All Inclusive Resort 101

While I love love love cruising, it’s sometimes nice to keep your feet on solid ground.  And I love and CAN book more than cruises! Lately I’ve seen an increased interest in all inclusive vacations, so I thought that I’d do a quick 101 on them and why you should consider. Let’s go!

They’re everywhere.  Well sorta. There’s only two in the US and there aren’t any in Hawaii. I get these questions a lot! Think Mexico, Caribbean, even the Alps, Brazil, Asia and the Med. My first recommendation will typically be Mexico - Riviera Maya area, Puerto Vallarta, and Cabo or the Caribbean - Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos, etc.

Cost. Pretty much everything will be included in your resort stay - food, drink, etc. Excursions off property or spa treatments will be out of pocket expenses. All inclusives are also nice because there’s something for every budget and travel style. My recommendation for a family will be different than my recommendation for a couple.

Awesome eats and drinks. My first experience with an all inclusive consisted of watered down drinks, buffet lines and burgers and fries by the pool. Not anymore! Some resort chains pride themselves on being a gourmet destination! I’m talking premium cocktails, locally sourced ingredients and a variety of dining venues (Italian, Asian, buffet, World Cuisine).

Activities and entertainment. All day and all night, it’s pretty much included. Non motorized water sports (paddle boards, snorkel gear, kayaks), tennis, fitness classes, scuba clinics, cooking classes and nightly entertainment!  Or you can just chill on the beach or by the pool, no worries.

Kids Clubs. Kid and teen club use is typically included in your stay!  Wahoo - mom and dad can have a leisurely dinner and cocktail while the kids are being supervised. Gone are the days of rooms with board games and coloring books. We’re talking theaters, arcades, and playgrounds - something for all ages!

What do you think? Would you consider switching it up and trying an all inclusive resort? Do you have a fav? Share with me!