Better, I Suppose

The last time we were here the "new" International Market Place was still being built. The sidewalk kiosks had been razed, and a multi-story shopping center was springing up around the landmark banyan tree.

I didn't bother going into any of the stores. Attractive as it was, the International Market Place looked the same as other designer-name shopping centers in Hawaii.

The old Market Place had gone through cycles of unsavoriness. I remember it as a hangout for street people and drugs, especially when tourism was down. Beginning in the late 20th century, the Hawaiian economy began the long boom that in Waikiki resulted in high-rise hotels, office buildings, and condo projects all jockeying for the best views of the Pacific. The handwriting was on the wall for the old International Market Place.

Now I miss the haggling and the over-priced T-shirts......