In these trying times, residents of Honolulu, Hawaii are doing everything they can to attract more tourists-including changing the town's name.
"As a Japanese tourist, I find it difficult to say Honolulu and I am so happy about the name change. No longer will I have difficulty booking my airfare, telling a cab driver where to take me or using directory assistance," said Hideki Sosuki.
Mayor Mufi Hannemann hopes this gimmick will draw more Asian tourists and increase local commerce.
"If this works and brings our town visitors and money, I promise to ban the letter L from the island entirely. Tourists can expect to have a flowered Rei, enjoy an exciting Ru'ah or rewax by the pool," Hannemann said.