Come for the Beach; Stay for the Culture
How often do you set off on a shopping trip with a list of items to purchase, only to return home with things that weren't even on that list? It happens frequently, says Dr. Ross G. White in his Psychology Today article. There's even a name for this experience: The Diderot Effect. You purchase one item, and it triggers the urge to buy something you really want, even though it's not on your list.
Named for the 18th century French philosopher Denis Diderot, “the Diderot Effect highlights how one new acquisition can trigger a cascade of further retail consumption,” White writes. Is there an upside to this? There is—when the decision you impulsively made to abandon your list turns out to be a game changer. Travelers experience this frequently. Plan a trip. Make a list. Then, something happens and that list winds up in the trash because something more exciting presents itself.
Isabelle came to Belize for the beach, then fell for the culture!
Isabelle’s goal of finding a resort that maximized her beach time and offered her an all inclusive package meant her goal of enjoying a carefree escape was accomplished the moment she picked Belizean Dreams Resort in Hopkins for her sojourn. Her choice proved fortuitous, and it came with a bonus: She found vacation deals on the resort’s website that made her beach escape affordable, too.
Wandering into Hopkins on the second day of her visit, she found herself intrigued by the people she met, the music, food, crafts, and blended culture made up of people with Arawak, African, French, English, and Spanish roots. So fascinated by everything she discovered, Isabelle’s beach time morphed into a litany of fun activities that included drum lessons, culinary lessons, and so many other adventures, she barely used the sunscreen products she packed or wore the second swimsuit she brought along.
What will you discover about yourself at Belizean Dreams?
Isabelle is still incredulous that the beach dream that drove her to the Caribbean resulted in the rich and fascinating cultural adventure that re-defined her expectations. Open yourself up to Belize’s cultural riches, and it can happen to you too. You may even step outside your comfort zone to engage in these escapades:
- Challenge yourself to zipline, cave tubing or rappelling tours
- Wander the jungle accompanied by a knowledgeable guide where wildlife encounters thrill and delight
- Become obsessed with Maya temples of all sizes and styles
- Indulge in a “triple delight” cultural tour that includes stops at waterfalls, chocolate and butterfly farms.
- Horseback ride through a jungle. Read the entire tour menu. You'll be impressed.
Will you still have time to hit the beach? Of course—either all inclusive package makes sure of that. Treat yourself to savings. Fun. And unexpected surprises that would delight Diderot as much as the excitement waiting for you. Is this the year you discover a new version of yourself?
