We humans are naturally curious. We like to explore the less familiar and peep into the unknown. When traveling, we are always looking for something new to see, to do, to experience. In his book Deconstructing Travel, Arthur Asa Berger explains our craving for the unfamiliar. “travelers are human beings who act on curiosity and desire for information and experience about what life in other lands is like”. Exotic sights, sounds, smells, places and events satiate our curiosity as tourists. Berger describes exotic as “the extent that tourists are searching for something different from their everyday lives, the exotic represents the most distant polarity”.
With the goal of quenching the thirst of tourists for exotic adventures, beach resorts provide plenty of opportunities to explore new experiences with extravagant theme nights. Offering a myriad of enticing setups celebrating different lifestyles and cultures, theme nights at beach resorts are quite popular among tourists. These theme nights invite tourists to have a taste of a different life. Resorts feature special dcor, cuisines and music to enhance the exotic mood of the theme of the night. These occasions could be made as elaborate as needed to provide an authentic feel and let their guests discover and experience new cultures and traditions.
For instance, Diani Reef Beach Resort and Spa at Mombasa, Kenya, which has been adjudged the “Most Innovative Retreat in Africa” by the Amarula Awards, organizes four different kinds of theme nights. The African Theme Night celebrates the unparalleled quality of Africa with an atmosphere created as a tribute to the raw and primal nature of the region. Tourists can enjoy the full spirited enthusiasm of African culture with traditional music and food. The colorful theme is setup on the beach or the front lawns to allow the night to be enthused with the energy of open nature.
The Mediterranean Theme Night allows tourists to enjoy dining in true alfresco style. Surrounded by hypnotic music and soothing oriental lighting beside the pool, tourists can indulge in the delicious food of authentic Mediterranean cuisine. With the mesmerizing poolside ambience pervading the senses, relaxation and luxury pamper the tourists.
Sunday Barbeque at Diani Reef Beach Resort is a special afternoon devoted to casual socializing and frivolous enjoyment with live music while enjoying the pleasures of hot smoked dishes on the beach front. Inducing a sense of joyfulness, the relaxed atmosphere entices many tourists to co-mingle and share their experiences with one another.
Finally, the Maharaja Theme gives tourists the ultimate experience of lavishness and luxury. Treated as kings and queens, tourists can spoil themselves as they lie back on plush cushions on royal gaddas (luxurious mattresses) arrange around chowkis (low seating tables) under an elegant shamiana (tent). Offered a variety of rich Indian dishes, tourists should be forgiven for over indulgence.