Akiko's is a beautiful invitation to slow.
A month there hardly seemed 'enough' - although I am filled with gratitude for the gift of the experience. It is so much more than a place to rest your head after a busy day touring around the Big Island.... and I am so glad I leaned into Akiko's generous 'activities schedule' including morning sitting meditation, yoga, and bon dance practices! In addition to the opportunities around Wailea and Hakalau, including the Tuesday Farmer's market which has some of the best Thai food around!
I didn't have a car for the first 2 weeks, and was really happy to use that time to wander locally and settle in. The buses are free, although fairly unreliable to the schedule, and few-and-far-between... but if you have patience they do get you where you need to go (eventually!). Most shopping is in Hilo, about a 20 minute drive/30 minute bus ride. I did rent a car through Turo after a couple weeks, and it gave me the freedom to explore the island at my own pace.
I also worked remotely the whole time and had zero issues with internet speed and connection.
The room was simple and comfortable with space to stretch out in the common spaces. The house is original, and so are the amenities (kitchen, bathroom, etc.) - however it is stocked with everything you need including more hair products, shampoo/conditioner and sunscreen from previous guests than you can possibly need (so leave your own at home and save some luggage space!). It felt like staying at a rustic, Zen, Hawaiian adult summer camp, in all the best ways!
The Hamakua Coast is like stepping onto the set of Jurassic Park - the definition of lush and tropical! There is a 24 hour orchestra of frogs, birds and insects (prepare for a few friendly gecko's & crawly friends hanging out with you inside), and it rained every day for me in April - although I personally think it's the best kind of rain.
And then there's Akiko herself - a true gift to her guests and her community. So grateful for the healing wisdom she offered me during my stay.
Mahalo Akiko!