I think I have found a new home away from home at the Outrigger Hotel in Waikiki. I traveled down to the Islands last week to attend the [re]Think Hawaii conference. This place is so amazingly comfortable, with every amenity a Geek could hope for! The bed was comfy, the view was gorgeous and there were giant frogs in the lobby!

[Re]Think: Hawaii is an event aimed at connecting a diverse group of entrepreneurs who likely would never have met. Many of the speakers traveled together on the recent GeeksOnAPlane tour and come from the technology sector, the entertainment industry, the food arenas and the social good scene. They have diverse passions and interests, but that deep passion is what brings them together. They define themselves by the ideas they share and the impact they wish to make – and not the business cards they carry.

Staying in Hawaii for any reason is something that is hard to describe. The atmosphere is definitely like nothing I’ve ever experienced before. It’s so incredibly beautiful everywhere you look. The people of this state are open and friendly almost to a fault. Tourists and conference attendees alike are welcomed and treated with respect at every turn.

Being here for an event such as [Re]Think: Hawaii is again indescribable. You are surrounded by a culture that is so different than what you’re used to while you’re immersing yourself in the conversations that are such a part of your normal daily routine. Making connections is the name of the game at any type of conference, and this one is no different. However, I believe that when you’re conversing in such a relaxed atmosphere, you tend to let your guard down more. It’s easier to make honest connections here, due to the surroundings.

Thanks so much to my friends at Hawaii Vacations (and especially Bruce!!) for my travel! This was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience.