The details matter.
The hidden gem of a beach; the preferred snorkeling spot of the locals; the quickest way to get from baggage claim to beach (Hmmm; I’m sensing a subconscious inclination back toward the sea, a common condition for those of us living in states whose oceanic features linger only in fossil-form)…
My point is that, when in exploration mode, it’s preferable to search for the more compelling camera perspective, rather than the closest ATM machine. And it’s helpful to know the true travel time, not just the mileage from your hotel or campsite to a day trip destination. When faced with infinite choices and limited time, the shared experiences of others can maximize your adventure.
That pool of knowledge is readily available at VirtualTourist.com. With on-line travel guides, recent photos, and useful tips compiled by like-minded individuals (meaning those that deem travel to be a necessity, just slightly below food, water and shelter), the website has the up-to-the-minute details that you aren’t likely to carry out of your local bookstore.
When the kids and I traveled to Akumal, Mexico last April, I had a single mom’s typical questions. I wanted to expose my three to Mexico’s often vibrant colors, sounds and flavors again, without exposing ourselves to undue risk. While finding my own way through unfamiliar territory can be slightly exhilarating, guiding my treasured offspring through an “uh oh” situation can quickly deteriorate into basic herding. Keep it fun; keep it safe. -And I was very much in favor of saving dollars where reasonable (leaving the more to travel with next time)!
On the Virtual Tourist website, I was able to post practical, detailed questions and get quick responses from recent travelers to the area. Their information gave me the confidence to bypass expensive tour transportation in favor of reliable public transportation at a fraction of the cost, with the added bonus of some priceless exchanges with local residents… We also discovered a popular, book-in-advance catamaran snorkeling trip in the member-written travel guides. I booked a day sail on the FatCat Catamaran while still in the states based on the enthusiastic reviews of some other “Virtual Tourists”, and it proved to be a highlight of our trip!
The website is already giving me lots of ideas for my August get-away. The travel maps of other members, shaded blue with their achieved destinations, are inspiring. If I need more specific information, it will be easy to post a question or e-mail one of the almost 900,000 members. Yeah; I know. It’s kind of like asking for directions. But, not exactly… You can still get lost in your own kind of perfect moment.
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