About Outside the Resort
Why Outside the Resort?
The concept of this website has come to us slowly over time as we've traveled throughout the Caribbean and Central America since 2010. We realized that life and experiences in these places can be very different for people who stay “inside the resort” compared to those who stay “outside the resort”. For example, our view of the Caribbean was much different before we actually started traveling there and saw beyond the staged photographs.
We’ve realized that information is lacking online for those wanting to research and experience life “outside the resort”. A lot of what you will find when researching travel to the Caribbean, Central America, or other places around the world are staged photographs of property and beaches put out by the travel industry. This is fine, but what are those locations really like? Advertisers and marketers can gloss over the true depth of culture and what life is like at these locations.
Where did it all begin?
Tristan's love for travel, geography, maps and the outdoors started when he was young going on family trips around the state of Utah and the western US. The summer after high school graduation he spent working in Southern Utah for the road crew and hanging out (literally – on a rope) in Zion National Park. Then at age 19 he learned Spanish and went to live in Honduras for 2 years as a representative for his church. Needless to say that experience was very educational and allowed him to see the "real" Honduras and he loved it!
Tristan was lucky enough to have a job that has allowed him to travel throughout the Caribbean, Central America, and other countries around the world. The term “outside the resort” always came to mind as he would see these places because he would wonder if any “tourist” that came here actually knew what life was like outside their resort? Beyond knowing what life was like, what could someone do to experience that location more fully and not be tied down to one property? We are happy to share our experiences and hope to help others broaden their experience – yes, outside the resort.
Let us help you experience life - outside the resort.
Staying at a resort can make travel more convenient in some aspects; you don’t have to research or plan much of anything yourself because your resort will take care of providing all of the activities, dining options, and transportation for you. However, there is much value in experiencing life outside the resort walls. Not only are travel expenses much lower when you stay outside of the resort, but you also gain a “richer” experience with the local culture and people that truly enhances your world experience, and in turn your knowledge of yourself. You may feel nervous about doing it on your own, but it can be done. We are here to help and inspire!
The freedom to be on your schedule and not at the mercy of a resort timetable is worth the extra time in trip planning and is an additional benefit of staying outside the resort. However, it can be difficult to find the information you need in order to feel confident in your ability to plan and travel on your own. We share our first-hand experience outside the resort walls to help you achieve and feel confident in the type of travel you desire.