I am taking a somewhat spiritual (God, I hate that fucking term) retreat to the island of Maui, Hawaii by myself.
I will be homeless - for this is the idea. It's a beautifle island (I have spent quite a bit of time there before, on different occasions) and this is something I want to do to find out what I'm made of.
I already have a list of the basics (Backpack, single-portable tent, clothes, sunblock etc.)
What else should I bring with me to make this stay more tolerable/enjoyable? Any tips on getting by in Maui?
I'll be staying there for about a month - for what it's worth - so someone lend me some ideas!
dhalgren's haze
2008-06-14, 12:17
I'm doing something similar this summer. Basically just roughing it in this lil known 60 acre park. One thing i brought was a good amount of bug spray, the natural one i have can be put in your hair, ears, whatever, so i recommend it, it smells good and is easy on the skin. I brought batteries for mp3 player, a radio, a book, a notebook for writing, couple containers for water and a filter so i dont have to walk back to town or my house just to get a drink which defeats the point anyway. It was great last night all alone under the stars, i didnt even have a tent! Last night was my first attempt, seeing how well i could find a comfy place to crash was my first concern, once you do that, you're golden. Bring lots of food if ya can, a good knife, and appropriate clothing. Hawaii seems like it would be pretty easy considering the warm weather, are bugs/animals a problem? wildlife? these are my concerns, i dont want them getting into my food or sniffin aroun when im sleeping. Another tip is the mental conditioning you'll need to survive. Not sure if you have been homeless before or by yourself for long periods of time but it isn't easy. I'm accustomed to it now but make sure you prepare for paranoia, loneliness, frustrations and stress. Thats why its important to bring things to do and set a schedule/routine to get into. I start a fire, cook, gather wood and wild rasberries, read, take long walks, etc. to break up the boredom and stay healthy by exercising. I'm sure you will encounter a shitload of beautiful stuff in maui, just enjoy it and be safe. Don't forget a good pair of boots or comfy walking shoes, and an extra pair of laces. Its easy to get sick or bacteria when you aren't showering or walking around in dirt and sand all day, keep yourself as clean as possible. Sun bathe, find a nice spot for water, use your surroundings to your benefit, if the place you choose to crash has an awesome view but isnt safe from animals like a clearing, or close to water and your fire pit, consider moving it. Good luck.
Run Screaming
2008-06-14, 17:39
On the Hana side, they still have problems with mosquito-borne diseases.
With a spear and some simple snorkel gear you can harvest all the fish you need. Sea urchins are plentiful too.
I don't know which park to steer you to; I haven't done much up-country hiking on Maui.