Posted on Tue Jul 17 2007

On June 10, members of the MVRA Public Relations/Community Service Committee assisted Workshop Facilitator and Cultural Consultant Char Parker in producing an introductory course to acquaint local families with the opportunities and challenges of having a part-time B&B.  The program was well-received, with participants expressing enthusiasm to be part of the StaLocal network and attend a more advanced workshop.  "Mahalo!" to Char and the workshop faculty for a job well done.    

The idea of the StaLocal network is for our industry to "bridge with" the local community.  Travelers wishing to be touched by genuine aloha can "stay local"  and residents who might otherwise be forced off island by the rising cost of living can "stay local."

MVRA plans to produce a series of advanced workshops for interested graduates of the introductory workshop.  The next program will focus on the need to reform permit requirements and regulations, and how local families can become involved in the political process to help assure a future for the B&B/TVR industry.

Participating in the introductory workshop, it was thrilling to see how our knowledge and experience can benefit our community.  Local families are discovering the possibilities of an enjoyable, home-based business to supplement their regular income.  These families each express a unique aspect of local lifestyle which could become the theme of their part-time B&B.  This is authentic ecotourism -- a sustainable resource which both showcases and nurtures this culture and its aloha.