In August, a series of devastating fires swept through the beautiful island of Maui, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Residents were forced to evacuate, many trying to salvage their belongings, while colleagues and friends were directly impacted by this tragic event. Despite the hardships faced, the spirit of Maui remains strong. We’d like to highlight the resilience of the island and how you can contribute to its recovery by visiting and experiencing all that Maui has to offer.
The Impact of the Fires
The fires not only had a profound impact on the lives of Maui’s residents but also on its economy. The island was losing a staggering $9 million a day due to the drop in tourism. Unemployment rates soared, with 8,000 new unemployment forms filled out, highlighting the critical role tourism plays in sustaining the livelihoods of the island’s residents. West Maui, in particular, is crucial for the state’s economy, with its reopening scheduled for October 8. However, Lahaina remains excluded from this reopening.
While the fires posed a significant challenge, the people of Maui remain steadfast in their determination to rebuild and recover. A recovery plan, “Malama Maui,” has received $2.6 million in funding to attract tourism to the unaffected areas of Maui, supporting the overall rejuvenation of the island’s economy.
Rediscovering Maui
Now, more than ever, responsible, respectful, and compassionate travel is encouraged. There’s a common misconception that Maui is closed, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Maui still has plenty to offer to travelers who want to experience its beauty and contribute to its recovery. Here are some of the amazing experiences you can enjoy:
Snorkel at Molokini Crater
Explore the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life at Molokini Crater, one of the world’s top snorkeling destinations.
Road to Hana
Embark on an unforgettable road trip along the winding Hana Highway, where you’ll encounter lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and hidden beaches.
Explore Upcountry Maui
Discover the charm of Upcountry Maui with its rolling hills, farms, and panoramic views. Visit the charming town of Makawao or take a tour of a local goat farm.
Haleakalā
Witness the breathtaking sunrise or sunset at Haleakalā National Park, a dormant volcano that offers unparalleled views from its summit.
Sailing Adventures
Set sail on the tranquil waters surrounding Maui, where you can enjoy whale-watching, sunset cruises, and snorkeling excursions.
How You Can Help
Visiting Maui is not just an opportunity to enjoy a tropical paradise; it’s also a chance to make a positive impact on the island’s recovery. Here are ways you can help:
Support Local
When you visit Maui, make an effort to support local businesses, from restaurants and shops to tour operators. Your patronage directly contributes to the island’s economic recovery.
Volunteer Through Malama Hawaii Program
Consider volunteering your time and skills through the Malama Hawaii program, helping with various community and environmental initiatives.
Visit gohawaii.com/voluntourism
Explore opportunities to volunteer and give back to the local community through the official Hawaii Tourism Authority website.
Hawaii Community Foundation
Contribute to the recovery efforts through donations to the Hawaii Community Foundation, which supports various projects aimed at rebuilding the island.
Maui is more than just a tourist destination; it’s a resilient community working tirelessly to recover from a challenging period. By choosing to visit Maui responsibly and supporting local initiatives, you can be part of the island’s journey towards recovery. Together, we can help Maui regain its vitality and continue to share its beauty and spirit with the world.
Ready for Maui?
Visit https://mvptravel.com/travel-agency-locations/ to find a travel advisor near you! They look forward to hearing from you!
For travel essentials and recommendations, read our Amazon Travel Must-Have’s List!
