In early 2001 I was able to put together a trip to Maui for a anniversary. I stayed in Kaanapali which is 20 minutes from Lahaina. I was staying in a somewhat boring hotel row and after walking it all out, taking into what it had to offer we drove to Lahaina. This was the party central of the island. Once past the outskirts with the church, local Luau grounds and a shelter for the homeless there were some homes on both sides, mostly small hut types of places which led into the town. this place had 4 to 7 streets parallel with many shops/ eateries and bars as well as insane touristy shops. People all out hawking their particular event or activity. Everyone was happy, smiling and friendly with joy to just be there. I found myself wandering through all the shops and having another Mai Tai at every opportunity. The docks provided a different world of ocean boats and ships offering fishing trips, Parasailing, Whale watching and other island trips. Free reign to wander and watch the catch of the day as well as a ferry to other islands, great time. We got hungry and wondered into the Pioneer Hotel for lunch & cocktails. Great time in a little place. The structures were old and wood built. We visited the Banyan tree park which was by the local public bathrooms. Basically this was local owned shops and I assume land which had evolved over many years. It employed hundreds of people from all over the world who chose to settle there. Many living below the poverty level but happy to do so. It WAS a little slice of heaven. I made a trip there a couple years later and explored more of the island but I can still recall much of the magic which was Lahaina. I have a interest in what happened there. This saddens me Report: Those Who Disobeyed Road Barricade Survived Maui Fire; Those Who Didn’t Perished The Associated Press reported Wednesday that people in Maui who drove around a road barricade blocking the lone paved road from Lahaina as fires raged earlier this month survived, while those who obeyed perished in their cars or fled to the nearby ocean. The road had been reportedly closed due to downed powerlines. More: https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2023/08/report-those-who-disobeyed-road-barricade-survived-maui/
