There seems to be a rift in what most people think of as authentic travel and tourist travel. I don't see why you can't do both. Travelers seem to think of themselves as hip, socially conscious folks who wouldn't dare set foot in one of the evil corporate resorts. They think of tourists as the those who just want to transplant a little piece of America into a new spot for a week without really experiencing any of the local flavor of their destination. To me that's an artificial separation. I don't see why you can't have an authentic experience, learn about local culture and still have luxury suites on the same trip.
Even other travel professionals get into this at industry events. It's quite funny! There are plenty who are so proud that they've never been on a cruise and just don't get all-inclusive resorts, ugh! (Insert disdainful face here)
Well I'm the first to speak up that I LOVE them both. Cruises are some people's first introduction to foreign travel and a springboard for further exploration. Sure, you'll have some of the typical ugly American tourist behavior but you'll also meet people from all over the world and sample several different places in one week without fighting airport security. Hoarding food at the buffet is not mandatory!
All-inclusive resorts have totally saved my vacation life when it comes to getting some beach time once the kids arrive. Staying at the resort is not mandatory! It's a choice. Some people may feel more comfortable exploring the next time they go to a certain place. There is absolutely nothing wrong with that. My son has met little friends from several different countries and across the U.S. at the kids club. We have still done some very cool tours that have made lasting impressions and got the whole family in touch with local culture when we stayed at all inclusive resorts. Even if you never go beyond the gates, your whole family is still learning something. Not all resorts are foreign owned corporate monsters that bleed the local economy. There are several high end resorts that are Mexican owned and operated. You don't have to stay in a cabana to contribute to the local economy.
For 'just the two of us' escapes, I've found all-inclusive resorts a big stress reliever. Sure you can rent a condo or villa, but the 'where do you want to eat?' game will get tiresome real quick! (Fellas, I know you hate when we say it doesn't matter!) At least if everything is already accessible and paid for on property you have the freedom to just enjoy each other. There are great tours in every port or destination that will make great shared memories and acquaint you a slice of local life.
So here are my suggestions to combine that relaxing getaway with some 'traveler' spirit.
How to travel like a tourist and have memories like a traveler:
1. Schedule tours that involve volunteering or visiting indigenous communities.2. Buy locally made souvenirs.
3. Consider splitting your time between adventure activities and luxury resorts. (Say 3 days hiking and camping in the jungle and 4 at the beach?)
4.Take excursions unique to the destination. Certain things like zip-lining are everywhere, so ask what is here that I won't get anywhere else?
Of course these are all things your trusty travel professional can help you arrange. =)
www.greatscottgetaways.com
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