I loved living here for 29 days! I stayed in the spacious Mango Cottage and traditional Hale Aloha house. Each home had unique features and were wonderful properties. This place took me back to a time of warm welcomes and feeling part of a caring community- ohana (family). Here, I fell asleep to gentle rains and nature’s song; discovered Hilo’s authentic local culture; and met positive, friendly people. We had daily zazen meditation, yoga classes, twice a week, and volunteer work available. I enjoyed serving senior holiday lunches and participating in Wailea’s 22nd mochi pounding event. I can't wait to come back.
It was an honor to meet Akiko Masuda. She is fascinating. She dances, wrote children’s books, starred in the movie “August at Akiko’s”, and established the nonprofit Wailea Village Historic Preservation Community trust to help preserve old structures, create affordable housing, and spur employment opportunities.
Akiko’s place exceeded my expectations. It’s sure to exceed yours too. The amazing experiences here will forever warm my heart. Mahalo (thank you) Akiko.