PODCAST · society
Hawaii Vacation Connection
by Bruce Fisher
Podcast devoted to Hawaii Vacations and travel to Hawaii. Hosted by Bruce Fisher from HAWAII-ALOHA.COM
Episodes
-
Hawaii Tourism Is Down, Vacation Costs Are Up: What’s Really Happening?
I've been living in Hawaii for 35 years and helping visitors plan vacations to the islands for more than 25 years. I've seen tourism go through plenty of ups and downs, but what's happening right now is worth paying attention to.
-
Visiting Hawaii: What the Headlines Aren’t Telling You
Recent headlines have focused on earthquakes, tropical storms, protests, environmental concerns, Maui's recovery, tourism challenges, and even isolated incidents involving wildlife. These are important stories, and they deserve coverage. Nobody should pretend these events don't happen.
-
Hawaii Travel News July 2026 | North Shore Shuttle & Travel Tips
Hawaii Travel News – Quick Facts Aloha and Welcome Back! It’s been a little while since I’ve sat behind the microphone. Several listeners have reached out over the past couple of months asking if I had stopped producing the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast. The answer is no—I simply needed a...
-
Island Hopping in Hawaii: What First-Time Visitors Get Wrong (and How to Do It Right)
Start With This: Stop Trying to Do Too Much Island Hopping in Hawaii sounds like the ultimate dream vacation. And it can be—but only if you approach it the right way. What we’re seeing more than ever are travelers building overloaded itineraries packed with activities, then trying to squeeze in...
-
Hawaii Weather, Eruptions & Travel Mistakes to Avoid on Your Next Trip
When people plan a trip to Hawaii, they expect sunshine every day. Most of the time, that’s exactly what they get. But Hawaii Weather doesn’t always follow the postcard version people have in their heads. You might wake up to rain in Waikiki and sunshine on the North Shore. You might get a quick...
-
Hawaii Weather: What Travelers Need to Know Right Now
If you’ve been following recent headlines, you’ve probably seen a lot of coverage about storms across the islands. Flooding, heavy rain, flight disruptions, and dramatic footage have dominated the conversation. That kind of exposure naturally raises concerns, especially for first-time visitors...
-
Marijuana in Hawaii: What Visitors Need to Know Before They Arrive
Visitors planning a trip often ask about Marijuana in Hawaii, especially after seeing headlines about legalization, THC products in stores, and mixed information online. The confusion is understandable—but the reality on the ground matters more than the headlines. If you’re visiting the islands,...
-
You Get Da Time? I Get Hawaiian Time.
Life in Hawaii doesn’t run on the same clock most visitors are used to. It’s Called Hawaiian Time. Flights land on schedule, dinner reservations exist, and workdays still start in the morning. What’s different is the relationship people have with time itself. That relationship has a name, and if...
-
Hawaii Travel Planning in 2026: What First‑Time Visitors Need to Know Right Now
January through early spring is the season when Hawaii trips shift from casual ideas to real plans. Every year, the pattern is the same. People stop browsing and start committing. Flights get selected. Hotels fill up. Questions turn specific. At Hawaii Aloha Travel, we’re a Hawaii-based travel...
-
Hawaii Travel Year in Review: What Changed, What Worked, What to Know
This Hawaii travel year in review highlights meaningful changes that affect how visitors get here, where they stay, and how their trips actually feel once they arrive. Some of these updates flew under the radar. Others made headlines. All of them matter if you’re planning a trip and want it to…
more -
Hawaiian Culture Experiences You’ll Actually Enjoy (and Learn From Too)
There’s a deeper side to Hawai‘i waiting beyond the beaches and luaus, one that connects you to the people, the land, and the stories that shaped the islands. Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning for another round of aloha, these Hawaiian culture experiences turn sightseeing into...
-
Your Realistic Hawaii Food Budget: How Much You’ll Spend Each Day
How Much Should You Budget Per Person for Food in Hawaii If you’ve started planning your trip and wondering what your Hawaiʻi food budget per day might look like, you’re not alone. The cost of eating in paradise can surprise visitors, especially when you start adding up your morning coffee, plate...
-
Hawaii Flights: Stopover Tips & Last-Day Game Plan
Why the First and Last Day Matter More Than You Think Travel days make or break a Hawaii vacation, especially if you’re Hawaii Flights are coming from the East Coast. You’ll cross oceans and time zones, lose hours on the clock, and land with excitement and fatigue doing a tug-of-war. Here’s what...
-
Driving Hawaii: Hairpin Turns, Happy State Rankings & What to Bring Home
Hawaii News Roundup Priscilla Presley Boycotts Hawaii Island Priscilla Presley has joined the conversation around Hawaii’s feral animal population. Hawaii County recently passed Bill 51, which makes it illegal to feed stray or feral animals on county property. That means no feeding cats…
more -
Myth-Busting Hawaii: Big Island vs. Oahu
Clearing Up the Confusion When people start planning their first trip to Hawaii, they almost always ask the same question: “Should we go to the Big Island or Oahu?” At first glance, the choice seems simple. The Big Island has volcanoes, Oahu has Waikiki. But once you scratch the surface, you...
-
Which Island is Prettier – Maui or Kauai?
First Impressions – The Big Question Travelers Ask It’s a question we hear constantly from first-time Hawaii visitors: Which island is prettier – Maui or Kauai? On paper, both islands have all the makings of a dream vacation. In person, the decision gets even harder because each offers a…
more -
Oahu vs. Maui: Comparing the Differences for Your First Hawaii Trip
The quick take If you’re a first-timer who’s after a mix of beaches, history, nightlife, and food, lean Oʻahu. If you’d prefer a slower, scenic retreat with resorts and waterfalls, go Maui. They’re similar in size (Maui ~728 sq mi; Oʻahu ~597 sq mi), but feel completely different—Oʻahu buzzes…
more -
Tsunamis, Hurricanes, and Why You Need a Hawaii Travel Advisor
Hawaii Isn’t Just Paradise—It’s Also Real Life There’s a reason people dream about Hawaii. But even paradise comes with real-world challenges, especially when you’re thousands of miles from home. That’s where a Hawaii travel advisr makes all the difference But these things happen—and they can...
-
Hawaii Hotel Cleanliness: What to Know About How Clean Rooms Really Are
Every traveler wants their hotel room to be clean. That’s not asking too much—especially when you’re on a long-awaited Hawaii vacation. But the reality is that what’s considered “clean” Hawaii hotel cleanliness to one guest might not be enough for another. A little sand in the entryway may scream...
-
The Hidden Costs of a Hawaii Vacation: What You Might Overlook
First-time visitors often overlook fees, taxes, and everyday costs that quickly pile up. From mandatory resort charges to surprise parking rates and even the cost of sunscreen, Hawaii has a way of nickel-and-diming travelers if they’re not prepared. Here’s what you need to know to avoid sticker...
-
Hidden Bites in Waikiki: My Favorite Hole-in-the-Wall Spots You’ll Wish You Found Sooner
When people visit Oʻahu and stay in Waikiki, most just look for whatever’s nearby and end up at chain spots or hotel restaurants. They’re everywhere—and they’re often overpriced. What’s more, many visitors assume that anything affordable or truly local is far away. But Waikiki is just three miles...
-
Enough Talk: Why Hawai‘i Tourism Needs a Real Local Reset
For over two decades, I’ve worked in the heart of Hawaii’s tourism industry, not from a boardroom or behind a podium, but face-to-face with the people who come here and the community that calls this place home. And after 23 years of building custom Hawaii vacations with a team of only local…
more -
How to Avoid Cookie-Cutter Hawaii Vacation Packages
Today I’m talking about mistakes people make when planning Hawaii Vacations. And why you should think twice before doing this all online. Through my years of experience, I’ve learned that travelers naturally come from distinct travel types. Here’s how I carefully tune into their preferences to...
-
Why You’re Not Seeing New Hotels in Hawaii
If you’ve been to Hawaii recently, you might’ve noticed something surprising. Despite their rising popularity, the islands are not seeing many new hotel constructions. So what gives? Today, we’ll dive into why you’re not seeing more new hotels In Hawaii. The market demonstrates strong demand...
-
Getting Around Kauai – Princeville, Haena and Ke’e Beach
I haven’t been to Kauai since they started the new shuttle service so I wanted to see first hand how getting around Kauai works using the service up on the North side of the island. . I became interested in testing out the new shuttle system, which was introduced to handle the growing number of…...
-
The Truth About Some 5 Star Hotels in Hawaii
In today’s podcast, I’m taking a deep dive into the truth about 5 Star Hotels in Hawaii hotels in Hawaii and giving you my personal take on the realities of spending big bucks on your next Hawaii vacation. This episode will help you anticipate which resorts to choose and how to maximize your…
more -
When is Whale Watching Season in Hawaii?
Humpbacks start appearing as early as mid-fall, but daily sightings don’t happen until mid-December. We’re practically in the middle of the season so I thought I’d do a podcast about when is whale watching season in Hawaii. The optimal whale watching period in Hawaii extends from mid-February to...
-
When is the Best Time to Visit Hawaii?
Aloha and welcome to another episode of the Hawaii Vacation Connection! I’m Bruce Fisher—though many know me as Aloha Bruce—and I’m thrilled you’re tuning in today. In this episode, we dive into one of the most frequently asked questions: When is the best time to visit Hawaii? A Perspective Born…
more -
Your Guide to a Romantic Hawaiian Escape
Aloha and welcome, everyone! Thank you for joining me today as we explore how to make the most of a romantic getaway in Hawaii. On this podcast we’ll dive into some must-see romantic Hawaiian destinations, discuss practical couples travel tips, and explore the endless possibilities for a…
more -
Best Hawaii Island to Visit for the First Time
Which Hawaiian Island Is Best for First-Time Visitors? Aloha and welcome! If you’re planning your very first trip to Hawaii, you’re probably wondering: Which island is right for me? If you’ve found yourself sifting through countless travel forums and social media posts, you’re not alone. This...
-
Hawaii Vacation Money Saving Tips
On this week’s podcast, we’re gonna talk about one of my favorite topics: Hawaii vacation money-saving tips. I will share simple ways to save money during your Hawaii vacation. Let’s dive in! Secure Your Flight Deals with Our Help, Then Pay in InstallmentsDuring the early months of the year,...
-
Exploring Hawaii’s Seasonal Shifts: What to Expect for Winter in Hawaii
Aloha, and welcome to another Hawaii Vacation Connection podcast, hosted by Bruce Fisher, aka Aloha Bruce. As we transition into the winter season in Hawaii, it’s a good time to reflect on what these seasonal changes mean for your vacation plans. Though Hawaii is known for its consistent tropical...
-
Hawaii Travel Hacks: 6 Tips & Advice
As the owners of Hawaii Aloha Travel, my wife Yaling and I, along with our dedicated team, have guided visitors through the complexities of planning Hawaii vacations for over 22 years. Our extensive experience, combined with 18 years of podcasting, makes us your go-to experts for everything in...
-
Reboot Your Life: How a Hawaii Vacation Can Refresh and Renew
Note: This is an audio podcast, and the notes provided here don’t capture everything I talk about, so be sure to listen to the full episode for all the insights and details! Using Your Hawaii Vacation to Reset and Refresh Today, I want to dive into how you can use your Hawaii vacation not just……
more -
The Internet is Lying – Oahu Isn’t Just Crowds and Tourists
Debunking the Myths About Oahu: It’s Not What the Internet Tells You Note: This is an audio podcast, and the notes provided here don’t capture everything I talk about, so be sure to listen to the full episode for all the insights and details! Aloha and welcome to another episode of the Hawaii...
-
Is Maui Tourism Ready for a Comeback One Year After the Wildfires? | Weighing the Pros and Cons
Aloha, and welcome to another episode of the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast. I’m Bruce Fisher, also known as AlohaBruce. Today, I’m sharing my impressions of Maui Tourism after my recent visit—my first time back in over a year. NOTE: the notes below are just that. To get more of my insights,...
-
Boating in Hawaii: An Unforgettable Adventure on Your Hawaiian Vacation
If you’re planning a vacation to Hawaii, one of the most memorable experiences you can have is getting out on the water. Today, I am going to talk about boating in Hawaii; I will focus on Oahu and the Big Island because these two islands offer the best options. Whether you’re interested in…
more -
Choosing the Right Activities for a Multigenerational Family Trip to Hawaii
Planning a trip to Hawaii for a multigenerational family can be an exciting yet challenging task. With so many activities, events, and dining options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to ensure that everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, has a memorable and enjoyable experience. This is...
-
Exploring the Best New and Renovated Hawaii Hotels
I recently embarked on an extensive series of site inspections of new and renovated Hawaii hotels, visiting 20 properties on Oahu over a few days and an additional five properties on Kauai. This endeavor is critical due to the substantial changes currently underway in the hotel industry here.…
more -
Embrace Paradise: Take the Aloha Pledge and Protect Hawaii’s Beauty
Fresh from my trip to Kauai, I am talking this week about the importance of taking the Aloha Pledge and my experience with a recent Beach cleanup. The Aloha Pledge was initiated as a collaborative effort to promote responsible tourism and environmental stewardship in Hawaii. It emerged from the...
-
Exploring Hawaii: All-Inclusive Package vs. À La Carte
When planning a dream vacation to Hawaii, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to opt for an all-inclusive package or to purchase everything à la carte. While Hawaii isn’t known for traditional all-inclusive resorts where you can eat and drink all day without limits, there…
more -
Will Hawaii Vacation Rentals Soon Be Banned ?
In this podcast, I discuss the realities of the proposed legislation to outlaw short-term Hawaii vacation rentals. In a bid to address housing shortages and soaring real estate prices, Hawaii has unveiled new legislation aimed at phasing out vacation rentals across the islands. The move comes…
more -
How to Island Hop in Hawaii
If you’re considering visiting multiple islands during your vacation, here are some tips to help you plan how to island hop in Hawaii effectively. Visiting more than one island in Hawaii offers a rich tapestry of experiences, each island presenting its own unique charms and landscapes. From the...
-
Here’s How to Vacation in Hawaii WITHOUT a Car
At Hawaii Aloha Travel, we typically recommend getting a rental car during your Hawaii vacation. But do you really need one? Today on the Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast, we’re revealing how to vacation on the islands without a rental car. Our expert host, Aloha Bruce, assures us that a rental...
-
How to Have an Authentic Hawaii Vacation
Are you in the depths of travel planning overload? It’s time to stop the endless scrolling and officially book your Hawaii trip. But it can be tough when you’re trying to create an authentic Hawaii vacation. Today on the Hawaii Aloha Travel Podcast, Aloha Bruce is talking about the reality of a...
-
These Hawaii Parks & Attractions Require Reservations
If you haven’t been to Hawaii in a few years, there’s one big change waiting for you here: reservation requirements at parks and beaches. It began as a way to control crowds and guarantee spots at high-demand attractions. Now the program has grown and spread throughout the state. You’ll see at...
-
Unforgettable Spots in Hawaii: I Never Tire of Living Here
In this episode of the podcast, I dive into the unforgettable spots in Hawaii that make the islands a unique paradise to live on. From personal anecdotes to expert insights, we explore the landscapes and experiences that have left a lasting impression on residents and travelers alike. Join us as…
more -
Navigating Your Hawaii Hotel Booking: A Comprehensive Guide
Booking a hotel in Hawaii is an exciting step toward a memorable vacation. Still, with so many options available, it’s essential to consider various factors to ensure your stay aligns with your preferences and needs. From budget constraints to room categories, amenities, and location, each…
more -
Balancing Time and Budget in Paradise
Welcome to today’s podcast, where we’ll delve deep into the intricate art of determining the ideal vacation duration for your Hawaiian getaway. Now, if you’re part of the fortunate 2% with boundless time and an unlimited budget, by all means, the longer your Hawaiian vacation the better, but…
more -
Fly Smart: Avoid These Costly Airfare to Hawaii Mistakes
Hawaii has been a popular choice among leisure travelers ever since the advent of jet airlines in the mid-20th century, and it’s easy to understand why. However, in the year 2024, Hawaii is poised to stand out as an exceptional destination. Maui, in particular, is diligently working towards the...
We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.
No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.
No topics indexed yet for this podcast.
Loading reviews...
Loading similar podcasts...
Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Hawaii Vacation Connection have?
Hawaii Vacation Connection currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Hawaii Vacation Connection about?
Podcast devoted to Hawaii Vacations and travel to Hawaii. Hosted by Bruce Fisher from HAWAII-ALOHA.COM
How often does Hawaii Vacation Connection release new episodes?
Hawaii Vacation Connection has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Hawaii Vacation Connection?
You can listen to Hawaii Vacation Connection on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Hawaii Vacation Connection?
Hawaii Vacation Connection is created and hosted by Bruce Fisher.
URL copied to clipboard!