After You Land: Concious Travel in Hawaii

Once you've booked your flights to bucket-list Hawaii, follow these tips to make sure your visit leaves a positive mark on the islands:

1. Book an eco-friendly stay: Booking accommodation with locally-owned businesses means your money stays within the community, preventing tourism leakage. This handy guide gives some great recommendations depending on which island you choose. 
2.  Support sustainable tour companies: Learning about Hawaii's unique history and culture is a must when visiting. And thankfully there's a ton of options for tour companies that give back to the community and respect the environment. To find a sustainable tour, this tool is super helpful. 
3. Buy local: About 80 percent of food is imported to the islands, but visitors have the chance to move mountains for Hawaiian businesses by swapping big box stores and chain restaurants for local spots. Give us a quaint sea-side farmers market than a Walmart any day! 
4. Consider volunteering: Through the state's Malama program, visitors get the chance to pay it forward and gain a deeper insight into Hawaiian customs by offering a hand at local businesses in exchange for a discounted stay. You can also check out Workaway to find other volunteering positions that might not be listed here. 
5. Respect the tradition of Malama ka ‘aina i ke kai : Just because it's on Instagram doesn't mean you should visit. Honoring the deep connection that Islanders have with the land is vital.
   This is especially important when visiting any wahi pana (sacred sites) if you happen to come across any signs that say "Kapu" it means off limits and should be avoided. Don't worry, you'll still find tons of gorgeous hikes on each island that welcome tourists. You also shouldn't miss the chance to snorkel in some of the world's best spots, just be mindful of not walking on the coral (it's a living organism) and make sure to pack reef-safe sunscreen.