We've been home from Maui for more than a month now, but there's no denying that the island feeling tends to stay with you for awhile. Basically what I'm saying is that I have no trouble reliving those memories now so I can bask in that easy-paced lifestyle once again, even if it's just for a few moments.
One of the things I love most about Maui is its mountainous terrain. Coming from Florida where our house, and the majority of the state for that matter, sits literally just feet above sea level, it's nice to see a change in the landscape. And there really is nothing like seeing that morning sun peek over the top of Mount Haleakala or see the golden colors of the setting sun reflecting off the mountain's face come evening. Talk about breathtaking!
Another favorite of mine is the island's different microclimates. My parents live along the beach where warm days and mild evenings are the norm, and yet just a short, 10-minute drive up-country and the temperature change is unmistakable. In fact, a light jacket is usually called for. This is the part of Maui where you'll find cut-your-own Christmas tree farms, while down by the beaches you are resigned to purchasing a pre-cut tree at Home Depot.
Evidence of the climate change exists in the plant life you'll find as you explore the higher elevations of Maui. While visiting up-country, my mom has stopped in at the Ace Hardware only to discover that some plants she admired would not survive in her beachfront paradise. Disappointed, yes. Enough to relocate up-country, heck no.
What I find entertaining is that on an island encompassing just over 700 square miles, residents and even frequent visitors get attached to one section. Those who live in Kihei hate the busy, touristy feel of the west end, while those who like the bustling west end dislike the more subdued feel of south side.
I suppose I can't say much considering that we have friends who live in North Naples, just 10 miles away from our house, and we always say we could never live up there where it's so busy! And yet, they think we live out in the boonies. I suppose it's all relative.
