"Lahaina's Rebirth: Balancing Tourism and Healing Post-Wildfire"

Maui, particularly the town of Lahaina, is grappling with the return of tourism after devastating wildfires in August killed at least 100 people and destroyed over 2,000 buildings. While the economic boost from tourism is needed, many locals are still dealing with the trauma and loss, finding it difficult to provide the expected hospitality. The situation is exacerbated by a housing crisis, with many residents unable to find affordable long-term housing and some protesting for change. The island's tourism industry is facing a downturn, with visitation down by about 20% from the previous year, as travelers cancel trips out of respect for the community's suffering.