St. Lucians have always enjoyed near limitless travel options, yet we persist, like with our tourism and commercial markets, to be something of a one trick pony type traveller.
The United States represents a close, cheaper-than-most, convenient, familiar, travel option that, to many, serve multiple purposes. To some it is the go-to vacation destination which offers the much-appreciated shopping option. Besides, it is invariably, the seamless direct flight is a key selling point.
Again, much like our commercial markets, we have closed our eyes to other possibilities.
Canada is one such option (not in the winter months) that somewhat looks and feels like the US, with similar shopping options, but slightly sedated. Also, Canada can boast of direct flights adding one hour to your US flying time.
Then there is Mexico and the Central American countries which are excellent as well for shopping and vacation. The issue there is that your easiest travel route may very well be through the US.
And what of South America and the multiple countries on that continent.
Many of us speak of the African continent in terms of history but the countries of the motherland as a destination to visit is the furthest thing from our travel minds. Yet, a cursory glance on the web will reveal the many wonders to behold, not to mention demystifying age-old propaganda about a continent that is a must visit. The drawbacks may be length of travel and cost.
There are also the colonial motherland and its territorial neighbours offering a master-class in travel and its many options. Barring the 8 hours flight and the slightly bloated cost, the United Kingdom is a really interesting option. A very inexpensive Eurostar fare is the only thing between you and a multiplicity of countries including France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
It must be recognized that most destinations have entry requirements, however, if it is acceptable to endure the visa application process of some larger, more frequented territories, the others can be described as a piece of cake.
We have still not spoken about the much-underrated Caribbean travel. While regional travel may not boast exceptional shopping compared to the larger destinations already mentioned, it really possesses the world’s best vacation spots, just ask the average North American tourist. Cuba for example is an untouched tourism gem with cultural and historical value. This vacation destination has been maligned by decades of western propaganda yet still remains more vacation-ready than most. Early in the 21st century, Cuba featured a number of world class resorts including three by Sandals Resorts international.
Now that the marketing presentation on alternative travel destinations is complete, we need to appreciate an equally import aspect of our travel decisions, especially in relation to regional locations.
In much the same way that buying local aids the local economy and encourages the local dollar to endure a longer local lifespan, so must be the thinking on the regional level. After all, the accommodation is exceptional, the flights are available and the proximity is inviting.
With all the talk of visa restrictions and travel bans, is it wise to wait until we are cornered for travel options to wake up and smell another type of coffee.
Contrary to popular belief, St. Lucia and the rest of the region have millions to spend on travel and we can choose to spend it in the region or explore the horizons.