Imagine a place where you toughest decision is whether to go to the pool or beach. With an all inclusive resort vacation package that could be the toughest choice you make on your holiday.
At an all-inclusive resort, you pay one price - sit back, relax and enjoy your vacation. Most all-inclusive resorts include:
- Transfers from the airport
- All meals and snacks
- Alcoholic beverages
- Most water sports at the resort
- Resort entertainment; and
- Taxes & tips.
On the down side of all-inclusives, some folks may get a bit weary of dining in the same restaurant night after night, though most resorts are imaginative with theme nights and special meals to vary the fare.
Why choose an all-inclusive resort over another resort?
If you like going to a place and sampling all of the local fare then an all-inclusive resort is probably not for you. If you like to go somewhere, just relax and not worry about taking out your credit card every couple of hours to pay for food, drinks or activities then there is probably an all inclusive resort for you. Also, many all-inclusive resorts are in areas of the world that don't have ready access to a variety of restaurants.
Is airfare included in my all-inclusive price?
Depending on the package you select your all-inclusive price may include the air fare cost. If it does, the air/resort price will include connecting airfare, transfers between the airport and the resort and baggage handling. However, in some instances -- especially at the very last minute -- the resort-only price may be all that is available.
Do I have to tip at an all-inclusive resort?
Tipping is generally not required at all-inclusive resorts because it is included in the total cost of the vacation, and some properties even forbid it. Employees associated with activities, sports or excursions that are not included in your all-inclusive package, such as baggage personnel, tour guides, golf caddies, etc., are customarily tipped. If you have questions about when gratuities are or are not included, feel free to ask your travel counsellor.
Are all-inclusive vacations suitable for single travelers?
All-inclusive vacations are very popular with single travelers, and many resorts offer programs to help singles meet and mingle. Some resorts offer single guest rooms and most offer either a single supplement rate for double staterooms or a single share program that places you with another same sex single at the double occupancy rate.
A few all-inclusives are for couples only and do not accept singles.
Is an all-inclusive vacation suitable for families with kids?
Many resorts are now designed specifically for families, with kids-only facilities, counsellors, daytime activities and nighttime baby-sitting.
Whether an all-inclusive resort is right for you depends on a number of factors. While it's great not to have to worry about the details of your vacation every second of your trip, there may be other priorities that are more important to you. An all-inclusive is a unique type of vacation that you should select if it meets your needs.
