by Donald Wood
Last updated: 12:05 AM ET, Wed May 23, 2018
Despite the continued eruption of the Kilauea volcano and the fissures opening up around it, Hawaii Governor David Ige revealed officials are keeping a close eye on the situation and the islands are still safe for visitors.
Hawaii Tourism Authority CEO George D. Szigeti also said that travel to and from the Hawaiian Islands is unimpeded by Kilauea volcano and that summer vacation plans to the tropical destination should go off without a hitch.
With ample flight choices and some of the top hotels and resorts in the world on the islands, Hawaii remains a top destination for the upcoming vacation season. The only issues travelers will face from the eruption of Kilauea will be the closure of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, which is a popular attraction that is off limits until further notice.
In response to questions about the impact of Kilauea volcano on the tourism industry, Governor Ige released an official statement about how the state is handling the eruption and how almost all major attractions are still open for business:
We have a skilled contingent of scientists, geologists, meteorologists, and health experts whose work is being supported around the clock by emergency officials and law enforcement personnel from federal, state and county agencies. They are continuously scrutinizing the activity within Kilauea volcano and providing clear, carefully thought-out advice with the purpose of keeping the public safe and informed.
This is a time to listen to the experts on-site and to trust what they are reporting and recommending. The experts are telling us there is no danger from the eruptions to anyone outside the areas that have been evacuated. There is no threat of a tsunami. Air quality is being closely studied and is of most concern in the immediate area inside where the volcanic activity is taking place.
Our foremost concern is for the residents in the affected communities. They are receiving all available support from government agencies and officials to cope with the volcano activity and carry on with their lives as best as possible.
Visitors to Hawai'i can be assured that the volcanic activity is having no effect whatsoever on the other islands, O'ahu, Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i and Kaua'i. Visitors can book their trips comfortable in the knowledge that their vacation experience will provide all the enjoyment they expect when coming to our beautiful islands.
All of Hawai'i is open for business and welcoming visitors with the hospitality, aloha, warmth and picturesque settings visitors seek in our islands. This includes Hilo, Pahoa and the Kona and Kohala coasts on the island of Hawai'i. The one area that people need to avoid is lower Puna where the eruption is ongoing.
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