Sometimes when we go on vacation (as seen in the picture above), we just want to be in a serene space, enjoy the scenery and feel like a million bucks. Note: This article is NOT about the people I've met during our family vacations. I guess you can say we've been lucky not to run into anyone that fits the categories below.
For some people, their vacations do not always go according to plan because there are always a set of persons who indirectly affect your pleasurable trip. Whether it is at your final destination or on your way there, these people are sure to mar your vacation experience.
They are:
1. Unsupervised kids - I get it, parenting is hard and even parents need a break from their children on a vacay. But having screaming children stuck with you on a long ride from Calabar to Afi Mountain or running around the Omu resort unchecked is just awful. It is frustrating to other guests when it seems the parents are oblivious to the nuisance their children create for others. If you can; intervene. You can call the parent’s attention to it or engage/caution the children if they will listen.
2. Loud angry guests - Bad service is hard to ignore and some establishments lack a standard of excellence. This type of tourists expect a lot and would do anything to get what they paid for. Sometimes rather than take customer’s complaints as valid, some staff turn a deaf ear or clap back. If you can, step in and diffuse the situation by mediating. Harsh words can be cruel, so try not to reciprocate whatever negative energy or words being thrown around. Soft words turn away wrath. If an employee got berated, call them aside and encourage them with a positive affirmation.
3. Attention seekers - These want to show off their skills, other times, it’s just who they are. They could have a loud personality or maybe they are self-centred. It’s either they are acting up or they may be inappropriately dressed like wearing bralletes with bum shorts on a Rainforest Safari. There is no point giving in to their charade, just avoid them if you can. Get away from any vicinity where they are by taking a walk or fixing an excursion trip out of the resort. If you are stuck with them on a trip to your destination, just ignore them.
4. Excessive PDA Couple - some people have no problem being touchy-feely in public. But it can get uncomfortable for others around. A little external romance is okay, like holding hands, a light peck, those are nice. But being pressed to a corner smooching in the pool while others are swimming or on Tarkwa Bay beach when families with kids are also hanging out there is too much. If you notice it is making you and others uncomfortable and also think, “Get a Room”, best to let a staff at the resort call them to order. Otherwise, excuse yourself from that vicinity.
5. Space Hoarders - there is nothing more annoying than to get to any place like Epe Resort and see a bunch of unused chairs with items on it when there is no chair for you to sit on. You could politely ask the hoarders who are keeping seats if someone is using it. Sometimes, they may just be propping their bags on the chair when the chair is actually free. But other times, they may be keeping it for people who may not show up or use it. To avoid causing trouble, you can ask the resort staff for extra seats.
6. Quarrelling companions - These people may not necessarily be shouting at each other but the shade in their conversation can be distracting especially if you are within earshot from them. Other times, it is the passive aggression they exhibit that might affect the mood of everyone around them. The key is to avoid being anywhere they are. If they are next door to you and their verbal conflict is affecting your peace of mind, lodge a complaint at the front desk so a staff of the resort can tell them to keep the noise down.
7. The photo freaks - Taking pictures is cool, but having people push you aside just to take a picture isn’t. Photo freaks don’t care who they are inconveniencing as long as they get the shots they want. They may even be oblivious to you waiting for them to move out the way to take your picture. It is particularly annoying if you are in front of a monument/structure when this happens like Kajuru Castle. If they are using a tablet that is blocking your view, politely ask them to lower their hands, let them know they are in the way. In case that doesn’t work, ask the tour guide for alternate places with a better view. If they are using a selfie stick, find a different angle where they won’t show and snap your picture. But if they are in a prime stop and taking too long with their shots, let go and photobomb them.
If you ever find yourself becoming one of these terrible of tourists, stop and reconsider how it makes those around you feel. The whole point of identifying behaviours that can ruin other people’s vacation is to learn to be considerate of others. Strive to be someone whose company is enjoyable.
Do you have a story to share about a nuisance encountered during any of your vacation? Do share…
