Lisa, You really seem to have the lowdown on the Islands! I'm leaving for Hawaii on August 21, 2002 and don't plan on returning for a long time. I'm so incredibly attracted to Hilo. Seems like an awesome community! I'll be attending massage therapy school and training in the martial arts. Not too interested in lots of partying, but I like to have a good time. Anyhow, Hilo seems to fit the bill. I've got a college degree and am a really hard worker. Do you think it'll be a challenge wrustling up some type of job f.t. or p.t. while I'm attending massage therapy training? I'm willing to do just about anything. If it's really as tough as I've read, would I fare better in Honolulu? I'm a minimalist and don't need much to survive....just the beautiful basics! Thanks for any input you may have.