I’m often asked if I think staying at an all-inclusive resort is really worth it. Without hesitation I always answer with “yes, definitely”! We choose all-inclusive resorts for almost all of our vacations. With an all-inclusive vacation you truly get to sit back, relax and enjoy yourself without worrying about things like how much you’re spending or if you’ll find a good restaurant nearby.
Where are all-inclusives located?
Most all-inclusives are located in Mexico and the Caribbean however, there are a few in the United States (including Hawaii), Phuket and Bali. The resorts are often set on sprawling grounds providing ample space for guests to move around and experience everything from poolside lounging, activities, dining and evening entertainment without even leaving the property.
What does “all-inclusive” mean?
All-inclusive resorts are properties where most if not all of the main elements of the trip are pre-paid. Though it varies from hotel to hotel, typically rates at all-inclusive resorts include your hotel room, unlimited meals and snacks, unlimited alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages and non-motorized water sports. Keep in mind, not all all-inclusive resorts are the same, and some packages include more things than others. Read on for a deeper look into what you can expect.
Roundtrip airport transfers
Nothing beats getting to a destination and knowing your transportation and its costs have been pre-arranged. Transfers won’t be included at every all-inclusive resort, but they are at many. If not included, resorts often have transfer services available for a minimal fee.
Accommodations
Similar to traditional hotels and resorts, all-inclusive resorts have options for different tiers of rooms and suites for guests to choose from which vary in size and have a range of amenities included. Some will have an extra tier of rooms often called “club,” “preferred,” or “elite” levels that have enhanced amenities such as private lounges, special restaurants, upgraded rooms, and even butlers. All room levels will often have a fully stocked mini fridge, which is free to use 24-hours a day! Contents do vary by resort. We’ve stayed at places that have water, juice and soda readily available and others that also include beer, wine and snacks.
Food
One of the main perks of an all-inclusive is being able to have all the food you want whenever you want it! In my experience, most all-inclusives have at least one buffet (available for all meals), a few sit down restaurants (often French, Oriental/sushi, Mexican, steak, seafood and/or local cuisine) and a grill and/or pizza place for snacks in between meals. Many also have coffee shops with pastries and a location to get ice cream or other treats. Depending on where you go food can be just ok or 5-star gourmet dining. There could be as few as two to as many as fifteen restaurants and you even occasionally get the added option to dine at sister properties nearby.
Most foodies will love this type of all-you-can-eat vacation! Dining at all-inclusives often includes themed options, which make it possible to give your taste buds a worldwide perspective. Plus, you have the option to try as many different things as you choose without the guilt of eating it all or a huge bill at the end.
Beverages
Most all-inclusives include unlimited alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages including beer, wine, spirits, coffee, juice, soda and water. Besides your basic or well known drink concoctions, many bars also include an extensive menu of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage items including unique frozen drinks or new drink combinations – I love a refreshing mojito or banana daiquiri. Some even have specialty drinks just for children. Our children really enjoy the freedom of swimming up to a pool bar and ordering a virgin daiquiri!
Keep in mind not all all-inclusive resorts include alcoholic drinks as part of the package (although most do) and many don’t include top shelf liquors so be sure to read the fine print of what’s included.
Watersports
What’s a beach resort without extensive water sport options, especially when you’re traveling with kids! Most all-inclusive resorts include all the equipment you need for non-motorized water sports like hobie cats (small sailboats), snorkeling gear, boogie boards, windsurfing, stand up paddle boards, aquatrikes and kayaks. We’ve even stayed at a few resorts that included motorized sports such as water skiing, banana boats and tubing. If you’re a PADI-Certified scuba diver, some all-inclusives actually include all the diving equipment you’ll need as part of your package.
Land sports
The options are endless for land sport activities. You’ll find options including basketball courts, golf (occasionally with green fees included), beach volleyball, lawn chess, croquet, soccer, day & night tennis, board games, shuffleboard, billiards and table tennis. Some places also have bicycles to borrow or nature trails to explore.
Waterparks
Although a water park might not always be included, a few resorts have added extra water fun to their property. This could include anything from large slides that adults can also ride to a small splash pad for children. Most are included but some do come with an added fee.
Entertainment
Ready for round the clock options for entertainment, from early in the day until late at night, all-inclusives have something for everyone to do. You can normally find activity schedules posted or delivered to your room daily.
Days offer countless activities often including bingo, cooking classes, pool exercises, dance classes or the option to join in on a competition – maye beach Olympics or a belly flop contest. Nighttime usually means attending a theme night like a Caribbean style beach party, listening to live bands or watching stage shows. You can choose to stay by the beach soaking in the sun or take part in as many activities as you choose.
Children’s amenities
Many all-inclusive resorts feature kids and teen clubs. There’s often dedicated buildings featuring play areas for younger children and items such as pool tables or video games for teens. Children can be dropped off for a period of time or join in for individual activities. Activity directors organize crafts or beach events – my kids have taken part in scavenger hunts and sand castle building competitions. Many offer free childcare and the option to bring your child to meals. Besides clubs, resorts often have designated kids pools or big items like trampolines, trapeze, rock climbing walls or surf simulators.
Tips, taxes and gratuities
At most all-inclusive resorts tips, taxes and gratuities are not completely included in your stay, so you will need to bring some cash to tip staff at the bars, restaurants and front desk if you choose. However tips are strictly forbidden at some resorts so again it’s important to read the fine print!
Extras
In this time of covid travel many resorts are including the costs of required covid tests. Tests are done right on property with no disruption to your vacation.
What’s not included?
Although the term is ‘all-inclusive,’ not everything is always included. Exclusions often include spa, golf fees, motorized sports, excursions, premium liquor, Wi-Fi or an a la carte restaurant.
Do your homework beforehand and study the list of rate inclusions. If it’s unclear, reach out to your travel agent or the hotel before you leave to confirm if there are any extra charges for specific restaurants, beverages and activities.
Choosing an all-inclusive resort
There’s a vast number of all-inclusive resorts, so deciding which is best suited for your needs can be challenging. All seem to offer quality accommodations, endless activities, and great food. But there are differences. In general, couples looking for romance and quality time together will want to consider adults-only chains Sandals, Secrets, or Couples. Families will be interested in Beaches, Hard Rock, Grand Velas or Sunscape properties, while fun-seeking singles can party till dawn at the clothing-optional Hedonism II or at certain Club Med properties. Other chains like Riu, Club Med, and Iberostar offer a range of options for all groups and ages. Always read reviews from other travelers and check out the *questions to ask at the end of the post for what to ask to help narrow down your search.
In conclusion
Choosing an all-inclusive allows you to make full use of your hotel and to try things you might otherwise not. Maybe try a new food, a game of tennis or even scuba diving! Plus if you’re travelling with children, they’ll be able to experience new and exciting things without the risk of wasting money. All-inclusive vacations are a true escape from daily life, with the added luxury of not having to worry about what the bill will be at the end of your vacation. There are no limitations when it comes to eating out in the finest restaurants, enjoying live music and entertainment all while spending time at a beautiful beach.
Obtaining answers to the following questions should give you a good idea of what is really included at a resort and help you to narrow down your choices.
*Questions to ask:
- Are airport transfers included?
- Are (alcoholic) beverages included? Do they serve premium brand liquors?
- Can you eat and drink what you want 24 hours a day?
- How many restaurants does the resort have? What kind of food do they serve?
- Is the in-suite minibar stocked and included?
- What water sports are included?
- Does the resort include activities for kids?
- Does the resort offer free admission to its waterpark?
- Is the Wi-Fi included, both in-room and the common areas?
- Are gratuity, tips and taxes included?
- Do you offer free, onsite covid tests?
Our kids really enjoy exploring the resort, getting drinks at different bars and grabbing food (pizza, burger, chicken, ice cream) by themselves. We enjoy that there’s not extra room charges for all their splurges.
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