White sandy beaches, lush tropical forests, endless sunny days…they’re calling your name. Whether you’re relocating for work, moving back home, or simply want a change of pace, making a transition to Hawaii living is different that any other relocation destination. Below are some tips to assist you if you’re moving to Hawaii:
1. Get to Know Groceries
Foodland versus Foodland Farms, Costco Versus Sam’s Club, Whole Foods versus Down to Earth…there are so many grocery stores to choose from, and trust me, don’t pick just one. Soon enough you’ll be driving across town to get your favorite butter from Chef Zone, your organic, gluten-free buckwheat flour from Down to Earth, a sushi burrito from Foodland Farms, your favorite wine from Costco or your reef-safe sunscreen from Whole Foods. You may even start to notice the difference between Costco stores in different parts of the island. Groceries and other household goods can be expensive on Oahu, but if you do your research, you will find your own tricks to saving money.
2. Pack Your “Go Kit”
You never know when the mood may strike to go jump in the ocean. I have a permanent go-kit in the trunk of my car for moments just like this. My go-kit includes a pair of slippers, a pareo to lie on the sand or to use as a cover up, an extra bathing suit, and a cooler bag (my husband always keeps his fins, body board, and fishing pole in his car). The cooler bag is for the poke that you picked up on the way to your spontaneous beach break. In addition, that same cooler bag will come in handy when you find yourself across town and stopping by Nico’s Pier 38 for some fresh fish for dinner that you need to keep cool on your drive home. Nico’s is great because if you ask, they will even give you a bag of ice to keep your fish cold (Whole Foods will also do this for you).
3. Drive Like There’s a Cop Behind You
There is. Don’t question it. The speed limits may seem arbitrary but the minute you deem them unnecessary, the invisible cop that’s driving behind you will pull you over. Oahu has a lot of “undercover” cops as I like to call them. They look like normal cars but they are actually police in disguise!
4. The DMV Takes Appointments
Do not be one of those poor souls who stand in line at the DMV for 5 hours. We’ve all done it. Don’t do it. The DMV takes appointments for certain common requirements such as registering your car in the State of Hawaii. You can make the appointment either online at Aloha Q or at the DMV location itself.
5. Invest in a Good Reusable Water Bottle
For the first couple of weeks, you are going to feel dehydrated as you adjust to drinking more water. A consistently warmer and more humid climate guarantees that you are going to need to drink more water. I carry my water bottle with me everywhere I go to combat dehydration (as you can see below, I have more than one water bottle). A few popular brands are Hydro Flask and Klean Kanteen. These companies also have bottles specific for wine and beer!
