When you choose to stay at an all-inclusive resort, it typically means that you never have to see your wallet after checking in. You can safely relax and indulge in as much or as little as you’d like, never having to worry about prices adding up or dealing with a massive bill at the end of a vacation. Knowing that most of your vacation needs are already included and taken care of in the price you pay allows you to kick back and relax the minute your vacation begins.
Accommodations
Whether you’re looking for a room for two or several beds for several heads, your all-inclusive resort will have you covered. Most offer a range of room packages, from a basic 1 room, 1 bed, all the way up to a suite. Transportation to and from the airport will sometimes be included, though most resorts offer it for an additional price.
Food & Drink
For many travelers, indulging in the endless food and drink options are some of the best perks of staying at an all-inclusive resort. Breakfast, commonly buffet style, lunch, and dinner are typically included in the price. You may also find 24 hour room service already included at your resort, which is great news for those of you who need a midnight snack! The food choices range from common American comforts i.e. fried chicken, french fries, fresh salad bars, to local cuisine and world-class options. You’ll often find themed restaurants at your resort, covering cuisine from Italian, Japanese, French, and beyond.
Whether you’re greeted upon check-in with your favorite cocktail, or swim up to the bar in one of the resort’s pools, drinks are another perk of going all-inclusive! After all, you’re there to unwind, kick back, and relax. Most all-inclusive resorts include soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, though some of the top-shelf choices may cost additional. The resorts listed on All Inclusivist will, at a minimum, include soft drinks and the basics when it comes to alcohol (wine, beer, liquor).
Tips & Taxes
Unless you feel inclined to, don’t worry about shelling out any tips while you’re on vacation. All-inclusive resorts typically include gratuities and taxes in the price you pay upfront. In fact, some resorts tell their employees not to accept tips, while others acknowledge that it’s not expected, but always appreciated.
Activities & Entertainment
One of the best parts about a vacation is getting to experience something you never would have back at home. All-inclusive resorts include a wide range of activities and entertainment for their guests of all ages. At several resorts, unlimited water sports, games, land sports, golf, and nightly entertainment is included in the price of your stay. Certain amenities, such as spa treatments, guided tours, and private dinners may cost additional, depending on your resort.
You’ll never have to hear another “I’m bored” from your kids while staying at an all-inclusive resort, especially if it’s geared towards accommodating families. Included in most resorts are kid-friendly activities that will keep them entertained from morning till evening. Whether it’s a kids club, a water park, or arcade rooms, your children will have just as many opportunities for fun as you will.
What’s Not Included in an All-Inclusive Resort?
The term “All-Inclusive” can often lead vacationers to believe that anything and everything will be included in the price they pay. However, it may be common that some items are excluded and will cost extra.
Certain Amenities
Use of additional amenities, such as the golf range, the spa, motorized water sports, and local excursions can sometimes add additional costs to the price you’ve already paid for your stay.
Premium Food
Although your three meals a day will typically be included, the price you pay may not cover all restaurants at the resort. Certain resorts may also charge extra for premium food items. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so it is highly recommended to ask for a list of premium foods that are excluded and will cost extra upon checking in at your resort. This will help you to avoid any additional surprise costs at the end of your vacation.
Premium Alcohol
Most vacationers are fine with the standard alcohol choices that are included at several all-inclusive resorts. However, guests are sometimes surprised to learn that the price they’ve paid doesn’t always include alcohol, especially the premium, top-shelf liquor. There may also be an additional charge for premium beverage brands. Again, it is strongly advised to ask for a list of premium alcohol excluded in the price you’ve already paid upon checking in.
Let’s recap. All-inclusive resorts typically include your accommodations, food and drink (often soft drinks, beer, wine, and liquor), gratuities and taxes, as well as activities and/or entertainment. If your resort is along the beach, it will usually include non-motorized water sports, such as kayaking or snorkeling. You may find that additional activities and amenities will not be included, therefore costing you additional fees. Meals and drinks are included at an all-inclusive resort, covering your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Premium food and beverage options can sometimes be offered at an additional cost. If you’re planning to travel with kids, the price you pay will also typically include a kid’s club and other kid-friendly activities to occupy them throughout your stay.
To help you find the best all-inclusive resort for your next vacation, visit our All-Inclusive Resort Search to get started.