Part 2:
Last week we looked at the differences between the independent traveler and the ordinary. Let us now continue where we left off and look at some more peculiarities about the independent traveler.
Online booking agencies are growing like wild mushrooms. You can make most travel plans online. Once you have a credit card you can make your plane reservation to Antigua. You can guarantee your late arrival at your deluxe hotel suite on the Virgin Gorda or book a spa in St. Lucia. Similarly, you can reserve a rental car in Jamaica, a scuba dive in Bonaire, and a bird watching tour in Trinidad — all online twenty four hours a day, seven days a week.
While independent travelers use both off-line and online sources, they look to getting the best value for their buck. Vacation travel becomes more compelling. And its memories last longer if you plan your travel around your personal interests.
Still, you’re way ahead of the much-celebrated “armchair traveler” — if you’re going to the Caribbean just for the advertised actions. You’ll have a choice of many hot Caribbean activities and items. However, expect the independent traveler to show up and most of these events. Sometimes, they may even enjoy free passes to some of your paid events. Here is a short list of events where you will likely spot an independent traveler:
- nightlife
- splendid beaches
- rejuvenating salty seawater
- snorkling in coral reefs
- mouthwatering cuisine
- bird-watching
- carnivals
- music
- rain forests
- swimming
- windsurfing
- sailing
- zesty fruits
- romance
- French perfume
- and many more.
And if you are what you do, a visit to the Caribbean could make you into an interesting person. Plus you’ll get good value for your money.
Anatole Broyard a noted American journalist once remarked: “Travel is like adultery: one is always tempted to be unfaithful to one’s own country…. In our wanderlust, we are lovers looking for consummation.”
True completion comes from seeing Caribbean travel and life in its natural confines:
- places of worship
- schools
- workplaces
- family setting
- political forums
- art centers
- music theaters
- storytelling settings
There’s always a story behind a story. Independent travelers thirst for this knowledge. They’ll forever be unfaithful to their own country, until the bits and pieces of the puzzle fit together.
You too can whet the flames of fulfillment. Caribbean travel and living offers you that experience. Come join us!
