A few years back, I was deep into building a travel website for Barbados, showcasing the island’s beauty, culture, and laid-back charm. A local hotel owner, one of our clients, popped into the office to check out the latest design.
She loved it overall… but had one very specific gripe: “Why do you web designers always use palm trees? It’s such a cliché!”
I laughed, then motioned toward the window – “You mean like… those?” There were half a dozen palms swaying just outside, practically within arm’s reach. She remained unconvinced.
Fast forward about twenty minutes. My phone rings. It’s her.
She’s laughing.
Turns out, on her drive back to the hotel, she started really seeing the island again – with fresh eyes. Palm trees everywhere 👀! Lining the roads. Guarding the beaches. Sprouting from backyards. She said she gave up counting after fifty 😆
Sometimes we stop seeing what’s all around us, just because it’s always been there.
Familiarity dulls our perception.
But once you pay attention, you gain a new appreciation of those familiar sights.
The site launched, palm trees and all!
And the 🌴 still makes a regular appearance in our social media.
Sometimes, a cliché is just the truth in disguise.
Obligatory palm trees to wrap up this true story… 😁
Find your ideal Barbados accommodation...
