As Hawaii prepares for the largest hotel workers’ strike since 1990, visitors to the islands must brace themselves for possible disruption. More than 5,000 workers, represented by UNITE HERE Local 5, are prepared to strike at seven major Waikiki hotels and one Kauai hotel, with the possibility of more strikes to follow. They are demanding higher wages, better staffing and improved working conditions.
There are things you can do to prepare for the likely eventuality. Below are some tips.
The likelihood of a hotel strike in Hawaii is very real.
Workers are actively preparing by filing for strike benefits and more. The situation suggests that a strike could occur at any time if negotiations do not move quickly. Workers have expressed a willingness to strike for as long as it takes to achieve their goals, suggesting that this is very likely. Hawaii travelers should be aware of the situation and take steps to minimize the impact on vacation plans.
Which hotels could be affected first?
Below is a list of all the hotels where UNITE HERE Local 5 represents workers. Not all of them are necessarily involved in the immediate planned strike action. Workers at the hotels in bold appear to have been the most vocal in expressing their grievances and willingness to stop work.
Oahu: Ala Moana Hotel, DoubleTree Hilton Alana Waikiki, Hale Koa Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn, Hilton Hawaiian VillageHyatt Centric Waikiki Beach, Hyatt Regency WaikikiThe Ilikai Hotel, The Imperial, The Kahala Hotel & Resort, The Modern Honolulu, Plaza Hotel – Airport, Queen Kapiolani Hotel, Ramada Plaza Waikiki, Sheraton Moana Surfrider, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, The hotel is 1.7 km from Laguna Beach., Sheraton WaikikiTurtle Bay Resort, Located 1.7 km from Waikiki Beach, Waikiki Beach Marriott provides accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking.Waikiki Beach Resort.
Maui: Kaanapali Beach Club, Sheraton Maui.
Big Island: Royal Kona Resort, Waikoloa Beach Marriott.
Kauai: Sheraton Kauai.
Browse options and communicate with your Hawaii hotel.
To be prepared, visitors should review hotel and credit card policies, confirm reservations, research and consider alternative accommodation options, and stay informed of the latest changes.
We recommend contacting the hotel and asking about their contingency plans in the event of a strike and what services may be affected. Affected hotels are adapting and should be aware of what services may be limited or unavailable. Be sure to check that amenities such as housekeeping, food and room service may be affected and ask what alternatives the hotel plans to provide for guests.
Consider alternative accommodation.
If your chosen hotel is on the list of hotels that may be affected by the initial labor action, you may want to look for alternative accommodations. Smaller boutique hotels and Hawaii vacation rentals found online may be able to provide more reliable service during a strike. Having a backup plan can help ensure your Hawaii vacation is a good experience even if the strike continues.
Understanding the injustices in the Hawaii travel industry.
The potential strike reflects deep issues within Hawaii’s hospitality industry and impacts workers and visitors. Workers are demanding fairer wages and better conditions, arguing that the industry’s recovery should benefit those who sustain it. A flexible attitude and empathy for the local workforce will help ensure a more harmonious visit during this time.
Conclusion of the hotel strike in Hawaii.
The Hawaii hotel employee strike can be very challenging for visitors, but being proactive and prepared can help minimize disruption. Stay alert, consider alternatives, and enjoy a great Hawaii vacation despite possible service disruptions. Being alert and flexible can help you navigate the situation with less stress.
