I moved to Hawaii 33 years ago in 1989 with 2 surfboards $2000 and an Army bag of my stuff. Stayed with my buddy 2 weeks found a room and a job as an Electrician. Also surfed every chance I could. 33 years later I own an Electrical construction company and have become one with the people and the Aina- It's a certain vibe- You become one with Hawaii and Hawaii becomes one with you. The more you give, the more you get back- This is Hawaii- ALOHA!
Lived there for 7 yr as I went to college and worked... but the struggle is real. Moving back to the mainland was the best move to start a family. I miss Hawai’i everyday, but I’m no longer struggling to pay for the basics 👍
Time for some *Top Tenz!* 1 - You're retired and have a solid pension, Social Security, savings etc. 2 - You're from there and have family AND family is willing/able to carry you if needed 3 - You really "click" with Asian/Pacific cultures 4 - You do some occupation that's in demand like nursing or special ed. teaching 5 - You want to learn an Asian/Pacific language on a serious level 6 - You're Mormon 7 - If you want to really ruff it, land can be cheap on the Big Island. It'll be ruff but some like it. 8 - It's a good place to train for competitive paddling, kayaking, Ironman etc. 9 - If you're a fanatical diver - dive, teach diving, etc. 10 - If you're a minimalist. People own less "stuff" in Hawaii and less own cars. Now for top ten to not do it: 1 - If you're white you'll be a minority. You'll lose privilege you didn't know you had 2 - There are two languages: English and Pidgin. Hard to learn that 2nd and sound natural 3 - It's basically hot & humid all the time. 4 - Bugs. Cockroaches that fly, centipedes, termites, big spiders, etc. 5 - Hawaii actually has awful traffic. Gives L.A. a run for its money. 6 - Hawaii will not solve your problems. Once you get there, there you will be. 7 - Since it's a tropical climate it can be germy. You need to keep a top hygiene game. 8 - Public schools are "meh" and private schools are expensive. Concern if you have kids. 9 - Most of Hawaii does not really have a "night life" except Waikiki which is kinda lame anyway. 10 - "Island fever" is a real thing. Dass wy I say it's good for retirement mostly.
Except that it is an expensive place to retire, especially if on a fixed income. I lived there for 2 years. I reside in Arizona now. I prefer to live in Arizona and visit the islands now.
Right on the kinipopo. The cockroaches drove me out of Hawaii. I must have been terrified as a toddler by flying cockroaches on rainy days, when the water would drive out the roaches in the cracks of the wooden walls. Also is the fact that when I left for college, Waikiki had only four hotels. When I returned, Waikiki had wall to wall hotels. Hawaii was not the same so I left for good. This was in the Fifties.
Thank you for a very thoughtful, honest video. It is important to remember that the common element in every place you’ve lived, every job you’ve had, every relationship you’ve been in is... you. Switching things around isn’t necessarily going to magically change anything in the long run.
I don’t ever add comments but I would like to say thank you for making these very informative videos. I am from Colorado and we are thinking of moving to Hawaii in 5 years after all our kids leave for college and we become empty nesters. It’s nice to watch videos from a local person that is not so biased. Thank you!
There are 3 major hurdles to overcome: 1-Financial be sure to have a ton of money to cover relocation costs and to survive off of while being jobless 2-Mental aspect to live on an island. Lifestyle change. No family, friends, old life 3-Social aspect. Goes back to not having friends and family to see and lean on. Have to make new friends find new places to go and things to do Visiting and living are two completely different experiences. Most people cannot differentiate between these 2 not just with Hawaii but with every place
Bra matson is 1500 to Oahu 1750 Maui..yes no matter where u move you need a strong support system family .friend are great there not a support system..if u have no family left the being near good friend could cheer u up
I actually loved Okinawa,Japan. I felt connected, the people were so friendly to me. Okinawa is home. It's where I was adopted into a family by locals as well as others who were originally from the mainland. I am currently planning to move back to Hawaii. I guess it is the closest I found to Oki yet still be in the states. Maybe one day I will return to what I believe to be my motherland. Okinawa! Thanks for this video! It was great. I found that I had allowed others to project their own feelings about me moving onto me and I became a bit discouraged. After watching this video in particular I know that deep within. It is my true hearts desire. Thanks
The biggest thrill for me when I returned to the Mainland was being able to drive from state to state and so many different highways in each state; I love to drive, explore, camp, backpack, etc. In Maui my friends and I loved motorcycling around the island. After 11 years it started to get old. Instead of asking, "Lahaina side or Hana side?" It became "left" or "right" or up (Upcountry/Haleakala). I think my friends and I developed "rock or island fever." Now I'm in my 70's and Hawaii would be an incredible place for us to retire. My wife is a beach person and I loved the ocean; jet skiing and spear fishing were my favorite activities (as well as hiking and camping). You, my friend, would make an excellent guide. Aloha!
Great video! A lot of sound advice here, people! Please listen to it. I’m from the east coast (DC area) and lived in Honolulu for 15+ years. Actually moved to Hawaii twice-once to go to UH Manoa and again in 2010. Been in Honolulu ever since and constantly have the urge to move back home because of all my family and friends in the mainland (most of my local fiends moved to the mainland!), the super high cost of living in HI, limited job market in HI as well as public safety and public school concerns for my family. I work in hospitality and when visitors ask me about living here, I usually tell it’s best to just keep this beautiful “paradise” for vacation or at most perhaps just do a short stint to get the fantasy out of their heads.
It could be nice, good. However there is a sinister scenario occuring. Workers are being inordinately *underpaid* (manipulated, artificially controlled wage pay) It is very obvious this is occurring there.
@@hothotheat3000 Yeah, I’ve been told that. I don’t have a fat wallet and I do have family support. Hopefully things will line up. I don’t need anything fancy. Just good weather, good food, and aloha all around. Bless up! 💙🤙🏽
This is one of your best videos related to solid advice. You are correct that the answer is different for everyone. Asking the right questions is crucial. I always think no matter where you move to go for a short period and then stay if you can't face the thought of leaving. Never ever leave loose ends they will always follow and remember everyone needs to feel valued and respected (not just people in Hawaii) so never take advantage of anyone.
I left Hawaii and lived in California for 6 years, and then lived in Japan for 14 years, but I decided to come back and everything is going well as planned, safety and security of my family is the biggest factor of what decision I made, being Asian decent in Hawaii is the safest for a minority like us.
This is probably the most informative video I’ve watched so far. I visited Oahu a few months ago for vacation and also visit a couple of relatives for about 2 weeks who moved from California,where I’m from, all the way to the western side of the island near Ewa. I had the time of my life there and got really embraced by the culture and the hospitality. As a Californian, its not as expensive as I thought or as I was told. Gas and food is roughly the same here in San Francisco and gas is actually a bit cheaper on the island than the Bay Area ( it was $4.02 this morning when I filled my tank 😬) and cost of loving is also almost identical (paying $1700 for a 2 bedroom 1 bath). The only thing I might struggle with is a job, although I do work construction and labor and like you said its not what you know but who you know and thats why I’m glad I have family on Oahu as well as the big island. Thank you for this information. Hopefully in the next year and a half to 2 years I’ll be enjoying life out there
Glad you enjoyed the video. It's always great to have family to help you out. The job issue is what makes it tougher than a lot of the other high cost areas. No tech jobs like in CA.
We love your videos as we plan on moving there in the next five years. I do flooring and am an independent contractor. Hoping on future visits to make more connections while there to make the move easier.
Thank you for your vids, very helpful to me. After much consider and deliberation between retiring in Vietnam, San Diego area, Puerto Rico, or the Florida coasts, I kept coming back to Hawaii, and finally purchased a lot in the Big Island. I’VE NEVER BEEN TO HAWAI’I ! I’m shipping my camper van (built out to be self sufficient) and hope to call Hawaii my final home as a base while I can still travel. I’m in my late 50’s, I can’t wait to explore Hawaii in all her splendors. I think attitude is everything. Of course, having respect for the locals, and embracing the local culture are also key factors. KISS (keep it simple & safe). mahalo
I lived in Hawaii before my dad was in the Navy..I was just a kid in the 60s... Sometimes I wish I could move back...it felt like home...boy I cried when we had to move back to the main land.... I hope I can go to visit
Hawaii is not a paradise,not even close.Espessially with local Democratic government's, worse than covid.Only 1_2 % elite enjoys living there.And it is boring looking at the mountains and A Deep blue sea every day.Not that many creative people there.
@@eugenecharkov3547 I can see you being right about the local governments, but as for the "boring" thing...many of us would rather look at mountains & deep blue oceans every day than what we see where we currently live. A lot of us would love to have greenery & such living all year-long.
Having grown up on Oahu from preschool, I really appreciate your style and wit. It’s entertaining the way you take an everyday thought and dissect and discuss it. Thank you for sharing! Oh yah I Iolani grad, lol.
Thanks for all your videos. I'm moving to Oahu this coming Wednesday. I'll probably be there for a year or two at the most working as a remote software developer. I'm a bit concerned about the apparent violent racism towards caucasians I've been reading horror stories about, but my friend on the island assures me that as long as you don't act like an entitled douche and respect the locals everything will be fine. I lived in Bangkok Thailand for 13+ years so I'm more used to being in a minority than anything else. Granted that Thai people don't hate white people in general (although distaste for them has increased in recent years due to westerners constantly looking down on Thais), and they don't have a sensitive history with us like locals in Hawaii do...However I truly hope I will be accepted at least somewhat during my time on the island. Thank you again for your informative videos! Mahalo
Congrats on the move. Good luck on making the transition. I think that as long as you are respectful, you should be fine. Some locals just don't like outsiders and it's hard to change their perspective. Mahalo!
It's hard to say since I haven't really interacted with Europeans who move here. I think they would probably be grouped in the same category as "people from the Mainland". Most people are friendly. I think that just showing respect to others is a good start. Some may not like you, but most people will be considerate.
@@HelloFromHawaii thank you man, I'm really looking forward to the experience! One more thing I should mention is that I'll be living on the west side away from the City, which makes this topic more of an issue based of my research. I'm always respectful to those around me everywhere I go, and I do have my one friend (who's lived on the island for many years) to show me the ropes. Hopefully it will be enough. Cheers!
@@SteveAbernethyCFA It's beautiful! I mean it's still America but the laid back attitude of people here has more similarity to the Thailand lifestyle than anywhere else in the country. I'm back in Thailand now until July but glad I can go home to Hawaii instead of the US mainland that's for sure :)
Great content! Thanks. One thing about sending packages on a move, is use the US postal services Hold for Pickup service, just send packages to the local post office and pick up when you get there. I've done that on moves on mainland.
I’m just here for your local accent. Wink 😉 Grew up my whole life big island. College in Cali- tried to get my husband to live and love Hawaii, he struggled with being so far from family and when his mom got sick it cost us thousands to go see her. I don’t think I can move back, but my mom is still on the island so I get to visit. 🌈 keep up there videos I like em laddat.
Finding paradise is like using a rainbow to mark a dream land! You see the rainbow 🌈 ! You see where it lands so you mark it! then when you go there, you find out it's just like anywhere else!
I'm a New Yorker, but had my childhood in the Philippines. Hawaii is pretty close to what I'm looking for. I'm getting older and we don't have that much time left to live on this earth. Remember, 2050 is as far as 1990.
Hawaii is still cheaper to retire than in Los Angeles primarily because of taxes. Hawaii is like the Philippines with American flavor. This is the big reason why my wife and I would like to retire in Kona. Work hard, stay fit, invest, and save for a happy and comfortable retirement. \m/
@@aarshvyas3245 , yes I did move here. It's been 4 months and i have to admit it was the best decision I ever made in my life. It is very relaxed and chill here on the big island (kona). Can't speak too much for the islands. Good luck on your journey and dont second guess yourself. 🤙🏽
@@aarshvyas3245 , I moved from California so it was expensive there as well. Honestly, it really isn't that expensive as long as you don't live outside of your means and check book. I have a 2 bedroom house 1,500, I bought a car, 2,000 now I'm enjoying life and not living check to check anymore. I advise that you have a job lined up or have a plan for steady income. Then you will be fine. I cook at home alot so save a ton on not eating out. Oh! And there is Costco, Walmart and target's here to go shopping. Stay within your means and you will be fine. "Don't fear stepping out of your comfort zone to find comfort ".
What I love about japan is how open the people seem to be when it comes to pilgrimage, from Shinto shrine to Buddhist temple, how is it in Hawaii for those looking to experience the culture of the original natives and their spiritual practices ? Really appreciate your channel, and am grateful for the insight 💚
This was very helpful, thanks for posting. I have visited/vacationed in Hawaii several times before deciding to move there. I saved, am selling my home and all my belongings (as it is not feasible to move your stuff) as you will be more comfortable living minimally, exception would be a vehicle. 😎🌺 Mahalo.
Thanks. It's great that you were able to visit several times. I think it helps to visit more than once since the allure wears off and you can decide whether it's a place you'd actually like to live.
I can totally relate to the “brain drain.” I’m Native American and I grew up on the Indian Reservation created by the federal government hundreds of years ago. It’s breathtakingly beautiful but due to poverty and now rampant addiction I found it impossible to raise a family there. When I finished university I didn’t return home, my sisters did the same. We all left for school intending to go back but none of us ever did. I spent a few weeks in Hawaii recently and it very much reminded me of home. We were welcomed by a few friends of my daughters who were born and raised in Hilo. Aside from the beautiful beaches it felt like home, the people & culture and deep connection to the land.
This is a great video, you give great, clear advice. I’ve been eyeing Hawaii as a potential move because my wife is a professor and UH Manoa would be a huge advancement in her career. Although I’m American now, I grew up in a tropical place so the Hawaiian weather and climate remind me of home. Pretty much the only way I see us someday living there is for her job, and it would also be a 50/50 chance it’s not permanent, so that takes some of the anxiety away. If her job took us to San Francisco or NYC I would still have to think about cost of living, changes in culture, etc. But the best thing you said that resonated with me is the fact that one should not move to run away from life problems. You are so right.
Thanks for the video. I have thought about everything that you covered. And as my late aunt once said, “Come and see for yourself.” I do plan on visiting Hawaii one day. Having friends anywhere is beneficial to the enjoyment of a place.
Thanks. Yeah, it's always nice to visit first if you're planning on making the move. The state is launching the pre-testing travel program that will make it easier for visitors to come here. Hopefully it's organized and well-executed.
DUDE YOU NAILED IT AND TOLD MY STORY. I MOVED TO KAUAI IN 2005 LEFT LAS VEGAS WITH MY HAWAIIAN EX-WIFE BETWEEN BOTH OF US WE WERE MAKING 85K SO THE DAY CAME SHIPPED 3 CARS OVER LEFT OUR HOME IN VEGAS FULLY FURNISHED WITH A FRIEND TO STAY RENT FREE IN RETURN TO WATCH OUR PROPERTY. 4 MONTHS LIVING ON KAUAI I FOUND 1 JOB THAT STARTED AT 11.00 HR LASTED 1 MONTH SO IN 4 MONTHS I DONE AND ALSO BROKE SO I LEFT KAUAI EX-WIFE STAYED WITH FAMILY FOR A FEW MORE MONTHS RETURNED BACK TO VEGAS UNHAPPY SO OUR MARRIAGE FAILED ALONG WITH OTHER ISSUES SO I SHIPPED 3 CARS BACK TO MAINLAND SO ROUNDTRIP FAIR FOR 3 CARS WAS 5800 PLUS 4 MONTHS MORTGAGE 5K PLUS OTHER EXPENSES AROUND -15K SPENT IN THE 4 MONTHS ON KAUAI SO I RETURN TO VEGAS BROKE AND STAYED BROKE AT THE END OF 2005 IN THE HOLE FOR -350K, DIVORCED, DEPRESSED, AND A FULL BLOWN ALCOHOLIC MY WORLD CAME CRASHING DOWN AT THE AGE OF 35 WHAT A DISASTER LIKE YOU SAID I HAD ISLAND FEVER AND MUCH MORE BUT I WOULD RETURN TO HAWAII AGAIN TO VISIT WHY BECAUSE HAWAII WAS NOT THE PROBLEM IT WAS ME BUT I WANTED FOR HAWAII TO FIX MY PROBLEMS BOY WAS I IN FOR A RUDE AWAKENING WHO DID NOT HAVE A MASTER PLAN FROM THE START SO FOR THOSE THAT ARE CONSIDERING MOVING TO HAWAII WATCH THIS VIDEO 3 TIMES OR MAYBE MORE AND THEN ASK YOURSELF ONCE AGAIN DO I WANT TO LIVE IN HAWAII AND WHY AND HOW GOOD LUCK ALOHA.
All your videos resonate with me. I moved to CA after hs and return home after 20 yrs bc of family. It’s been two years, I knew it will be a challenge but i didn’t expect it will be so difficult to adjust. I ended up seeing a therapist, she told me my symptoms is called “reverse culture shock “. I’m tired of people glorifying Hawaii, it’s nice to hear from someone who feels similarly, you’re my virtual support system. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for sharing. I never heard of that term "reverse culture shock". Again, Hawaii is great, but there are real challenges to making it here that don't often get talked about.
True,Hawaii is too much overrated starting with Elvis. Just another tropical Islands.The same as PR,but no island of Culebra with pristine beaches and a Deep blue Sea.And only 2 ,5 hours flight from NYC.
We have lived in a few states thanks in part to the military. There are problem in all locations and cost of living is different everywhere. You speak the truth and appreciate you not candy coating it for people. Too many people want to hear only the good things, not the down side. And yes, Hawaii is beautiful and I hope to visit again soon.
Ha (I am Hawaiian). Not worth coming back until you have money. I left at 18. Not for college, for a job I lost. I started my own contracting business. I plan to buy houses in Hawaii and retire there. But for the most part. Hawaii is pretty much a money pit. All my family is there and thats the only reason to go back.
I'm in the UK and for me, shoes indoors are a disgusting sight. I'm thinking, 'oh my god, you just walked home through a grubby, pee-smelling underpass and now you're trudging THAT through the entire house?!' I'll never understand shoes indoors.
You are definitely right about moving being expensive. I moved from Sacramento to San Diego a couple of months ago and it cost me a few thousand dollars to do so, including the rental deposit, and that was just to move across the state. My parents sometimes send me things in the mail and it's nice because it only takes 2 days for it to get here. I couldn't imagine having to pay to ship your car and being far away from everything.
Yeah, it's quite expensive. I've moved from Colorado to Oregon and back. I was able to drive most of my stuff, but shipping across the ocean is so much more expensive.
A few years back, I had a genius idea.. I’ll live on the beach! Camping in Hawaii!!! Then I did more research... uh oh, I wasn’t the first Einstein to think of that. Instead, I take quick trips via RUclips
Your shirt has the year that the last Mauna Loa eruption occurred on it.ALSO, wanted to mention, you can go the the beach everyday, and no two days are the same, especially if you surf and fish.
This will be my third time living in Hawaii. I moved for family. Second time, for a job. I have more friends in Hawaii and the lifestyle definitely suits me. The support system on the mainland isn't great. But maybe it's different for everyone. I never felt I was on an island. I never had a problem getting a good job even when the mainland economy was bad.
I just found your channel and I really like your content. :) I'm an American living in Japan and thinking to move to Hawaii. Thanks for the great advice!
If you are in the planning/contemplating phase get an 808 number you can use with a mobile phone or a VOIP service. Very handy when inquiring about jobs, housing, travel, and other stuff. Carriers like Verizon and Vodafone and services like Skype and Google Voice make this easy!
I've been wanting to move here for years, and I've finally saved up enough to feel comfortable moving. Only problem is I work for myself and don't at the moment make enough to support myself, but should be able to in about 6 months. I wouldn't go broke living there, I've made sure of it, but it's going to be a bit of a challenge. I was already motivated to move to Hawaii, but I'd say COVID really solidified that. You guys actually take it seriously, and my mental health has suffered here on the mainland from how common it is. I believe that by being on the islands, that anxiety would be solved and I wouldn't spend so much energy worrying about COVID. Thoughts on this are welcome, good and bad...aloha and mahalo!
You know you are definitely correct. I was very lucky with my military occupational Specialty. I was a Ground Radio Repairman from 1973 till 1980. Between those years I have been to Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Guam and Thailand. After my overseas tour I was able to reenlist in the Marine Corps in 1976 for Hawaii as my duty station as a single Sergeant, local boy from Wahiawa who left in 1972 to joined the Marines. Long story short,
It cost a lot to live in Hawaii and with Covid many stores are closed and more will close.....so jobs will be hard to find. I would wait a couple years before thinking about moving here
I’ve been toying with the idea of moving back but I’m pretty cautious right now just because I would definitely need a better job/monetary situation lol. I’d love to bring my family there or even retire there one day though if anything..your videos and their practicality and realness help me kind of keep an eye out lol to see what’s going on there or if maybe a window of low prices opens up 😉 Entertaining and love seeing your journey 🌈🌺
You can be as respectful for people and land as can be, but if you meet a radical Samoan who despises haoles, you are in some trouble regardless of how sweet you are. Some Polynesians from all parts will hate you no matter what you do.
BULL! You can be as respectful and aware of the culture and beauty of the islands and islanders and they will still yell and scream at you for being haole. It is discrimination and it is alive, well, rampant. They HATE you. And if you encounter Samoans........gtf away from that location as fast as you can because they are very very large people, willing to do whatever it takes to make you go away.
Awesome video and great points you made for people to think about before making a decision to move to Hawaii! We love Japan too and my wife talks about wanting to maybe move there. I love it there but will never want to move there cause I know I love it here in Hawaii more and that Japan has itʻs own cultural work ethics and lifestyle expectations. I explain that to my wife and she kinda sees that point too but canʻt help but see the wonderful things about there too. In the same way I can see the importance of why you said people should really figure out why they want to move here cause what might be a great place to vacation at might not be the best place to live in. Great episode! Aloha =)
Thanks. Yeah, I'm hoping we can travel to Japan soon. Miss it. Hope you and your family are staying safe during this time. Gonna be a little crazy with all the tourists coming back.
Been on the mainland since 2003. Been back a few times here and there as recently as this past September. We are selling my house which should close on Feb 9th and will pocket some money off of it. Bringing my wife and kids. I miss home but it's still a huge decision that we are making and I'm having a hard time determining if it's a good decision or not. I have a job lined up with a plumbing company and my wife is a RN and just applied for her Hi license. Wish us luck!!!
Good info; so true that a beautiful place doesn’t fix everything else. We’ve vacationed there many times and our trips have always been enjoyable. I never look to fit in, however I respect the norms there - parts of Oahu feel like old San Diego and that’s comforting. We may rent a place there, probably on Kauai, for a month or so when we retire.
Thanks for the video. I know the first time I went to Maui I said to myself “ How could I just live here”. The next year I went back and the Maui Marriott doorman (young guy) was still there. I was thinking if he could do it I could do it. Eleven trips later I am still in Georgia. I have visited all of the Hawaiian Islands and now many other parts of the world. I love cruising now and love being out in the ocean not seeing land.
Thank you for this amazing detailed video! Actually I just got an offer to work there in HI, but compared to my salary in the mainland, it is definitely a reduced amount. However, I feel the quality of life in Hawaii is better and I definitely am the outdoorsy type of guy. It would be a dream. I’m just torn.
Good advise Sir, I recently accepted a new job in Oahu. Im in pursuit off living life simple. As a service member who's been around working hard for over 30 years, living in New York City, time to slow down and enjoy life. What better paradise to settle than Hawaii. I've done my research for more than 5 years... I think I'm overly prepared... Mentally and financially. It helps to have been born and raised in an island (PR) and have family in Hawaii for advise and support.
I was dreaming of moving to Hawaii after I saw that Elvis movie BLUE HAWAII always had my dream of moving there when I retire. Yes, I went to Hawaii for my 50th B day back in 2007 been there many times also on vacation but now when I'm retired I'm moving to Mexico. So much more you get with everything and that means........people friendly, music, food, weather and so much more cheap when it comes to prices and the service even so much better so Hawaii for me.........by, by never again. TCB.
How weird. I'm the opposite. Retired last year and tested the waters in Mexico for 8 mos before realizing it was too Wild Wild West for me. You're always on edge, looking around for danger. So I'm going to try Hawaii next! But the money thing is right. I stayed in a house for 900 a month that would cost 5K a month in California. Also, if you're older, medical care there is also kind of funky.
@@workingTchr So Dennis. I don't know where you lived in Mexico you saying wild, wild Western life so anyway, almost everywhere these day's yes and you should, you should have your eyes open even in USA and Hawaii also and even in Europe everywhere because the world is not how it used to be. So anyway, in everyway I have learned that you get more of everything living in Mexico but it have to be at a place that are not so busy but good luck stay safe if you move to Hawaii.
@@tcb1017 I was in Pureto Vallarta, Guadalajara, then Lake Chapala. I hope you find a nice out of the way place. There's just something so nice about living in a society where "the law" regulates interpersonal relations. In Mexico, it's whatever you can get away with. The police and legal system are 100 percent corrupt. For young people (and me), it gives you a liberating sense of freedom. That's why so many of our fellow Americans will embarrass you for being such jerks. But a little town.... maybe.. The Mexican people themselves are exactly like us. That's the hard thing for me to take. Anyway, good luck to you too.
@@workingTchr Thank you. The city's you talked about I been there many times I find it to be very friendly and nice. Ok, you don't go out to the wrong place at night and that goes everywhere so anyway, dreaming and trying things out playing it safe why not if possible and if for some reason it may change as it sound's like it did for you that's ok also. I used to go to Hawaii a lot back in the day's loved it but now, just to much money for everything and who would like to live way out there in ok nowhere so ok good luck to you and me and thanks for your greeting.
Great video. You cover a lot of information most people tend to overlook. I fantasize about moving to Hawaii after every visit. My favorite island is Kauai. This is mostly due to the Na Pali coast and the slower pace of life. Maybe one day I will make it a reality :)
Hawaii is scheduled to reopen for tourism in a couple of days. Do you plan on doing a video in the airport showing the volume of tourists who arrive on the first day, and the procedures that tourists will have to go through when the get to Hawaii now?
I'm in the process of moving to Maui. Vacationed there before. The experience was out of this world.. So much planning and challenges now to move there. Still motivated! It will be worth it.
@@veronicagarcia2475 No ....couldn't move yet due to the pandemic issues. The restrictions are lightening up so I'm hoping before winter begins. I'm so ready.
Oh man/ this is like moving to Alaska:) I could add the winter and darkness 😳 So f cold 😆 almost like an island. Weather changes every week/ summer there is forever light. Winter constant darkness and Summer is 3 months 😆
Hi, I got a question for you regarding to Hawaii. What is the best method to find housing In Honolulu and do you have any recommendations for shipping your personal belongings to the island? I am from NC and trying to figure out the logistics. Thanks!
For housing, I'd rent cheap first and then figure out where you want to live more permanently once you get settled. For shipping things, not sure how to do that from the east coast. I shipped my stuff from the west coast, including my car.
Excellent, practical and reasonable analysis providing real-world advice. Thank you for posting these thoughtful, well-spoken insights. Most looking to move to Hawaii appear to be fairly intellectually lazy and do not consider these practicalities ... and inevitably fail.
If was to move back to Hawaii, I would do it very close to retirement and move slowly over 3 months. There are several great short-term places to rent while I transition to the Islands. Of course, we can both work from home and make good money - so we just need to have really good internet.
Setting expectations when living in Hawai'i does greatly depend on what lifestyle you are looking for. That's true if you're living either in New York, Florida, or Kalifornia. Each island in the Hawaiian archipelago has it's own personality. If you're planning to move here, trying spending vacations, 2-4 weeks on each island and rent a house or condo. Live like the locals and not like a tourist. Live like where you live on the mainland. See if your mainland baggage will fit into the local overhead culture. Hawai'i for most mainlanders is a culture shock. Do you have a particular skillset that's marketable here, because jobs are mostly menial and fewer since the pandemic. The cost of living is different on each islands, some islands are more expensive to live than others. Access to healthcare is also important. About the only thing reliable in Hawai'i is the great weather. But you have to remember that an island is limited to its available resources. You just cannot drive from island to island and interisland travel is expensive, despite O'ahu's interstate hwys. Hawai'i is a great place to live and I wouldn't live anywhere else in the world, and I've lived all over the world. USA
I enjoy your Hawaii life videos. I grew up in Hawaii and am wanting to do an extended 30 day stay to there. It would be cool if you could do a video on how that could work. Accommodations, transportation, best areas, etc. I have ohana there but would want a small (safe) place of my own. I also know the island pretty well as I go home every few years. My job allows me to work remotely so income isn’t an issue. You’re very insightful, so I’m sure you’ll bring up some plus & negative things about a 30 day stay that I didn’t consider. Aloha, Keoni
As an upcoming college student in two years, I’ll be far away from the mainland. I’d like to plant roots there with a marine science degree, does any locals have advice for me?
Retired now and think about returning…for family. Unfortunately, that was also the reason why I moved away in the first place. I’m on the fence about whether or not I want to re-enter the drama of family life or continue to visit to get it in small doses….. Well-established where I am but would have to bounce back and forth to retain tax free residency and maintain our rental business. Thinking of downsizing my home anyways. But for the price of our personal residence, we would likely end up in a condo with ridiculous maintenance fees or back in Kalihi! I guess I could live in Kapolei but I’m used to city living with all the conveniences nearby. Ugh. I’m not sure I would characterize Hawaii as peaceful, maybe outer Island but certainly not Honolulu. Anyone looking for simplicity will probably want to live elsewhere,
Thank you so much brah. Mainland retiree here dreamin of paradise even if it's in a small rented studio. You're takin the luster off, but still, ahh, it sounds nice....
Did you film the opening and most of the footage at The Waialae Beach Park? If so, that trellis in the background was the original location for the outdoor bar of the fictional King Kamehameha Club in the original "Magnum PI" television series from the 1980's.
Can you make a video about living cheap in the big island? The land and house is cheaper, but there are many drawbacks. I really want to hear from you about RETIREMENT there, thanks
It is cheaper there because of the cost of land. Retiring there may be a great option because you don't have to worry about finding a job there. It depends on where you live. It's a big island. :)
I moved to Hawaii 33 years ago in 1989 with 2 surfboards $2000 and an Army bag of my stuff. Stayed with my buddy 2 weeks found a room and a job as an Electrician. Also surfed every chance I could. 33 years later I own an Electrical construction company and have become one with the people and the Aina- It's a certain vibe- You become one with Hawaii and Hawaii becomes one with you. The more you give, the more you get back- This is Hawaii- ALOHA!
I love it.🙏🔥
Lived there for 7 yr as I went to college and worked... but the struggle is real. Moving back to the mainland was the best move to start a family. I miss Hawai’i everyday, but I’m no longer struggling to pay for the basics 👍
Yeah, it's tough here. Glad you were able to experience Hawaii for a season of your life.
I've also dabled with moving off island. Struggle is real
so you moved to Hawaii in 2013?
I'm gonna retire in Hawaii in 2030
Thanks to Tesla Stock Longterm
@@DingChavez-m1x by then I will be out of High School
Time for some *Top Tenz!*
1 - You're retired and have a solid pension, Social Security, savings etc.
2 - You're from there and have family AND family is willing/able to carry you if needed
3 - You really "click" with Asian/Pacific cultures
4 - You do some occupation that's in demand like nursing or special ed. teaching
5 - You want to learn an Asian/Pacific language on a serious level
6 - You're Mormon
7 - If you want to really ruff it, land can be cheap on the Big Island. It'll be ruff but some like it.
8 - It's a good place to train for competitive paddling, kayaking, Ironman etc.
9 - If you're a fanatical diver - dive, teach diving, etc.
10 - If you're a minimalist. People own less "stuff" in Hawaii and less own cars.
Now for top ten to not do it:
1 - If you're white you'll be a minority. You'll lose privilege you didn't know you had
2 - There are two languages: English and Pidgin. Hard to learn that 2nd and sound natural
3 - It's basically hot & humid all the time.
4 - Bugs. Cockroaches that fly, centipedes, termites, big spiders, etc.
5 - Hawaii actually has awful traffic. Gives L.A. a run for its money.
6 - Hawaii will not solve your problems. Once you get there, there you will be.
7 - Since it's a tropical climate it can be germy. You need to keep a top hygiene game.
8 - Public schools are "meh" and private schools are expensive. Concern if you have kids.
9 - Most of Hawaii does not really have a "night life" except Waikiki which is kinda lame anyway.
10 - "Island fever" is a real thing. Dass wy I say it's good for retirement mostly.
Thank you.
Except that it is an expensive place to retire, especially if on a fixed income. I lived there for 2 years. I reside in Arizona now. I prefer to live in Arizona and visit the islands now.
Thanks for this. :)
This is all so true.
Right on the kinipopo. The cockroaches drove me out of Hawaii. I must have been terrified as a toddler by flying cockroaches on rainy days, when the water would drive out the roaches in the cracks of the wooden walls. Also is the fact that when I left for college, Waikiki had only four hotels. When I returned, Waikiki had wall to wall hotels. Hawaii was not the same so I left for good. This was in the Fifties.
Thank you for a very thoughtful, honest video. It is important to remember that the common element in every place you’ve lived, every job you’ve had, every relationship you’ve been in is... you. Switching things around isn’t necessarily going to magically change anything in the long run.
Well said!
I don’t ever add comments but I would like to say thank you for making these very informative videos. I am from Colorado and we are thinking of moving to Hawaii in 5 years after all our kids leave for college and we become empty nesters. It’s nice to watch videos from a local person that is not so biased. Thank you!
Yes, appreciate this 🙏
There are 3 major hurdles to overcome:
1-Financial be sure to have a ton of money to cover relocation costs and to survive off of while being jobless
2-Mental aspect to live on an island. Lifestyle change. No family, friends, old life
3-Social aspect. Goes back to not having friends and family to see and lean on. Have to make new friends find new places to go and things to do
Visiting and living are two completely different experiences. Most people cannot differentiate between these 2 not just with Hawaii but with every place
Not having friends & family applies to moving anywhere, not just Hawaii.
Thanks for breaking this down. Aloha!
Money will no doubt have a direct influence on the quality of your lifestyle in Hawaii.
Yes.good questions
Bra matson is 1500 to Oahu 1750 Maui..yes no matter where u move you need a strong support system family .friend are great there not a support system..if u have no family left the being near good friend could cheer u up
I actually loved Okinawa,Japan. I felt connected, the people were so friendly to me. Okinawa is home. It's where I was adopted into a family by locals as well as others who were originally from the mainland. I am currently planning to move back to Hawaii. I guess it is the closest I found to Oki yet still be in the states. Maybe one day I will return to what I believe to be my motherland. Okinawa!
Thanks for this video! It was great. I found that I had allowed others to project their own feelings about me moving onto me and I became a bit discouraged. After watching this video in particular I know that deep within. It is my true hearts desire. Thanks
Thanks. I heard the Okinawa was similar to Hawaii. Good to know someone else thinks the same.
The biggest thrill for me when I returned to the Mainland was being able to drive from state to state and so many different highways in each state; I love to drive, explore, camp, backpack, etc. In Maui my friends and I loved motorcycling around the island. After 11 years it started to get old. Instead of asking, "Lahaina side or Hana side?" It became "left" or "right" or up (Upcountry/Haleakala). I think my friends and I developed "rock or island fever." Now I'm in my 70's and Hawaii would be an incredible place for us to retire. My wife is a beach person and I loved the ocean; jet skiing and spear fishing were my favorite activities (as well as hiking and camping). You, my friend, would make an excellent guide. Aloha!
Great video! A lot of sound advice here, people! Please listen to it.
I’m from the east coast (DC area) and lived in Honolulu for 15+ years. Actually moved to Hawaii twice-once to go to UH Manoa and again in 2010. Been in Honolulu ever since and constantly have the urge to move back home because of all my family and friends in the mainland (most of my local fiends moved to the mainland!), the super high cost of living in HI, limited job market in HI as well as public safety and public school concerns for my family. I work in hospitality and when visitors ask me about living here, I usually tell it’s best to just keep this beautiful “paradise” for vacation or at most perhaps just do a short stint to get the fantasy out of their heads.
Thanks for sharing.
We pay for paradise definitely
It’s been 15 years since I moved to the mainland, and I can’t wait to go back home. Mainland is getting nuts lol. Time for the simple life.
It could be nice, good.
However there is a sinister scenario occuring.
Workers are being inordinately *underpaid* (manipulated, artificially controlled wage pay)
It is very obvious this is occurring there.
Hawaii isn’t as simple as it used to be. It’s hard living there if you don’t have a support system and a fat wallet.
@@SunnyIlha very sad to hear that.
@@hothotheat3000 Yeah, I’ve been told that. I don’t have a fat wallet and I do have family support. Hopefully things will line up. I don’t need anything fancy. Just good weather, good food, and aloha all around. Bless up! 💙🤙🏽
@@ikaikatorres823
Heartfelt thanks✓
This is one of your best videos related to solid advice. You are correct that the answer is different for everyone. Asking the right questions is crucial. I always think no matter where you move to go for a short period and then stay if you can't face the thought of leaving. Never ever leave loose ends they will always follow and remember everyone needs to feel valued and respected (not just people in Hawaii) so never take advantage of anyone.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Very generous of you to offer your friendship. True aloha spirit.
I left Hawaii and lived in California for 6 years, and then lived in Japan for 14 years, but I decided to come back and everything is going well as planned, safety and security of my family is the biggest factor of what decision I made, being Asian decent in Hawaii is the safest for a minority like us.
Lofl, you people and your focus on race really makes me laugh.
@@anthonywike8042 OMG thank you for saying this 💯
so good to hear from a local guy ! sick of all these instagrammers visiting a place and acting like they understand the culture
Thanks. :)
I grew up there, and want nothing more than to come home to Kauai. Been all most 40 years , and miss the people more than any beach there is.
It's been a long time. Hope you can visit soon.
I know that feeling. But I feel that about Montauk. The beaches, the forest, family and friends. But a shack costs $675K now.
Lily Gazou
That same shack in San Francisco costs $1.5 million, don’t feel so bad. 🔥
@@sfrealestatedealmaker6001 thanks for putting things into perspective
This is probably the most informative video I’ve watched so far. I visited Oahu a few months ago for vacation and also visit a couple of relatives for about 2 weeks who moved from California,where I’m from, all the way to the western side of the island near Ewa. I had the time of my life there and got really embraced by the culture and the hospitality. As a Californian, its not as expensive as I thought or as I was told. Gas and food is roughly the same here in San Francisco and gas is actually a bit cheaper on the island than the Bay Area ( it was $4.02 this morning when I filled my tank 😬) and cost of loving is also almost identical (paying $1700 for a 2 bedroom 1 bath). The only thing I might struggle with is a job, although I do work construction and labor and like you said its not what you know but who you know and thats why I’m glad I have family on Oahu as well as the big island. Thank you for this information. Hopefully in the next year and a half to 2 years I’ll be enjoying life out there
Glad you enjoyed the video. It's always great to have family to help you out. The job issue is what makes it tougher than a lot of the other high cost areas. No tech jobs like in CA.
This is my favorite video you have done, great to see your maturity. I miss Hawaii forever.
Glad you enjoyed it!
We love your videos as we plan on moving there in the next five years. I do flooring and am an independent contractor. Hoping on future visits to make more connections while there to make the move easier.
Mahalo for sharing. Good luck with the move.
Thank you for your vids, very helpful to me. After much consider and deliberation between retiring in Vietnam, San Diego area, Puerto Rico, or the Florida coasts, I kept coming back to Hawaii, and finally purchased a lot in the Big Island. I’VE NEVER BEEN TO HAWAI’I ! I’m shipping my camper van (built out to be self sufficient) and hope to call Hawaii my final home as a base while I can still travel. I’m in my late 50’s, I can’t wait to explore Hawaii in all her splendors. I think attitude is everything. Of course, having respect for the locals, and embracing the local culture are also key factors. KISS (keep it simple & safe). mahalo
Congrats on the move. Enjoy Big Island.
I lived in Hawaii before my dad was in the Navy..I was just a kid in the 60s...
Sometimes I wish I could move back...it felt like home...boy I cried when we had to move back to the main land....
I hope I can go to visit
🌊🍍🌊🍍🌊🍍🌊🍍🌊REMEMBER: 'WHEREVER YOU GO...THERE YOU ARE' There are Problems in Paradise too.
Very true.
Hawaii is not a paradise,not even close.Espessially with local Democratic government's, worse than covid.Only 1_2 % elite enjoys living there.And it is boring looking at the mountains and A Deep blue sea every day.Not that many creative people there.
@@eugenecharkov3547 OK Debbie downer.Time to go back to the red states then.
@@eugenecharkov3547 I can see you being right about the local governments, but as for the "boring" thing...many of us would rather look at mountains & deep blue oceans every day than what we see where we currently live. A lot of us would love to have greenery & such living all year-long.
@@Tyrosine0910 I agree 100%
Having grown up on Oahu from preschool, I really appreciate your style and wit. It’s entertaining the way you take an everyday thought and dissect and discuss it. Thank you for sharing! Oh yah I Iolani grad, lol.
Which high school did you go to?
situated4 Iolani high school
Awesome! Thank you!
Thanks for all your videos.
I'm moving to Oahu this coming Wednesday.
I'll probably be there for a year or two at the most working as a remote software developer.
I'm a bit concerned about the apparent violent racism towards caucasians I've been reading horror stories about, but my friend on the island assures me that as long as you don't act like an entitled douche and respect the locals everything will be fine.
I lived in Bangkok Thailand for 13+ years so I'm more used to being in a minority than anything else. Granted that Thai people don't hate white people in general (although distaste for them has increased in recent years due to westerners constantly looking down on Thais), and they don't have a sensitive history with us like locals in Hawaii do...However I truly hope I will be accepted at least somewhat during my time on the island. Thank you again for your informative videos! Mahalo
I'm also a software developer and I'm considering Hawaii. Any idea how Europeans are perceived there?
Congrats on the move. Good luck on making the transition. I think that as long as you are respectful, you should be fine. Some locals just don't like outsiders and it's hard to change their perspective. Mahalo!
It's hard to say since I haven't really interacted with Europeans who move here. I think they would probably be grouped in the same category as "people from the Mainland". Most people are friendly. I think that just showing respect to others is a good start. Some may not like you, but most people will be considerate.
@@HelloFromHawaii thank you man, I'm really looking forward to the experience!
One more thing I should mention is that I'll be living on the west side away from the City, which makes this topic more of an issue based of my research.
I'm always respectful to those around me everywhere I go, and I do have my one friend (who's lived on the island for many years) to show me the ropes. Hopefully it will be enough. Cheers!
@@SteveAbernethyCFA It's beautiful! I mean it's still America but the laid back attitude of people here has more similarity to the Thailand lifestyle than anywhere else in the country. I'm back in Thailand now until July but glad I can go home to Hawaii instead of the US mainland that's for sure :)
Great content! Thanks. One thing about sending packages on a move, is use the US postal services Hold for Pickup service, just send packages to the local post office and pick up when you get there. I've done that on moves on mainland.
Great tip!
I’m just here for your local accent. Wink 😉 Grew up my whole life big island. College in Cali- tried to get my husband to live and love Hawaii, he struggled with being so far from family and when his mom got sick it cost us thousands to go see her. I don’t think I can move back, but my mom is still on the island so I get to visit. 🌈 keep up there videos I like em laddat.
💯 on who you know. I got many jobs because my boyfriend was Hawai’ian and had all the Ohana hook up. Fo real
Thanks. Hope you get to visit your family back home soon. Aloha!
Yup, shootz, l'dat. Great that you can still visit.
Finding paradise is like using a rainbow to mark a dream land! You see the rainbow 🌈 ! You see where it lands so you mark it! then when you go there, you find out it's just like anywhere else!
I was in Hawaii 3 years ago for 3 weeks. Loved it so much coming back july -aug Can’t wait.
How much did you spend
I'm a New Yorker, but had my childhood in the Philippines. Hawaii is pretty close to what I'm looking for. I'm getting older and we don't have that much time left to live on this earth. Remember, 2050 is as far as 1990.
Great point.
Hawaii is still cheaper to retire than in Los Angeles primarily because of taxes. Hawaii is like the Philippines with American flavor. This is the big reason why my wife and I would like to retire in Kona. Work hard, stay fit, invest, and save for a happy and comfortable retirement. \m/
Plz enjoy the noisy coqui frogs
Thanks my husband and I are planning a move to Oahu in a few years.
Good luck with the move. :)
Thank you brotha! I'm moving to Hawai'i on Wednesday the 21st of October. I appreciate your feedback and information. 🤙🏽
Good luck on the move.
Have u moved to hawaii? How does it feel to live in Hawaii? I m considering to apply in a hawaiian university for undergrad
@@aarshvyas3245 , yes I did move here. It's been 4 months and i have to admit it was the best decision I ever made in my life. It is very relaxed and chill here on the big island (kona). Can't speak too much for the islands. Good luck on your journey and dont second guess yourself. 🤙🏽
@@dominicgonzales4351 thanks for your response. How expensive is I there? Hope ur having a good time
@@aarshvyas3245 , I moved from California so it was expensive there as well. Honestly, it really isn't that expensive as long as you don't live outside of your means and check book. I have a 2 bedroom house 1,500, I bought a car, 2,000 now I'm enjoying life and not living check to check anymore. I advise that you have a job lined up or have a plan for steady income. Then you will be fine. I cook at home alot so save a ton on not eating out. Oh! And there is Costco, Walmart and target's here to go shopping. Stay within your means and you will be fine. "Don't fear stepping out of your comfort zone to find comfort ".
What I love about japan is how open the people seem to be when it comes to pilgrimage, from Shinto shrine to Buddhist temple, how is it in Hawaii for those looking to experience the culture of the original natives and their spiritual practices ? Really appreciate your channel, and am grateful for the insight 💚
Island fever hits so hard! Good video braddah!
Appreciate it!
This was very helpful, thanks for posting. I have visited/vacationed in Hawaii several times before deciding to move there. I saved, am selling my home and all my belongings (as it is not feasible to move your stuff) as you will be more comfortable living minimally, exception would be a vehicle. 😎🌺 Mahalo.
Thanks. It's great that you were able to visit several times. I think it helps to visit more than once since the allure wears off and you can decide whether it's a place you'd actually like to live.
I can totally relate to the “brain drain.” I’m Native American and I grew up on the Indian Reservation created by the federal government hundreds of years ago. It’s breathtakingly beautiful but due to poverty and now rampant addiction I found it impossible to raise a family there. When I finished university I didn’t return home, my sisters did the same. We all left for school intending to go back but none of us ever did. I spent a few weeks in Hawaii recently and it very much reminded me of home. We were welcomed by a few friends of my daughters who were born and raised in Hilo. Aside from the beautiful beaches it felt like home, the people & culture and deep connection to the land.
Mahalo for sharing. The brain drain is real, but hopefully more locals stay.
Great video. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. All are spot on!
Glad it was helpful!
This is a great video, you give great, clear advice. I’ve been eyeing Hawaii as a potential move because my wife is a professor and UH Manoa would be a huge advancement in her career. Although I’m American now, I grew up in a tropical place so the Hawaiian weather and climate remind me of home. Pretty much the only way I see us someday living there is for her job, and it would also be a 50/50 chance it’s not permanent, so that takes some of the anxiety away. If her job took us to San Francisco or NYC I would still have to think about cost of living, changes in culture, etc. But the best thing you said that resonated with me is the fact that one should not move to run away from life problems. You are so right.
Thanks. Hope this video was helpful.
im looking to do this in like 2 months ...cant wait to be there again. This time for a few months and not just 3 weeks
Thank for the great information ,happy new year 2022 and best wishes to you and your family ! Peace ✌️
Thanks. You too.
Thanks for the video. I have thought about everything that you covered. And as my late aunt once said, “Come and see for yourself.”
I do plan on visiting Hawaii one day.
Having friends anywhere is beneficial to the enjoyment of a place.
Thanks. Yeah, it's always nice to visit first if you're planning on making the move. The state is launching the pre-testing travel program that will make it easier for visitors to come here. Hopefully it's organized and well-executed.
Such a great video! Thank you for sharing! Aloha from Atlanta!🙏🏽😃
Glad you enjoyed it.
I think Hawaii is good for a short time stay or a month vacation and that should be good enough.
Yeah, I agree. It's great in the short-term. Tough in the long-term.
Its kind of like babysitting your noisy nephew. Its great for a while. Then you're happy to go home after 🤣
Yup. A lot of people who move there likely wouldn’t have done it if they’d gone for a month and gotten all their Instagram photos out of the way.
DUDE YOU NAILED IT AND TOLD MY STORY. I MOVED TO KAUAI IN 2005 LEFT LAS VEGAS WITH MY HAWAIIAN EX-WIFE BETWEEN BOTH OF US WE WERE MAKING 85K SO THE DAY CAME SHIPPED 3 CARS OVER LEFT OUR HOME IN VEGAS FULLY FURNISHED WITH A FRIEND TO STAY RENT FREE IN RETURN TO WATCH OUR PROPERTY. 4 MONTHS LIVING ON KAUAI I FOUND 1 JOB THAT STARTED AT 11.00 HR LASTED 1 MONTH SO IN 4 MONTHS I DONE AND ALSO BROKE SO I LEFT KAUAI EX-WIFE STAYED WITH FAMILY FOR A FEW MORE MONTHS RETURNED BACK TO VEGAS UNHAPPY SO OUR MARRIAGE FAILED ALONG WITH OTHER ISSUES SO I SHIPPED 3 CARS BACK TO MAINLAND SO ROUNDTRIP FAIR FOR 3 CARS WAS 5800 PLUS 4 MONTHS MORTGAGE 5K PLUS OTHER EXPENSES AROUND -15K SPENT IN THE 4 MONTHS ON KAUAI SO I RETURN TO VEGAS BROKE AND STAYED BROKE AT THE END OF 2005 IN THE HOLE FOR -350K, DIVORCED, DEPRESSED, AND A FULL BLOWN ALCOHOLIC MY WORLD CAME CRASHING DOWN AT THE AGE OF 35 WHAT A DISASTER LIKE YOU SAID I HAD ISLAND FEVER AND MUCH MORE BUT I WOULD RETURN TO HAWAII AGAIN TO VISIT WHY BECAUSE HAWAII WAS NOT THE PROBLEM IT WAS ME BUT I WANTED FOR HAWAII TO FIX MY PROBLEMS BOY WAS I IN FOR A RUDE AWAKENING WHO DID NOT HAVE A MASTER PLAN FROM THE START SO FOR THOSE THAT ARE CONSIDERING MOVING TO HAWAII WATCH THIS VIDEO 3 TIMES OR MAYBE MORE AND THEN ASK YOURSELF ONCE AGAIN DO I WANT TO LIVE IN HAWAII AND WHY AND HOW GOOD LUCK ALOHA.
Thanks for the comment. Hang in there. Aloha!
Turn your caps lock off. Life will get easier after that.
@@clacicle Why is he shouting?
BECAUSE IT HURT REALLY REALLY BAD!!!!
@@situated4 who knows? Sometimes people don’t realize that they are writing in caps. Others might think it’s a good way to get your point acrosss.
All your videos resonate with me. I moved to CA after hs and return home after 20 yrs bc of family. It’s been two years, I knew it will be a challenge but i didn’t expect it will be so difficult to adjust. I ended up seeing a therapist, she told me my symptoms is called “reverse culture shock “. I’m tired of people glorifying Hawaii, it’s nice to hear from someone who feels similarly, you’re my virtual support system. Keep up the good work.
Thanks for sharing. I never heard of that term "reverse culture shock". Again, Hawaii is great, but there are real challenges to making it here that don't often get talked about.
True,Hawaii is too much overrated starting with Elvis. Just another tropical Islands.The same as PR,but no island of Culebra with pristine beaches and a Deep blue Sea.And only 2 ,5 hours flight from NYC.
Amazing video! You really broke it down unlike any other video out there. Glad to see you’re getting a bigger following!
I appreciate that!
We have lived in a few states thanks in part to the military. There are problem in all locations and cost of living is different everywhere. You speak the truth and appreciate you not candy coating it for people. Too many people want to hear only the good things, not the down side. And yes, Hawaii is beautiful and I hope to visit again soon.
Thanks. Hope people understand the good and the bad about Hawaii. Great place to live, but there are still challenges.
Ha (I am Hawaiian). Not worth coming back until you have money. I left at 18. Not for college, for a job I lost. I started my own contracting business. I plan to buy houses in Hawaii and retire there. But for the most part. Hawaii is pretty much a money pit. All my family is there and thats the only reason to go back.
Always great stuff! I totally agree with all your videos. We just made 10 years on Oahu.
Congrats on 10 years. That's great!
Respect for the life advice bro I came here randomly
As in like this video not actually haiwaii u feel me
Number one thing: Don't wear shoes in the house
# 2. Drive w/ aloha or pidgin siri
Yeah, no shoes or slippahs in the house.
My Modda always told me dat!
🦶🏻🦶🏻🦶🏻🦶🏿🦶🏿🦶🏽🦶🏽🦶🏽🦶🦶🦶🏻
I'm in the UK and for me, shoes indoors are a disgusting sight. I'm thinking, 'oh my god, you just walked home through a grubby, pee-smelling underpass and now you're trudging THAT through the entire house?!' I'll never understand shoes indoors.
You are definitely right about moving being expensive. I moved from Sacramento to San Diego a couple of months ago and it cost me a few thousand dollars to do so, including the rental deposit, and that was just to move across the state. My parents sometimes send me things in the mail and it's nice because it only takes 2 days for it to get here. I couldn't imagine having to pay to ship your car and being far away from everything.
Yeah, it's quite expensive. I've moved from Colorado to Oregon and back. I was able to drive most of my stuff, but shipping across the ocean is so much more expensive.
Aloha, good to know I will have you as my 1st friend when I get to Hawaii.
I truly appreciate & enjoy your common sense videos.
Thanks. Glad you enjoy the videos
A few years back, I had a genius idea..
I’ll live on the beach! Camping in Hawaii!!!
Then I did more research... uh oh, I wasn’t the first Einstein to think of that.
Instead, I take quick trips via RUclips
Yeah, can't really camp at the beach long-term. At least, you're not supposed to.
Your shirt has the year that the last Mauna Loa eruption occurred on it.ALSO, wanted to mention, you can go the the beach everyday, and no two days are the same, especially if you surf and fish.
This will be my third time living in Hawaii. I moved for family. Second time, for a job. I have more friends in Hawaii and the lifestyle definitely suits me.
The support system on the mainland isn't great. But maybe it's different for everyone.
I never felt I was on an island. I never had a problem getting a good job even when the mainland economy was bad.
How did u find a company?
I just found your channel and I really like your content. :) I'm an American living in Japan and thinking to move to Hawaii. Thanks for the great advice!
Thanks. I miss Japan. Can't wait to visit again. Take care.
@@HelloFromHawaii I think living in Japan would be boss, if I knew the language. But that's not gonna happen other than a few words.
If you are in the planning/contemplating phase get an 808 number you can use with a mobile phone or a VOIP service. Very handy when inquiring about jobs, housing, travel, and other stuff. Carriers like Verizon and Vodafone and services like Skype and Google Voice make this easy!
Good suggestion. 808 number helps.
Scrooge McDuck! Love that you used him as a reference, haven't thought about that guy in awhile!
🤙
Thanx for keeping it real man. things to think about.
You bet
I've been wanting to move here for years, and I've finally saved up enough to feel comfortable moving. Only problem is I work for myself and don't at the moment make enough to support myself, but should be able to in about 6 months. I wouldn't go broke living there, I've made sure of it, but it's going to be a bit of a challenge. I was already motivated to move to Hawaii, but I'd say COVID really solidified that. You guys actually take it seriously, and my mental health has suffered here on the mainland from how common it is. I believe that by being on the islands, that anxiety would be solved and I wouldn't spend so much energy worrying about COVID. Thoughts on this are welcome, good and bad...aloha and mahalo!
Good luck if you make the move. :)
Enjoy I wish Hawaii was more relaxed about covid I am thinking about leaving just to have freedom again
You know you are definitely correct. I was very lucky with my military occupational Specialty. I was a Ground Radio Repairman from 1973 till 1980. Between those years I have been to Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Guam and Thailand. After my overseas tour I was able to reenlist in the Marine Corps in 1976 for Hawaii as my duty station as a single Sergeant, local boy from Wahiawa who left in 1972 to joined the Marines. Long story short,
It cost a lot to live in Hawaii and with Covid many stores are closed and more will close.....so jobs will be hard to find. I would wait a couple years before thinking about moving here
I’ve been toying with the idea of moving back but I’m pretty cautious right now just because I would definitely need a better job/monetary situation lol. I’d love to bring my family there or even retire there one day though if anything..your videos and their practicality and realness help me kind of keep an eye out lol to see what’s going on there or if maybe a window of low prices opens up 😉 Entertaining and love seeing your journey 🌈🌺
Glad the videos help. It looks like it's going to be a tough 2022, but who knows?
Do accountants make a comfortable amount in Hawaii?
Respect the people and respect the culture. It's not like moving from LA to San Diego.
You can be as respectful for people and land as can be, but if you meet a radical Samoan who despises haoles, you are in some trouble regardless of how sweet you are. Some Polynesians from all parts will hate you no matter what you do.
@becoming the new me what about San Diego
BULL! You can be as respectful and aware of the culture and beauty of the islands and islanders and they will still yell and scream at you for being haole. It is discrimination and it is alive, well, rampant. They HATE you. And if you encounter Samoans........gtf away from that location as fast as you can because they are very very large people, willing to do whatever it takes to make you go away.
This is what it's all about.
Good stuff bro thank you.
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Awesome video and great points you made for people to think about before making a decision to move to Hawaii! We love Japan too and my wife talks about wanting to maybe move there. I love it there but will never want to move there cause I know I love it here in Hawaii more and that Japan has itʻs own cultural work ethics and lifestyle expectations. I explain that to my wife and she kinda sees that point too but canʻt help but see the wonderful things about there too. In the same way I can see the importance of why you said people should really figure out why they want to move here cause what might be a great place to vacation at might not be the best place to live in. Great episode! Aloha =)
Thanks. Yeah, I'm hoping we can travel to Japan soon. Miss it. Hope you and your family are staying safe during this time. Gonna be a little crazy with all the tourists coming back.
Good coverage of so many different perspectives...
Thanks :)
I had lived there (Oahu) for a long time. I hated it with passion. It's worth visiting for 2 weeks and getting the hell out.
What was so bad about living on Oahu?
Very similar life In Hawaii and the the life in Puerto Rico
Been on the mainland since 2003. Been back a few times here and there as recently as this past September. We are selling my house which should close on Feb 9th and will pocket some money off of it. Bringing my wife and kids. I miss home but it's still a huge decision that we are making and I'm having a hard time determining if it's a good decision or not. I have a job lined up with a plumbing company and my wife is a RN and just applied for her Hi license. Wish us luck!!!
Best of luck with the move. Hope you reconnect when you get here.
Great information nicely presented.
Glad you liked it
Good info; so true that a beautiful place doesn’t fix everything else. We’ve vacationed there many times and our trips have always been enjoyable. I never look to fit in, however I respect the norms there - parts of Oahu feel like old San Diego and that’s comforting. We may rent a place there, probably on Kauai, for a month or so when we retire.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the video. I know the first time I went to Maui I said to myself “ How could I just live here”. The next year I went back and the Maui Marriott doorman (young guy) was still there. I was thinking if he could do it I could do it. Eleven trips later I am still in Georgia. I have visited all of the Hawaiian Islands and now many other parts of the world. I love cruising now and love being out in the ocean not seeing land.
Thank you for this amazing detailed video! Actually I just got an offer to work there in HI, but compared to my salary in the mainland, it is definitely a reduced amount. However, I feel the quality of life in Hawaii is better and I definitely am the outdoorsy type of guy. It would be a dream. I’m just torn.
Congrats on the job offer. It's a tough decision since it's such a big move. Hope you decide soon. Good luck.
Dude, do it !
Good advise Sir, I recently accepted a new job in Oahu. Im in pursuit off living life simple. As a service member who's been around working hard for over 30 years, living in New York City, time to slow down and enjoy life. What better paradise to settle than Hawaii. I've done my research for more than 5 years... I think I'm overly prepared... Mentally and financially. It helps to have been born and raised in an island (PR) and have family in Hawaii for advise and support.
Hope you enjoy Hawaii. Not sure how similar it is to PR, but I'm sure there are a lot of similarities.
I was dreaming of moving to Hawaii after I saw that Elvis movie BLUE HAWAII always had my dream of moving there when I retire. Yes, I went to Hawaii for my 50th B day back in 2007 been there many times also on vacation but now when I'm retired I'm moving to Mexico. So much more you get with everything and that means........people friendly, music, food, weather and so much more cheap when it comes to prices and the service even so much better so Hawaii for me.........by, by never again. TCB.
How weird. I'm the opposite. Retired last year and tested the waters in Mexico for 8 mos before realizing it was too Wild Wild West for me. You're always on edge, looking around for danger. So I'm going to try Hawaii next! But the money thing is right. I stayed in a house for 900 a month that would cost 5K a month in California. Also, if you're older, medical care there is also kind of funky.
@@workingTchr So Dennis. I don't know where you lived in Mexico you saying wild, wild Western life so anyway, almost everywhere these day's yes and you should, you should have your eyes open even in USA and Hawaii also and even in Europe everywhere because the world is not how it used to be. So anyway, in everyway I have learned that you get more of everything living in Mexico but it have to be at a place that are not so busy but good luck stay safe if you move to Hawaii.
@@tcb1017 I was in Pureto Vallarta, Guadalajara, then Lake Chapala. I hope you find a nice out of the way place. There's just something so nice about living in a society where "the law" regulates interpersonal relations. In Mexico, it's whatever you can get away with. The police and legal system are 100 percent corrupt. For young people (and me), it gives you a liberating sense of freedom. That's why so many of our fellow Americans will embarrass you for being such jerks. But a little town.... maybe.. The Mexican people themselves are exactly like us. That's the hard thing for me to take. Anyway, good luck to you too.
@@workingTchr Thank you. The city's you talked about I been there many times I find it to be very friendly and nice. Ok, you don't go out to the wrong place at night and that goes everywhere so anyway, dreaming and trying things out playing it safe why not if possible and if for some reason it may change as it sound's like it did for you that's ok also. I used to go to Hawaii a lot back in the day's loved it but now, just to much money for everything and who would like to live way out there in ok nowhere so ok good luck to you and me and thanks for your greeting.
I guess I was one of the emails! Thank you :D !
Great video. You cover a lot of information most people tend to overlook. I fantasize about moving to Hawaii after every visit. My favorite island is Kauai. This is mostly due to the Na Pali coast and the slower pace of life. Maybe one day I will make it a reality :)
Thanks. My favorite island is also Kauai. Can't wait to go back.
I've been seriously considering it, however I don't want to catch island fever. How to prevent?
I would suggest visit the mainland once a year
Hawaii is scheduled to reopen for tourism in a couple of days. Do you plan on doing a video in the airport showing the volume of tourists who arrive on the first day, and the procedures that tourists will have to go through when the get to Hawaii now?
Thanks for the suggestion. I'm actually going to wait and see how the procedures go. It's already kind of last minute, but maybe they'll pull it off.
Great Video! How about people who live here and is thinking about move out? What’s your opinion? Much Mahalo.
Thanks for the suggestion. Yeah, I have a video about that coming up since I expect a lot of people to be moving out of state soon.
Thanks for the video :) now to find friends on Hawai'i before moving there...
Lots of opportunity to make friends when you get here too. Great community and common interest groups.
I'm in the process of moving to Maui. Vacationed there before. The experience was out of this world.. So much planning and challenges now to move there. Still motivated! It will be worth it.
Congrats on the move.
Did you move there yet
@@veronicagarcia2475 No ....couldn't move yet due to the pandemic issues. The restrictions are lightening up so I'm hoping before winter begins. I'm so ready.
Oh man/ this is like moving to Alaska:) I could add the winter and darkness 😳
So f cold 😆 almost like an island. Weather changes every week/ summer there is forever light. Winter constant darkness and Summer is 3 months 😆
lol. Good to know if I ever want to move to Alaska.
Hi, I got a question for you regarding to Hawaii. What is the best method to find housing In Honolulu and do you have any recommendations for shipping your personal belongings to the island? I am from NC and trying to figure out the logistics. Thanks!
For housing, I'd rent cheap first and then figure out where you want to live more permanently once you get settled. For shipping things, not sure how to do that from the east coast. I shipped my stuff from the west coast, including my car.
Great Video!
Thanks!
Excellent, practical and reasonable analysis providing real-world advice. Thank you for posting these thoughtful, well-spoken insights.
Most looking to move to Hawaii appear to be fairly intellectually lazy and do not consider these practicalities ... and inevitably fail.
Thanks. Hope these videos help these people so they don't have to learn the hard way.
Ooh, I love Kaka'ako park. My kids used to slide down the side of the hill on cardboard boxes.
Yeah, it's a great park. A lot cleaner than it used to be.
We used to do that at Kokohead Elementary School in the summer!
This help a lot. Because I was offer a job and relocation paid.
If you move, good luck.
Great points!👍🏼🤙🏼
Thanks! 👍
If was to move back to Hawaii, I would do it very close to retirement and move slowly over 3 months. There are several great short-term places to rent while I transition to the Islands. Of course, we can both work from home and make good money - so we just need to have really good internet.
Setting expectations when living in Hawai'i does greatly depend on what lifestyle you are looking for. That's true if you're living either in New York, Florida, or Kalifornia. Each island in the Hawaiian archipelago has it's own personality. If you're planning to move here, trying spending vacations, 2-4 weeks on each island and rent a house or condo. Live like the locals and not like a tourist. Live like where you live on the mainland. See if your mainland baggage will fit into the local overhead culture. Hawai'i for most mainlanders is a culture shock. Do you have a particular skillset that's marketable here, because jobs are mostly menial and fewer since the pandemic. The cost of living is different on each islands, some islands are more expensive to live than others. Access to healthcare is also important. About the only thing reliable in Hawai'i is the great weather. But you have to remember that an island is limited to its available resources. You just cannot drive from island to island and interisland travel is expensive, despite O'ahu's interstate hwys. Hawai'i is a great place to live and I wouldn't live anywhere else in the world, and I've lived all over the world. USA
Thanks for sharing. Aloha!
2-3 weeks on each island just to see huh. Can I borrow some cash?
I enjoy your Hawaii life videos. I grew up in Hawaii and am wanting to do an extended 30 day stay to there. It would be cool if you could do a video on how that could work. Accommodations, transportation, best areas, etc. I have ohana there but would want a small (safe) place of my own. I also know the island pretty well as I go home every few years. My job allows me to work remotely so income isn’t an issue. You’re very insightful, so I’m sure you’ll bring up some plus & negative things about a 30 day stay that I didn’t consider.
Aloha,
Keoni
Thanks for the recommendation.
If you have trouble in "Paradise", that's because it was not "Paradise"! Its reality kicking in!
As an upcoming college student in two years, I’ll be far away from the mainland. I’d like to plant roots there with a marine science degree, does any locals have advice for me?
Hawaii is a great place for marine science. 🤙
Retired now and think about returning…for family. Unfortunately, that was also the reason why I moved away in the first place. I’m on the fence about whether or not I want to re-enter the drama of family life or continue to visit to get it in small doses….. Well-established where I am but would have to bounce back and forth to retain tax free residency and maintain our rental business. Thinking of downsizing my home anyways. But for the price of our personal residence, we would likely end up in a condo with ridiculous maintenance fees or back in Kalihi! I guess I could live in Kapolei but I’m used to city living with all the conveniences nearby. Ugh. I’m not sure I would characterize Hawaii as peaceful, maybe outer Island but certainly not Honolulu. Anyone looking for simplicity will probably want to live elsewhere,
Tough trade off. Kapolei is nice these days. Lots of shops. But it's not the same as Town.
Thank you so much brah. Mainland retiree here dreamin of paradise even if it's in a small rented studio. You're takin the luster off, but still, ahh, it sounds nice....
Thanks. It's still a great place to retire. Hoping even I can do it one day.
Did you film the opening and most of the footage at The Waialae Beach Park? If so, that trellis in the background was the original location for the outdoor bar of the fictional King Kamehameha Club in the original "Magnum PI" television series from the 1980's.
It's Kakaako Waterfront Park.
@@HelloFromHawaii Ah, thanks! It just looked familiar.
Can you make a video about living cheap in the big island? The land and house is cheaper, but there are many drawbacks. I really want to hear from you about RETIREMENT there, thanks
It is cheaper there because of the cost of land. Retiring there may be a great option because you don't have to worry about finding a job there. It depends on where you live. It's a big island. :)