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Grant Matossian, CPA, CFP
Grant Matossian, CPA, CFP
CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® Professional

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Personal Wealth and Finance


Chasing Peace in a Vacation Resort

May 1, 2022

Many people are updating their Canadian passports at an unprecedented rate. Many are hoping to take a holiday in this current calm-down since Covid lockdowns. Many want to fly to see their relatives who possibly were too fearful to fly for quite some time.

Usually many also want to get away in January and February to get some sun rays to escape the cold of winter. Hopefully, 2023 will offer more health freedom to do so. If you are over pre-retirement, and over 55 years of age, you may be less into adventure and prefer to have a calming rest in a warmer climate.

Some of the positive aspects of vacationing in a resort are:

  • Security is a priority focus.
  • A higher level of class and cleanliness compared to most 3-4 star hotels.
  • You do not need a car if you fly to the location.
  • All amenities are in one area, including 1-2 expensive eateries.
  • You generally can get a kitchenette where in you can cook your own meals (you may need to consider the location of grocery stores to allow for this convenience to be practical).
  • You may have a private balcony.
  • The staff are generally very friendly.
  • There is often lots to do for guests.
  • The resort rooms are often owned by private individuals with a reputable hotel chain such as Hilton or Marriott.

The potential of a clamorous downside

Here are some warnings that may help you plan when going to a southern resort if you are trying to escape far from the maddening crowd. Many pre- or early-retired folks are in pursuit of a peaceful resort vacation.

55 Plus and resort music The demographic of age 55 plus, may appreciate music such as a mix of classic rock, crooner like Frank Sinatra, lite jazz, romantic works like Flamenco guitar without singing, and some appreciate inspiring lite classical now and again.

Be warned You may find that the predominance of resort music is of a less relaxing Justin Bieber/Miley Cyrus genre – teenage pop singers resounding in all the foyers, and pool areas. If you don’t prefer this type of music be prepared to be agitated as it can be repeated over and over again – coming of age lyrics in music can grate after a week. Orlando Disney area resorts, which cater to a younger family demographic with children, may prefer this music. Though many are off-site during the day this music may continue.

If you want to escape for peaceful solace Many empty nesters, business leaders and professionals like calm repose – places of solace to read and relax away from the din of business complexities.

Be warned There may be few if any calm areas to sit and read in the best resorts you can find on Tripadvisor, especially if the weather is inclement and many people end up in one area to relax. Cafeteria/coffee shop areas can have folks who may be very chatty; workers tend to talk to another about life to pass their time – and this can often be overheard.

Game room areas Often chess and checker sets and pool tables (if you like such games) can be found in resorts.

Be warned Quieter games may be placed alongside children’s arcade games with repetitive electronic music. You may like the Beatles but “Yellow Submarine” belting out of an arcade game used redundantly might drive you bonkers. Don’t be fooled – these arrangements can be found in many 5 star hotels and go unnoticed by the majority.

Concierge guidance You may be looking for some guidance as you look for a good restaurant. This is generally not a problem in a 5 star hotel, but it may take on a different mandate in a resort.

Be warned Many resorts are generally located in areas with many consumer attractions. If you are near Disney in Orlando, or a casino in Las Vegas this can involve a large scope of parks and attractions where you can spend a small fortune in days.

You may also be wooed to look at the resorts timeshare opportunities. If so, you may face some of the hardest sales pitches to tempt you to spend thousands of dollars on the spot.

One quiet area There needs to be at least one area of refuge from the background noise pumped into resorts by speakers in every area including gardens and shrubbery. I understand that some like karaoke and trivia games. Some people needing a vacation break, might not appreciate this.

Be warned Look for a porch or gazebo area with comfortable sitting/lounging furniture that is quieter. 5 star resorts are notorious for cleanliness, but alas, pressurized water sprayers for roof cleaning, or rug cleaner motors can run all day and late into the evening. This can get on the nerves of one in search of a quiet or romantic vacation.

Others may like to play it by ear when travelling, booking hotels on the fly, though this can be dangerous in places like Mexico. Many are using TripAdvisor to get an idea of the place they want to visit. Expedia or Google Flights are good sites to book flights, or a travel agency they trust. Another option is to use Airbnb. Regardless which path you choose be careful to go over the list in this article if you are looking for quietude. There are resorts for every age and temperament. You can access and assess resorts at http://www.rci.com Note Warning: Expedia and certain sites may not return your payments if you want to cancel a flight or resort.

 

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