Also known as “The Aloha State”, Hawaii is arguably the most beautiful state in America and a top vacation destination for honeymoon couples and families.
Well, at least it used to be…
…but thanks to the “Instagram Era” – young millennials are flocking to Hawaii in droves and ruining this beloved paradise on earth.
From injuring themselves to snap the “perfect” Instagram photo, to downright damaging natural landscapes, locals are furious at this rude (and not too bright) onset of new tourists.
As Proud American Traveler reports:
Google Maps Has Changed The Travel Game
Once upon a time, countries had their own hidden gems, local spots that were sacred and special.
But thanks to technological advances like Google maps – these spots no longer remain a secret.
These days, travelers are no longer content with the typical “tourist activities” like visiting a resort and sipping drinks on the beach.
Instead, they are scouring Google maps hoping to find a location that isn’t populated by other tourists…
…except other tourists have the same idea, and these once sacred spots are becoming overpopulated with inexperienced and often rude tourists.
Rude Spoiled Brats
Any traveler with some sense knows it’s wise to seek the advice of locals.
After all, they live there, and locals often know the best places to see and visit, along with where to eat (and where not to eat).
But these days, rude tourists think they can do their own research and just show up places – ignoring the advice of locals, and even acting downright hostile.
And not only are tourists ignoring advice, they are deliberately choosing to rebel against wisdom – just to compete with one another to get the coolest Instagram photo.
The Skift reported:
“The visitor of 20 years ago is very different than what we have today,” said Sue Kanoho, executive director of the Kauai Visitors Bureau. “With the whole Instagram thing, people want the beauty shot in the remote location. They are often not aware of what they are doing and often will not listen to advice from local people. There have been some nasty exchanges when residents try to help, but just get told off.”
It’s unconscionable to show up to someone else’s home, destroy their environment, then arrogantly shrug off their advice.
Ruining Everything They Touch
As these new breeds of travelers visit Hawaii to soak in the breathtaking beaches and hike through the tropical rainforests – they are destroying everything they touch.
Locals are furious and feel helpless as they watch this influx of travelers stomp around paying no attention to preserving the local landscape.
And of course, with the new “begpacking” trend, many tourists are either asking other people to pay for their Hawaiian vacation, or trying to find the next free activity to avoid paying for anything.
In the process, they are hurting themselves and causing more problems for the locals.
The Skift continued:
“Along with environmental issues, Kanoho said worsening visitor behavior is leading to more safety problems. She cited a rise in the number of emergency rescues on hiking trails and incidents where tourists have been bitten when ignoring posted warnings about getting close to endangered monk seals on beaches.”
Sounds about right… some punk kid shows up… ignores the advice of locals… tries to snap a picture with an endangered monk seal… and ends up in the hospital.
Brilliant.
Always Be Respectful
When visiting another state or country – you have the chance to live as the locals do.
While tourists come and go, the locals live there year-round.
Being respectful isn’t an option, it’s a given.
And sure, it’s cool to snap some photos and document your travel experience – but don’t ruin somebody else’s home in the process.
Maintaining class while traveling never goes out of style.
Do you think Google Maps and Instagram are ruining places like Hawaii?
What do you think the solution is?