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Why Choose an All-Inclusive Resort?

What Are All-Inclusive Resorts? 

All-inclusive resorts live up to their name. They are, in every sense, all-inclusive. You pay one up-front sum before you go. While each all-inclusive resort has its own list of what is included and what is not, typically rolled into the up-front cost are the gratuity, room, food, drink, alcohol, facilities, classes, activities, entertainment, games, competitions, and shows (gofargrowclose.com). Oftentimes flights, transportation to and from the airport, watersports, and more are included as well (protrav.com).  

However, "the truth is in the fine print" (sandals.com). Make sure you read up on the inclusions and exclusions, so there are no surprises upon arrival. Also, read reviews, ask about cancellation policies, and look into travel insurance before booking (smartertravel.com).  

About All-Inclusive Resorts 

All-inclusive resorts are often located in warmer regions of the world, particularly in Mexico and the Caribbean. The all-inclusive model originated in the French Club Med resorts, which the Belgian Gérard Blitz founded in 1950 (en.wikipedia.org).  

Some all-inclusive resorts are designed for specific vacation niches, such as adults only, couples only, family interests, sports interests, and indoor/outdoor activities. For example, resorts geared toward families might have facilities like craft centers, game rooms, water parks, and kids club to keep children of all ages entertained (en.wikipedia.org). Singles who like a little more edge or couples who want a quiet, romantic getaway can find adult only all-inclusive resorts packages. All-inclusive resorts are also extremely popular locations for weddings and honeymoons. 

Benefits of an All-Inclusive Resort 

The amazing thing about staying at an all-inclusive resort is that you usually do not have to pay for anything once you get to the resort unless you want to do an extra activity such as a day at the spa or an excursion off the property (protrav.com). Having your trip completely paid for creates a vacation-high. The burden of financial responsibility has been lifted, and the sense that everything is "free" allows you to relax and enjoy your vacation fully. 

Kevin Hernandez, vice president of sales and digital strategy for Vacation Express, a company that offers numerous vacation packages to a plethora of all-inclusive resort options and Caribbean destinations for all types of travelers, explains: 

Travelers booking beach vacations are looking for relaxation and fun; nothing is more relaxing than knowing you can enjoy yourself to the fullest extent and not have to worry about a bill at the end. We all like to indulge on vacation, so being able to have all food, beverages, entertainment, and a wide variety of activities included in the package price provides great value to our customers. (usatoday.com) 

All-inclusive resorts make it easy to stay on-budget (cvent.com). With everything paid for up-front, there are usually no surprise fees or extra expenses.

In addition, booking is easy. Rather than taking an inordinate amount of time researching each aspect of your trip, you pick the resort that has the amenities, comfort level, and price range that best fits you and your family. Ensure that the resort you pick has activities that you and your family enjoy and will take advantage of since you will be paying for them anyway.  

Once you have picked your resort, you do not need to think about anything else. You are sparred from the headache of trying to decide where to eat, what to do, and how to get to where you want to go.  

If you prefer, you never have to leave the resort. You get 24-hour service. Most all-inclusive resorts have many employees walking around ready to bring you whatever you want (gofargrowclose).  

Food and Drink 

Most all-inclusive resorts serve buffet or family-style meals, which offers plenty of food choices. You have access to all the food, snacks, and beverages that you could want 24-hours a day. Some all-inclusive packages include dining at restaurants as well. You will want to double-check what alcohol labels are included because not all packages include top-shelf alcohol or a large variety of wines.  

Summary 

If you are looking for a stress-free, budget-controlled vacation package (particularly on the gorgeous beaches of Mexico or the Caribbean) that has a variety of activity offerings for you, for you and your significant other, or for you and your family, all-inclusive resorts are the way to go!