Visitors
Visitors on Hanalei Country Club: a running collection of 2 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on visitors in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Hanalei Bay Country Club is a vibrant digital guide to the island of Kauai—curated for travelers who want more than a vacation. New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around visitors, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Hanalei Country Club is covering right now.
Travelers Reveal The Things About America That Genuinely Shocked Them On Their First Visit
## The U.S. Through New Eyes: What Shocks International Travelers? America, a land of vast landscapes and diverse cultures, often presents unexpected surprises to first-time visitors. From the sheer scale of portion sizes to the prevalence of tipping, countless aspects of daily life can feel baffling. We’ve compiled a list of the most frequently cited cultural differences that genuinely shocked international travelers upon their arrival. Discover the realities behind the American experience – from its unique retail landscape to its social customs – and gain a fresh perspective on this global powerhouse. For a taste of authentic Hawaiian culture, explore our article on "How to Get a Free SPAM Musubi on National SPAM Musubi Day," a beloved local tradition.
Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy Returns to Lahaina Three Years After Wildfires
Lahaina welcomes back a cherished symbol of island resilience: the Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy. After enduring devastating losses in the August 2023 wildfires, the family-owned business has triumphantly returned to Front Street, resuming operations on August 1st. A heartfelt blessing led by *kahu* Greg marked the occasion, signifying a new chapter for the Kinimaka family and the Lahaina community. This homecoming represents not only a restoration of a local institution but also a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Hawaiʻi. For those seeking to further explore the beauty and recovery of Kauaʻi, check out our recent piece, "The 5 Best Beaches on Kauaʻi in 2026." The Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy’s return is a vibrant celebration of culture and adventure.