What comes to mind when you think of all-inclusive resorts? Do you imagine sitting by a pool with an umbrella drink not having a care in the world except for when you’re going to take your next siesta? Or do you picture a place where you just show up and enjoy your vacation without spending any extra money? If so, then you’re not alone. Many people believe that all-inclusive resorts are exactly what we just described.
While all-inclusive resorts can be a great way to unwind and escape your daily hustle-and-bustle schedule, there are some things you need to know before booking your trip. In this blog post, we will discuss what people think all-inclusive resorts are and what they are not.
Common Misconception: All-Inclusive Resorts Are Out of My Budget
One of the biggest misconceptions about all-inclusive resorts is that they are always expensive. While it is true that some all-inclusive resorts can be pricey, there are many affordable options available, depending on your budget and what type of resort peaks your interest. Pricing will also depend on various factors such as: the time of the year you travel, the destination location, room category, how many people are in your party, how long you want to stay and the resort’s room availability (i.e. supply/demand).
Usually, the further out you plan, the likelihood that you will find more room categories available for the dates you desire to visit and more optimal pricing. Also, depending on the resort and vacation package, you might be eligible to enter into a payment plan with your travel advisor. This allows you to make incremental payments along the way up until the final payment date. Point being: Do not let the cost deter you from considering this type of vacation, especially if your schedule allows you to plan out in advance vs. last minute.
Common Misconception: All-Inclusive Resorts Are for Couples Only
Another common misconception about all-inclusive resorts is that they are only for couples. This simply is not true. Although there are all-inclusive resorts which cater to adults-only with an ambience geared towards honeymooners, anniversaries and romantic getaways, there are plenty of resorts which are perfect for families, groups of friends or corporate incentive trips.
Various resorts offer a kid’s club, waterslides, land-based games and night time entertainment for families of all ages. If you are traveling with friends, you can find activities from daily exercise classes and pool volleyball to wine tastings and maybe even karaoke. If you are traveling on a work trip, many resorts have venues to host corporate incentive trips with conference rooms of varying sizes as well as an on-site team which can put together special events curated to the needs of your business. All-inclusive resorts can be a great vacation option for individuals, couples, families or groups as there is a huge variety of all-inclusive resorts to choose from throughout Mexico and the Caribbean.
Common Misconception: All-Inclusive Resorts Only Include Access to the Pool/Beach
Many travelers do not realize and take advantage of all the amenities that an all-inclusive resort offers as there is so much more to do than just sit by the pool or beach. Most all-inclusive resorts offer a variety of activities such as golf, tennis, non-motorized water sports, macrame classes and more. Be cognizant that some amenities (such as spa services) are not included in your fare and will come with an extra fee.
Another feature included in your room rate at most all-inclusives is food and drinks. This tends to be one of the key factors for travelers choosing this type of resort. Various buffet and a la carte restaurants are located throughout the resorts offering everything from Italian and Asian Fusion to Mexican and French cuisine. Hyatt Ziva Cancun even has a churro cart. YUM! Some properties will offer additional dining options such as a romantic beach dinner or a chef’s table event for an additional cost. You can also order room service if dining out does not fit your schedule. And yes, alcohol is included at an all-inclusive resort; however, be mindful and watch your alcohol intake, especially on day one. One thing to note, just because the resorts serve drinks also does not mean they carry every brand of alcohol that you prefer.
Overall, there are many choices when it comes to an all-inclusive resort. The key to booking any all-inclusive is to plan ahead with your professional travel agent in order to customize the resort to fit your wants and needs.
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