Hawaiian Trends

Hawaii, a place that always feels like coming home, has introduced a new tourism tax. It’s a small addition to the cost of visiting these enchanting islands, which are already a bit of a splurge. As we continue to be drawn to its stunning beaches, dramatic volcanoes, and vibrant green landscapes, this tax is making many of us wonder about the future affordability of our Hawaiian dreams. Reasons Behind the Tax Hawaii’s economy truly thrives on tourism. Billions of dollars flow in each year, fueled by visitors seeking paradise. With so many people eager to experience the islands, the

I was just reading the latest news from Norwegian Cruise Line, and honestly, it’s creating quite a stir across the entire travel world. News like this travels fast, reaching everyone from cruise planners in London to those dreaming of a getaway in Sydney. It’s not just about market shifts; it’s about real people’s holidays, and this latest update really grabbed my attention for 2026 and beyond. Hawaii Fee Pause One of the biggest pieces of news is that a proposed environmental fee for cruise passengers heading to Hawaii has been temporarily put on hold. This is a really significant

On December 31, 2025, a two-judge panel of the Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals issued a preliminary injunction blocking Hawaii from applying its new climate-focused tourism tax to cruise passengers — hours before the law was set to take effect. The Hawaii Department of Taxation followed on January 2, 2026, with Announcement 2026-01, instructing taxpayers not to report or remit the transient accommodations tax (TAT) on cruise fares until further notice. For anyone booking a Hawaii cruise in 2026, the result is straightforward: no new state cruise-fare tax is currently being charged, and your invoice should not include

New Mexico ranks 10 out of 10 for art, culture, history, cuisine, nature, national parks, and historic sites — and it’s one of the most underrated winter holiday destinations in the U.S. New Mexico scores 10 out of 10 for art, culture, history, cuisine, nature, national parks and historic sites, and is a top winter holiday destination. Most people picture beaches or ski slopes when they think of a winter getaway. But Northern New Mexico offers something different: a holiday season rooted in centuries-old Pueblo traditions, with open-air adobe markets, bonfires on Christmas Eve, and ceremonial dances that have

Hawaii is rolling out a new “Green Fee” for visitors starting January 1, 2026. This fee is a game-changer, aiming to funnel much-needed funds into protecting the islands’ natural wonders and boosting tourism infrastructure. It’s a bold move by Governor Josh Green, signed into law in May 2025 (Act 96), recognizing the global surge in demand for eco-friendly travel and the urgent need to balance growth with conservation. Green Fee Explained This isn’t just another tax; it’s an investment in Hawaii’s future. The Green Fee is designed to ensure a steady stream of resources for environmental and climate initiatives.

Winter holidays are a prime time for cruises, especially to warm destinations, as families seek a break from the usual hustle and bustle. The Holiday Cruise Craze Picture this: you’re escaping the winter chill, not by bundling up, but by slipping into a swimsuit. That’s the magic many are chasing this holiday season, trading snow for sand and festive sweaters for sunshine. While summer might be the first thought for a tropical escape, the reality is that Christmas and New Year’s Eve are some of the busiest times for cruise lines. It’s all about swapping the stresses of holiday

Leaving the chill of Boston behind felt incredible. My family and I packed our bags, trading snow boots for sandals, and set our sights on the vibrant island of Sicily. It felt like a world away, a place where ancient history whispers from sun-drenched ruins and the aroma of citrus fills the air. This trip was a chance for us to explore, to taste, and to truly immerse ourselves in the Sicilian way of life. Sicily Beckons Our journey began with a flight across the Atlantic, the familiar hum of the plane a prelude to the adventure ahead. As

The March 2026 kona storms erased an estimated $35 million to $40 million in hotel bookings and related spending across Hawaii. Nearly 40 flights out of Kona were canceled over a span of days in mid-March 2026 — services to Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Calgary, and Chicago all grounded as a kona storm dumped record rainfall across the islands. That same week, one couple reported paying more than $700 in combined taxes and fees on a five-night condo stay on Kauai, on top of a nightly rate that had already climbed. These two stories — one about weather,

It’s a curious thing how the world buzzes with excitement for travel, yet some places find themselves standing still while others surge ahead. Lately, I’ve been noticing a distinct shift in where explorers choose to spend their precious vacation time and money. It seems many are overlooking the United States, and frankly, it’s a shame given all the beauty and adventure it holds. I’ve spent countless hours exploring its diverse landscapes, from sun-drenched beaches to bustling city streets, and it pains me to see its tourism sector facing such a slump. Billions of dollars in potential spending are just…

It’s wonderful how places can evolve, and sometimes, those changes are all about making sure their magic lasts. Hawaii is certainly embracing that idea with some thoughtful updates coming to several of its beloved state parks. I’ve always found that when natural wonders are managed with care, everyone truly benefits. Park Enhancements Ahead Starting in 2026, Hawaii is introducing new systems at four special state parks. This is a thoughtful approach to park management. The goal is to keep these beautiful spots pristine and enjoyable for everyone, both now and way down the line. The Department of Land and