Do ‘all-inclusive’ resorts really include everything?

DAYDREAM ACHIEVER

Zac Wilson is a Certified Travel Advisor, ASTA Verified Travel Advisor, CLIA Master Cruise Counselor, and owner of Daydream Vacations Travel Agency in Granbury. www.DaydreamVacations.com

Do all-inclusive resorts actually include all? What does all-inclusive really mean? Is the experience worth the expense? Is it really a good deal? I hear these questions often.

The truth is there is no standard definition for this term. So how do you determine if the deal is really a good deal? Talk to your professional travel advisor who specializes in all-inclusive resorts. But for all you do-it-yourself travelers, here is what you’re looking for.

The reason some all-inclusive resorts are suspiciously cheap while others seem outrageously priced is the quality of their inclusions. Some properties are a 1-star old and run-down hotel while others are 5-star luxury resort. The comfort of the bed, pillow and linens are a big difference. The location of the resort and the quality of the beach and view are a big factor. Some resorts don’t even have a sandy beach, but rather a rocky shoreline. Others are in an area that struggle to fight the overwhelming sargassum (seaweed) that lines their shores. Resorts on famous beaches will undoubtedly cost more.

Food and beverage are one of the biggest differences. While they all offer you all the food and drinks you care to enjoy, the quality and variety of offerings is very different. Lower cost resorts may only have two or three dining venues with limited menus and the quality of the food and brands of beverages are low rate. Luxurious resorts will have a wide variety of dining venues and a rich menu of gourmet cuisine and top-shelf liquors. If you are a foodie, wine connoisseur, or prefer name brand liquors, then I highly recommend 5-star luxury resort brands like Karisma and Sandals.

The quality of the staff is an important detail. Did you know that the personal butlers at Sandals resorts are trained by the Guild of Professional English Butlers? That’s a luxury that will surely enhance your anniversary or honeymoon.

Many of the low-cost all-inclusive resorts in Mexico have a neighboring sister property of time-share condos. Do you want to be hassled during your vacation to buy a time-share next door?

Your fellow travelers also impact your vacation experience. Do you prefer to travel with large spring break college groups, family reunion groups, or a romantic getaway with other couples seeking privacy? This will impact which resort you choose.

Activities have a big impact on your vacation experience. Onsite inclusions vary a lot between resorts. Some may have a swimming pool, beach volleyball, and a few other standards. Luxury resorts often include scuba, snorkeling, Hobie Cat sailing, golf and more. But read the fine print.

For example, while the greens fees for golf are included at their golf course, you need to either bring your own clubs and shoes or pay a rental fee for equipment. Spa treatments are not included. If you want a massage, facial or pedicure, you will pay extra. And many resorts offer extra add-ons like a private dinner on the beach, photo packages, or off-site activities like a catamaran cruise or swimming with dolphins.

In the end, “all” does not actually mean all. I call these resorts “mostly-inclusive.”

Zac@DaydreamVacations.com | 817-559-7150