Working Vacations: Getting Stuff Done in Paradise

By Richard Melendez, Digital Editor

It’s a sad reality that many people who visit Hawai‘i are here for work, not play. Our esteemed Hawai‘i Convention Center along with our islands’ numerous hotels host countless conventions, expos and trade shows that draw people from all over the world to our beautiful island chain. That’s not to mention the assorted salespeople, dignitaries and other travelers who visit for a variety of other business related reasons.

While some may think that their work trip will be a non-stop party, it’s often the case that business travelers don’t have the time to venture very far outside of their hotel rooms. Sure, taking a stroll on the beach that’s a block or two from your Waikīkī hotel after a day of seminars and workshops is a beautiful respite, and better than nothing at all. But even better would be if the time to venture forth and explore the rest of the island was afforded. But I digress…

Most hotels have kept up with the needs of those who are determined to actually get work done while they’re visiting the islands, whether because of necessity or because they’re natural born workaholics. Free wi-fi, computer kiosks, charging stations, and other amenities for the business-minded are commonplace in more modern accommodations as well as being retrofitted into older ones.

What’s also become normal are coworking spaces, which have cropped up over the last several years. These are great for resident freelancers and entrepreneurs who need a workspace to call their own but aren’t necessarily ready to rent out an entire office. However, they’re also ideal for travelers and workers on the go who need a place to hook up their laptop for a few hours or a few days.

O‘ahu has a number of notable coworkspaces. BoxJelly  was one of the first on the scene here. Along with Hawaii Office Centers  and Impact Hub , they ensure that Honolulu is well covered with coworking options. If you want an option that’s outside the hustle and bustle of the urban core, there’s Treehouse  out on the Windward side of the island.

Don’t forget the library ! Local libraries are great for finding a peaceful nook to get some work done, though you may have to get a membership if you want to use their wi-fi or computers. While library cards in Hawai‘i are free for residents, there is a fee for non-residents. However, it might be worth the cost, especially if your work brings you back to the area often.

There’s nothing wrong—and in my opinion, nothing better—than setting up camp in a quiet coffee shop, restaurant or bar to get some work done. Many places provide free wi-fi, and, provided they’re not crazy-busy, they generally won’t mind if you commandeer a booth for yourself for a while, just as long as you continuously subsidize your stay with consistent food and beverage purchases. Yes, it may get pricey, but you’ll have a steady supply of food to sustain you, and caffeine or cocktails to inspire. Pick a place with a view, and you may not even mind that you’re actually working!

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