It was only 200 years ago that the nineteen distinct volcanic islands of Hawaii, eight of which are major islands, were pretty much untouched by the outside world. Today, six of those islands are open to tourism, and the region as a whole has the highest number of endangered and threatened plant and animal species of anywhere on Earth. Striking a balance between preservation of the environment and of the native Hawaiian heritage, in combination with tourism- upon which Hawaii depends for economic survival- can pose quite a challenge. As some of the most remote islands in the world, they are certainly not on their own, with visitors in the range of seven million each year, which is seven times the resident population.

Hawaii’s travel industry is like any other, with each day wearing on the physical environment and social and cultural aspects of the place. Of course, these are what draws guests there in the first place. Who can resist the raw beauty of the Hawaiian islands- its' nature, culture, and people? Sustainable tourism is essential here if there are to be such resources for future guests and residents to enjoy. Plus, travelers are becoming more and more savvy to it, heading to places that truly embody and put to use sustainable practices.

One simply has to look to the native Hawaiians for a true model for sustainability. These experts on land and sea resources knew how to sustain populations that were quite possibly as large as or even larger than that of today. The fishing and farming and use of the land were highly efficient and in harmony with the environment. Their lifestyle is not widely practiced on the Hawaiian Islands today, but it can serve as a guide and reminder for the conservation of Hawaii's delicate resources.

The natural beauty of the islands is truly one of Hawaii's best features. From Waimea Canyon on Kauai, to Haleakala on Maui, to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island of Hawaii, one can discover countless rainforests, waterfalls, and other natural wonders. For those of you that like to find the path less traveled, head out for adventure, or gain some cultural knowledge, Hawaii is your destination.

U.S. Congressman Neil Abercrombie of Hawaii puts it best: "We in Hawaii have been blessed with one of the most unique and breathtakingly beautiful— yet fragile— environments on the planet. It includes our lands, the seas that surround us and the air we breathe. Being a wise steward of these natural treasures is my kuleana, and I hope, yours."