All Inclusive Resorts - Worth It?

The All-Inclusive resort used to be considered the “budget inn” of travel. Images of a rowdy crowd drinking in the Jacuzzi, bland food, forced group activities and limited entertainment was the norm. Today, the All-Inclusive concept has expanded to include unlimited activities such as golf on championship golf courses, gourmet meals, world-class spas, and more upscale and intimate resorts. 

More and more vacationers are looking into All-Inclusives, and the industry is responding. All-Inclusive resorts are increasing in popularity primarily due to time and value. Travel experts and travelers agree  that pre-paying for all the food and drinks ahead of time allows for a more enjoyable getaway because you’re not thinking  about how much you are spending, and you don’t have to worry about carrying your wallet around the resort. In addition, most All-Inclusives can handle setting up tours, excursions, and off-grounds activities for you as well.  All you do is show up! Think of it as a no-hassle, stress-free vacation. 

An All-Inclusive resort usually includes:

• Accommodations
• All meals and snacks
• Room service
• Drinks including wine, beer and spirits
• Daily activities
• Entertainment
• All tips and gratuities and more 

It’s best to choose the resort that has activities and an atmosphere that best matches your interests. Kid-friendly or romantic hideaway? Beach or Rainforest? Historical Ruins or Scuba Diving?  Whatever you’re looking for there’s an All-Inclusive resort just for you! 

I’m a mom of school-aged kids, and the All-Inclusive resort is perfect for us. All-Inclusive family resorts have everything for everyone, young and old. Some of the most popular resorts are located in Mexico and the Caribbean, which are just a short direct flight away. Our family gets great beaches, fun water sports, and awesome age-appropriate kids programs. But wait…there’s more! 

In addition to the “normal” inclusions, you can also expect the following at most family All-Inclusives:

• Family/connecting accommodations
• Kids Club
• Teens Only Club
• Organized games and activities
• Family activities
• Kid-friendly pools and waterparks
• Themed character activities such as the gang from Sesame Street 

One All-Incusive Resort we stayed at featured a campfire and S’mores on the beach for the kids.  Another had youth sized robes and slippers awaiting our arrival, and provided a plate of fresh cookies and milk for turndown every night. One had a bungee trampoline (similar to the one in Citrus Park Mall), and a giant water trampoline just off the beach.  All included! 

We’ve also slipped away for a couples-only trip, and enjoyed that as well.  If you get a chance to get away as “grown ups”, it’s lovely to be able to escape to a place where there are ONLY grown ups!  No swim diapers, no spilled drinks at dinner…just other adults looking to relax and rejuvenate. 

The upfront price may seem high at the beginning, but once you do the math it adds up to a spectacular value. Plus, not having to think about pulling out the credit card or tipping the attendant every single time, well, that’s what a vacation is all about. Effortless and carefree! 

Interested in going All-Inclusive?  Let a Travel Professional do the work for you!  Many of us are trained in the various resorts, and have multiple site visits under our belts.  We can help you narrow the choices, and find the perfect All-Inclusive vacation, personalized for YOU. 

Are All-Inclusives worth it? Yes! More than ever!