Ramblin' 'Round Molokai with Rudy

We were a group of 10 who spent two full days and two half-days on Moloka'i, the quieter, more traditional neighbor of Maui and Lana'i. As a prelude to a conference on Waikiki, where I am now, we saw, did and learned a lot, largely thanks to driver-guide Rudy Dela Cruz (right, giving the traditional Hawaiian shaka sign of greeting). When I have time to organize my thoughts, I'll post a more extensive report on our entire time on the island. It is one of the last bastions of "the real Hawaii," but meanwhile, I'm cyber-introducing Rudy and Roots of Molokai, his new guide service. Born and raised on Moloka'i, Rudy is half-Hawaiian (mother's side), half Filipino (father's side). He is a big, extroverted man with a big voice, an interest in and knowlege of all things pertaining to his island, and enormous enthusiasm for sharing it. Truth be told, I'm usually not the greatest fan of guided tours, but Rudy's are an exception. He's memorized his facts and he has his stock of stories, but his passion for the place the that is his lifelong home does not seem canned or contrived

Rudy recently launched Roots of Molokai, a tour company with a twist. For considerably less than a conventional sightseeing program, particularly for a small group or family, you can book a rental car and arrange for Rudy to be an additional driver. He pays for the collision insurance and additional driver fee for the day of the tour. The best part is that he'll take the wheel and drive you around to this low-key island's highlights. It's like being driven around by a friend of a friend. By the time you leave, you'll feel that Rudy has become your friend too. We did.

If you're lucky enough to be staying on Moloka'i for a few days, he provides a great orientation. If you are doing a day trip on the ferry from Maui, you'll see a lot and learn a lot from this effusive, ebullient guide.