Vacationing with a disability - day 10

Technology has increased the chance that any one of us may be traveling with a disability – a self-made disability.  I’m talking about being connected.  Internet Access, at first with Ethernet connections and then with wireless routers (Wi-Fi) came upon us so quickly that at first we didn’t know what to do with it and then didn’t know how to set them  up, and then decided we couldn’t do without them. It was inexpensive for companies to add customer access to their Internet Access that many public service companies such as hotels, restaurants, libraries, etc.  offer it free.  And like free drink refills, suddenly we’ve become convinced that we are entitled to the free service. 

So it was a surprise to find that our condo did not have free Internet in the rooms.  For a minimal fee of $4.95 per day or $15.95 for 10 days we can get Internet access over Ethernet in our room or wireless in the pool area.  What a deal.

We decided that it was worth the $5 a day but our troubles still weren't over.  To get service in our room requires a router which can interpret the Internet signals which have been added to the room's electrical system.  We got the router  and plugged it correctly.  No signal.  We called technical support who tested the circuit  and determined our complex was getting no signal.  But of course it took an hour  or more to determine that.

Today’s adventures started with church.  After all with  a church building just a block or two north of the condo, it was easy enough to do. Keith and I were still in the middle of trying to get Internet access so we missed out but the women attended and reported back that they were glad they did.

The adventures continued with Hilo Hattie, perhaps the best known store in Hawaii.  And for good reason as they have treat the customer well.  As we entered the store we were welcomed with a smile, an "Aloha", and a shell lei.  We were offered a cup of coffee or juice and a sample of Hawaiian macadamia nut chocolates. Throughout our visit clerks were available and helpful if necessary but weren't intrusive.  When Carolyn took some dresses in to try on, a clerk brought her more dresses with similar style, sizes, and slightly higher prices to try to "upsell" her.   There was nothing second class about Hilo Hattie's.