Let’s talk about all-inclusive resorts. Now before you swivel your neck and ask, “What the hell is wrong with all-inclusive resorts?” hear me out. They’re popular for a reason. For many, paying a single fee for a week of endless buffets and cocktails at a luxury compound is appealing – not to mention a good bang for your buck. And let’s be clear: These massive adult playgrounds are impressive.
But can you really claim you’ve experienced a country if you spent the majority of the time inside a carefully curated, westernized bubble? 👀 It might be time to rethink our relationship with all-inclusive resorts.
The All-Inclusive Appeal
I get it. A hassle-free getaway where everything from meals to activities is bundled into one convenient package is hard to turn down. No need to worry about budgeting for meals or calculating the cost of that extra cocktail by the pool – it’s all covered. It’s the ultimate recipe for relaxation and indulgence, packaged neatly in a tropical paradise. But beneath the surface of this enticing offer lies a more complex story.
The Unseen Consequences
While all-inclusive resorts provide some economic benefits to the host country, primarily by providing employment opportunities to locals, they often fall short of truly benefiting local communities. Profits generated within these enclosed environments rarely circulate beyond their walls, leaving local businesses and communities marginalized, unable to share in the economic windfall that tourism promises.
“Colonizer” Mentality
Americans – especially those of color – should be mindful of adopting a “colonizer” mentality when visiting foreign countries. The Westernized experience all-inclusive resorts offer can make it easy to forget where and what you are – a guest in a foreign country. Staying comfortably in the bubble can unintentionally perpetuate a cycle of cultural disconnect and cause visitors to miss out on the richness of the local culture. (I have cringed on more occasions than I care to count, watching travelers disrespect the local culture with their expectations of an American experience abroad). The curated experiences offered within these compounds may provide a veneer of cultural immersion, but the heart and soul of a destination are beyond the controlled environment.
Embracing Responsible Tourism
Some might wonder, “Does it really make a difference how I choose to vacation?” There’s an eye-opening documentary currently streaming on Hulu called The Last Tourist that thoroughly answers that question. (I highly recommend it). The short answer is yes. Being more mindful about how we travel gives us a chance to genuinely enhance our lives by engaging meaningfully with local communities. Traveling to beautiful new destinations with the power to make conscious choices that benefit ourselves as well as the local citizens is a win-win.
4 Ways to Elevate from Tourist to Savvy Traveler
- If you must go all-inclusive, Explore Beyond the Resort: Venture into local neighborhoods, markets, and restaurants to get a taste of the authentic culture.
- Support Local Businesses: Choose local shops, artisans, and tour operators over international chains or resort-endorsed retailers to ensure your money directly benefits the community.
- Learn and Respect Local Customs: Educate yourself on the local customs and traditions and respect them.
- Choose Sustainable Accommodations: Whenever possible, opt for accommodations with a commitment to sustainability and community involvement.
“A traveler without observation is a bird without wings.” – Moslih Eddin Saadi
The Bottom Line
If I may get philosophical on your asses for a moment: By venturing out beyond the confines of all-inclusive resorts, we not only enrich our own experiences but also become catalysts for positive change within the communities we visit. We have the opportunity to be more than mere tourists. We can be ambassadors of cultural exchange, stewards of sustainable tourism, and champions of local economies. It sounds complicated but it’s really simple and your travel experiences will be that much richer. In any case, may our journeys always lead us towards greater connection and enlightenment. Safe (and responsible) travels! 🌎
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