Hawaii is a popular tourist destination. This is advantageous for locals, as it provides them a livelihood. However, because of tourists not sticking to the rules set by locals, they tend to damage popular sites. Social media posts that show visitors touching endangered Hawaiian monk seals, hiking on forbidden trails or going off designated paths are just few of the several instances of foreigners’ faux pass against locals:
Some residents are taking matters into their own hands, using social media as a tool to try to divert tourists away from sensitive areas as well as to educate people how to responsibly visit and interact with the wildlife and other natural wonders in the islands.
“When tourists come to visit these places, leave the geotag unavailable,” advises Melissa Akoni, who has become well known for her efforts to promote the responsible use of Hawaii’s resources.
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The Honolulu Police Department said it issued more than 70 citations and made five arrests related to trespassers on the trail in the second half of June alone, Hawaii News Now reported.
“When it comes to Haiku Stairs, there is no middle ground,” Nathan Serota, a spokesman for the Department of Parks and Recreation, said in a telephone interview. “It’s illegal to go on the stairs. Period.”
Image credit: Civil Beat/2021
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how do they feel about Hawaiian pizza tho
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