11/14/2021
Aloha from the Big Island Hawaii. Hawaii's Governor Ige has officially deemed Hawaii safe to accept visitors again and Blue Hawaii is booking fast.
The past two years have been exceptionally stressful for all of us. Just getting our livelihoods up and running here in a state that relies so heavily on tourism has had an enormous set of challenges.
Some people have obviously fared better than others. But one thing has held fast here on the big island and that's the spirit of Aloha.
People and corporations have stepped up to assist those in need. Our electric company quit billing for a lengthy amount of time so people wouldn't have to worry about how they were going to live, cook, or stay cool.
Many organizations provided free food and household goods that you just had to attend a drive through for. Yes, I'm sure that some people took advantage. Someone always will. But seeing the true spirit of Aloha in action warmed my soul.
When Covid-19 hit the US full on in March 2020, I had to relocate and close Blue Hawaii. It would have been illegal for me to host. I could have been imprisoned and fined. It was with a heavy heart I had to cancel all 2020 bookings and I apologize to all those guests.
It took until July 2021 for me to create a living space I could stay in, and once the Governor lifted the island travel ban, with a huge amount of help from my Hawaiian Ohana (family), I was able to reopen Blue Hawaii to guests.
There's an ebb and flow to the bookings still. However, with international travel bans being lifted recently we've filled our calendar through May of 2022. I'm expecting guests from around the world again. What a relief. E' komo mai! (Welcome).
Because of Covid-19, CDC protocols have been put in place by the booking platforms I currently use, so I have implemented several safety changes.
All guests booking are vetted prior to booking. (I am no longer accepting "Book it Now" reservations).
All guests are required to provide me with proof of vaccination or a negative PCR/NAAAT test done within 72 hours of arrival to the property.
Cleaning standards have been raised and length between stays increased.
Blue Hawaii no longer is offering the use of its laundry facilities.
The vast array of snorkel sets is now down to 2 full sets. I've added a workstation with an office chair, lamp and a power strip.
Upgraded WIFI speed to 5G and introduced a mesh network.
A new outdoor shower is being installed for people to wash and hang dry sandy items coming from the beach.
Some furniture has been upgraded and the number of items available for use in the house has been minimalized. It's still over the top-trust me.
In January 2022, as an add-on for our guests, we will begin offering car rentals. We are currently adding to our vehicle inventory and will offer a selection to choose from when booking in 2022.
Here's wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving (Hau'oli Lā Ho'omaika'i)
Aloha,
Joni
