Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: HAZARDS & TRESPASSING
Flash floods, rock falls, tsunami, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, shark attacks,
jellyfish stings and, yes, even possibly getting brained by a falling coconut — the
potential dangers of traveling in Hawaii might seem alarming at first. But like the
old saying goes, statistically you're more likely to get hurt crossing the street at
home.
Of course, that's not to say that you shouldn't be careful. It's best to educate
yourself first about potential risks to your health and safety. This advice becomes
even more important when you're engaged in outdoor activities in a new and unfa-
miliar natural environment, whether that's an island snorkeling spot, a jungle wa-
terfall, a high-altitude mountain or an active (and thus unpredictable) volcanic
eruption zone.
Wherever you choose to explore on the islands, remember to mind your man-
ners and watch your step. Hawaii has strict laws about trespassing on both private
land and government land not intended for public use. Trespassing is always illegal,
no matter how many other people you see doing it. As a visitor to the islands, it's
important to respect all 'Kapu' or 'No Trespassing' signs. Always seek explicit per-
mission from the land owner or local officials before venturing onto private or
government-owned land that is closed to the public, regardless of whether it is
fenced or signposted as such. Doing so not only respects thekuleana(rights) of
residents and the sacredness of the land, but also helps assure your own safety.
Scams
The main scams directed toward visitors in Hawaii involve fake activity-operator booths
and timeshare booths. Salespeople at the latter will offer you all sorts of deals, from free
luaus to sunset cruises, if you'll just come to hear their 'no obligation' pitch.
Caveat
emptor.
Theft & Violence
The islands are notorious for thefts from parked cars, especially rentals (which are obvi-
ously tagged with bar-code stickers). Thieves can pop a trunk or pull out a door-lock as-
sembly within seconds. They strike not only at remote trailheads when you've gone for a
hike, but also at crowded beach and hotel parking lots where you'd expect safety in num-
bers.
As much as possible, do not leave anything valuable in your parked car, ever. If you
must, pack all valuables out of sight
before
arriving at your destination, where thieves may
be hanging out and waiting to see what you put in the trunk. Some locals leave their car
doors unlocked with the windows rolled down to discourage break-ins and avoid costly
damages (eg broken windows).
