Useful Tips When Considering All-Inclusive Holidays
All-inclusive holidays certainly seem to be far more popular nowadays than they were just 20 years ago. In fact, there are tour operators now who sell nothing but all-inclusive packages. If you’ve never been on an all-inclusive package before and are contemplating this board basis for your next holiday in the sun, hopefully the following tips and advice will help you to determine whether or not this is really the best way forward for you.
Convenience v's Cost
There is no denying that all-inclusive packages can be immensely convenient; this is one of the main attractions for many. Being able to use a multitude of facilities and services in a resort (and often in more than one resort) without having to constantly dip your hand in your pocket for your wallet means an altogether more relaxing scenario, even though it appears up front to cost a little extra.
However, if you are one of those people that tends not to eat much when holidaying, does not over indulge on the beverages or wishes to just sit by the pool rather than participating in every available activity - cheesy or not. You may wish to consider the value of an all-inclusive holiday. Once you've paid it's hard to get it back, but conversely don't believe you can always save by paying as you go.
Food & Beverage - Quality & Variety
This is where the all-inclusive package will either prove to be a make or break for you and your travelling companions!
For the higher end and more established all-inclusive resorts (think French as an example), food variety and quality tends not to be a problem offering daily menu changes, good quality ingredients and generally offering a number of venue options within the resort itself. It is unfortunate that not all resorts can provide the same level and variety for their all-inclusive guests.
Additionally don’t under estimate the value and quality of eating out. Whether it’s for a change of scenery, a desire to experience the local culture or just because its generally cheaper, eating in local restaurants and establishments can provide some great value both in experience and costs. Doing all-inclusive also tends to keep you in the resort – part of the intention for the resorts.
So when you are looking to book an all-inclusive package, it is useful to research the resorts on the likes of TripAdvisor and VirtualTourist, paying attention to reviews and comments about food quality and variety as well as doing a little research on what is available in the area around the resort by way of local offerings.
Getting What You Pay For
Many that take all-inclusive holiday will admit that they tend to over indulge on food (and activities) at the start of their break and then they generally tend to calm down and take it a little slower as the holiday progresses or as you get across the quality of inclusions and activities. This usually provides a higher value for money experience in the first few days.
So if available, not all resorts allow it, why not book the all-inclusive package for the first few days of your holiday and then half-board or lower for the rest. Alternatively you can opt for the lower board basis to start with and then upgrade when you get to the hotel after a few days once you have a feel for everything and how you will enjoy your time. Most resorts will happily take the extra payment.
All-inclusive packages can prove to be fantastic and ease much of the stress once there, particularly if you just don't want to not think too hard every time your glass is topped up whilst laying by the pool or on the beach. Yet it is not always for everyone, as with convenience it can also can take away some of the excitement of travelling because of the unknown and the unexpected.
Like most travel plans it is important to do your research as best you can prior to booking.
