I just dropped off the latest rental car at the airport, and while I was waiting for the bus to go to work, I started chatting with this guy who flew in from Maui, Beau from Kihei who teaches surfing. A few minutes later, we were joined by Inga, another surfer, from Honolulu but who just came in from Kuaui. It was really cool - we all had a long conversation about surfing, Hawaii, skyscrapers, $7 cartons of milk, and Maui roads vs. the Autobahn in Germany (where Inga is originally from). We exchanged contact info and everything. I've never lived anywhere where you could comfortably have a decent conversation with total strangers as if you had been long time friends. And this is from someone who has had social anxiety attacks! The culture here is so friendly and relaxed, it really is amazing.

Also, if you are ever in Maui and want to take surf lessons, head up to Big Kahuna in Kihei, and ask for Beau.