Guest Author - Janet Collins

Segway - The Cool Way to See Hawaii


One of the best ways to check out a holiday location is to walk around the area. Sure, bus tours cover a lot of ground in a short period of time, but they don’t allow you to stop – or not – when and where you want to. But what if you’re not up for walking hours on end? No problem, a new mode of transportation gives you the flexibility of walking, but with the ease of motorized transport.

The Segway is an innovative option - a self-balancing, electric-powered two-wheeled transportation device, that uses gyroscopes and tilt sensors. It looks something like a pogo stick with wheels and operates by emulating human balance. Lean forward and you move forward. Lean back and you move back. Straighten up, and you stop. Best of all, the Segway is small – about the same size as an average person’s shoulder width - so it can maneuver in areas where wheelchairs and scooters can (and sometimes can't) go. Better still, there is no stigma attached to the Segway as there often is with other mobility devices.

The Segway has been touted as a commuter’s best friend, and a god-send to anyone wanting flexible, low-maintenance transportation. It also offers a great way to see the sights in several cities around the country.

The Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa in Honolulu, Hawaii, is home to one of the newest Segway authorized dealerships. The outlet has designed special Segway tours of the city (such as a guided historic tour) so visitors can take in the local scenery while trying out the spiffy transportation device. And they can see so much more in much less time! Other cities around the world also offer up Segway tours.

"The Segway is fashionable and fun to operate – perfect for the young and the young at heart," says Alan Rice, the only authorized Segway dealer in the State of Hawaii. "Seniors and those who couldn’t put in a full day of walking around town especially appreciate the smooth, quiet ride. Models with special seating are also available for those who can’t stand for long periods of time."

You don’t need a license to operate a Segway, and the units can be driven on sidewalks rather than on roads (although laws vary from place to place, so check local bylaws before you head out).

Most rental outlets offer introductory training and safety instruction, and provide helmets for those taking a Segway out for a spin.

Oh yes, and not everyone can get in on the fun: most rental operators have weight restrictions (more than 100 lbs and less than 260 lbs). Other restrictions may apply.

For more information, check out www.segwayofhawaii.com
www.segway.com
www.draft.org