Lilsia
Registered
- Joined
- Feb 17, 2018
Absolutely to each their own, and I can fully understand that perspective. But to offer another differing perspective as someone with no personal ties to WW2 or Pearl Harbor (aside from being American), we chose to go to pay homage and respects. Like PP mentioned, its akin to visiting NYC and seeing the 9/11 memorial. Its no doubt somber and not something "fun" you associate with a vacation, but its such a big part of Hawaii (or NYC, in the 9/11 example) that it seems like a pilgrimage Americans should make when visiting these spots that have become such important parts of history. We did Pearl Harbor on our first trip and wouldn't return, but I think its an important one for first timers or once-in-a-lifetimers to still consider when making itineraries.
My point was that it is not a "must do" for everyone. This is one of those things that is personal, like how a person grieves. Not going to a place where thousands where massacred is OK. I actually find it kind of tacky that they have turned it into a tourist attraction, gift shop and all. If my loved one had died there, I would not want thousands of people going there, smiling and talking pictures. JMO