What's it really like being a military spouse in Hawai'i? 🌸

What's it really like being a military spouse in Hawai'i? 🌸 After over 3 months here... here's my honest opinion. First things first... There is no universal military spouse experience. Your experience will depend on: • your personal preferences • your spouse's job (MOS) • whether you live on or off base • your finances • and honestly... a little bit of luck. So this is simply my experience. For me? It's been one of the happiest seasons of my life. We have an amazing home. Our toddler gets to grow up surrounded by beaches, mountains and sunshine. I genuinely feel grateful every single day. Is Hawai'i expensive? Absolutely. Housing, groceries and many products cost more because almost everything has to arrive by ship or plane. BUT... Living on base, budgeting and taking advantage of military benefits has made a huge difference for us. Military life here also comes with some pretty amazing perks. So many community events! Discounts (I still need to get my Hawai'i ID for even more benefits) Programs like the the YMCA Ohana Market. Military base beaches. There is always something happening if you're willing to look for it. Traffic can be rough, but you learn about the best and worst times to drive very fast. Mosquitoes and flies are everywhere (mostly on the military bases for some reason) And get ready to see chickens every single day! 🐔🐔 One thing I think visitors and newcomers should understand: Hawai'i has a unique history. Many Native Hawaiians have complicated feelings about tourism, the military and U.S. history. Approach the islands with respect. Learn about the culture. Practice aloha. That goes a long way. As far as island fever... We live in Oahu and this island is big enough that we don't really realize we're on an island. We still have so much to see! So being in the middle of the Pacific doesn't feel as isolating as I thought it would. BUT, I don't like looking at Google Maps 😩 And as far as feeling far from family, I've lived away from Brazil for almost 8 years so this part doesn't affect me as much. For someone else, though, this could be the hardest part. I also have to say it rains more than I thought! I'm glad it's summer now 🌸 Before coming here people tried to tell me that: - the water is cold (depends on the beach and time of the year) - the food is bad (I miss chipotle, but so far I like the food here!) - everything is expensive so if you want to save you should stay on base (that's the stupidest thing I've ever heard. Just sad) - You'll do everything there's to do in a week (lies from lazy people) - Locals hate us (so far I've been treated very well by most people, including online! Respect the land and be open to the culture and good people will come your way 🙏) Could Hawai'i be the best duty station ever? For some people, yes. For others, probably not. It all depends on what kind of life makes you happy. As for me... I'm loving every minute of it. 🌺