Mistake Of A Lifetime - 11/17/2009
After several relatively brief visits to The Big Island of Hawaii, my husband and I, both strict vegetarians, decided to move from Palo Alto CA to Volcano Village with our parrot, dog, and cat. We should have done much more research before making that commitment.

To our amazement and disappointment, we soon learned that the general availability of organic produce in Volcano and on the rest of the Big Island is next to zero. And at 4,000 ft, Volcano's colder-than-average climate does not allow you to grow most of the fruits and vegetables that can be easily raised in the much warmer, humid climates found on the rest of the island. (At present, there are exactly 2 organic vendors selling at the Volcano Farmer's Market, neither of which grow their wares in the Village.)

"Eating Locally", as the bumper stickers advocate, you can go broke living in Volcano. All food prices on this, the agrarian side of the island, including local fruits and other produce, are Read More

Volcano Living - 8/8/2009
Must love rain. That would be a possible header for Volcano seeking new residents. It is the rain that tends to fall in the night time and sometimes or often in soft mists to drenching downpours that keeps the rainforest here lush and full of songbirds.

Just as there is frequent rain, there is frequent sun. But rarely all day. The weather feels mild and damp, and is conducive to the creative spirit. As a result, Volcano is home to many artists and writers.

The presence of the volcano, Kilauea, so nearby brings scientists from all over the world. Many who visit linger and find themselves staying permanently, or semi permanently.

Musicians & poets are drawn to this place, where the rainforest canopy creates a natural cathedral. It is easy to slip into a an intimate relationship with nature, needing less and less in terms of entertainment and distraction.

The community gathers weekly at the farmer's market, a Sunday Read More