Why Kauai?

Out of all the places in the world to try our experiment, why Kauai?

We have always had a special connection with Kauai. We honeymooned there and have been there a few times. But the main reason is the pace of life.

Slowing Down
We like beaches and hiking. We like lush green foliage and warm ocean water. But what we like most about Kauai is the pace of life. For example the speed limit in most places on the island is 25 mph. There is only one main road (no freeways) and you feel as if the world has slowed down a few clicks, so you can experience life.

Have you ever walked to a place that you have driven to many times before? To work, for example. You notice things when walking that you’d never notice whizzing by at driving speeds. The world is different, depending on your pace. And the place of Kauai is one we want to learn and internalize.

Other Reasons
We also know our way around Kauai and can make plans based out our limited but useful knowledge. Another main selling point was that it is in the states. We deemed that traveling in the U.S. for our first extended vacation would be a lot easier. Since I will be working remotely, we also needed a timezone that was similar to that of California. Hawaiian time is only 3 hours behind. This means it would be great for remote work and communication with the office back home.

Distractions
The last reason is simply that Kauai is a island with relatively less distractions. It’s pretty sleepy, and spread out. Part of our goal is to sharpen the saw, simplify and evaluate what is important. Having a place that forces us to enjoy nature, and think about our lives, our goals and ourselves is a perfect place for a sabbatical. There are always distractions, but we felt Kauai had fewer than other destinations.

Where is a place you feel forces you to slow down, and see life at another pace?