All-inclusive resorts are a popular choice for many travelers, as they offer unlimited food, drinks and entertainment to keep you busy all day and night. However, there are a few things to consider before booking an all-inclusive holiday.
For starters, you need to think about what your vacation values are and choose a hotel that matches those. Are you looking for a beach-front paradise; golf-courses and hiking trails; serene spas; or celebrity-chef inspired culinary delights?
Swim-up Bars
A great way to end your day at an all-inclusive resort is by taking a sip of your favorite cocktail from a swim-up bar. These bars are usually situated around pools, making it easy to grab a drink as you lounge by the water.
The Kee Resort & Spa in Patong, Thailand, is home to an illuminated bright blue pool that serves up refreshing drinks. It also has a white-curtain swim-up bar that sits in the center of the pool, with in-water barstools and underwater tunes.
At Riu Palace Paradise Island, guests can relax by the infinity pool with its spectacular view of Cabbage Beach and then head to the Soca Pool Bar for a Bahama Mama cocktail (made with coconut rum, orange juice and grenadine).
Excellence Playa Mujeres is one of the most sophisticated all-inclusive resorts in Cancun. Its adults-only beachfront casitas and swim-up suites connect to a lazy river that runs through the grounds.
Swim-up Rooms
A swim-up room at an all-inclusive resort is a great way to relax during your stay. They typically open out onto a patio that leads to a long river or lagoon pool, which means you can go for a swim from your room without having to leave your suite.
These suites are often located in buildings that overlook the ocean, and they have direct access to the pool from their terraces. Many also have private garden views or balconies with soaking tubs, which add a special touch to your stay.
For the best all-inclusive experience, book a club-level ocean view king suite with a swim-up pool. These rooms have extra perks such as a dedicated concierge, upgraded minibars and access to an exclusive pool and club lounge.
To make an informed decision, it’s best to understand both the advantages and potential drawbacks of swim-up rooms, as they can significantly influence your overall vacation experience.
Beaches
Many all-inclusive resorts include a lot of amenities in their rates, including water sports, spa access, excursions, and more. So, it’s important to educate yourself about what’s included in your rate and make sure you utilize these offerings.
If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation without too much of the hassle of planning, an all-inclusive resort is for you. Often, these sprawling properties are located in popular destinations like the Caribbean and Mexico, where labor costs are lower than elsewhere.
These beachfront accommodations offer a wealth of amenities and services, including lavishly decorated suites that have private plunge pools and four-poster canopy beds. The all-inclusive rate also includes world-class food and drinks.
Restaurants
If you’re looking for top-quality restaurants and drinks that won’t break the bank, an all-inclusive resort is the way to go. Most include three meals and anytime snacks in your package, along with the option to nab drinks at any time without worrying about a hefty bar tab.
However, it’s important to make sure you know what you’re getting into with an all-inclusive vacation. Some offer unlimited drinks, but others might limit the number of beverages or require you to pay for premium brand liquors.
Most all-inclusive resorts also offer daily and nightly entertainment, including live shows and special events. You can also find a wide variety of activities to fill your days, such as cooking classes, dance classes or yoga lessons.
