Don't be ashamed to stay at a resort

BACKPACKERS may turn their noses up, but take note: you can enjoy a resort trip without losing your soul.

Who knows where you'll end up with the many resort deals available. Picture: Karma Samui

THESE days, some holiday resort deals make even the most experienced indie-traveller drool. And guess what? It's ok.

So, backpackers, budget-traveller's and everyone in between, you'd better take note - travel websitebootsnall has revealed how to enjoy a resort trip without losing your soul:

Choose your spot
If you're used to dropping in at the nearest hostel or jumping on a bus to you-don't-know-where, choosing to stay at a resort can make your adventurous spirit go cold, even if the weather is perfect. But a bit of homework can help.

The ideal resort would have a good mix of activities on site and allow you the freedom to leave the property safely.

If the resort sits out in the middle of no-man's-land while the nearest populated area is 45 minutes away, chances are you'll feel more like a prisoner than a traveller.

Avoid all-inclusive
Nothing makes you feel stifled more than eating at the same place, looking at the same menu, the same food, day after day. Sounds more like home than a holiday.

Going with an all-inclusive package might be tempting, especially if you're a budget traveller who appreciates quantity over quality. But often you'll be bored stiff with your options after the second day, mainly because some resorts only provide one restaurant.

Instead, seek out some interesting spots to eat close by. Many islands boast at least few restaurants and tiny ramshackle joints that offer the opportunity to sample local ingredients in regional recipes.

Seek out the locals
The majority of independent travellers long to learn about the places they visit. They seek out opportunities to absorb the local culture, history and flavour of their destinations. A resort shouldn't cramp that style.

Chat with some of the locals working at the resort as well as those you come into contact with off-site. Ask them where they go, and what they like to do. Most will jump at the chance to share stories and enlighten you on everything from island folklore to nightlife hotspots or, sometimes more importantly, they'll tell you what to avoid.

Leave
Most islands are breathtakingly beautiful. And while many resorts take up prime real estate on the best locations, there are still private, undiscovered treasures just begging to be uncovered.

If you can afford it, rent a car, bike or scooter even if just for a day to explore aimlessly and discover your own paradise. Can't afford it? Check with the resort - some may have easy access to affordable public transportation such as a local bus or van service. Though you may not have the same freedom as with your own wheels, it still might accomplish the goal of getting you out and about.

Be adventurous
Many resorts have an abundance of activities available to entertain you. Whether your vice is snorkelling, parasailing or a relaxing sunset cruise, there is almost always (as the brochure says) "something for everyone".

You should partake, but don't limit yourself to just the fun activities on the property. Branch out and explore more exciting and adventurous options all over the island. Why not make this the time to engage in a once-in-a-lifetime experience? Swim with stingrays, hand-feed the fish, get up-close-and-personal with dolphins, go horse riding on the beach, take a bio-bay tour, climb a waterfall.

Be flexible
Everyone wants and needs to relax. After all, it is a holiday. Getting the most out of your down time requires a little flexibility on your part.

Get the lay of the land when you first arrive at the resort. Find out when the beach or pool areas are the most crowded and plan your time accordingly.

While everyone else is eating lunch, maybe you can grab a book and park your bott in an empty lounge chair.

When the crowds are getting to you, make that the time for a leisurely stroll on the white sand through the warm, foamy, surf. Getting close to nature will make you feel more human and less like a cookie-cutter version of a traveller.

Also, you're not selling out if you make the most of the things and head for the spa or sneak into that yoga class on the beach!

 Travel tips: Avoid looking like a tourist