I stayed at Akiko’s for 14 days. I’m one of the few people who are staying for a shorter time. I stayed in a plantation house with 3 other wonderful women who I got to share stories and build connections. The place in general was super inviting, comfortable and comforting. It has everything you need and more! There is a fully stocked kitchen, two showers and toilets. Staying here allowed me to slow down and to think of the "now". Since you never know when it will rain, you just embrace it and take it day by day. You can walk to the nearest town (Honomu) within 40 mins and just take nature walks around the area.
I had to work for the weeks I was there doing very early calls (4am) and Akiko was nice enough to let me use the spare room to work. The internet was great and I had no problem taking several work video calls.
I had a chance to join the yoga and meditation sessions for the time I was there. Akiko was very patient showing me how I can do it better and encouraged me to continue this practice after I leave. Although a short stay, I was also able to connect with the local community by going to the farmer's market and chatting with all the vendors and residents.
Akiko spent 30+ years building this safe space for her community. She is kind, bold and funny too :)
I didn't have a car so I took the bus everywhere. You can take the bus to downtown hilo to connect to other buses (volcano national park). I got so used to the pace of live and the community that after moving to the Kona side, I started to miss Akiko, the people there and the plantation house. Come here with an open heart and open mind! Enjoy