buffalochickencats
Feb 2022
I would like to preface this experience with the fact that Marilyn had a family emergency occur during when the initial tour was supposed to happen and had to reschedule to a later date, which fell on the day after she returned from the mainland. I'm aware this detail may have contributed to my experience.
In summary, the tour was not what I expected. We visited Iao Valley first, which was nice. Then we saw a couple of farms in upcountry, but some of the farms were closed and we didn't visit some of the farms listed on their website. No one from the three farms gave us a tour of the facility, so we didn't get to learn much about the plants or farming techniques. Lunch was not provided or accommodated during the five-hour excursion.
The silver lining of this tour was Marilyn herself. Her bubbly personality saved the day. She knows a lot about the island and its plants, and her passion for art is admirable. She also sang us some songs while strumming the ukelele. It was fun getting to know her.
From my experience and what Marilyn had shared, there was a heyday for the Maui Country Farm Tours, and now two years post-pandemic, the zest for giving tours has somewhat waned. I do not believe my experience was worth the price point the touring company asked for ($300 pp).
That being said, I enjoyed my time seeing some of the local flora and fauna and learning about Maui from a local perspective.
Одговор домаћина
Feb 2022
Zoe, I am sorry you felt that way after our wonderful hike in Iao valley, the Kepaniwai cultural center, visiting your heritage, photographing the entire experience, then visiting Kula Country Farms, MAUI bees, having delicious coffees, exploring the garden, the cows and chickens, on a private completely personalized tour! Alii Kula Lavender walking tour by me into proteas in full bloom as I’ve done over 1,000 times..
I’m glad you enjoyed my ukulele.
And my designer t-shirts gifted to you at the end of our tour!
We walked the gardens, discussed the process of regenerative farming, tasted winter and summer honey.
~ Marilyn