I am researching relocating to Hawaii in a few years. I know the cost of living is supposed to be outrageous, but the research I've done indicates that the Big Island is cheaper than Honolulu and Maui.

A few questions to someone who's a resident:

1) How cut throat is the cake biz is on Hawaii Island (big island)?

2) Do people choose the Big Island for destination weddings or do those people usually choose Maui and Honolulu?

3) Is there a healthy wedding industry on the big island? (I'm hoping to get in on some aspect of that if I don't end up in cakes. My resume is such I could help with event coordinating).

4) What does "lava level 3" for example, mean when looking at real estate? I've noticed they put different level numbers and I can't find what the scale is (ie) is 1 good or bad?

5) Do you shop at Walmart there? What does a gallon of milk and loaf of bread run there? I get conflicting info on various websites and would like to hear from someone who actually lives there.

6) Are fire ants prevlant there? Also, what's the mosquito situation? Just curious if the cost of paradise is horrible bugs. ;0)


Thanks so much for the help!!!
Carla