For quality outdoor eco-adventures, Hawaii Ecotourism Association is the prime place to look.
The Hawaii Ecotourism Association (HEA) is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization with a mission "to protect Hawaii's unique environmental and cultural resources through the promotion of responsible travel and educational programs aimed at the public and visitor industry relating to ecotourism issues."
HEA is committed to diversifying Hawaii's visitor industry through the advocacy of ecotourism and sustainable travel in order to protect our state's natural resources and to perpetuate the native Hawaiian culture. The association has members state wide, providing alternative accommodations, naturalist guides, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, sailing and bicycling adventures, travel consultants, ziplines, whale watching tours, snorkeling expeditions and much, much more.
Keywords: ecotourism, ecotourist, eco-adventures, sustainable travel, sustainability, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, sailing canoes, whale watching, guides, naturalists,accommodations, travel consultants, bed and breakfasts, birding, native Hawaiian birds, historical tours,
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
Annette's Adventures has been in business since 1988. A founding member of the Hawaii Ecotourism Association which was formed in 1995 following a statewide Conference on Ecotourism sponsored by Hawaii Visitors Bureau and the State Department of Business, Econonic Development and Tourism held in October of 1994.
What is your primary product or service?
Annette's Adventures strives to provide a unique travel experience to clients who are interested in ecotourism and sustainable travel. In addition to a personalized itinerary for clients, we also serve as a travel consultant in helping to plan your special vacation in Hawaii.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
When the Conference on Ecotourism held in 1994 it had such an overwhelming public response. The goal of the planning committee was to have 200 attendees. When enrollment reached 700 participants we had to stop taking registrations because the venue could not hold any more people. This was when I knew I should focus on ecotourism and sustainable travel.
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
I am a founding member of the Hawaii Ecotourism Association and follow the principles of ecotourism and sustainable travel. HEA is the only organization in Hawaii focusing on the promotion of ecotourism and the education of the public on the benefits of ecotourism for the state's economy. In planning itineraries for clients, I make use of ecotourism operators and bed and breakfasts on all islands. I specialize in bird watching tours for birders from other places, but also for local residents.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
One. This is a small, home based travel consultancy. I have no plans for expansion.
What type of payments do you accept?
Payment by check or cash.l.
Which areas do you service?
All of the islands in the State of Hawaii.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
Annette Kaohelaulii
What are your hours of operation?
I work out of my home, so am available 24/7 sort off.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
We loved the trip you planned for us.
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