Fodor's Travel Talk Forums - Ten Tips to Enjoy Your Trip

Realizing that some people save all year for their once-a-year trip, some people can go whenever they please, and some may get to the Caribbean only once in their lifetime, I would like to offer these thoughts on enjoying your trip to the Caribbean. 1. Recognize that you are in a different country with a different culture and respect that. 2. Understand that you may encounter a snafu or two, try to handle it with humor. 3. Treat people with respect. Whether they are staff, concierge, waitstaff, local, housekeeper, fellow traveler, traveling friend, spouse, child, or significant other 4. If you have a problem with a service, calmly state your case and be specific with what you consider an acceptable solution. If you are not satisfied with the response, ask to speak with someone who has the authority to grant your request. If things get heated, or you generally feel disrespected, leave the premises and take a moment to bask in the atmosphere of the island. I'm sure you can find or think of something to calm yourself. Come back a little later and try again. 5. Smile a lot, nod, and make eye contact. 6. Enjoy the experience of new foods, drink, fashion, people, quirks, and everything else you are priviledged to experience. 7. Understand that you are blessed when you have the opportunity to travel and be thankful. 8. Remember that the people who work at helping you have a good time do this as a job. Maybe the fact that they get to live on these islands makes us a little jealous, but it is difficult for a lot of them to make a living and they are trying to do just that. 9. If you do encounter a service person who is unpleasant, ask to speak with someone else. If this not possible, ask the person what you can do to get the results you desire. 10. Never, ever let anyone spoil your vacation for you. It is your choice.