Hawaii's Ecomony Truning Around??? (Honolulu: spring break, sales, real estate)

[VanHa]

As I walk around Waikiki I am noticing Waikiki Beach to be full of beach goers...I also noticed that Kuhio Beach is full of tourists. Last week I had to literally walk on the road because there was no roon on the sidewalk on the Waikiki strip! Is this a mirage or are others seeing other signs of the economy turning around?

I would appreciate knowing what others are noticing...

[HankDfrmSD]

Originally Posted by VanHa

As I walk around Waikiki I am noticing Waikiki Beach to be full of beach goers...I also noticed that Kuhio Beach is full of tourists. Last week I had to literally walk on the road because there was no roon on the sidewalk on the Waikiki strip! Is this a mirage or are others seeing other signs of the economy turning around?

I would appreciate knowing what others are noticing...

In a lot of places, its Spring Break.

Hank

[Lopaka]

The Japanese Yen is also doing good against the dollar. That might be off-setting what would otherwise be the effects of their economic downturn. But make no mistake, businesses here are experiencing a recession. Just ask any business owner. You may see a lot of tourists, but it doesn't mean they're spending a whole lot as before.

[PacificFlights]

Originally Posted by HankDfrmSD

In a lot of places, its Spring Break.
Hank

Funny you should mention that. One large Spring Break sponsor had their container taken directly from the dock to Honolulu International and repacked on a plane to get it immediately diverted to Ft. Lauderdale. They didn't feel Hawaii was going to get the crowds they hoped for and figured Florida was going to be the place where most would go due to the economy. There has been a surge in bookings in the southeast and Caribbean because pruices are lower.

[survivorqt]

the japanese are are spending more here

i heard Ala Moana shopping center is still just as busy as before

[VanHa]

Originally Posted by survivorqt

the japanese are are spending more here

i heard Ala Moana shopping center is still just as busy as before

I was talking to a real estate agent who is a friend of mine and he indicated that March home sales are nearly double that of February so far...this is not saying much since February sales were dismal...but still it just might be the start...thoughts?

[nwcountrygal]

Is that for all islands or just one Vanha??

[VanHa]

Originally Posted by nwcountrygal

Is that for all islands or just one Vanha??

Hi nwcountrygal....we were talking about Oahu...more specifically, I was interested in purchasing a condo in Waikiki and he indicated that this might be the time to buy as the tide might be turning.

[nwcountrygal]

Good luck in your purchase!!! Hope you find what you want

[VanHa]

Originally Posted by nwcountrygal

Good luck in your purchase!!! Hope you find what you want

So do I...thanks.