Everything You Need to Know Before Booking an All Inclusive Resort
Planning your next vacation and thinking of an all inclusive resort? All inclusive resorts are an excellent, affordable option when choosing a place to stay for your next exotic getaway. These hotels are packed with unlimited amenities and perks ranging from flowing pina coladas, paddle board yoga, an onsite gym and endless buffets. With so many awesome bonuses it’s hard to see the downside, however there are a few concerns to keep in mind- and prepare for- when you choose an all inclusive destination for your next vacation.
Pros
Budget Friendly: As the name states, everything is included. Accommodations, transportation, food, beverages and even tipping are already included in one economical price. Leave your cash in the hotel safe and rest easy knowing you can explore the grounds with a flash of your wristband to gain access to food, drinks and fun activities.
Convenience: Planning is a breeze. Transportation to and from the airport is often included in an all inclusive package. There’s no need to shell out extra cash to get a cab to and from the airport. Forgot your beach towel? No worries! The hotel offers complimentary beach and pool side towels, umbrellas and chairs. Planning to get a workout in? You can get your cardio fix in with a view. Expect group workouts ranging from yoga, pilates, spin and cardio dance classes. If you’re traveling with kids, the resort will have on-site daycare and kid-friendly activities. You can also rest easy knowing that you’ll feel safer at a secure location.
Activities: All inclusive resorts are branded toward the type of traveler you are. Singles, couples, families, and even foodies can find the spot that suits their lifestyle and interests. Horseback riding, scuba diving, parasailing, jet skiing, kayaking and a ride on a glass bottom boat are just a few of the countless options that you can look forward to.
Food and Beverages: The options are infinite. You’ll encounter a bounty of food choices from the buffet. If the buffet isn’t your style, make a reservation at one of the many speciality restaurants. You’ll never be without your drink of choice. All inclusives are renowned for their expertise and attention to amazing cocktails. Not sure what to drink? Your bartender will have a variety of recommendations for you!
Cons
Food And Beverages: All you can eat buffets can often suffer in quality when made to feed a large amount of vacationers. If you’re expecting to find authentic local fare, think again. All inclusives tend to go heavy on pizza, burgers, mashed potatoes, pastas and pastries.
Experience: All inclusives are known for being crowded and less tranquil than other resorts. You may be able to carve out a quiet space for yourself but you can expect the beaches, pools and bars to fill quickly. Noise levels may be an issue as well as long lines. There’s a chance that without a planned off-site excursion, you may never actually see the place you’re visiting! All inclusives are so convenient that you may have no need to leave, but you’ll also miss out on the local people, culture and flavor of your destination.
Size: Long walks along the beach take on a whole new meaning when it comes to an all inclusive vacation. These locations are often so large that shuttles are required to get from one end of the hotel to another.
There’s Always A Catch: Read the fine print. Tempted to go for a massage or need to have some laundry done? That may not be included in the all inclusive price. You may need to dish out a few extra dollars for telephone services, spa services, and off site excursions.
If you have your heart set on an all inclusive, do your research! Compare and contrast your options to find the best bang for your buck. Research the area you’re staying in, check out the restaurants that are available in town (in case you’d prefer choices outside of the buffet), and make sure that the city you’re visiting is safe and walkable if you choose to venture away from the hotel grounds.
