All-inclusive vs not
For a long time I was one of those people who judged all-inclusive tourists. Thinking, they don´t care to learn about the country they visit and should be out and about rather than by the pool all day. Thanks to my friend Jannis who took me on two all-inclusive vacations, I no longer judge.
Rather, I understand the difference between travel and vacation. I do hotels, I do camping, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, inns and B&Bs, renting apartments, hostelling and couch surfing. I don´t discriminate any way of travel anymore. Sometimes, an all-inclusive vacation is the right choice. And here is why:
Reflection
Traveling often means a lot of new impressions and new experiences. Fabulous as that is, it keeps your mind busy. If you are looking for a break from a boring routine that is great. But if you are trying to wind down from a stressful life or just want to reflect on things in peace, new impressions are not going to help. An all-inclusive vacation that incentivises you to spend a lot of time in comforting surroundings with few distractions helps to calm a wandering mind.
Save money
Maybe we just eat and drink more than I thought or we got a really good deal each time. But I am convinced if we had to pay separately for every meal and every drink at the bar, the vacations would have been much more expensive. If the goal is to rest to your mind and you spend a lot of time in the resort, it makes sense to have food and drinks included.
Then why travel to a different country at all you ask? Why not stay home and rest there?
Change of scenery
Maybe they go just because the weather is better at their holiday destination. We all need some sunshine in our lives. Winter depression is a thing. Or maybe there are too many tasks at home that would distract them from resting, ever growing to do lists around the house.
Perhaps all it takes is a change of scenery for a while to reset the mind and snap out of bad patterns. And let me tell you, it´s relaxing. In a completely different way than slow travel that is all about learning by experience. All-inclusive vacations are a chance for learning by reflection. And that is just as valid. Think about the power if combined! What if, at the end of a trip you took a few days off to let it all sink in before moving on?
This is not to say I am not ashamed of the petty all-inclusive tourists who disrespect their host country. But what I am saying is: I can appreciate the advantages of a week or two tucked away in a quiet and beautiful place without having to keep a budget on the go. It´s worry free. And sometimes worry free is exactly what you need.
Have you ever been on an all-inclusive vacation? I would love to hear what you thought about it! Comment below!
0 Comments