I just find an AI to be a generic experience, meaning that except for little bits and pieces, you could be at any tropical location. While Negril is not "authentic", you do get to rub elbows with locals moreso than at an AI.
Also, non AI cons listed, I don't consider cons, personally. But I do agree with the conclusion. It depends on what you're looking for, and whether or not you enjoy researching. If you want marble lobbies, feel it's too much work to explore local grocery stores for booze, etc, and to try out the great restaurants there, AI is probably right for you. I like to eat at a mix of restaurants, a few higher end and the local places - that is one big draw of the non AI stay for me. While I would enjoy good food at an AI also, after sampling some of the non AI options, I would feel I'd be missing out at an AI...sacrificing. I also have no interest in drinking brands of alcohol from home. I drink Jamaican rum, rum cream and red stripe, all of which can be bought cheaply at local stores. I love the freshly squeezed local juices, and love that by purchasing them, I'm directly supporting a local's family. Much of the food served at AIs is imported, especially the big chains like RIU. I like that the small local places purchase ingredients locally. You'll see locals bringing fruit, fish etc to the smaller restaurants. I watched a documentary on all the stacks of food brought in by ships, destined for AI's. In that respect, staying at smaller non AIs is much more authentic.
Either non AI draws you, or it doesn't. No one is going to convince you it's cheaper/better. All you can do is read about people's non AI experiences and see if it draws you, or even impels you to start researching the "perfect" place for you. If you read non AI restaurant recommendations and you can't help but start making your own list of "must try" places YOU want to go, then you'll soon find yourself booking your non AI vacation. If you don't feel it, and it sounds like "work", book the AI package.
. My agent friend sys wait a little bit...she's pretty sure WJ is going to throw down a sale....(I'm getting impatient!!) Where you staying?
Originally Posted by JitterBug
