Living and Working in Hawaii..The Reality

A vacation to Hawaii is a dream or a once in a lifetime opportunity for many people around the world. For others, relocating to Hawaii and working in the Aloha State is also a dream. Before you possibly sell your personal belongings and buy a one way plane ticket to the tropics you should consider the following. What I'm about to mention is based on personal experience since I purchased a one way ticket to Hawaii several years ago.

What are your expectations? If you think you are going to arrive on Kaua'i, Oahu, Moloka'i, Lana'i, Maui or the Big Island and find a 1500 square foot apartment or house for $1,000-$1,500 a month you are mistaken, unfortunately. Unless you are renting a room in an apartment or house from someone you can expect to pay approximately $2,000 plus per month. In many cases, this does not include wifi, electric and cable.

What type of job are you looking for? In Hawaii, most jobs are tied to the tourism industry. If you don't like working with or being around people, Hawaii is probably not the place for you. Also, people who are moving to the islands shouldn't expect to arrive in paradise with the expectation that they will be able to secure a job within a few days even though the state unemployment rate is below the national average. If possible, you should find a place to live, secure an address and get a Hawaii Drivers License. If you fail to do any of these, this shows an employer that you have no intention of staying long term which will make your job search more difficult.

Like the mainland and elsewhere, referrals are golden in Hawaii. If you already have a job lined up before you board your flight your transition to island life will be much smoother. The people who succeed in Hawaii are customer service and team oriented, they love being outdoors, they understand what the word ALOHA means and they live ALOHA daily.

Other things to consider before making the move are food prices and what island is right for you. In Hawaii, you can expect to pay more for food regardless if you're a vegetarian or meat eater. For example, don't be shocked when you see oranges or apples for $1.99 a pound. Depending on how many people are in your family, it may be cheaper to eat out especially if you like local food and plate lunches. Oh by the way, if you are not a rice eater you will be shortly. Rice is served with just about everything.

What island is the right one for you? I've lived on Kaua'i, Oahu, Maui and the Big Island and I can honestly say that it depends on your personality. If you enjoy city life then Oahu is for you. If you enjoy a slower pace then you can't go wrong with the Big Island, Maui or Kaua'i. As many of you already know, each island is drastically different.

Lastly, I'd suggest you do your homework and write down what is important to you. If you know people in the islands it would be wise to get their feedback since the smallest mistakes can be very costly. Hawaii has been and always will be a special place for people who embrace the culture instead of trying to change it.