I'VE BEEN TO MAUI countless times, since the island is just a quick hop from Oahu, where I'm from. On these trips, I've hiked in Haleakala National Park, done a drive-by waterfall tour along the scenic Hana Highway, and learned to surf on the gentle waves at Ukumehame Beach Park. I'm hardly alone: more than 3 million people touch down on the island every year, eager to have experiences like mine.
Since the wildfire that killed 100 people and leveled the historic town of Lahaina last August, many would-be visitors-including me-have grappled with the question of whether-or, maybe, how soon-they should return. After all, tourism is big business in Maui, where nearly 40 percent of the economy is driven by visitor spending.
I decided to go back in December, and on that trip met locals keen to reboot-and reimagine the island's travel industry.
One such community leader I spoke with was Daryl Fujiwara, the executive director of Festivals of Aloha, Maui's annual celebration of Hawaiian heritage. He's hopeful that visitors will seek out culturally immersive activities that support long-standing businesses. "That's how you'll bond with Maui," Fujiwara explained, "and take away a genuine feeling of aloha."
This story is from the April 2024 edition of Travel+Leisure US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April 2024 edition of Travel+Leisure US.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
EARTHLY DELIGHTS
Come fall, the Italian region of Umbria is a lush, fertile inland oasis. Peter Terzian reaps a bounty of culinary and cultural pleasures.
RUNNER'S HIGH
Some travelers like to move at a faster clip. Alexandra Kleeman crosses the peaks and pastures of Ireland with a group of women who take life in stride.
THE WILDEST ISLE
Compared with its neighbors, the island of Hawaii is bigger, more untamed-and, at times, unpredictable. With her family in tow, Flora Stubbs finds the perfect balance between relaxation and rugged adventure.
A ticket to the top of the world
On a luxurious train tour of Peru, Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu are the headline acts. But, as Monisha Rajesh discovers, witnessing everyday life from the rails can be every bit as memorable.
Bonjour la France
When an American writer retires in Brittany, she learns how to belong again.
Chills and Thrills
On an Alaskan wilderness adventure, Sarah Manguso and her son learn the elements of survival.
Wheels on Fire
With its blazing fall colors and picturesque villages, the Japanese island of Kyushu was made for cycling.
Down to Earth
Pottery runs deep in Santa Fe, from hallowed Pueblo collections to clay-throwing pubs.
Steel City Shining
A tech boom; a thriving cultural scene; destination dining. Can this be... Pittsburgh?
HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL
This cute Pennsylvania town is brimming with artistic and cultural energy.