Episode 119: Turo Hawaii: Transforming Hawaii Travel with Local Insights
Today, we delve into an innovative approach to experiencing the islands: Turo Hawaii.
With special guests Catherine Mejia and Leonani Puailihau from Turo, the leading car-sharing marketplace, we explore how this service offers a more personal, impactful, and culturally aware way to travel.
Turo is about more than transportation; it’s about connecting with local communities, embracing responsible tourism, and contributing to a sustainable Hawaiian adventure.
Planning a trip to Hawaii? Have any questions? Join our Hawaii’s Best Travel Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
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This post gives general info and isn’t legal or authoritative advice. It helps travelers with tips but can’t replace personal abilities, fitness, experience, or local knowledge. Marine activities have risks; assess conditions and follow local laws.
Meet the Guests
Catherine Mejia, Turo’s Senior Public Affairs Manager, and Leonani Puailihau, Turo’s Senior Community Relations Manager, join us to share their insights.
Catherine’s expertise in technology and community interaction and Leonani’s deep-rooted Hawaiian heritage provide a comprehensive look at how Turo supports Hawaiian communities and promotes responsible tourism.
Their contributions highlight Turo’s embodiment of the aloha spirit, offering listeners a unique perspective on Hawaiian travel experiences.
Turo: An Overview
Turo has redefined the way travelers embark on their Hawaiian journeys, allowing users to book the perfect vehicle from local hosts.
This peer-to-peer model not only diversifies vehicle options but also supports local economies and sustainable travel practices.
Turo is committed to utilizing the world’s idle vehicles, making travel more accessible, personal, and authentic.
As Turo expands, its impact on car sharing will foster a community of hosts and guests dedicated to conscious, connected travel.
The Impact of Turo in Hawaii
Turo’s influence in Hawaii goes beyond convenient car rental, providing crucial support and community engagement, especially evident during the Maui wildfires.
Mobilizing local hosts and guests, Turo facilitated significant contributions to relief efforts, showcasing its commitment to the Hawaiian community.
This rapid mobilization highlights Turo’s understanding of kuleana (responsibility) and aloha, underscoring its significant role in Hawaii’s tourism, culture, and recovery ecosystem.
Engaging in Responsible Tourism with Turo
Choosing Turo for travel in Hawaii signifies a commitment to exploring the islands respectfully and sustainably.
This platform encourages thoughtful immersion in the Hawaiian experience, offering an alternative to traditional car rentals.
By prioritizing community values and environmental respect, Turo enhances the travel experience, ensuring visitors contribute positively to Hawaii’s natural and cultural preservation.
What We Discuss in This Episode
- Introduction to Turo and its role in Hawaii
- The personal and impactful travel experiences Turo offers
- Catherine Mejia and Leonani Puailihau’s insights on Turo
- How Turo supports Hawaiian communities and promotes responsible tourism
- Turo’s response to the Maui wildfires and community support initiatives
- The benefits of choosing Turo for transportation needs in Hawaii
- Engaging in responsible tourism through Turo
- Turo’s safety protocols and comprehensive insurance policies
- The importance of the aloha spirit in Hawaiian tourism and Turo’s embodiment of it
Wrap-Up
Thank you to Catherine Mejia and Leonani Puailihau for their invaluable insights. Their dedication to connecting travelers with Hawaii in meaningful ways supports local communities and the environment.
Thank you for joining us, listeners. Your interest in responsible travel makes Hawaii’s Best Travel a source of inspiration for many. By choosing platforms like Turo, we can travel in ways that respect and preserve Hawaii’s beauty and spirit.
Listen On:
Resources
Find out more about today’s guest…
Self-Guided Island Tours
Travel Pono (responsibly)
- Pono Pledge Website
- Episode 70 – How to Volunteer in Hawaii
- Episode 87 – How to Travel Responsibly to Hawaii
Connect With Us
- Buy Me a Coffee
- Send Us a Message with any questions about Hawaii
- Hawaii’s Best Instagram
- Join our Hawaii’s Best Travel Facebook group here now! It’s the perfect place to ask any questions and to be inspired!
Bumper music, Ukulele and Chill, provided by Coby G (used with permission)
Bumper music, Aloha Friday, provided by Clay D (used with permission)
Spread Aloha
- Leave an honest review and follow us on Apple Podcasts
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Bryan Murphy is the creator of Hawaii’s Best Travel and a Certified Hawaii Destination Expert through the Hawai‘i Visitors Bureau. He’s an active member of the Hawai‘i Visitors and Convention Bureau and continues ongoing education focused on Hawaiian culture, history, and sustainable travel. As the host of the “Hawaii’s Best Travel” podcast—one of the top travel podcasts in the U.S.—Bryan shares practical, respectful guidance to help visitors experience Hawai‘i in a more meaningful way. His work reaches nearly half a million people across podcast, blog, and social media.
