.com_

**Indich Collection** , 808-596-7333, _www.hawaiianrugs.com_

**Morikawa Drapery& Carpets,** 808-841-6025, _www.morikawadrapery.com_

### Furniture

**Ashley Furniture,** 808-792-0011, _www.ashleyfurniture.com_

**Crazy Mike's Furniture Store,** 808-535-9695, _www.crazymikesfurniture.com_

**Homeworld Furniture,** 808-543-5300, _www.homeworldfurniture.com_

**Interior Accents,** 808-523-5553

### Housewares

**Pier 1 Imports,** 866-492-8476, _www.pier1.com_

**Macy's,** 808-945-5590, _www.macys.com_

**Neiman Marcus,** 808-951-8887, _www.neimanmarcus.com_

**Sears,** 808-947-0299, _www.sears.com_

### Lamps and lighting

**Asian Lighting,** 808-732-0651, _www.asianlanterns.com_

**Lighting Concepts and Design,** 808-955-9955, _www.lightinghawaii.com_

**Lighting Elegance,** 808-735-3567, _www.lighting-elegance.com_

**Pacific Home.** 808-596-9338, _www.pacific-home.com_

### Hardware/paint/home improvement

**Ace Hardware,** 808-732-2888, _www.acehardware.com_

**City Mill Home Improvement Center,** 808-533-3811, _www.citymill.com_

**Home Depot,** 808-521-7355, _www.homedepot.com_

**Hardware Hawaii,** 808-831-3100, _www.hardwarehawaii.com_

## Antique Stores

**Aloha Antiques and Collectibles,** 808-536-1828

**Antique Alley,** 808-941-8551, _www.portaloha.com_

**Antique House, Inc.,** 808-923-5101

**Bushido Antiques,** 808-988-9908

**Hawaiian Collectibles,** 808-526-3245, _www.hawaiiancollectibles.com_

**Ming's Antiques,** 808-585-8877, _www.ming-mai.com_

**Okame Antiques,** 808-732-1444

**Paradise Antique Arts,** 808-536-0964

**T. Fujii Antiques,** 808-732-7860, _www.tfujiiantiques.com_

## The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet

If you're feeling like you're ready to mingle while you shop, try **The Aloha Stadium Swap Meet**. It's open on Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Over 900 vendors and sellers attend this flea market every week. Up for grabs are amazing bargains on Hawaiian collectibles, clothing, music, arts, crafts, jewelry, luggage and more. Admission is 50 cents for everyone over 12. Come prepared to do a lot of walking. Loose clothes, sun hat, sunscreen and water are all must-take items. For more information, call 808-486-1529 or 808-732-9601.

## Thrift and Vintage Shops

Trying to find the diamond in the rough at a thrift store can be quite a task, but if you're up to the challenge, the payoff can be big. Honolulu has a number of thrift stores that can offer a lot of bang for the buck. To increase your chances of finding that "diamond," ask the stores' managers or sales associates when they typically put new items out. With a little bit of planning, you can take advantage of new stock before the crowds pick through them.

**Assistance League of Hawaii Thrift Shop,** 1505 Young St., Honolulu, 808-946-1505, _www.hawaii.assistanceleague.org_

**Central Union Church Thrift Shop,** 1660 S. Beretania St., Honolulu, 808-440-3055, _www.centralunionchurch.org_

**Fort Shafter Thrift Shop.** Bldg. 710, Fort Shafter, 808-842-1074

**Goodwill Industries Thrift Stores,** five locations, _www.goodwill.org_

**Holy Nativity Thrift Shop,** 5286 Kalanianable Hwy., Honolulu, 808-373-2131, _www.holynativityhawaii.com/Site/Thrift_Shop.html_

**Mission Outlet,** 1955 N King St., Honolulu, 808-843-1777

**Pzazz,** 3057 Waialae Ave., Honolulu, 808-732-5900, _www.hawaiibid.com/pzazz/_

**Salvation Army Family Store,** three locations, _www.keepthebellringing.org_

**Savers Thrift Store,** 1505 Dillingham Blvd., Honolulu, 808-842-0061, _www.savers.com/About-Us.aspx_

## Food

For the malihini (newcomer), grocery shopping in Honolulu can be an adventure, with many new and different types of food to sample. It can also require a bit of adjustment. Beware of sticker shock when you go to get your first staples from the grocery store, because things cost approximately 35 percent more on the island than they do on the mainland. But don't pack your bags to leave just yet. You are going to be pleasantly surprised at the low prices on fresh produce, seafood, and meat. So grab your wallet and your grocery list and let's go on an adventure.

### Supermarkets

**Foodland** , _www.foodland.com_ ; With more than 30 stores, this is Hawaii's largest, locally owned and operated grocery retailer.

**Times Super Market** , _www.timessupermarkets.com;_ With twelve locations, this is one of Hawaii's leading supermarket

### Natural food grocers and specialty market chains

**Down to Earth,** _www.downtoearth.org_ ; The largest health food store in Hawaii this site has a popular garden deli, bakery, fresh produce and organic cosmetics.

**Huckleberry Farms:** Located in downtown Honolulu, this is a favorite place for fresh, organic vegetables, deli sandwiches, soups and more.

**Kokua Market,** _www.kokuamarket.ning.com_ ; With 4,400 square feet of retail space, this is Hawaii's only co-op market. The Kokua Market offers items that are made with mostly-organic ingredients

**Whole Foods,** _www.wholefoodsmarket.com_ ; Offers hundreds of items that come from small venders in local communities

### Warehouse Shopping

**Costco,** four locations in Honolulu, _www.costco.com_

**Sam's Club,** 808-945-9841, _www.samsclub.com_

### Farmers Markets

Honolulu abounds with farmer's markets, which tend to open for only one or two days a week. For a complete listing of these markets, visit _<http://www.farmersmarketonline.com/fm/Hawaii.htm>_. Or try this brochure with farmers markets on the island of Oahu listed by day of the week: _www.kphc.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/07/oahumarket.pdf_. In the meantime, here is a sampling of some of the larger markets in Honolulu:

**Kalihi Farmers Market,** 700 Kalihi St., Honolulu. This is the largest farmers market in Honolulu. It consists of over forty vendors. You can purchase living seafood or get your meat selection cut by a butcher.

**Kapiolani Community College Farmers Markets,** 4303 Diamond Head Rd., Honolulu. Patrons at this market can choose from bright fruits and vegetables, jams, baked goods, seafood, and meats. The prices beat any grocery store around. Hours of operation are Saturday 8 a.m. to 12 a.m.

**Manoa Marketplace,** in front of the post office, Honolulu. This market may appear small but don't be fooled; they have a huge selection. Snacks, herbs and vegetables are some of the items available. Hours of operations are Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

## Chinatown

Perhaps the most exciting and mysterious neighborhood in Hawaii is Chinatown. This historic district is located in downtown Honolulu. Chinatown is a colorful and eclectic blend of Southeast Asian cultures. Vietnamese, Laotian, Chinese, Japanese, Thai, Filipino, Hawaiian, and Korean merchants sell fresh produce, fish, meat, manapua (a type of meat-filled, steamed dumpling), candied fruits and vegetables, noodles, tea, duck eggs, and other Asian delicacies. Here are a few must shop locations while you are in Chinatown:

**Bo Wah Store,** 1031 Maunakea St., 808-537-2017, Asian gifts and Chinese household supplies

**China Arts, Inc.,** 94 N King St., 808-538-1628, Chinese porcelain including teapots and cups

**Fook Sau Tong,** 112 N. King St., 808-531-6680, Chinese herbs, bowls and figurines

**Kim's,** 1123 Maunakea St., 808-545-5088, oriental gifts, carved beads, jade, and semi-precious gemstones

**Kekaulike Market,** across the street from the Oahu Market, fresh fish, meat, poultry, fruits and vegetables

**Lai Fong,** 1118 Nuuanu Ave., 808-5373497, oriental antiques, silk, brocade, curios, ivory and jade jewelry, teakwood and rosewood furniture

**Maunakea Market Place,** 1120 Maunakea St., fresh vegetables, exotic herbs, tropical fruits, pig's heads, chicken feet, live eel and fish

**Oahu Market** , on the corner and King and Kekaulike streets, 808-841-6924, roasted pork, fresh fish and spicy pickled cabbage

**Shung Chong Yuein Chinese Cake Shop,** 1027 Maunakea St., moon cake, wedding cake, almond cookies and candied vegetables

**Wing Loy Market** , located on Kekaulike St., 808-523-5464, char siu and roast pork
Chapter 41

Cultural Life

If you're just moving to Honolulu, welcome! WE can guarantee there is a lot for you and your family to experience in your new city. As the state capital of Hawaii, Honolulu is a center of arts, culture, and history of the islands. Hawaii celebrates its Pan-Asian, Pan-Pacific heritage in a multitude of ways with numerous ethnic festivals.

With the abundance of concerts, events, lectures, and performances throughout Honolulu County, it's hard to know where exactly to start. One place is _Honolulu Magazine,_ _www.honolulumagazine.com_ , which has a great events calendar on its Web site that includes a rundown of the month's art exhibitions, concerts, festivals, and other cultural events.

The City of Honolulu Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts, _www.honolulu.gov/moca,_ also maintains excellent calendar information for special events. Another helpful resource for tips and tools to explore Oahu's cultural scene is the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau Web site, _www.gohawaii.com/oahu_. You can create your own calendar of events by using the planning tool, "Find Vacation Ideas." The Web site of the Oahu Chapter of the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau, _www.visit-oahu.com_ , is yet another place to find current information. Though the Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau does cater, of course, to tourists, it's a great place to start if you're a new Honolulu resident.

It should be noted that members of the military receive discounts at many cultural locations throughout Oahu, so if you are in the military—it is worth inquiring!

## Tickets

Tickets for most major concerts, theatre productions, and other cultural events are available through the venues' box offices. If you're keen on avoiding service charges, purchasing tickets directly from the venue's box office will be your best option.

Most event tickets are also available through Ticketmaster. You can purchase tickets through Ticketmaster over the phone by calling 866-448-7849 or 800-745-3000, or online by visiting _www.ticketmaster.com_. If you prefer to buy the tickets in person, visit _www.ticketmaster.com_ to find the most convenient Honolulu retail location. One local ticket vendor is: _www.honoluluboxoffice.com_ , 808-550-8457. There are others, some of which have significantly higher costs.

Concerts and performances can sell out quickly, and if you find yourself looking for tickets to a sold-out show, StubHub may be a good solution. Fans and concertgoers often use StubHub to sell their extra or unneeded tickets. To search for available tickets for events in Honolulu, visit _www.stubhub.com_ , and enter "Honolulu" in the search box.

## But buyers beware: tickets purchased through Ticketmaster and StubHub often come with significant service charges and processing fees. Ticketmaster's fees can vary from state to state and event to event; make sure to check what (and how much) these fees will be to avoid unexpected costs. StubHub charges a service fee equal to 10 percent of the full ticket price in addition to a delivery fee.Concert Halls, Stadiums, and Arenas

Honolulu has a number of performance venues, offering everything from rock concerts to Broadway shows to live operas. WE have listed some of the most prominent ones below. For the most up-to-date information about upcoming shows, available tickets, ticket prices, and seating, contact each venue or visit the venue's Web site.

**Aloha Stadium** , _alohastadium.hawaii.gov_ , a 50,000-seat facility, is Hawaii's largest outdoor arena. It is home to sports events, concerts, and a popular swap meet. The stadium opened in 1975, and significant renovations completed in 2010.

**Neal S. Blaisdell Center** , 777 Ward Avenue, 808-527-5400, _www.blaisdellcenter.com_ , includes the Arena, Concert Hall, and Exhibition Hall. The arena, which can hold almost 9,000 people, is Honolulu's main venue for big-name acts.

**Doris Duke Theatre** , Kinau Street, between Ward Avenue and Victoria Street, 808-532-8700, _www.honoluluacademy.org_ , is part of the Honolulu Academy of the Arts. Film Friday presents single screenings of international, independent, and classical films. The theatre also hosts concerts and lectures.

**Paliku Theatre** _,_ Windward Community College, 45-720 Kea'ahala Road, Kaneohe, 808-235-7310, _www.wcc.hawaii.edu/paliku;_ Known as the "Jewel of the Windward Side," the theatre provides an intimate venue for plays, concerts, dance, films, and lectures.

**Royal Hawaiian Theatre** , 2201 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, 808-926-4441, _www.royalhawaiiancenter.com_ ; a new 760-seat theatre that transforms into the LEVEL4 Nightclub and Ultra Lounge.

**Waikiki Shell, Kapiolani Park** , 2805 Monsarrat Avenue, Honolulu, 808-527-5400, _www.blaisdellcenter.com_ _,_ is a popular outdoor performing venue for a variety of groups.

## Performing Arts

### Music – Symphonic, Choral, Opera, Chamber

Honolulu brings together the best in both professional and community music. From symphony orchestras to choral performances to native Hawaiian music, the organizations listed below provide extensive programs through which musicians and vocal performers share their talents with the people of Honolulu:

**Chamber Music Hawaii** , _www.chambermusichawaii.com_ , was formed in 1982 and consists of three ensembles: the Spring Wind Quintet, Honolulu Brass Quintet, and the Galliard String Quartet. All members of CMH are also full-time members of the Honolulu Symphony. CMH performs several concert series in different venues.

**Hawaii Opera Theatre** , 987 Waimanu St., Honolulu, 800-836-7372, _www.hawaiiopera.org_ , known as "HOT," is one of the largest and most vibrant performing arts groups in Hawaii. Founded in 1960 as a non-profit, HOT extends its performances and educational outreach programs throughout the islands. HOT performs at the Blaisdell Center Concert Hall. As an added attraction, performances of the New York Metropolitan Opera are shown via live satellite feed at the Dole Cannery (650 Iwilei Road Honolulu).

**The Royal Hawaiian Band** , 808-922-5331, _www.honolulu.gov/rhb_ , is the only musical group in the United States with royal antecedents. Founded by King Kamehameha III in 1836, it was once known as "the King's Band" and accompanied him on his royal visits throughout the realm. Today, the Royal Hawaiian Band is an agency of the City and County of Honolulu. A wind ensemble, it is dedicated to preserving and enhancing the Hawaiian musical heritage in addition to playing contemporary music. The ensemble plays over 300 concerts annually in a variety of venues, but can be heard in weekly public performances on Fridays at `Iolani Palace and Sundays at the Kapi`olani Park Bandstand.

**The Aloha Chapter Spebsqsa** , P.O. Box 1723 Aiea, HI 96701, 808-523-9756, is a men's barbershop group performing traditional barbershop music in addition to Broadway standards and hapa haole Hawaiian music.

**Hawaii Vocal Arts Ensemble,** _www.hawaiivocalarts.org_ , is the chorus-in-residence at Chaminade University of Honolulu and also the resident chorus for the Hawai'i Vocal Masterworks Festival. Their candlelight Christmas concerts are a high note of the performance year.

**The Honolulu Symphony** , _www.honolulusymphony.com_ , which normally performs in the Blaisdell Center Concert Hall, filed for bankruptcy protection at the end of 2009 and cancelled the rest of its performance season. Some of its performances are being rescheduled, but the future of the 109-year-old symphony is in doubt.

### Dance

The Mayor's Office of Culture and the Arts, _www.honolulu.gov/  
moca/artsdirectory.htm_, maintains a more complete listing of dance programs and schools, including ethnic dance, modern dance, and schools for the teaching of Hula.

**Ballet Hawaii** , Dole Cannery, 650 Iwilei Rd., Box 221, Honolulu, 808-521-8600, _http://ballethawaii.org_ , is a non-profit organization originally founded as a support group for the Honolulu City Ballet, and now its successor. Its mission is to teach, promote, and perform. A highlight of the year is its production of the _Nutcracker_ at Blaisdell Concert Hall with accompaniment by the Honolulu Symphony Orchestra and renowned guest artists. Classes are offered at Honolulu, Wahiawa, and Kapolei locations.

**Chinese Lion Dance Association,** 717 North Kuakini St., Honolulu, 808-531-2287, _www.chineseliondanceassociation.com_ ; As a Gung fu martial arts academy, the school also teaches and performs the Chinese Lion Dance.

**Halla Huhm Korean Dance Studio** ,1502-B S. King St., Honolulu, 808-949-2888, _www.hawaii.edu/korea/halla_huhm/Studio_ , has promoted Korean dance and culture for more than fifty years.

**Monkey Waterfall Dance Company** , _monkeywaterfall.org,_ explores the intersection of theatre and dance, utilizing Asian and Western techniques of dance, storytelling, puppetry, and masks.

### Theatre – Professional and Community

Honolulu has a number of well-established professional and community theatre groups. A thorough listing is available at _http://emedia.leeward.hawaii.edu/orgtheatre_ :

**Army Community Theatre (ART)** is housed at the Richardson Theatre, Fort Shafter, Honolulu, _http://armytheatre.com/  
links.html,_ 808-438-4480. The "Sundays @ 2 Matinee Readers Theatre" series is open and free to the public.

**Diamond Head Theatre** , 520 Makapuu Avenue, Honolulu, 808-733-0274, _www.diamondheadtheatre.com_ , is the third-oldest continuously running community theatre in the United States. The group was founded in 1915 as "The Footlights," and then later known as the "Honolulu Community Theatre." Education is an important part of its mission, with classes in acting, singing, and dance, an extensive summer youth program, and a youth troupe known as, "The Diamond Head Shooting Stars."

**Hawaii Repertory Theatre,** a professional regional theatre, is a relative newcomer to the local theatre scene. Incorporated in only 2005, it performs at the **Kawananakoa Backstage Theatre** , 49 Funchal St. in the Nuuanu-Punchbowl area, 808-545-7170, _www.hawaiireptheatre.org_.

**The Hawaii Theatre** , 1130 Bethel Street, Honolulu, 808-528-0506, _www.hawaiitheatre.com_ , opened its doors in 1922 as a vaudeville house. It was completely refurbished and reopened in 1996 as a 1,400 seat, state-of-the-art, multi-purpose venue to benefit the people of Hawaii. It is a lynchpin in the redevelopment of downtown Honolulu. The beautiful building is architecturally significant and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

**Kennedy Theatre at the University of Hawaii at Manoa** , 1770 East-West Road, Honolulu, 808-956-7655, _www.hawaii.edu/  
theatre_, presents productions of the University's Department of Theatre and Dance and special traveling performances. Designed by renowned architect I.M Pei, the theatre accommodates both Asian and Western staging techniques.

**Kumu Kahua Theatre** **,** 46 Merchant St., Honolulu, _kumukahua.org_ , 808-536-4441, presents plays by Hawaiian playwrights about life in Hawaii.

**The Hawaii Shakespeare Festival** , 808-256-6657, _www.hawaiishakes.org,_ is offering all its performances for the 2013 season at The ARTS at Marks Garage, 1159 Nu`uanu Ave, Honolulu, but check for the latest information because they were previously housed at the Kennedy Theatre's Earle Ernst Lab Theatre at the University of Hawaii at Manoa. They are a small, volunteer group that has achieved the patronage of Dame Judi Dench.

## Film

Honolulu is home to theaters and local film festivals that can win over even the most discerning cinephile. Below are some great theatres and local film festivals for catching some of the latest "indy" and foreign films.

If you're in the mood for a Hollywood blockbuster, there are a number of national theatre chains in Honolulu, including Regal Entertainment Group, whose 18-Plex in the historic Dole Cannery is one of the more interesting places to see a movie. For theatre location and ticket information, visit the movie-ticket Website Fandango at _www.fandango.com_.

**Kahala 8 Theatre** , Kahala Mall Shopping Center, Honolulu, 808-733-6235, _kahala@readingrdi.com_ , offers mainstream movies in addition to foreign, independent, and art films, in cooperation with the Agelika Film Center.

**Doris Duke Theatre** , Kinau Street, between Ward Avenue and Victoria Street, 808-532-8700, _www.honoluluacademy.org_ , is part of the Honolulu Academy of the Arts. For film screenings, the theatre has a hearing assistance system for the hearing impaired, receivers for which can be picked up at the ticket counter. Film Friday presents single screenings of international, independent, and classic films.

**The Movie Museum,** 3566 Harding Avenue Suite 4, Honolulu (Kaimuki) 808-735-8771, offers contemporary, international, art, and classic films at discount rates.

### Film Festivals

**Bollywood Film Festival** and the **Filipino Film Festival** are among the ethnic film festivals sponsored by the Honolulu Academy of Arts. They are held annually at the Doris Duke Theatre. The theatre Web site is the best place to keep apprised of these offerings.

**Hawaii International Film Festival** (HIFF), _http://hiff.org_ , is the largest "East–West" film festival in the United States . The festival is dedicated to enhancing intercultural understanding among the peoples of Asia, the Pacific, and North America. On average 150 movies, documentaries, and shorts are selected for presentation. Films are shown in a number of different venues, including outdoors on the beach!

**Honolulu Rainbow Film Festival** , sponsored by the Gay and Lesbian Cultural Foundation, _www.hglcf.org/filmfestival.html,_ is held annually at the Doris Duke Theatre.

**Kirk Cashmere Jewish Film Festival** , presented by The Honolulu Academy of Arts and Temple Emanu-El. Held at the Doris Duke Theatre, the information is found on the theatre's Web site.

## Music (Contemporary) and Night Life

When some people think of "cultural life," they associate the phrase with Broadway theatre or symphony orchestras. Yet for many, live contemporary music is just as much a part of their cultural life as art museums or literature. Below is a list of clubs and bars that offer nightly or weekly live music.

### Alternative, Rock and Hip Hop

**Anna Banana's** , 2440 S Beretania St., Honolulu, 808-946-5190; hip hop on Wednesdays.

**King's Pub** , 444 Niu St., Honolulu, 808-949-1606

### Hawaiian

**Banyan Court** , 2365 Kalakaua Ave, Sheraton Moana Surfrider, Honolulu, 808-921-4600

**The Royal Grove at Royal Hawaiian Center** , 2201 Kalakaua Ave., Honolulu, for authentic music and dance, nightly except Sundays.

### Jazz

**Jazz Mind's Art and Cafe** , 1661 Kapiolani Blvd., Honolulu, 808-945-0800, _http://honolulujazzclub.com_

**The Veranda,** 5000 Kahala Ave., Kahala Hotel & Resort, Honolulu, 808-739-8888

### Irish

Kelley O'Neil's, 311 Lewers St, Honolulu, 808-926-1777

### Nightclubs

**Pearl Ultralounge,** Ho'okipa Terrace, 3rd Level Ala Moana Center, 808-944-8000. _http://www.pearlhawaii.com/_

_www.pipelinecafehawaii.com_ , Swank, luxury lounge with live acts, dancing and gourmet food.

**Paparazzi,** Ward Centre, 1200 Ala Moana Boulevard, Honolulu, 808-596-8850

**LEVEL4 Nightclub & Ultra Lounge,** Royal Hawaiian Center, 2201 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, 808-926-4441

### Reggae

  * _Tropics Cafe_ _,_ 1020 Auahi Street, Honolulu, 808-591-8009

## Art Museums

**The Contemporary Museum** , 2411 Makiki Heights Drive, Honolulu, 808-526-1322 ext. 30, _www.tcmhi.org_ , is the only museum in the state devoted exclusively to contemporary art. The main site is located amidst terraced gardens on scenic Makiki Heights. A satellite gallery at First Hawaiian Center in downtown Honolulu offers rotating exhibits of Hawaiian artists.

**Doris Duke Foundation for Islamic Art (Shangri La),** 4055 Papu Circle, Honolulu, 808-734-1941, _www.shangrilahawaii.org_ , was heiress Doris Duke's Hawaiian estate and houses her significant collection of Islamic art. A virtual tour is available on the Web site.

**Hawaiian Academy of Art** , 900 South Beretania, Honolulu, 808-532-8700, is a museum of international artwork containing over 35,000 holdings. It is particularly known for its Asian, Hawaiian, and Oceanic collections.

**Hawaii State Art Museum** , No. 1 Capitol District Building, 250 S. Hotel St., 2nd Floor, Honolulu, 808-586-0900, _www.state.hi.us/sfca_ ; all the artwork has been collected in the last 35 years, and the museum itself only opened its doors in 2002. Admission is free.

## Art Galleries

**The ARTS at the Marks Garage** , 1159 Nuuanu Ave, Honolulu, 808-521-2903, _www.artsatmarks.com;_ working to revive downtown Honolulu as a cultural arts center, Marks presents about 12 visual arts exhibits and 30 performances each year.

**East-West Center Gallery** , 1601 East-West Road at the corner of Dole Street, Honolulu, 808-944-7584, located on the campus of the University of Hawaii, it offers five exhibits annually on traditional and contemporary art of the Pacific.

**The University of Hawaii Art Gallery** , located on the campus at Manoa, 808-956-6888. The gallery has an international reputation and has published a number of important volumes.

## Historical Sites and Cultural Museums

The island of Oahu is rich with historical architecture and cultural institutions. These are detailed more completely on the Web site of the Hawaii Museums Association, _www.hawaiimuseums.org._ Here is a sampling:

**The Aliiolani Hale** , 417 South King St., Honolulu, 808-539-4999, _www.jhchawaii.net;_ initially housing the government offices of the Kingdom of Hawaii, today it is the home of the Hawaii State Supreme Court, the Hawaii State Judiciary Administrative Offices, the Judiciary History Center, and Hawaii's largest law library. The Judiciary History Center includes exhibits on the transition of law from Hawaiian to western, a restored 1913 courtroom, and life under martial law in Hawaii following the bombing of Pearl Harbor.

**Bishop Museum** , 1525 Bernice Street, Honolulu, 808-847-3511, _www.bishopmuseum.org_ , is the State Museum of Natural and Cultural History and the largest museum in Hawaii. It contains an extensive collection of Hawaiian and Pacific artifacts and floral and faunal specimens. Part of the museum's primary mission is to serve the interests of native Hawaiians. The Mamiya Science Adventure Center is the only science center in the United States devoted exclusively to the science of its home region. It includes a three-story volcano. The Bishop Museum also offers an educational "Furlough Fridays" option for students K-6.

**Maritime Museum,** Pier 7, Honolulu Harbor, Honolulu, 808-523-6151, _www.bishopmuseum.org_ ; A partner institution to the Bishop Museum, the Maritime Museum features a rare collection of maritime artifacts, including the only surviving four-masted, full-rigged ship in the world. Museum exhibits span Hawaii's maritime history, from its discovery by Polynesians to the contact with Western culture and the effects of whaling.

**U.S.S. Arizona Memorial Museum** , 1 Arizona Memorial Place, Honolulu, 808-422-2771 office, 808-422-0561 information, _www.nps.gov/usar;_ A visit includes a brief documentary and a shuttle boat ride to the memorial, where the remains of many of the crew who lost their lives lie. Exhibits include Japanese preparations for the attack and wartime Hawaii.

**Honolulu Police Department Law Enforcement Museum,** 801 South Beretania St., Honolulu, 808-529-3351.

## Festivals

Oahu has many wonderful festivals throughout the year, including a Greek Festival and Scots Festival. For a more complete list, do an "events search" at _www.gohawaii.com_ , but here are some of the more notable ones:

**Aloha Festivals,** 808 391-8714, _www.alohafestivals.com_ ; Celebrated since 1946, it is the largest and oldest Hawaiian cultural festival and is celebrated annually in a number of venues throughout the Honolulu area.

**Honolulu Festival** , 808-926-2424, _www.honolulufestival.com_ ; The theme is harmony between the peoples of Hawaii and the Pacific Rim. Held annually in March, this three-day festival is held in locations throughout Honolulu and all events are free. The dance and art of Asian and Pacific countries is featured, and a parade in Waikiki is the culmination of the celebration.

**Honolulu Family Festival at Magic Island** , annual dates vary, 808-924-1907, _www.HonoluluFamilyFestival.com_ ; entrance is free, scrip for food and rides is available for purchase; live entertainment featuring local artists, rides, games, food, and fun. Proceeds go towards refurbishing Ala Moana Park.

**Lei Day Celebration** , _www.honolulupartks.com_ ; Held at Kapiolani Park Bandstand annually on May 1, this celebration features a performance by the Royal Hawaiian Band, investiture of a Lei Queen and Court, crafts displays, Hawaiian cultural exhibits, and displays of lei and lei-making.

**Pan-Pacific Festival** , 808-926-8177 _, www.pan-pacific-festival.com_ , began largely as a Japanese cultural festival but broadened its mission to include the diversity of Hawaiian and Pacific cultures and the benefit of sharing cultures to create a more understanding global community.

## Culture for Kids

The days when your children say, "I'm bored!" are now a thing of the past – at least for the time being. Honolulu has a broad range of attractions and programs specifically designed with kids in mind. Below are some of the top picks for indoor and outdoor kid fun, learning, and entertainment.

Most of the museums and many of the area's annual festivals and events offer children's programs and/or family friendly activities. For more information, check venue or event Web site.

### Museums

**Hawaii Children's Discovery Center** , 111 Ohe St., Honolulu, 808-524-5437, _www.discoverycenterhawaii.org_ , is an interactive learning center. Exhibits include: Tot Spot, Fantastic You, Your Town, Hawaiian Rainbows, and Your Rainbow World.

**Hawaii Nature Center** , _www.hawaiinaturecenter.org,_ is dedicated to teaching Hawaii's children about the unique environment in which they live. There are several locations on Oahu. Most programs are arranged through schools; however, there is some community availability. Call for specific information, 808-955-0100 ext 23.

**Waikiki Aquarium** , 2777 Kalškaua Avenue, Honolulu **,** 808-923-9741, was founded in 1904, making it one of the oldest public aquariums in the country. Its exhibits focus on marine life in Hawaii and the Pacific. Unlike most aquariums, this one is located next to a living coral reef. It has been designated a "Coastal Ecosystem Learning Center."

### Arts and Theatre

**Castle Performing Arts Center (CPAC)** is housed in the Ronald E. Bright Theatre, 45-386 Kaneohe Bay Drive, Kaneohe, _www.k12.hi.us/~cpac_ , 808-233-5626; It has been designated a public school learning center by the Hawaii Department of Education and serves grades 5-12. CPAC is known for its plays, musical theatre, and dance programs. Day classes in acting, theatre crafts, and dance are available only to Castle High School students. Afterschool programs are open to public school students in grades nine through twelve. The Bright Theatre is a state facility run by the Dept. of Education and is available for use by other groups based on availability.

**Honolulu Theatre for Youth** (HTY), 808-839-9885, _www.htyweb.org_ , is a professional non-profit theater company producing plays for young people. It was founded in 1955. Most Oahu school shows and all public ones are held in the Tenney Theatre on the grounds of the Cathedral Church of St. Andrew. The company also tours throughout the state. Each year they present over 300 school shows and 80 public shows targeted to different age groups. Over one third of the plays presented are new commissions. Military families receive discounts for public shows, with one child free per paying adult.

' **Ohi'a Productions, Inc.,** 2051 Young St., #125, Honolulu, 808-943-0456, _http://ohia.org_ , was founded in 1995 to provide theatre for children and families. Its educational mission is focused on cultural and environmental awareness. It stages original productions geared to the audiences of Hawaii. They do not have a home theatre, so check their Web site for details of current shows.

## Outdoor

Oahu boasts numerous sites appropriate for hiking excursions. Information about suitable locations can be found at: _www.hawaiiweb.com/html/hiking/botanical_garden_trails.html_

**Honolulu Zoo** , 151 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu, 808-971-7174 office, 808-971-7171 information, _www.honoluluzoo.org;_ Along with the regular animal exhibits and children's zoo, there are special family programs, including Dinner Safaris, Stargazing at the Zoo, Twilight Tours, Snooze in the Zoo, and Breakfast with a Keeper.

**Foster Botanical Garden** , 180 North Vineyard Blvd., Honolulu, 808-522-7066 information, 808-522-7060 office, is one of five gardens in the Honolulu Botanical Gardens system and the only garden that does not have free admission. Located in downtown Honolulu, the 14-acre preserve is the oldest of the gardens and contains a number of rare and endangered tropical plants.

**Lili'uokalani Botanical Garden,** North Kuakini St., 808-522-7060, was bequeathed to the City of Honolulu by its owner, Queen Lili'uokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii. The 7½ acre park features native Hawaiian plants.

**Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve** , 7455 Kalaniana'ole Highway, Southeast O'ahu, 808-396-4229, about 10 miles from Waikiki, is Oahu's most popular snorkeling site. The protected bay makes it a good location for beginners. Formed from a collapsed volcanic crater, it boasts diverse marine life and a large coral reef. Masks and snorkels can be rented on-site. There is also an Education Center with information and exhibits. Open daily except Tuesdays; the parking lot fills early. There is an admission fee.

## Literary Life

### Bookstores

Honolulu has quite a lot to offer when it comes to satisfying your inner bookworm. From the familiar national book retailers to independent booksellers to the not-so-familiar (and often eccentric) used bookstores, the wide array of booksellers in Honolulu is sure to offer something for everyone's literary tastes. In addition to the expected retail chains, like Borders and Barnes and Noble, are some local spots of interest.

### Independent and Used Booksellers

**Native Books/Na Mea Hawaii** has two locations: in the Ward Warehouse,1050 Ala Moana Blvd., and Hilton Hawaiian Village, Hilton Hawaiian Village, 2005 Kalia Rd. Honolulu. The name says it all.

**Bookends** , 600 Kailua Rd., #126, Honolulu, 808-261-1996, an independent bookstore with an even mix of new and used.

**Covenant Books and Coffee,** 1142 12th Ave., Honolulu, 808-732-4600, a Christian book shop serving up light meals with books.

**Friends of Kailua Library Book Store** , 239 Kuulei, Kailua, 808-266-9911, used books helping to keep the library afloat amid budget cuts.

**Gecko Books** , 1151 12th Ave., Honolulu, 808-732-1292, used science-fiction.

**Jelly's Honolulu,** 420 Coral St., 808-587-7001, used books and music.

**Rainbow Books** , 1010 University Ave. Honolulu, 808-955-7994, used books and music.

### Libraries

There are twenty-four branches on Oahu of the Hawaii State Public Library system, including the Hawaii State Library at 478 South King Street in Honolulu. The online listing of locations, _www.librarieshawaii.org/locations_ , is the simplest way to check for the branch nearest to you. Library cardholders are welcome to use computers and to check out books and materials from any of the library branches.

Each library hosts a variety of literary events, children's story times, and family-friendly activities. For more information on events, contact each branch directly or visit the Hawaii State Public Library System Web site at _www.librarieshawaii.org/programs_.

Honolulu's colleges and universities also offer additional resources, including extensive collections of academic texts and journals. While college and university libraries are generally open to the public, their hours and services for non-students and non-faculty patrons may vary. Check directly with each library for more details on services available to the public.

### Historical and Research Libraries

**Robert Allerton Art Research Library,** 900 South Beretania Street, Honolulu, 808-532-8754, _www.honoluluacademy.org_ , is part of the Honolulu Academy of Art and houses Hawaii's largest collection of art research materials, including over 45,000 books, periodicals, and auction catalogues, a database of Japanese ukiyo-e prints, and more than 2,000 digitized images of prints in the Academy's collection, including works donated by author James A. Michener. There is no museum admission charge for visiting the library.

**Hawaiian Historical Society** , 560 Kawaiaha'o Street, Honolulu, 808-537-6271, _www.hawaiianhistory.org;_ principally a research facility, it houses over 15,000 volumes of documents on Hawaii and the Pacific. The Society also publishes books, The Hawaiian Journal of History, the newsletter Na Mea Kahiko, a Guide to the Library Collections, and a Catalog of Publications.

**Hawaii State Archives** , Iolani Palace Grounds, Honolulu, 808-586-0329, houses the government archives from 1790 to the present, including private royal papers.

**Hawaii Medical Library** , Queens Medical Center, 1221 Punchbowl Street, Honolulu, 808-547-4300, _www.hml.org_ , is a reference library chiefly for the staff, residents, and patients of Queens Medical Center, but is also open to the general public, although some services are restricted.

### Lectures

Colleges, universities, museums, and public libraries routinely sponsor and organize regular lecture series. A few interesting sources for lecture series are:

**Chaminade University** , 3140 Waialae Ave., Honolulu, 808-735-4711, _www.chaminade.edu,_ is an independent Catholic university. "News and Publications" information about public events can be found under the "About Us" menu.

**The East-West Center** , 1601 East West Rd., Honolulu, _www.eastwestcenter.org_ , founded in 1960, is adjacent to the campus of the University of Hawaii at Manoa by the United States Congress. Its purpose is to further cooperation and understanding between the peoples of the United States, Asia, and the Pacific.

**Harold L. Lyon Arboretum** , University of Hawaii-Manoa, 3860 Manoa Rd., Honolulu, 808-988-0456, provides ongoing classes and lectures in horticulture, plant conservation, crafts, and other subjects.

**Hawaii Pacific University** , 808-544-0200 **,** _www.hpu.edu_ _,_ has two main campuses: 1164 Bishop St., Honolulu; and in Windward, 45-045 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe. It is an independent, non-sectarian, liberal arts university. "News and Events" at the bottom of their main Web page will link you to current happenings.

**Royal Hawaiian Center** , _www.royalhawaiiancenter.com_ , offers classes and demonstrations in the arts of Hawaiian culture.

**The University of Hawaii System** has a number of campuses on Oahu, all of which are good sources for special performances, events, lectures, and continuing education classes. The main Web site ( _www.hawaii.edu_ ) contains links to all the campuses in addition to a link for news about "Arts & Community." The Oahu campuses are: The University of Hawaii at Manoa, The University of Hawaii — West Oahu, Honolulu Community College, Kapi'olani Community College, Leeward Community College, Windward Community College. Each of these should be checked individually for cultural opportunities.
Chapter 42

Climate and Environment

The climate in Honolulu is moderate with very little change throughout the year. In contrast to the mainland United States, Honolulu does not observe daylight savings time and does not have four seasons. Instead, residents of Honolulu consider the year as divided between the dry season, which runs from April to October, and the rainy season, which runs from November to March.

The average highs range between 80 degrees and 90 degrees in this tropical paradise, with the average lows ranging between 65 degrees and 75 degrees. The humidity ranges between 67 percent and 81 percent in the morning and 52 percent and 61 percent in the afternoon. You can also enjoy tropical breezes that blow at an average of 11 miles per hour. When you are ready to play in the ocean, you'll be greeted by water that is between 77 degrees and 82 degrees.

Each year, Honolulu has 270 sunny days and 98 wet days. But before you decide to leave your umbrella at home, here is a little tip. Where you are in the city will dictate the likelihood of seeing raindrops. If you are at Waikiki, downtown Honolulu or on the western side of the city, where the weather is hot and dry, chances are you'll have sunny skies. But travel to the eastern side of the city and the hills, where the weather is cooler and moist, and you are more likely to see passing clouds and brief showers.

## Seasons

Since Hawaii lies at the edge of a tropical zone, it technically only has two seasons. Both seasons are warm, though some weather-related problems persist even in this close-to-ideal climate.

With the dry season, from April to October, come hundreds of brush fires. The Honolulu Fire Department recommends that you clear brush 30 to 100 feet around your house, remove all flammable items from around your house, and make sure there is clear access to your house.

But the rainy season, from November to March, brings its own problems. Although rain rarely lasts for more than three days, heavy rains can cause mudslides and force some creatures in Hawaii out of their natural habitat. For example, when rain churns the ocean, expect to see an increase in shark activity. On land, you can expect to see an increase in centipedes. Be careful moving them because they pack a big bite. Bufo Toads are poisonous and life threatening, and also are seen more often in rainy weather. Keep children and pets away from these creatures. An increase in Geckos and ants can also be annoying, though these creatures are not as dangerous.

## Severe Weather

Although you are living in a tropical paradise, you should always be aware of the potential for severe weather. Thunder storms, hurricanes and tropical storms, tornadoes, volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunamis and drought are all weather hazards you should be prepared to navigate – even if most of these are extremely rare occurrences in Honolulu. Since being prepared means knowing the forecast, these Web sites will provide you with your local forecast information and contacts in case of an emergency.

### Severe Weather Forecasts

**KGMB TV 9,** _www.hawaiinewsnow.com_

**KITV TV 4** _,_ _www.kitv.com/index.html_

**The Weather Channel,** Search for "Honolulu" at _www.weather.com_

**National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),** Search for "Honolulu" at _www.forecast.weather.gov_.

### Severe Weather Emergency Assistance

**Police/Fire/Ambulance,** 911

**Elderly/Disabled Assistance** , 808-523-4545

**Voice or TTY Service** , 808-527-6300

**Department of Emergency Management** , 808-723-8960

**Foreign Language Translations Service** , 808-848-0936 or 808-845-3918

**Radio Stations,** _www.ontheradio.net/metro/Honolulu_HI.aspx_

**The American Red Cross,** _www.redcross.org_

### Tsunami

A tsunami is generated by underwater earthquakes. The waves of the tsunami can continue for several hours and are capable of causing destruction on the entire coastline of Oahu. However, such occurrences are quite rare; a serious tsunami has not hit Hawaii since 1975.

Signs that a tsunami is imminent:

**Earthquake affecting Oahu:** If you are in a tsunami zone, move immediately but safely to higher ground.

**Earthquake in Hawaiian Waters:** The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) will issue an urgent warning for the areas that could be affected. This warning will be announced over the Emergency Broadcast System via the radio and the Civil Defense sirens will be activated.

**Distant earthquake:** The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC) will issue a Tsunami Watch until it has been confirmed or discounted. In the event that the tsunami is confirmed the PTWC will issue a warning for the areas that could be affected. This warning will be announced over the Emergency Broadcast System via the radio and the Civil Defense sirens will be activated.

If you are seeking shelter from a Tsunami, go to a steel or concrete building that has more than six floors. Make sure you are on or above the third floor. If you are outside the Tsunami Evacuation Zone, you should be safe.

### Earthquakes

Thousands of earthquakes occur in the Hawaiian Islands each year. Most of these earthquakes are so small they can only be detected by instruments. The Last major earthquake was on the island of Hawaii in October 2006. It was felt on the island of Oahu and knocked the power out for the day.

During an earthquake, the earth moves in a similar manner to the deck of a moving ship. This movement of the ground itself seldom results in injury or death. Instead, most earthquake injuries and deaths are attributable to building collapse, falling objects and shattering glass.

If you feel an earthquake that is strong enough that it makes you grab onto something to remain upright and you are located in a tsunami area, move to high ground immediately. A locally generated tsunami will not give you any warning.

**To be ready for an earthquake,** you should check your house for any potential hazards at least once a year, including:

Faulty electrical wiring

Leaky gas

Inflexible connections

Bolt down water heaters and gas appliances

Make sure you know how to shut off your utilities manually

Securely fasten shelves

Anchor top heavy objects

Check for cracks in your ceilings and foundation **During an earthquake,** you should remain calm. Stay inside if you are inside and stay outside if you are outside. Injuries can occur when you try to enter or exit a building. If you are inside, take cover under a heavy desk or table alongside an inside wall. Stay away from glass and don't use matches or an open flame because of possible gas leaks. It is important to always have a fire extinguisher on hand.

If you are in a car, pull over quickly and safely but do not stop under a bridge or overpass. Stay in your car. Watch for fallen objects, downed electric wires or blocked roadways. And be prepared for aftershocks.

### Thunderstorms

Thunderstorms rarely occur in Hawaii. In fact, Honolulu averages only seven weak thunderstorms a year. That's partly because the Hawaiian Islands rarely experience a day above 90 degrees. The ocean waters are always warm at the islands' sub-tropical location, and the atmosphere above them is mild to a height of several miles. Since thunderstorms require a thermally unstable atmosphere, they rarely form in Hawaii.

### Hurricanes and Tropical Storms

Hurricanes are powerful storms that form over tropical waters, usually between June and December. The effects of hurricanes can include damaging surf and storm surges along the coastline, destructive winds, water spouts, tornadoes, heavy rain and flooding. To be classified as a hurricane, a storm must have sustained winds of 74 miles per hour or more. A tropical storm will have winds between 39 and 73 miles per hour.

During the last 50 years, three hurricanes have hit the Hawaiian Islands. Fortunately, Honolulu did not take a direct hit from any of the storms. It is important to note that if Honolulu were to take a direct hit from even a weak tropical storm, however, the effects would be devastating. The rain from the storm would be focused on the mountain slopes which would result in flash floods and landslides. Rapidly rising water levels from storm tides and high wind waves would inundate the coastal areas, erode beaches, and pound waterfront structures, highways, and other facilities. The best way, then, to prepare for a major hurricane is to make plans on how you will evacuate the island if such an event were to occur.

It is essential to know the difference between a hurricane/tropical storm watch and a hurricane/tropical storm warning. When a watch is issued, it means that storm conditions are likely to occur on Oahu within 48 hours. You should begin preliminary precautions. If a warning is issued, it means that the threat of storm conditions is stronger, and the storm is expected to hit Oahu within 36 hours. You should take action to protect your life and property immediately. No area on the island is safe from the effects of a hurricane or tropical storm, so it is essential that everyone has emergency evacuation plans and assembles a survival kit. The Web site, _www.co.honolulu.hi.us/dem/brochures.htm_ provides extensive information about preparing for a storm.

It is also important to stay tuned to local radio and TV stations for emergency updates, school closures, employee releases and shelter opening schedules. You can also expect sirens sounding and evacuation orders. If you are in or near a Tsunami Evacuation Zone, along ridge lines, in areas subject to flooding, or you are in a wooden-frame or lightly constructed building, you should evacuate before the winds reach 40 miles per hour. Multi-story buildings made of heavy concrete and steel and that are at least 300 feet inland from the shoreline serve as public shelters. People in these buildings should go to the third floor or above to an enclosed room, hallway or stairwell that has load-bearing walls. Evacuation maps are located in the white pages of your phone book or by going to _www.oahuDEM.org_.

**To be prepared for a hurricane or tropical storm,** make sure you are educated about how a hurricane can affect you and your family. A disaster plan is essential. This plan should consist of a secondary meeting place for your family and designating an off-island contact. You should also have a disaster kit that contains enough supplies for five to seven days. The disaster kit should include:

**Water -** one gallon of water per person per day.

**Food –** non-perishable foods that do not require cooking.

**Utensils –** don't forget the manual can opener.

**Light** – a flashlight or portable florescent light.

**Spare batteries** – make sure you check these annually.

**First Aid Kit** – also consider taking a certified first aid course.

**Whistle** – is important for signaling for help. The sound carries farther than the human voice and it takes less energy than yelling.

**Dust mask** – filters contaminated air.

**Sanitation** – moist wipes and garbage bag.

**Tools** – wrench or pliers to turn off utilities and duct tape.

**Maps** – local area maps.

**Prescriptions** – special medications and glasses.

**Baby items** – infant formula and diapers.

**Pets** – pet food and extra water for the pet.

**Radio** – battery operated.Helpful Hurricane Season Web sites:

**Central Pacific Hurricane Center,** _<http://www.prh.noaa.gov/cphc/pages/hurrsafety.php>_ , provides up-to- the-minute information on storms.

**National Data Buoy Center,** _www.ndbc.noaa.gov/_ , provides recent marine data such as wind speed, wind direction, wind gusts, wave heights, air temperature and atmospheric pressure.

**FEMA Storm Watch,** _www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/nhp/stormwatch.shtm#2_ , offers information about helping people with disabilities,, disaster supplies, helping children cope and more.

**WXnation,** _www.wxnation.com/honolulu/_ , live webcam stations.

**Honolulu Department of Emergency Management,** _www.honolulu.gov/dem_ /, response, awareness, and evacuation action information.

### Tornadoes

The Hawaiian Islands rarely experience tornadoes. There have been 40 confirmed tornados since 1950. None of these tornadoes exceeded F2 intensity and none of them caused any loss of life. Even though they are rare, they are a possibility, so you should be aware of tornado warnings and watches. The Web sites listed above for weather forecasts are a good source of information on tornadoes.

### Volcanic Eruptions

Since Honolulu is more than 2,500 miles away from the U.S. mainland, it has a natural advantage when it comes to air quality. However, there is one threat to the air quality – volcanic activity at the Kilauea crater. On the Big Island of Hawaii, Kilauea is the youngest and most southeastern volcano. In Hawaiian, Kilauea means "spewing" or "much spreading." It has been continuously erupting since January 3, 1983.

Local legend has it that this volcano is the home of the Goddess Pele and it erupts when she is angry. These beliefs are included in tribal chants sung by native Hawaiians. The scientific explanation for the eruptions is that they are caused by numerous small earthquakes within the volcano. The **Hawaii Volcano Observatory,** _www.hvo.wr.usgs.gov_ **,** **monitors the activity of this volcano.**

The danger to air quality in Honolulu is "vog" or otherwise known as volcanic smog. This is only a danger when the winds are out of the south or southeast. Vog is a visible haze that occurs when sulfur dioxide and other gases emitted from the volcano chemically interact with sunlight, oxygen, moisture and dust. Vog has health, environmental and economic impacts. It can cause headaches, watery eyes, sore throats, flulike symptoms, a lack of energy and breathing problems. For people with asthma or other respiratory problems, it can be even more serious, tightening airways and making it difficult to breathe. The solution to vog is to stay indoors with the doors closed and the air conditioning units on. Unfortunately, the Hawaiian Islands are normally cooled by the trade winds so many buildings don't have air conditioning units.

Local farms also feel the effect of vog. The plants get burned and the sulfur dioxide in the rain destroys fences and gates. Vog also impedes grass growth which in turn causes stillbirths in ranch animals. As a result, farmers are relocating to the mainland, changing professions, or have changed their crops to ones that do better in vog.

### Drought

Honolulu gets up to fifteen inches of rain per year. Because of the increasing population, however, water management is necessary for the planning of future water needs. The following conservations measures are recommended for Honolulu residents.

Indoor water conservation includes: fix leaks in toilets, pipes, faucets and other fixtures, take shorter showers, shut off your water pipe if you will be away for long periods of time, turn the water off when brushing your teeth and use a dishpan with soapy water to wash dishes, then rinse with clean water quickly.

Outdoor water conservation includes: limit grassy areas when landscaping your yard, group plants according to their water needs and water appropriately, use soil with organic matter when landscaping, replace grassy areas with mulched areas, use plants that require little water, water your lawns two to three times a week before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. and use a rain barrel. Here are a few Web sites that will help you stay on top of the drought conditions:

**Hawaii Drought Monitor,** _www.hawaii.gov/dlnr/drought/preparedness.htm_

**Pacific Disaster Center,** _www.pdc.org/iweb/drought.jsp?subg=1_

**Hawaii Hazard Mitigation Forum: Mother Nature,** _www.mothernature-hawaii.com_

The drought conditions are monitored by the Board of Water Supply. Information on voluntary or mandatory water restrictions can be found at _www.boardofwatersupply.com_.

### Plants and Animals

Hawaii is considered to be the endangered species capital of the world. Hawaii has a shocking 316 endangered species from various ecosystems. The Oahu Forest National Wildlife Refuge stands guard over some of the last remaining intact native forest. At least nine native communities can be found at this refuge. The communities include lowland mesic forests, rainforest communities, high elevation cloud forest and freshwater streams.

Here are a few Web sites that will help you get to know the plants and animals that are native to Hawaii:

**Trees,** _www.treesofhawaii.com/_

**Birds,** _www.state.hi.us/dlnr/consrvhi/forestbirds/_

**Mammals,** _www.hawaii.gov/dlnr/dar/marine_mammals.html_

**Reptiles,** _www.explorebiodiversity.com/Hawaii/BiodiversityForgotten/Wildlife/Reptiles/Reptile%20Main.htm_

**Insects,** _www.uhh.hawaii.edu/affiliates/prism/NativeInsects.php_

## Gardening in Honolulu

When planting a garden of vegetables or flowers in Honolulu, you need to take into consideration the vog. Check with your local gardening center for suggestions for the heartiest plants. The best way to garden is to follow the Xeriscaping principles. Xeriscaping is based on seven principles to plan, plant and maintain a garden that makes the most efficient use of irrigation by taking advantage of native climate conditions. Here are the seven principles:

**Planning and design** allows you to plant your garden in phases, which cuts down on your start-up costs.

**Limit and separate turf areas;** Grassy areas require more water so separate the grass from trees, shrubs and flowering plants so that they can be watered separately. Replace ground cover with low-water plants or mulch.

**Strategically plan and place your sprinkler system** ; Group garden plants according to water needs. Grass is best watered with sprinklers. Trees, shrubs and garden flowers are best watered with a low volume drip or spray.

**Use the correct soil;** Add grading and soil amendments that have organic matter to provide beneficial nutrients to the plants. This will encourage your plants to take root and flourish.

**Mulch is an ideal replacement for grass** ; Mulch covers and cools the soil, minimizes evaporation and reduces weed growth and slow erosion.

**Use "Less Thirsty" plants;** Use plants that are native to the island so they will thrive in natural rainfall.

**Maintain your garden on a regular basis,** which preserves the beauty of your garden and saves water.
Chapter 43

Transportation

Honolulu is the capital and the largest city of the state in Hawaii, and it is the center of the state's government, transportation and commerce. Honolulu means "sheltered harbor" and it serves as an important center for military defense with several bases, including Pearl Harbor Naval Base and Hickam Air Force Base. With all of this going on, Honolulu is a fast-paced city, and the amount of traffic on the roads at peak times will attest to that. All the same, Honolulu also has the laid-back atmosphere of a tropical island, and with proper planning getting around the city can be an equally relaxing experience.

## By Car

To get around Honolulu by car, you should first know a little bit about the various districts people talk about when they say "Honolulu." Honolulu extends inland from the southeast shore of Oahu, east of Pearl Harbor to Makapuʻu Point and incorporates many neighborhoods and districts. Some of the bigger geographical designations are:

Downtown is the heart of the city, home to the state capital, museums, the harbor and the commercial center of the Hawaiian Islands.

Waikiki is the tourist center of Hawaii with white sand beaches, crowds of surfers and sunbathers, and high rise hotels.

Manoa-Makiki is an area in the foothills north of downtown, home to the University of Hawaii at Manoa, the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, and the Koolau Mountains which are behind the city.

Eastern Honolulu is a residential area that extends to the very southeastern corner of the island and is home to rocky shorelines, scenic beaches and snorkeling.

Western Honolulu is another residential area, home to the Honolulu International Airport, the Bishop Museum and the military memorials of Pearl Harbor.Unlike many cities on the U.S. mainland, Honolulu is not laid out in a compass point grid. Instead, its street system conforms in large part to the shorelines, valleys, and ridges of the island. The key to navigating the city is to know the major arteries, island terminology and local landmarks. Because it is difficult to tell the difference between north and south on an island, directions are given in terms of local landmarks. The most common terms that you will hear are:

Mauka (MOW-kah) means toward the mountains, which are situated on the northern part of the island.

Makai (mah-KAI) means toward the sea, which is south.

Ewa (Ee-vaah) is a town on the southwest shore of the island and is used to mean west.

Diamond Head refers to the landmark crater on the southeast shore and is used to mean east.Most streets in Honolulu run Ewa-Diamond Head which roughly means east-west. There are two main highways in Honolulu: Nimitz Highway (Hawaii 92), which runs from Pearl Harbor past Honolulu International Airport to downtown Honolulu and then to Waikiki. Interstate H-1 runs mauka, or north, of downtown and runs the entire length of the island's south shore.

In Central Honolulu, the two main streets are King Street and Beretania Street. Both are one way and run through downtown Honolulu. King Street runs Ewa- Diamond Head and Beretania Street runs Diamond Head to Ewa. Based on the terminology you would think that these streets run west and east respectively, but because the streets form an S curve through downtown their designations are north and south respectively. Ala Moana Boulevard is a key route leading out of Waikiki to downtown Honolulu. When Ala Moana Boulevard passes Honolulu harbor it becomes Nimitz Highway and runs past the Honolulu International Airport and beyond. Kapiolani Boulevard is a tree-lined major thoroughfare connecting east-central Honolulu, with the Waikiki district and points east with downtown Honolulu.

Traffic in Honolulu is a persistent problem. With a million people living in a small space and only a few main routes serving the major populated areas, a single traffic incident has the potential to induce gridlock across the entire island. In fact, Honolulu is ranked among the worst cities in the nation for traffic. Normal weekday rush hour in Honolulu is 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. going toward downtown and 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. going away from downtown. Traffic is less heavy during the summer and over the holidays when the University of Hawaii at Manoa is not in session. The further out you drive the less traffic you will encounter.

To avoid this gridlock, try to schedule activities such as shopping and appointments at times that allow you to avoid the worst traffic. Some employers may also allow you to adjust your schedule to avoid the worst of traffic – or avoid traffic altogether by working at home.

## Public Transportation

Public transportation is another great way to beat the traffic grind. The next few sections of this chapter will detail the many public transportation options in Honolulu. To calculate your commuting costs by car versus using public transportation go to, _[www.thebus.org/  
info/drivercostcal.asp](http://www.thebus.org/info/drivercostcal.asp)_. Enter the requested information, click on calculate and you get your annual commuting cost.

## By Bus

Honolulu is ranked fourth in per capita use of mass transit in the United States. TheBus, _www.thebus.org_ , is a public transportation service in the city and county of Honolulu with a ridership of approximately 71.7 million per year. Part of the reason there is such a high volume of riders is that free school buses are not available to the majority of Honolulu's students, so many use city buses instead. TheBus has a fleet of 531 buses and operates 107 routes that serve Honolulu and outlying areas. Hawaii celebrates unique state holidays that affect the bus schedule, so you may want to check for these on TheBus Web site.

TheBus fares for an adult are $2.25 per trip, a monthly pass is $50, or an annual pass is $550. For more information about adult fares go to _www.thebus.org/fare/adultfare.asp_. Youths are passengers 17 and under and high school students up to age 19. Teenage passengers who are not attending high school do not qualify for youth fare. The youth fares are $1 per trip, a monthly pass is $25, or an annual pass is $275. For more information about youth fares go to _www.thebus.org/fare/youthfare.asp_. TheBus SeniorCard allows those 65 and older to buy tickets at a reduced fare. A SeniorCard is $10, and cash fare with a SeniorCard or a valid U.S. Medicare card is $1. A Monthly Pass Sticker for those with a SeniorCard is $5, and an annual pass is $30. For more information about senior fares, go to _www.thebus/faare/seniorfare.asp_. People with disabilities can also get special rates using the TheBus Disability Pass. Getting one of these requires a medical certification or U.S. Medicare Card, plus $10. Its holders can ride TheBus for $1, or purchase a Monthly Pass Sticker for $5 that allows for regular local and express service for the month. Other special fares allow those with disabilities unlimited rides for $30 a year. For more information about fares for disabled people, go to _www.thebus.org/Fare/disabilityfare.asp_.

The Discovery Pass allows for unlimited rides over four consecutive days. The U-Pass is a reduced-price pass available to students at participating colleges. Cost and valid dates vary depending on the semester and college for which the pass is purchased. For more information, go to _www.thebus.org/Fare/u-pass.asp_. Transfers are free with a cash fare. It is important to note that drivers don't carry cash so you need to have the exact change.

Park & Ride lots allow bus patrons to leave their cars and ride the bus. These lots are a great option for people who want to avoid as much traffic as possible. You will find quite a few of these lots throughout Honolulu, including;

Hawaii-Kai 134 parking spaces

Miliani 176 parking spaces

Royal Kunia 149 parking spaces

Wahiawa 50 parking spaces and

Haleiwa 20 parking spaces.For information on timetables and schedules, go to _www.thebus.org/Route/Routes.asp_ or call 808-848-5555.

### The Handy-Van

The Handy-Van is a public transit service for people with disabilities who are unable to use the bus service. With an annual ridership of 850,000, and a fleet of 166, the van service is available Monday through Sunday from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. Twenty-four hour service is located in limited areas. For more information, go to _[www.honolulu.gov/dts/  
riders.htm](http://www.honolulu.gov/dts/riders.htm)_. Passengers are picked up and dropped off at the closest curbside point. The fare is $2 for a one way trip. A personal approach is taken when determining a person's eligibility. Trained Mobility Coordinators conduct an in person interview. For more information, go to, _www.honolulu.gov/dts/riders.htm_ or call 808-538-0033.

## By Bike

Bicycling is another way to beat the traffic – and get some exercise while you're doing it. The City & County of Honolulu has adopted a plan, _www.honolulu.gov/dts/bikeway_ , to make its streets friendlier to bicyclists. Plans include adding more dedicated bicycle paths and improving safety conditions for cyclists. Currently, all buses are equipped with bike racks.

All bicycles with 20" or larger wheels are required to be registered in the city and the county of Honolulu. There is a one-time fee of $15 and a fee of $5 when transferring ownership of a bicycle. For information about bike registration, go to _www.Honolulu.gov/dts/bikereg.htm_.

## By Taxi

Taxis are locally regulated, so the fares will be same regardless of the company you choose. Taxis are generally found waiting at area businesses, tourist attractions and the airport. Because they are conveniently located there is no need to hail a cab. If there's no cab where you need it, you can also just call for one. For more information about Taxi service in Honolulu, go to _www.local.yahoo.com/HI/Honolulu/Travel+Lodging/Taxi+Services_.

## By Air

The Honolulu International Airport is located five miles northwest of downtown Honolulu and 10 miles from Waikiki Beach. Located on 4,520 acres, it is one of the busiest airports in the world. A staggering 20 million people travel through the airport each year. The airport has four active runways, one of which is the Reef Runway. The Reef Runway is the world's first major runway built offshore. This runway is designated as an alternate landing site for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration space shuttle program in association with Hickam Air Force Base, which shares Honolulu International Airport.

Airlines that service the Honolulu International Airport are:

Commuter Terminal

  * go!, 888-435-9462, _www.iflygo.com_

  * Island Air, 800-323-3345, _www.islandair.com_

  * Mokulele Air, 866-260-7070, _www.mokuleleairlines.com_

  * Pacific Wings, 888-575-4546, _www.phillipwings.com_

Interisland Terminal

  * Hawaiian Airlines, 800-367-5320, _www.hawaiianair.com_

  * Mokulele Air, 866-260-7070, _www.mokuleleairlines.com_

Overseas Terminal

  * Air Canada, 888-247-2262, _www.aircanada.com_

  * Air Japan, 800-235-9262, _www.jal.co.jp/en/_

  * Air New Zealand, 800-262-1234, _www.airnewzealand.co.jp_

  * Air Pacific, 800-227-4446, _www.airpacific.com_

  * Alaska Airlines, 800-252-7522, _www.alaskaair.com_

  * American Airlines, 800-433-7300, _www.aa.com_

  * China Airlines, 800-227-5118, _www.china-airlines.com/_ en/index.htm

  * Continental, 800-523-3273, _www.continental.com_

  * Delta/Northwest, 800-433-7300, _www.delta.com_

  * Japan Airlines, 808-521-1441, _www.jal.com_

  * Jetstar, 866-397-8170, _www.jetstar.com_

  * Korean Air, 800-438-5000, _www.koreanair.com_

  * North American, 800-371-6297, _www.flynaa.com_

  * Omni Air International, 808-834-4577, _www.omniairintl.com_

  * Philippines Airlines, 800-435-9725, _www.philippinesairlines.com_

  * Qantas Airways, 800-227-4500, _www.qantas.com.au/_

  * United Airlines, 800-united-1, _www.united.com_

  * U.S Airways, 800-428-4322, _www.usairways.com_

  * WestJet, 888-937-8538, _www.westjet.com\_

General Aviation

  * Kalaeloa Airport is managed by the Honolulu International Airport and serves as the general aviation reliever airport. For more information go to, _http://hawaii.gov/jrf_ _or call 808-673-7454_.

  * Dillingham Air Field is a specialized general aviation airport used primarily by gliders and parachutists. For more information go to, _[www.hawaii.gov/hnl/airport-information/  
dillingham-air-field](http://www.hawaii.gov/hnl/airport-information/dillingham-air-field)_.

### Security

If you are traveling internationally, you need to arrive two hours prior to your departure time. If you are traveling on an interisland flight you need to arrive 90 minutes prior to your departure time. And if you need to park your car or return a rental car, add 30 minutes to your arrival time.

In addition to several security checkpoints, there is an extensive list of prohibited items. For a complete list of prohibited items, go to _www.tsa.gov_. Also on this Web site, you can find information about travelers who have disabilities, traveling with children and more. It is recommended that you call the airport at 808-836-6411 or check out the airport Web site, _www.hawaii.gov/hnlf_ for security updates, before your flight.

### Parking

There are several options for parking at Honolulu International airport:

International Parking Garage, 1,800 spaces

Overseas Parking Garage, 1,570 spaces

Interisland Parking Garage, 1,787 spaces

Commuter Parking Lot, 434 spaces

Economy Parking Lot, for travelers who leave their vehicles for 2 or more daysParking rates for the International Parking Garage, Overseas Parking Garage, Interisland Parking Garage and Commuter Parking Lot are: free for the first 15 minutes, $1 if you exit between 15 and 30 minutes after entry, and $2 for the second half hour, and $2 per hour after that. The maximum fee per 24 hours is $13. It's important to note that if you lose your parking ticket, the minimum for a 24-period hour of time is $13.00. Motorcycle parking is available at $1 for 2 hours and a $5 maximum per day or $50 monthly. Monthly parking is available in the Interisland Parking Garage for $300 a month. Valet parking is available at $20 a day. Parking rates for the Economy Parking Lot are $10 per 24 hours or fraction thereof with a minimum of $20. There is a 30-day maximum time limit on parking unless prior arrangements have been made by calling The AMPCO System Parking at 808-861-1260.

### Picking up Passengers

There are two cell phone waiting areas available to make it convenient for those picking up arriving passengers. When your passengers have retrieved their luggage and are waiting at the curb, they can call you on your cell phone and you may proceed directly to curbside pickup. This will keep you from having to drive around and around the terminal while waiting for them. The Cell Phone Waiting area operates on a first-come, first-served basis. There is a maximum waiting time of 60 minutes, the driver must stay inside their vehicle while waiting, unattended vehicles will be cited and towed and no commercial vehicles are allowed.

### Rental Cars and Taxis

Rental cars are available through these providers:

Avis, 800-331-1212 or TTY/TDD 800-331-2323, _www.avis.com_

Budget, 800-527-0700 or TYY/TDD 800-826-5510, _www.budget.com_

Dollar, 800-800-3665 or TTY 800-232-3301, _www.dollar.com_

Enterprise, 800-261-7331 or TTY 866-534-9270, _www.enterprise.com_

Hertz, 800-654-3131 (domestic information), 800-654-3001 (international information) or TDD 800 654 2280, _www.hertz.com_

National, 877-222-9058 or TDD 877-328-6323, _www.nationalcar.com_ AMPCO Express manages the Airport's Open Taxi System at Honolulu International Airport. This system was created so taxi drivers from all taxi companies would be able to pick up people at the airport. The fare from the airport to Waikiki during non rush hour periods is approximately $35-$40, with a maximum of four passengers, plus a charge of 35 cents per bag.

The Airport Waikiki Express provides transportation from the airport to any hotel in Waikiki. The service operates every 20 to 25 minutes from 5 a.m. to 3 a.m. From 3 a.m. to 5 a.m., the service runs every hour. Passenger fees for an adult are $9 for one way and $15 for a round trip. Children 3 and younger ride for free. For more information call 808-831-1555 or go to _www.hawaii.gov/hnl/airport-information/dillingham-air-field_.
Chapter 44

Sports & Recreation

Although Honolulu has no professional sports teams, its year-round mild weather and varied environment makes the area perfect for a variety of sports and other recreational events, whether you are hoping to sit on the sidelines or participate yourself.

For spectators interested in professional sports, Honolulu is host to the National Football League Pro Bowl, which is held at the end of the NFL season and features that season's best players from across the country.

Honolulu's climate lends itself to year-round fitness activities and spectator sports. Fan favorites include the football, volleyball, basketball, and baseball programs of the  University of Hawaii at Manoa and high school sporting events.

## Spectator Sports

### College Sports

University Of Hawaii at Manoa, _www.uhm.hawaii.edu_ , or the Warriors, has a major NCAA sports program including men's and women's basketball, swimming and diving, tennis and volleyball, men's baseball, football and golf, and women's cross-country, sailing, soccer, softball, track and field and water polo.

### High School Sports

**Interscholastic League of Honolulu,** _www.ilhsports.com_ **,** consists of twenty-seven athletic programs, twenty co-ed schools, two schools for boys and four schools for girls.

### Roller Derby

Almost as fun to watch as it is to play, roller derby is a fast growing, high adrenaline sport. With two leagues on the island, wheeled action is never in short supply.

The Aloha City Rollers – featuring a certain LallyGagHer (aka Adrienne Lally) – are a flat track league open to men and women over the age of 18. You can show up for their bouts if you want to watch or even join up. _<http://www.alohacityrollers.com/>_

Pacific Roller Derby is an all-female flat track league that skates at **Kamiloiki** ******Community** ******Park. Check out their web page for schedules and more details. http://www.pacificrollerderby.com**

## Participant Sports and Activities

### Parks and Recreation Departments

The Department of Parks and Recreation maintains and manages all parks and recreational facilities throughout Honolulu County. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life of Oahu residents through active and passive recreational opportunities.

### Pools

Hours of operation, free swim, lap swim, classes, closures due to inclement weather and costs vary. For specific information, call the number listed beside the pool.

Kanewai, 808-733-7365

Kapaolono, 808-733-7369

Manoa, 808-988-6868

Palolo, 808-733-7362

Booth, 808-522-7037

Kalihi Valley, 808-832-7814

Makiki, 808-521-4803

Moanalua, 808-831-7106

Salt Lake, 808-831-4377

### Recreational Gardening

A city program started in 1975, this program provides people living in the Honolulu's densely populated communities access to garden  
plots. The program consists of 10 gardens. Interested residents apply for  
a plot in one of the gardens, and then pay a small fee for each year they use it. For complete information about locations and fees, visit _www.honolulu.gov/parks/hbg/crgp.htm_.

### Hiking

The varied terrain surrounding Honolulu awaits residents with a wide variety of places for treks of all types, long or short, from an easy stroll to more strenuous hikes. Here are a few popular routes for hikers:

Aihualama Trail to Nuuanu Overlook, 5.6 miles

Alapena Pool and Falls, half a mile

Foster Botanical Garden, one mile

Judd Memorial Trail to Jackass Ginger Pool, one mile

Makiki Valley Loop, two miles

Manoa Cliff – Kalawahine Loop, 4.8 miles

Manoa Falls, 1.6 miles

Moleka and Ualakaa Trails, two miles

Nuuanu Trail to Nuuanu Overlook, 5.6 miles

Oahu: The Koolaus, 20 miles

Oahu: The Pali Lookout, one mile

Puu Ohia – Pauoa Flats Loop, three miles

Puu Pia Trail, 1.8 miles

Waahila Ridge Trail, 3.5 miles

### Multi-Sport Groups

Some area employers may offer a chance to play sports through corporate teams, so be sure to ask your employer if there are existing teams – or if you might start one. These independent groups also offer several sports each.

Honolulu Triathlon, _www.honolulutriathlon.com_

**Island Triathlon & Bike,** 808-732-7227, _www.itbhawaii.com_

**Momentum Multisport, 808-737-4474,** _www.momentumhi.com_

**Hawaii Active, 866-766-6284,** _www.hawaiiactive.com_

### Adventure Racing

City Solve Urban Race is a one-day, Honolulu amazing race. This scavenger hunt will take you to answer trivia questions, complete challenges and take on other activities as you unfold the puzzle. The adventure game takes you through many exciting neighborhoods, such as Chinatown, The Arts District and some cool places you might not even know about. On this urban adventure, you'll solve clues ranging from pop culture to math to American history and much more. Along the way you'll face exciting challenges like bowling a strike, building a house of cards or identifying a flavor of ice cream. For all the fun details, check out _www.citysolveurbanrace.com_.

### Baseball

Ohana Batting Cages, 808-486-4487

I 9 Sports, 808-394-1100

### Basketball

Honolulu Basketball Club, _www.honolulubasketball.org_

Rainbow Basketball Classic, _www.oahu.aloha-hawaii.com/activities/rainbow+classic_

### Paintball

Hawaii All Star Paintball, 808-842-7827, three fields, equipment rentals and food

808PBHI, 808-864-1610, _www.808paintballhawaii.com_ , gear, events and teams

Brothers Paintball Supply, 808-723-5969, gear and supplies

Paintball Central, 808-842-3720, _www.pbchawaii.com_ , gear, supplies and teams

### Soccer

Major Island Soccer Organization, 808-722-8889, _www.islandsoccer.com_. Men's women's and juniors leagues at all skill levels.

### Bicycling

_Hawaii Bicycling League, 808-735-5756,_ _www.hbl.org_ _,_ _promotes cycling for health, recreation, and transportation through advocacy, education, and events._

Eki Cyclery, 808-847-2005, _www.ekicyclery.com_ , bikes and other gear.

Country Cycles, 808-638-8866, bicycle rentals.

### BMX Bicycle Racing

Bike Factory, 808-596-8844, _www.bikefactoryhawaii.com_ , gear, teams, and events

Boca Hawaii, 808-591-9839, _www.bocahawaii.com_ , gear, training and races

The Bicycle Shop, 808-596-0588, _www.bicycleshops.us_ , sales and repairs

### Beaches

Sandy Beach, 8800 Kalanianaole Hwy

Waikiki Beach, Waikiki

Makapuu Beach, 41-225 Kalanianaole Highway

Halona Beach Cove, Kalanian'ole Highway

Kuhio Beach, 808-843-8002, Kalakaua Ave

### Boating/Sailing

Honolulu Screamer, 808-597-8669, _www.honoluluscreamer.com_

Honolulu Boat Show, _www.honoluluboatshow.com_

Honolulu Sailing, 808-239-3900, _www.honsail.com_

Adventure Sailing Hawaii, 808-224-6213, _www.sailinghawaii.com_

Waikiki Jet Ski, 808-224-8585, _www.jetskiwaikiki.com_

X-treme Parasailing, 808-737-3599, _www.xtremeparasail.com_

### Bowling

Oahu Bowling Association, 808-845-4111, _www.oahuba.org_

Pro Bowl Ohana Committee, 808-595-3429,

USBC Women's Bowling, 808-566-6606

Golden Bowl, 808-524-7740

Mak Bowl, 808-841-8781

Park Plaza, 808-536-6137

### Gymnastics/Cheerleading

Hawaiian Island Twisters, 808-839-4494, _www.hawaiianislandtwisters.com_

Aloha Gymnastics World, 808-842-5642

### Crossfit

Crossfit Oahu, 808-685-7630, _http://crossfitoahu.com/_

### Dance

With 46 dance studios, Honolulu, _www.honolulu.gov_ , provides dance opportunities such as Hula, ballroom, Chinese, country, folk, belly dancing and many more.

### Equestrian

Gunstock Ranch, 808-293-2026, _www.gunstockranch.com_

Kualoa Ranch, 808-538,7636, _www.kualoa.com_

Barbers Point Riding Club, 808-682-4955

Koko Crater Equestrian Center, 808-395-2628

The Horse Source, 808-395-3699, _www.the horsesource.com_

### Fishing/Hunting

Department of Land and Natural Resources, 808-587-0167, _www.hawaii.gov/dlnr_

Blue Nun Sport Fishing, 866-548-8789, www.blue nunsportfishing.com

Magic Sport Fishing, 808-596-2998, www.magic sportfishing.com

Big Fish Hawaii, _www.bigfish-hawaii.com_

Maggie Joe Sport Fishing, _www.maggiejoe.com_

Aikane Sport Fishing, 866-920-0979, _www.aikanesportfishing.com_

Kuu Huapala Sport Fishing, 808-596-0918, _www.sportfishinghawaii.com_

### Disc Golf (Frisbee)

Honolulu Disc Golf Association, _www.hdga.com_

Professional Disc Golf Association, _www.pdga.com_

### Golf

Honolulu is a golfer's paradise, with dozens of golf courses on the island. You can find a full listing of courses at _www.golflink.com/golf-courses/city.aspx?dest=Honolulu+HI_. Here is just a sampling of what's available for golfers in Honolulu.

Ala Wai Golf Course, 808-733-7384, _www.honolulu.gov/des/golf/alawai.htm_ , is a municipal, flat, sporty course with views of Diamond Head, the Koolau mountain range and the Waikiki skyline.

Hawaii Kai Golf Course, 808-395-2358, _www.hawaiikaigolf.com_ , is a public, _championship course_ and e _xecutive course_ _._ The Pacific Ocean can be seen from every hole, and tropical winds blowing from the ocean are both pleasant and challenging.

The City and County of Honolulu, _www.honolulu.gov/des/golf/index.htm_ , 808-733-7381, operates six public golf courses on the island.

Ko'Olina Golf Club, _www.koolinagolf.com_ , 808-676-5300, is a challenging 18-hole course on the Western part of the island. Designed by Ted Robinson, this championship course boasts exceptional water features.

### Scuba Diving/Snorkeling

Honolulu Scuba Company, 808-220-0577, classes, boat dives, beach dives, day and night dives

AAA Diving, 808-617-2822, _www.aaadiving.com_ , daily dives and certification classes

Hanauma Bay Snorkeling, 808-373-5060, _www.hanaumabaysnorkel.com_

Hawaii Nautical, 808-255-5170, _www.hawaiinautical.com_ , snorkeling, scuba diving, snuba

Waikiki Diving Company, 808-922-2121, _www.waikikidiving.com_ , group diving

Aquazone, 808-923-3483, beginner diving

### Skating

_Ice Palace Hawaii, 808-487-9921_ , www.icepalacehawaii.com _, skate school, hockey school and public skating_

Skating Fitness, 808-487-9921, _www.skatingfitness.com_ , ice skating, hockey, in line skating and skateboarding

### Lacrosse

Island Lacrosse, 808-384-6701, _www.islandlacrosse.com_ , gear

Hawaii Lacrosse International, _www.hawaiilacrosse.com_ , teams for men, women and children, tournaments

### Martial Arts

Adult or child, amateur or pro, you can find a place to learn and practice judo, karate and other martial arts in Honolulu.

Martial Arts in Honolulu, 808-377-5040, _www.martialartshonolulu.com_ , adult and children classes and a free trial period

Ultimate Fight School, 808-626-5283, _www.ultimatefightschool.com_ , private lessons available

Traditional Taekwondo Center, 808-949-1090, _www.taekwondohonolulu.com_ , classes available for men, women and children

Hawaii Karate Association, 808-551-9405, _www.hkadojo.com_ , classes for men, women and children

Universal Kempo Karate, 808-454-0444, _www.universalkempo.com_ , classes for all ages

### Running

Honolulu Marathon., 808-734-7200, _www.honolulumarathon.org_ , is the world's sixth largest _marathon)_ with about 25,000 runners competing each year. The race is open to anyone who can pay the entry fee, with no qualifying standards to meet and no time limit to finish the course. All runners receive an official time and certificate.

Great Aloha Run _,_ _www.greataloharun.com_ _,_ Hawaiian name "Ke kukini me ke aloha pau'ole"; This race is recognized nationally as one of the top "100 Great Road Races." The 8.15-mile foot race begins at Aloha Tower and finishes in the Aloha Stadium. It features age group divisions, wheelchair and hand cycle competitors and walkers.

### Soccer

Honolulu Bulls Soccer Club, 808-561-4663, _www.hscbulls.com_ , tournaments and events

Honolulu City Football (soccer) Club, _www.honolulucityfc.com_ , boys and girls teams

AYSO (American Youth Soccer Organization), _www.aysosoccer.net_ _;_ Region 178 of this national group with boys and girls teams is in Honolulu.

### Tennis

US Tennis Association, 808-955-6696, _www.hawaii.usta.com_

Diamond Head Tennis Center, 808-971-7150, 10 courts

Ala Moana Tennis Courts, 808-592-7031, 10 courts

### Surfing

Girls who Surf, 808-371-8917, _www.girlswhosurf.com_ , lessons and rentals

Waikiki Beach Services, 808-542-0608, _www.waikikibeachservices.com_ , lessons

Hawaiian Fire, 808-737-3473, lessons and photos

Beach Boy Hale, 808-382-4524, _www.beachboyhale.com_ , private, semi private and group lessons

Aloha Surf Guide, 808-223-0482, lessons, gear, breaks and tides

### Health Clubs and Gyms

Affordable Fitness, 808-348-2145, _www.myaffordablefitness.com_

Bodytune Hawaii, 808-951-7677

Club 50 Fitness Center, 808-593-9292, _wwwclub50fitness.com_

Evolutionary Fitness Institute, 808-587-8443

Fitness Together, 808-988-3959, _www.fitnesstogether.com_

Gold's Gym, 808-533-7111, _www.goldsgym.com_

24 Hour Fitness, _www.24hourfitness.com,_ has 7 locations on Oahu

### Honolulu YMCAs

Honolulu has eight locations offering sports, fitness activities and more. Most locations have pools and programs such as summer camps for children, as well as daycare. For more information on programs, rates and membership, go to _www.ymcahonolulu.org_ or call 808-536-3556.

 WE enjoyed writing this book for you, and WE hope it was a big help! If you would like to talk to us about buying or selling a home, WE would be honored to help you.

WE work with local buyers and sellers every day, the initial consultation is always free, and there is no obligation.

Just send an email to

Adrienne@teamlally.com

Or

Attilio@TeamLally.comOr visit us on the Web at _http://www.teamlally.com_

We're never too busy to help

you and your friends!

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