Hawaii is definitely an expensive destination to visit and unless you're prepared to camp or stay in a dorm bed for US$20, you'll be pushed to spend less than US$100 a day. A cheap lunch costs about US$10, an inexpensive diner US$15, a budget room US$60, car hire from US$40 a day including insurance (check with your credit card company, travel insurance or automobile club to see if they will cover insurance for free whilst in Hawaii) and a day excursion averaging US$60 per person. Luxury hotels offer rooms for no less than US$300 a night (although heavy discounts are often available with advance enquiries through the Internet) and a meal for two at a nice restaurant will cost from US$60 without wine. In fact, the only commodity I found to be cheap was petrol, even though there was endless complaints in the newspapers about high gasoline prices compared to the Mainland!
Hawaii Banks
All Credit Cards are widely accepted throughout Hawaii and although US$ travellers cheques are recommended for both convenience and security, it is entirely feasible to travel around with your credit card only (make sure your limit is adequate for your needs). The two major banks in Hawaii are the Bank of Hawaii and First Hawaiian Bank and one or other can be found in even the smallest of towns. ATM machines accepting cash withdrawal cards (you'll need you're personal PIN number) are also common.
Jan 2003 rates
US$1 =GB£ 0.63
A$ 1.71
NZ$ 1.85
Euro 0.95
For US Currency Convertor, click here
Hawaii Tourist Information
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Tonga Tourist Information
Tahiti Tourist Information
Fiji Tourist Information
