Hawaiian Airlines' new YouTube video is titled “Travel Pono,” which meansExplore with respect for the local environmentin Hawaii. Five members of the delegation offered expert advice on how to stay safe while visiting Hawaii. The members included a firefighter, a cultural activist, and marine mammal conservation volunteers.
They expressed their views in the hope of helping people realize their responsibility as travelers to preserve the island's natural resources and respect the local community. The video is an extension of Hawaiian Airlines' "Travel Pono" program, which aims to equip travelers with essential experiences to travel to Hawaii safely and responsibly.
Hawaii has been facing a surge in tourism since the state reopened to vaccinated travelers in July. Government officials and locals, including the governor, have urged people to stay home. Hawaii tourism data shows that the rate of visitors has surpassed 2019, which has taken a toll on local businesses and the environment.
“Maui County residents did not have enough time to prepare for this sudden influx of tourism, even with the pandemic restrictions still in place,” Maui County Mayor spokesman Brian Perry told Hawaii News Now in a July interview. “Many of our hospitality businesses are still struggling to fully staff operations to ensure quality service.”
Meanwhile, the shortage of rental cars has created many obstacles for businesses. Because of the lack of cars, tourists have rented trucks and vans, leaving many locals without essential transportation, which has further pushed tensions in the community to the peak.
Hawaii's beaches and wildlife are facing negative impacts from tourism, with visitors taking a toll on the state's historic landmarks and fragile ecosystems, according to locals.
