Living and Succeeding on Maui
Incorporating my strong sense of place for the islands in which my daughter and I call home, supporting causes that impact our community, and pairing them with proven approaches from a diverse array of experiences, I am committed to my future here in Hawaii.
Having lived on Maui more then a decade ago before following my career path across the country, only to land on Lana'i for several years before once again (and permanently) calling Maui my home, the discoveries continue.
Hawaii and its people are special indeed, and there is no doubt that being seen as a permanent member of a community by those multi-generational local families takes a great deal of time, and is most defining in rural and less transient areas as with any state. But this level of "acceptance" is not what yo should be seeking anyway, The islands are filled with wonderful people, from all across the globe, a vast majority of whom will welcome you with true aloha spirit. There are strong business partnerships, multinational corporations, entrepreneurial opportunities, and more. Whether you focus on the negatives or the positives, you will always find them, it's just a matter where you place your efforts.
It's this simple: Present yourself as being truly understanding of local culture, respect diversity through your actions, work hard, contribute positively to the community, embrace life, and live aloha. (no different than succeeding anywhere... )
Each of the islands offers truly magical experiences. The rich diversity of cultural history, natural beauty, and activities all contribute to creating lasting and very positive memories.
Maui takes the prize however, as it offers the broadest sampling from each of the components listed above.
The island has numerous micro-climates from the lush and rain nourished windward side, attributing its moisture to the trade winds blowing in the ocean air, to the leeward areas located in what's known as a rain shadow and displaying a drier and typically warmer environment.
The trades blow from the northeast, leaving the southwest sides of the island dry and warm and producing rain forests on the north facing slopes.
Our West Maui Mountains include the second wettest location on the planet with over 400 inches of rainfall annually. Lahaina town averages just over a foot of rain per year.
Social activities abound and residents take full advantage of what the sea and mountains have to offer. Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP) has risen quickly up the list for novices and experienced adventurers alike. Surfing, cycling, swimming, diving, hiking, and intramural team sports are just some of what a day in the life of a Mauian may include.
Beginning at sunset, barbeques and world class restaurants share the stage, each with a focus on farm to table ingredients and talkin' story...
Community engagement is ever present and non-profit organization have a high percentage of support on a per capita basis. A focus on family and sustainability are the most common topics for such groups agendas.
Quality education led by progressive private schools including Maui Preparatory Academy and Seabury Hall, are challenging the public system to keep pace, all to benefit the youngest citizens of paradise.
The island is growing and stringent supervision of development is ensuring that we do not overwhelm the land. At the same time, managed growth allows businesses and their employees to prosper.
Just a few sources to begin with as you plan:
http://www.co.maui.hi.us/index.aspx?nid=141
http://petmovers.com/
http://www.anthonyknowsmaui.com
Maui is a great place to raise a family, and to enjoy many year's once the family has grown, it is
No Ka 'Oi
Commitment to creating and maintaining balance are essential to success in all facets of life.
