When booking a holiday, it’s important to find somewhere based on what suits your needs. Do you like to explore the local culture or stick to what you know?
Luckily, here at Holiday Discount Centre we offer both options with our deals, so if you can’t decide on which one to choose, to save you some time and money, we’ve weighed up the pros and cons of each one.
Why Seek Out the Local Culture?
1. See the sights
One reason to travel is of course to explore a new part of the world, and tick the local/historical sites off your list. It’s also a great way to keep you busy on holiday if you’re prone to getting bored easily.
2. Get a taste of the local customs
Of course, discovering a new culture is another benefit of going away from home. Many people have an interest in seeing how the local people live when visiting a new destination. One of the best bits about delving head first into the traditional lifestyle though is definitely trying new foods – and getting the authentic version too!
3. Meet new people
In addition to getting a glimpse of a new way of life, opting for a cultural escape is also a great way to meet, not only new people, but different ones from your normal social circles. Pen pal anyone?
4. Learn the local tongue
Another benefit of choosing a holiday packed with culture is of course brushing up on your conversation skills and trying out the local language. Even if you’re not that confident, giving it a shot (however basic it might be) is a great way to gain brownie points with the residents.
5. Expand your horizons
Finally, being a culture vulture will usually mean that you not only tread new territory, but you make the most of being in foreign surroundings by taking in as much of it as possible – instantly making you a bit more worldly than you were before you stepped off the plane.
Why Stick to What You Know?
1. Make the most of the weather
Sometimes all you want from a holiday is a bit of sunshine. Nothing helps you relax like soaking up the rays and getting a healthy dose of Vitamin D. Just don’t forget the sunscreen!
2. Chill out
If you prefer to relax by the pool or lay on the beach, kicking back on a lounger every so often with a cocktail in your hand, is just what the doctor ordered! Not only can you take it easy, but there are no hectic schedules to follow and you can focus on enjoying a break without any distractions.
3. You’ll always know what to expect
Another reason to stay in your comfort zone on holiday is there will be no surprises – whether that be food wise, situational or socially. Even if you decide to stick to the resort, or eat at places that serve English cuisine, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting which might help you feel a bit more secure and allow you to relax during your time away from home.
4. Alone time/spending time together
By choosing a familiar style of holiday that you’re used to, you can focus on the people that really matter to you – without the social pressures of meeting new people. If you’re travelling alone, having a family break or going on a couple’s retreat, you’ll be able to build upon your current relationships.
5. Saving time and money
Finally, while experimenting with a new culture can be rewarding, you can save both time and money by sticking to what you know you’ll like. We’re not all adventurous, and that’s OK as the most important thing about going on holiday, is that you have a good time.
Cultural break or familiar escape? Which one would you choose?
Images: aniamendrek & salimfadhley via Flickr.
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