Maya and her family are extraordinary hosts and fascinating, creative people. Their home is an idyllic garden in the midst of the city, lovingly maintained by their daily efforts. Among its flowering trees and lotus ponds, they make their guests feel completely welcomed. They cared for every detail during our stay—bringing back delicious roast duck from nearby Chinatown and serving home-bottled mango juice from their own tree, along with thoughtful advice on all questions about life on Oahu. Their place is in a perfect setting, offering access (even without a car!) to features of Honolulu beyond the usual tourist spots—including the inspiring Foster and Liliʻuokalani Botanical Gardens, hiking trails in the Makiki Valley, and real-world neighborhoods that give greater insight into Honolulu’s complex society. Maya’s background in both science and the arts, and her blend of deep local knowledge and global perspective, make her much more than an outstanding host—an exceptional, generous person whose friendship you will treasure.