Choosing an All-Inclusive Resort - Things to Consider

Can you believe it's already mid-August?!  I've seen holiday decorations in stores already - where does the time go?!! 

Have you been considering staying in an all-inclusive resort this winter? The reality is, not all all-inclusives are the same, and you need to be mindful of this when choosing one. For some people they think that their best bet is to choose the cheapest one, for others luxury is all the rage, and other still fear that they'll choose a place that doesn't give them everything that they're really looking for on vacation. If you’re looking for help in choosing the perfect all-inclusive resort for you, these considerations may assist you in making your choice...

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First, look at the cost for staying there. Yes, you will want to consider the price you're paying. However, don't stop there. Take a look at what that price you're paying gets you.  Unfortunately, the world all-inclusive doesn't necessarily mean “all-inclusive.”  Some resorts will charge you a low price, and then sneak in a bunch of fees for everything from steak at dinner to using your in-room safe. It's important to look at the fine print of what your all-inclusive resort really includes.

1. Are drinks included? If so, what kind of drinks? Sodas and juice? Beer and wine? Top shelf spirits? These items can cause your travel budget to spiral out of control.
   
   
2. Are the prices per person or per couple? Some resorts include phrasing like “price per person based on double occupancy.” Does this mean if you’re a party of three the odd man out in your group will pay more for staying there? Possibly. This is why fine print is important to read and understand.
   
   
3. Does your resort have restrictions for dinner? Some limit your dining choices based on length of stay and/or require dinner reservation to be made each morning OR be stuck at their buffet that night. Others will limit your meals allowing just one visit per day or you may find a surprise bill at the end of your stay for eating more times. Others offer unlimited dining and no reservations needed making your trip even more stress-free. Keep in mind, these resorts do not list all their restrictions on their website, so you have to dig sometimes to find this type of information.
   
   
4. Can you easily go off property to visit the surrounding area? Many all-inclusive resorts have been built in a way that discourages travelers from leaving the property. If you want to explore the area, make sure you are located in an area that won't cost a fortune to taxi into town. 
   
   
5. Are tips included? What about snacks or room service? Do they restrict your pool towel use? Some require you to exchange your key card for a towel and must return it or be charged a fine for lost card. Do they require you to wear wristbands (which may be a disappointment if you're going for a wedding OR romantic celebration and plan to have photos taken - nothing worse than having a beautiful memory show a plastic wrist-band in your framed photo)
   

Next, read reviews on each of the resorts that you are considering. It's no secret that in today's internet fueled world, tourists are ready, willing, and able, to tell the truth about the experiences that they're having at destinations worldwide. That gorgeous photo that you saw of that spectacular looking resorts on that private island, could in fact be massively photoshopped and look nothing like the photo in real life.  At least real travelers are sharing the photos of what the place was actually like... which could be considered a blessing and a curse :)  Just make sure to take in the information with caution, as not everyone has the same level of expectations or tastes, among many other factors accounting for their positive or negative thoughts.
 
Work with a reputable travel agent that will tell you what you really need to know about the all-inclusive resorts that you're considering. Destinations HD has the 411 on the hottest, most reliable, safest and overall knowledge on quality all-inclusive resorts that provide the best value. We only work with the best in the business, and we pass our personal experience and knowledge of these spectacular destinations onto you.

By not going in with your eyes wide-opened, you could end up with a second-rate vacation. We want to help you avoid that. When you’re ready to book your all-inclusive getaway, call Destinations HD at (913) 244-9195. We’ll help ensure you get the most bang for your travel buck and have a quality experience!