People read these comments about how there is no white privilege, that is true. BUT don’t think that its only the white people locals are not friendly with. The few African Americans or Black citizens that I have provided care to also are treated unkindly. The islands are beautiful but the general population, is not. I lived on Oahu for 5 yrs. before Sept. 11 caused everyone to lose our jobs, “tourist” industry. Had to move away get an education BSN. Now been on the big Island 2 yrs. as an educated skill citizen, makes no difference. If you don’t talk like a local “using broken english instead of complete sentences” no one will hire you. Most companies simply don’t want you. They would rather hire a local without knowledge or skills. That is the #1 reason you hire people for a job and you can’t expect it to be done well.
Thank you Peter !
Don’t confuse racism with nepotism. Which is the largest factor in which plays a part in jobs going to locals.
I have lived here since 2007. We are part of the forestland which is less than 20 feet behind our home We have a small undeveloped lot with a 2 bedroom cabin that is not up to code. We have what is called a temporary power pole and internet. As with most of the folks who live in Tiki Gardens our household water is collected rainwater. it is stored in catchment tanks. It is free. Our drinking water comes from the water stations which is also free. I have indoor plumbing, which we installed ourselves. We are 75% self sufficient. I build whatever I need, and I can make any changes that I want to my home. Add on to the structure or remodel. I have 3 dogs 
, 2 cats that keep the rats away and 2 chickens that give my all of the fresh eggs that I can eat. We bought a used car off of Craig’s list for $1600 over 2 years ago and it is still running. I live on Social Security and receive $927 a month. There is a huge meth and alcohal problem here on the Hilo side of the Big Island. Yes, it is expensive living here, but then it all depends on what you are accustomed to your style of living.
After reading your input and everyone’s comments I can say thank you for putting things into perspective . I shall visit Hawaii one day and enjoy it to the full … it’s a beautiful piece of heaven.. but I am now less inclined to leave For good behind the safety and comforts of Dubai. No where is perfect . But everywhere is wonderful when you are happy. Ntg
Natalie, I absolutely agree with you. Although I still plan to move, Oahu no longer is an option for me and I think I was just saved a lot of money and stress. I do hope to still visit Hawaii one day.
I have everything that I need and am very comfortable
We are in the process of looking for a home in Hilo. My husband does have family, while mine is here on the mainland, but they are so busy with their own lives now that I’m lucky to see them once a year. Having been born raised in Southern California, I have been trying to think of anything that I might miss. The only negative I have been able to find is the insects, like cockroaches. Your article is very informative, it reinforces what I’ve been told. I think I’ve learned more about racism in the last 8 years than I had in my lifetime, thanks to cell phones internet. My favorite thing to do in Hilo is swim with the turtles, walk around town observe people. I see the homeless talk story in makeshift homes nod they nod back. They treat me like a local, which pleases me. I notice that some areas are more forgiving than others of my light skin hair. As they say in Wooden Ships, “If you smile at me, I will understand because that is something everybody everywhere doesn the same language,,” Mahalo