Moving to hawaii...real life stories

[Jane M]

@gogowanda "Asian food everywhere" You on Oahu, right?

[gogowanda]

yes, I like the city, so much to do and so many people to meet.

Originally Posted by Jane M

@gogowanda "Asian food everywhere" You on Oahu, right?

[VanHa]

gogowanda.....abso-f*-lutely.....this made me laugh

[VanHa]

Originally Posted by MovingAloha

I'm not sure exactly how I found this thread, but thoroughly enjoyed reading all the posts from beginning to end. Life thows many challenges to you and when we moved away, I knew I'd be back, just not so soon and not alone! Once I have all things sorted out, will post my experiences and advice on a to and fro!!

WE will be waiting to hear about your experience....VanHa

[Happa Brat]

Originally Posted by kawika52

Haole is the hawaiian term for a white person.

It's actually "Without Breath" because of the early invaders Cook could not recite his lineage in the oral tradition. It was later used as a derogatory term for outsiders/tourists/caucasians.

ha= breath of life.
A’ole: none

[terracore]

Whether it is derogatory or not depends on what word precedes haole.

[Rocko20]

I've met a few people in Hawaii who lived here for a while and they decided they wanted to move back to mainland. All I could do is shake my head. I lived on the mainland for the majority of my life, like most folks who moved here, and I don't plan to ever move back. Good or bad I'll take Hawaii for what it brings. If I ever get "island fever" I'll just take a plane and go on vacation, which is a bit of irony there ha.

[prospectheightsresident]

What made you decide to move to Hawaii

-Work (military). Note, though, that I put Oahu down as my "first choice," which was due in large part to weather and the fact that there is COLA and a higher BAH rate than the other options I had.

What did you bring with you (kid(s), car, furniture, dog)

-Myself, my car and my clothes. I did furniture shopping once I arrived on island.

Did you have a job already when you moved

-See above.

Where was the first place you lived in...how much did it cost

-When I first moved here, I rented a 1 bedroom in Pearl City for $1,300 a month. I've since bought a condo in town.

What was your anxiety level like when you moved here

-Fairly low. I enjoy traveling to new places, so was pretty at ease.

Were there differences that you found interesting or noteworthy

-People are very easygoing/friendly for the most part. I, however, have a big problem with many drivers and driving habits I've seen on island (can explain in more detail later if need be)

When did you start making friends

-A few months after arriving. My friends are all from work, though (both civilians and other military folks).

Did you move from your first place

-Yes. See above.

Did you stay in your first job...or are you still looking

Yes. See above.

How did you manage the first 3 months...being away from old friends etc.

-I won't lie. Its been tough at times. I really miss friends and family (and food) on the east coast. I also miss being able to hop in the car and take a multi-state roadtrip. But I tried to make the best of things by getting to know the island and its amenities.

In retrospect was it a good decision and would you do it again

-Yes. Even with all of the downsides, living and working in Hawaii at this point of my life is really a once in a lifetime experience. I'm glad to be here, though I'm still "homesick"