All-inclusive resorts don't charge guests an additional resort fee. While all-inclusive rates may seem higher than those at other non-inclusive resorts in the area, guests know the full cost up front. Whatever you do, don't ignore the small print when booking an all-inclusive vacation. Read it word by word and read it again.
You might be surprised to find that the all-inclusive package doesn't include taxes or tips, which can amount to thousands of dollars. On the contrary, you might find that airport transfers are included when you thought you had to book your own transportation. Either way, it's important that you know what you're accepting, what you're paying, and what your rate doesn't cover. You'll also want to check the refund or cancellation policies, in case your trip is interrupted or postponed.
At the same time, most all-inclusive resorts also include some premium options available at an additional cost, so it's best to determine what's included early on in your stay so you can enjoy the resort to the fullest. It may be tempting to avoid spending money outside of what you paid for the resort, but not budgeting or planning for food, activities and experiences outside of the all-inclusive package will make the trip not as satisfying, enriching, or exciting. As they are also mandatory, even if you don't use the services included in the resort fee, you'll have to pay for them and they're not included in the advertised price per night or week, so resort rates may seem like a surprise attack. Seeing some rates on the bill of an all-inclusive resort can be horrible, since you thought you were getting an incredible deal and now you realize that you are shelling out more than you imagined.
All-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico are often located on extensive grounds, offering ample space for guests to move around and experience everything they want: lounging by the pool, nightly entertainment, and relaxing massages without leaving the property doors. In addition, all-inclusive resorts often offer only a small glimpse into the local culture, although some offer tours and experiences to explore the destination. When people complain about hidden charges and unexpected charges on a supposedly all-inclusive vacation, they almost always talk about resort rates. The obvious downsides of booking an all-inclusive hotel are that there can be hidden fees and an impersonal atmosphere at the resort (something that is an advantage for some), and you might miss out on trying the local cuisine if you don't eat all the local meals.
You might assume that when you book an all-inclusive, everything related to your trip is included, from plane fare and ground transfers to tips, tips, activities, services and more. We asked travel and all-inclusive experts what, when, where and why of all-inclusive so you can learn everything you need to know about all-inclusive resorts before booking your next getaway. For travelers who don't want to worry about staff tips, consider staying at one of Couples and Sandals' many all-inclusive resorts. The 12 exclusive private cabins and suites of this exclusive all-inclusive property unfold along lush garden paths and spectacular cliffs carved by the sea with steep stairs that go down to the water and form incredible grottoes.
For example, room service may be free, rounds of golf may be included, and some all-inclusive resorts even include excursions. All-inclusive resorts tend to include a lot of activities and services that you would normally pay more for at a regular resort. Sure, you'll find some all-inclusive hotels in the United States, including in Hawaii, Phuket, and Bali, but most are in Mexico and the Caribbean. Of course, you can choose not to tip and you shouldn't feel obligated to tip if the all-inclusive includes tips or if tipping isn't part of the local culture.
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