Aside from the fact that Aloha State is the only island state in the US, there are tons of interesting things to know about Hawaii.Like the fact that it is located 2,000 miles from California and that it is the only dual-language US state. But there are things to know about moving to Hawaii that can be useful for your relocation and will definitely make your transition smoother.
From documents needed to travel abroad to rules and regulations regarding relocation with pets, you must do a lot of things before relocating almost across the world. Bear in mind that Aloha state is part of the US, but it is in the middle of the Pacific ocean. This makes it a place with a unique history and diverse culture. Once you relocate here you will most definitely experience a cultural shock. So you might wonder what to know before living in Hawaii? Keep reading and find out.
Prepare for Trip the Best Way Possible
The best way to reduce relocation stress is to be prepared, and in order to do so, you will have to start with preparations on time. Which is at least six months in advance. This way, you will have time to make all the arrangements such as finding a place to live, a new job, school for your kids if you are relocating with kids, and many more. Start with making a relocation budget, so you have enough time to save money for this adventure. Here are the things your budget must include:
- Hiring an international moving company – You can either choose overseas shipping if you have many things to transport or move by air if you have fewer things to transfer. Also, find an overseas shipping company that provides other services such as car shipping or if you need storage units as well.
- Rent for at least three months – No matter if you are relocating without a job or with one, it would be good to save enough money to cover the rent for a three-month period.
- Money for living expenses – Same as with rent. If possible, save enough money for three months of living expenses.
- Travel arrangements – As soon as you set a date, book your flight to Aloha state. Early flights are way cheaper.
Paperwork You’ll Need to Get if You Are Relocating With Pets
One of the things so great about Aloha state is its endless source of wildlife, unique flora, and fauna that can only be seen here. Thus it is no wonder Aloha State has strict rules and regulations regarding relocation with pets. Some animals are prohibited from entering the state entirely, while others, such as cats and dogs, are allowed with rabies vaccine certification.
As you know, Aloha State is one of the few in the world without any rabies cases. The state’s government does everything possible to prevent this disease from harming any animals and humans. Go on the Department of Agriculture website and find out in which laboratory tests your pet must pass and what animals are prohibited from entering.
There Are Many Islands to Choose From
As you know, there are 132 different Hawaiian islands and 124 islets. Still, only seven of those islands are inhabited. They are known as big islands Maui, Molokai, Lanai, Oahu, Kauai, Big island, and Niihau. And choosing the right island to live in is the first step you need to take when relocating to Hawaii.
To Stay Active and Connected, Choose Oahu as Your Home
Oahu, or how locals refer to it as a Gathering place, is home to the state’s capital Honolulu. If you are looking for a big urban city with many beaches, such as the most famous Waik beach, then Honolulu is a place for you. A hot spot for many activities such as surfing, shopping, nightlife, and many more. You can rent a one-bedroom apartment in Honolulu city center for $1,800 and outside the city center for $1,600.
But Honolulu is not the only city in Oahu. If you are into surfing, go on the island’s north side to the world’s most famous surf break, Bonsai Pipeline. Aside from the surfing spectacle, you can go on fantastic waterfall hikes or just sit back and relax on some of the most beautiful beaches.
Maui and the Big Island Are Great for Families
If you are looking for a place with everything from hiking, surfing to relaxing beach views, then you should consider living in Maui. On the other hand, if you are looking for a rural, suburban town to call home, the Kula is a place for you. Located in the center of the island, it is a town that mostly depends on farming. If you are more eager to live in one of Maui’s most appalling towns, you should consider Kaanapali and Lahaina. Tourist towns with the most beautiful beaches and resorts.
Big Island is home to the only active volcano, and it is the youngest island. It has very diverse landscapes from lava rivers, snowy mountains to rainforests and black sand beaches. The best city to raise a family is Hilo residential city located on the county’s west side. With a population of 45,000, it has excellent schools and colleges. Of course, it also has many places for outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, and other spots you can visit. The median rent here is $1,045, and the median home value is $329,200.
On the opposite side of the Hilo, there is another small coastal town to raise a family, Kealakekua, with a population of 2000. Here you will rent a place for $700. On the same side, you can move to Kona, a preferred destination for many tourists but it is also a great place to settle in.
Things to Know About Hawaii – Cost of Living Is High, but You Will Live in Paradise
It is no secret that the cost of living in Aloha state is high. Still, there are ways to find cheap places to live. It will all depend on your needs. For example, if you must live in an urban hive then you should opt for Honolulu where living experience will be high but so will the chance to get a better job too.
One thing is sure, basic utilities will be expensive no matter which city you choose to live in. For example, on average you will pay around $315 for electricity bills in Honolulu while in Hilo it will be even higher and will cost you around $340.
What About the Hawaii Job Market?
It is no secret that if you relocate to Molokai chances to get a job in your field of interest are way lower than if you relocate to Oahu. But even if you decide to live in Kauai, the smallest of all islands, you will have an income of $62,000 but not such vast choices when it comes to finding a job.
The most wanted job positions are regarding tourism and service jobs such as waitress, bartenders, and others. But real estate, property management, healthcare, and marketing are also at the top of the list. Also, IT sectors are developing in Oahu and Maui so finding a job as a developer or programmer will not be that hard.
Check out the video below and find out how to find a job when relocating from another state to HI.
Not All Residences of Hawaii Are Hawaiian
No matter if you live overseas or in the US, if you spend years in some place you will feel like you belong. For example, after years living in NY, you will eventually start calling yourself a New Yorker. Well in Aloha State this is not possible. Only people of Hawaiian ancestry (Polynesian settlers) are called Hawaiian. So even if you are born and raised in Aloha State you will be referred to as an islander or simply a resident.
All Unusual Things to Know About Living in Hawaii
If you have ophidiophobia you should seriously consider relocating here because Aloha State is snake-free. It is prohibited to own and keep the snake here only zoos are allowed to have some. But aside from unique wildlife( Aloha State is the widest one in America) here, you will be in touch with many cultures from all over the world. For example, the Japanese tradition of omiyage is represented here, so remember when entering someone’s house you will have to bring a gift for the host. Also, greetings are done differently here, a handshake is not enough but a hug and a kiss on the cheek.
What Should I Know About Hawaii? It Is Rude to Refuse Lei
Adjusting to another country is normal and here there will be customs you have to respect if you wish to gain trust and friendship from people. Thus refusing a Lei (garland) is not recommended; you should always graciously accept it. Also when entering someone’s house you should leave your slippers outside.
Another special thing about Aloha State is its language, as we mentioned above Aloha state has two languages English and Hawaiian. It has only 13 letters in the alphabet so if you plan to learn a language here be prepared for some hard lessons. But if you show interest in their language many Hawaiian will respect that.
It Is an Eco-Friendly Place to Live
That is right, billboards are something that is prohibited in Aloha State. There are so many reasons for relocation and living in a healthy environment is one of the most important. If you are looking for a place without contamination then Aloha State is the best choice. Plastic bags are prohibited here and the government urges people to leave as little plastic waste as possible.
Also If you ship your car here which is advisable if you wish to see all Aloha State has to offer, you will be surprised to hear that there is no air pollution or smog here. But you will see vog – a volcanic haze from the Kilauea volcano that has been erupting since 1983. The winds sometimes can blow vog to other islands.
What Should I Avoid in Hawaii?
When moving overseas a lot of things can be forbidden or outlawed and in the Aloha State you will see a lot of “forbidden signs”. Through the whole state, you will see signs that will say Kapu. To put it in simple terms it means Keep Out or forbidden. It is referred to as tabu for some places that are considered sacred to locals. So if you see this sign, keep out.
Keep Your Distance From Marine Life
As we mentioned, living in another country brings with it different rules and regulations. And the Aloha State is really serious when it comes to keeping all the things that make these islands authentic, from people’s harm. And marine life is one of those things. So before you start wondering what to pack, find out what things you must never do. For example, all beaches are public and available for everyone to visit, but it is prohibited to take coral from the ocean. Also if you go on the shores of the Kohala Coast for some wales watching you should know you can not approach closer than 100 yards.
Find Best Overseas Moving Company and Approach to Your International Moving Like a Pro
As you can figure when moving internationally a lot of things must be learned in advance. But if you gather all the information on the time you will be prepared and your relocation stress will be minimal. But one thing is for sure when relocating in the middle of the Pacific ocean you will need to hire a shipping overseas company. No matter if you are relocating alone or with the family moving abroad to Aloha State it can not be done on your own.
So when searching for a company make sure you find the one that can provide you with all the necessary services, such as packing service or car shipping. This way you will not have to worry about searching for different companies and you will have more time to focus on your savings and other arrangements.
