Should tourists still travel to Hawaii after the wildfires in Maui? #shorts

Officials in Hawaii urged tourists to stay away after wildfires killed over 100 people in Maui. But as the island begins to feel the economic impacts, they’re now being encouraged to return. The tourism industry makes up a quarter of Hawaii’s economy, with more than 10 million visitors in 2019 compared to the state’s 1.4 million residents. In #Maui alone, tourists spend about $5.4 billion each year. Hawaii Governor Josh Green said the island’s economy could collapse, calling the lack of visitors “potentially catastrophic.” Tourists are being told to stay out of West Maui, where many locals are still recovering from the disaster.

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[kylethecaregiver]

People should be going to Hawaii! There should be boats filled to the brim with construction equipment, contractors, civil engineers, food, water, clothing.. but instead we have Oprah and the rock asking for money during a recession they don't even feel in the slightest.

[xOTKxKillaKush]

So basically damned if you do and damned if you don’t go

[ImOldGreggg]

Hawaii needs a government that cares about them.

[madz]

As someone who lives on Maui and works in the tourism industry (session/wedding photographer), most of us are incredibly grateful for tourists visiting (and spending local, no chains if can!). We’ve always asked for those visiting to be respectful, some people treat the whole island and it’s inhabitants like it’s Disneyland or something. At the end of the day though, there’s always kind and unkind people wherever you go. Most of the tourists I’ve met over the years have been delightful. We’re all tourists at some point if you enjoy traveling. So please come visit Maui! Most of us will be grateful for the support. Please leave Lahaina alone.

[uss_cushing]

The statement was clear from locals and Hawaii stay away. And numerous posts have absolutely shown that only the money is welcome the people are not.

[kkathrynkndl]

When Thailand was seriously effected by the tsunami they immediately asked for tourism and they bounced back quick.

[Tinyflypie]

It's disgusting that hotels are not giving shelter to people who have lost their homes. For God's sake America profit before humane care!?¿

[cynthiainezgonz]

No they were telling people not to go! They were shaming people for going!

[inkstain]

Yeah and if there are no tourists, many people will be out of work and can’t pay their mortgage!!

[jacobwilson]

Our American companies should be lining up to go help not vacation

[carolinejordon]

Hawaii hates tourism but they can’t acknowledge the fact that that’s their life support

[shyofthemoon]

In other words "we don't want you but we want your money".

[jhildebrand]

Dude this whole thing gives me emotional whiplash.

[Meowface.]

I specifically remember people saying “don’t come here right now “

So… you get what you asked for

[Jenyb]

I saw on a msm news channel.. they had a young girl asking people not to go to Maui out of respect.. I commented that the people need the tourist’s.. can still go and show support while being respectful

[dooolaay]

It wasn’t the whole island folks. Just Lahaina which is on the west side of the island.

[glendannesquyres]

We were told NOT to come. Many from the mainland donated. I did. TOURISTS NEED TO SEE MORE VIDEOS WELCOMING THEM BACK!!! ❤❤❤❤❤
Also, WHY aren't the hotels providing a place to stay for local residents???

[hunter-wmrc]

That's really funny actually. I remember awhile ago, they were making videos telling people off for coming.

[DNesbitt-pt]

3 weeks ago, they didn't want tourist.

[DM-uzlf]

First you criticize tourists for going over there after the fires then you need tourists to survive, make up your mind.