Hey all, First off, love the site. I've read some good threads, so I thought I'd add my trip here. I'm planning on making a trip to Hawaii (this will be my third) next winter, which I'm just saving up for this year roughnecking. I have a bit set aside already, and plan on about 20,000. I want to make it last too. I mainly plan on staying on north shore oahu, although I will definitely visit all the islands in some fashion, the idea being to surf a lot, poke around some, meet people, and work. (Working, even part time, usually just gives me a better way to see a place). I'm a beginner surfer/intermediate swimmer; I mostly longboard but I like bodysurfing & boarding too. I don't ride anything shorter than 7' very often otherwise. Publics at Waikiki is like perfect for me and whatever the break is at Waialua Bay. Plan on staying in a hostel (Backpacker's by Waimea or Polynesian by Waikiki) for the first few weeks before finding a cheaper place to stay. I know rent is around $1200/month, but hopefully sharing a room or kipping on a couch could get me in under $600. I'm really not picky. It'd be great if I could work for a hostel but I expect those jobs are harder to get. I have a cdl and I like driving/labor jobs, but I'm a jack of all trades so I'm not really particular. (I got cleared for pyrotechnician's assistant by Hawaiian P & E, but didn't get too go even though island hopping setting up fireworks sounded awesome. That's on my mind too) Also, any suggestions on car vs house? I guess I'd play it by ear, but if I had a place to park living in a van would be nice. (selling my truck back home anyway). It's good to be able to bring stuff with me and lock it up too. Anyone know good places to volunteer? I know TFA has a branch in Honolulu which I'll take a look at; I'd really like to do their program someday. They say math/science in general and men for K-6 are in need, for which I fit the bill. Also, I've always wanted to teach surfing after being a snowboard instructor back home (one of my current jobs actually). I've taught a few friends to surf, although I'm really no great shakes at it myself. I have first responder and lifeguard certs. Comments, advice, stories, etc welcome. It's a solo trip right now, and very open-ended, but anyone wanting to tag up is welcome if you're headed my way. Mahalo, -Spooker
