The economic downturn has naturally resulted in a significant reduction in vacation spending.  Depending on who you reference, travel to Hawaii is down 20% to 30% overall. 

The little island of Molokai is not as developed as others.  As such, it was not a huge tourist attraction to start with.  Now that overall travel to Hawaii has dipped significantly, Molokai has been hit the hardest as the major tourist areas are wooing travelers with significant discounts.

The two major car rental agencies on Molokai have been Budget and Dollar for years.  They have tried everything to limit operating expenses while maintaining an acceptable level of service.  Unfortunately, both are throwing in the towel and closing operations on Molokai in early 2009. 

They will continue accepting new reservations for Molokai up to April 30, 2009.  These new reservations must be returned by April 30, 2009.

Both will be able to service existing reservations for pick up between now and May 15, 2009 as long as returns are scheduled on or before May 28th.  Beyond that, their doors will be closed and you will need to make alternative plans.

Alamo has won a bid to open a new location at Hoolehua Molokai Airport.  Final plans are not yet established for location, fleet, or when exactly they will open for business.  The initial target date for Alamo to begin operations on Molokai are early to mid June, 2009.

We are sorry for these unfortunate changes and would like to extend a warm “Mahalo” for all of you who have supported our rentals there in the past.

Add this article to your favorite social bookmarks.