What is it with TV folks recommending taking a decent book on holiday ?

Question

Hi Folks,

Well, when I travel to distant places, such as Bournemouth or Hong Kong, the last thing I would pack is a book.

I have plenty of time to read at home, so why do I see folks around a pool, or on the beach, wasting their time staring into text, when they could be enjoying local culture, places, people, language, traditions etc.?

It is beyond me.

Any notions ?

Bob

Answer 1

Don't knock it, I have just read three books on a nice relaxing holiday in North Devon. It makes a change having the time.

Answer 2

Some people go on vacation to sight-see (like you) and others go to relax.

Answer 3

I always get through loads of books on holiday.  I love sightseeing but there are days when you want a break and just sit by a pool or beach and chill out.  I find it very boring just lying around staring into space.  They are also handy when travelling through a boring bit of countryside or, if like me, you have to travel with a child and cannot be on the go all the time.

Answer 4

I think its for sun-worshippers who like to be doing something while frying on the beach

Answer 5

In all honesty?

Simple...there are too many places where you'll be waiting in a line while on vacation, and it's better to read than sit/stand there looking bored and wishing for something to happen. You also don't scream (quite as loud) "TOURIST" to all and sundry. Besides, once you've seen the inside of a bus terminal, there's not much to see in an bus terminal/station anywhere else.

As for immersing oneself in anything when basking on a beach/pool...that's kinda difficult, and most people don't like spending every minute of every day while on vacation "doing" something. They want to decompress/relax.

Good Luck!