06-05-2009, 05:56 AM
OK, I confess. My husband and I are among the evil tourists who come to Puna. We come because we like it just the way it is! We don’t like places that are crowded with tourists like Kona and we don’t like to patronize chains that we could shop/eat at right here in Silicon Valley. We like Puna’s unique character and lack of big hotels/resorts. Sandy beaches? If we want that we can go to Richardson’s. We love to snorkel at Wai#699;#333;pae, love the hot ponds, love the volcano. We rent small houses and patronize local restaurants in Pahoa. Or cook at home using fresh fruit and veg from Hilo Farmers Market.
The only thing that’s irksome: the traffic jams on 130. But if you improve it much it will bring even more people to the area, possibly spoiling what’s attractive about Puna.
It’s a fine balance between economic development and preserving what you have. But whatever you do, please don’t sacrifice the #699;#257;ina.
The only thing that’s irksome: the traffic jams on 130. But if you improve it much it will bring even more people to the area, possibly spoiling what’s attractive about Puna.
It’s a fine balance between economic development and preserving what you have. But whatever you do, please don’t sacrifice the #699;#257;ina.