Hawaii – Guidebook

Airport
The Island of Oahu's Airport is Honolulu International Airport, located 15 km from Waikiki Beach.

Business Hours
Being a destination which focuses strongly on tourism, business hours are generous and most are open until late in the evening - a shoppers paradise.

Climate
The Hawaiian Islands experience a balmy, generally mild climate with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 30°C. Depending on where you are in the islands and at which altitude, rainfall can vary. The tradewinds provide Hawaii with its wonderful climate and moderate humidity.
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Currency & Banking
US Dollars are the currency of the Hawaiian Islands. There are a wide variety of banks available on the main islands - Bank of Hawaii, First Hawaiian, Bank of America, Hawaiian National, Bank of Tokyo and Central Pacific while most hotels and resorts will readily cash travelers cheques and exchange currency. Bank hours are 8.30am-3pm Monday to Thursday, and 8.30am-6pm Friday.

Customs & Dress
Aloha! This is widely heard and used within the Hawaiian Islands - the Hawaiian people are extremely welcoming and friendly and will always greet you with "Aloha". One of the most popular expressions of Aloha is the giving and receiving of flower leis. Hula and Lu'aus go hand in hand in Hawaii and can be enjoyed at many Resorts throughout the Islands.

Departure Tax
International Departure Tax from the Hawaiian Islands is US$38.50.
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Drinking Water
The water supply in Hawaii is considered quite safe to drink

Duty Free
The following purchase allowance applies per person over the age of 18 years. Please note these allowances are provided as a guide only. They may be subject to change by the governing bodies without prior notice.

Restricted Item	Allowable Quota
Cigarettes	200
Tobacco	250 grams
Cigars	50
Spirits	1 Litre

Electricity
120 volts (60 cycles) is applicable in Hawaii - visitors are advised to purchase adapters prior to arrival in Hawaii.
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Languages
The official language is English, however with the diverse range of nationalities throughout the Islands many foreign languages can be heard.

Location
Situated in the middle of the Pacific Ocean lie the Hawaiian Islands, an archipelago of volcanic peaks, located about 20 degrees north of the Equator. There are eight islands, seven of which are inhabited, although there are 125 volcanically formed atolls and islets which stretch approximately 1600 miles across the Pacific Ocean. The majority of the islands are surrounded by beautiful white sand beaches and sparkling clear water, often fringed with palm trees.

Population
Estimated population of the Hawaiian Islands is 1.5 million and this is made up of Hawaiian, Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, Samoan and part-Hawaiian ethnic groups.
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Shopping
Whether its traditional Hawaiian items or designer labels, you will find it all in Hawaii. With one of the largest shopping centers in Honolulu to the wonderful local markets, the bargains are there for all.

Tipping
Tipping is accepted in Hawaii. The following indicates acceptable amount for various services - Restaurants 15%, Taxis 10%, Airport transport $1-$2 per person, Bellmen and Porters approximately 50 cents per bag, and Hotel maids $1 per day.

Vaccinations & Health
No vaccinations are required by the US Health Authorities if visitors arriving from Australia or New Zealand.
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