Exploring the World, One Unique Stay at a Time

Over the course of my travels to over 100 nations, I have experienced a range of accommodations from opulent hotels to quaint hostels, cozy family-run bed and breakfasts, and even adventurous treehouses.

Yet, there is one type of lodging I consistently steer clear of: the all-inclusive resort.

While countless travelers appreciate the ease and perceived value of all-inclusives, I believe they often strip away the core essence of travel experiences.

These resorts foster an ‘all-expenses-paid’ mentality, which tends to keep most guests confined within their boundaries, either trying to extract maximum value for their money or hesitating to explore the distinctiveness that each locale owns.

I question the purpose of traveling to a place like Thailand only to order the same Caesar salad you could easily find back home.

Craving Authentic and Distinctive Experiences

Most all-inclusive resorts operate under a tried-and-true formula: expansive pools, a mix of international cuisine, and a slew of planned activities that could happen anywhere.

While these features aren’t inherently negative, they often lack the memorable and distinctive appeal I seek when selecting accommodations abroad.

Alternatively, I have found true magic in places like a cave hotel chiseled into the volcanic rock in Morocco, where ancient stone walls kept my room comfortably cool even amidst the desert’s blistering heat.

In Costa Rica, I slept amid the treetops in a jungle treehouse, lulled to sleep by the symphony of rainforest sounds. Each abode I select inherently mirrors its surroundings' unique characteristics, which no resort chain can authentically reproduce.

Cherishing Genuine Connections

Selecting local accommodations often results in organic interactions that resort environments can’t fabricate.

In Sri Lanka, I had the pleasure of staying in an apartment connected to a local family’s residence. They shared their kitchen with us during breakfast, teaching us traditional cooking techniques and introducing us to new dishes.

We learned to prepare hoppers—a characteristic dish resembling a bowl-shaped pancake—and listened to tales of life in Sri Lanka that no guidebook could capture.

These intimate connections far surpass the surface-level exchanges over lackluster buffet-line eggs at resort dining areas.

Seeking Culinary Adventures Beyond Resort Buffets

The culinary offerings at resorts aim to satisfy everyone, often leading to a lack of excitement and flavor in the food. This often dilutes local dishes and leads to a disappearance of authentic tastes, robbing travelers of the culinary journeys great travel promises.

Choosing accommodations without all-inclusive dining frees you to dive into the local food scene. The true gems and most valuable advice often emerge when you explore local recommendations.

A vivid memory from my travels was in El Salvador, where a native friend introduced me to his beloved pupusería (a spot specializing in pupusas). These cornmeal cakes filled with beans and cheese were incredible, costing only $6 for three. The local atmosphere was unmatched by any resort meal, and I was certainly the lone tourist in the crowd.

My friend also shared valuable cultural insight: pupusas are traditionally eaten by hand, not with cutlery—a mistake I was thankful to avoid.

Embracing Unplanned Adventures

Leisurely wanderings and unscripted connections contribute to the most enduring travel moments and lessons, often missed when staying at a resort.

Through smaller stays, I've received insider tips and invitations that surpass any concierge service.

While planning a trip to South Africa, I booked boutique lodgings through a local firm. During our discussions, the booking agent invitingly welcomed my group to a traditional braai (similar to a barbecue) at her home to watch a rugby match.

The evening was spent absorbing braai traditions, picking up local expressions, and cheering for a rugby team we'd priorly never heard of. The result was a night of laughter and shared joy that remained with us long after the trip.

Rethinking the Charm of All-Inclusives

There’s a strong appeal for all-inclusive resorts, granted. They offer practical benefits like security, ease, and predictability, fitting well for families or those desiring a worry-free escape.

Nonetheless, my travels are about immersing myself in unfamiliar cultures, tasting regional flavors, and fostering new friendships, allowing an unstructured agenda for fresh adventures and discoveries.

If you usually find yourself within the confines of lush resorts, I encourage you to venture beyond your comfort zone on your next trip.

You may find yourself invited into someone’s kitchen or happen upon a timeless tradition—and these are the moments that will enrich your stories when you return home.