What Does An All Inclusive Vacation Really Offer?
Many online travel web sites and travel agents love to tout the term 'all inclusive' – but what does an all inclusive vacation really offer? Supposedly, it is that all your major expenses are covered, and that you do not need to worry about money during your vacation. It is true that you worry a lot less about spending while you are on an all inclusive vacation, and if that is appealing to you, you should consider going all inclusive next time. Still, it is best to know exactly what is covered before you buy.
What Do You Get?
Usually in all inclusive vacation packages, your plane ride, lodging, entertainment and most of your meals are included. The nitty gritty details vary from travel agency, travel booking website or luxury hotel. The most common all inclusive vacation package are for cruises. There, even tips and beverages are included in your price tag. It’s not as if you can do a lot of comparison shopping once the boat casts off.
Often, beach side hotels offer all inclusive vacation packages, where, for your money, you get your hotel, entertainment, travel, car rental, tips, and certain beverages. Entertainment will be laid on for all the guests, should you wish to participate. Otherwise, you can just relax in your room and enjoy the beaches.
Get All The Facts
Don't be shy about asking exactly what you get from your all inclusive vacation – it is better to be prepared than to be caught short and face embarrassment. Some good things to ask about include transport – is there a free shuttle or will you need to pay for cabs to get around? Also, things like meals – are they all included, or just breakfast and dinner? Some places offer snacks for free, others may charge for them. Bring some money for souvenirs, and to cover any emergencies.
You might also see if there are any special deals depending on your traveling situation. There are all inclusive vacation packages tailored for families, single adults or golf players. All inclusive vacations can last from three days to three weeks, so be sure to find out how long the vacation is for and how late you can book without incurring a penalty.
If you are booking well in advance, find out about their cancellations policy. You may be able to get a refund if you need to cancel for any reason, but there may be limits on how close to the date of travel you can cancel and get a full refund.
Above all, be prepared, bring a little cash just in case, then enjoy your luxury, all inclusive vacation.
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Just because it says all inclusive it is not necessarily the case. What people need to think about is what is that they want with the all inclusive and then ask if that is covered. Because your idea of all inclusive and the travel destinations idea might be two very different things. And if you do not plan appropriately you could be stuck without something or with something that is not right for you.
The one thing that worries me about all inclusive is the tips – some places say that a small tip is included, others make a point of reminding you it isn’t, but it seems as if the ettiquette is to tip everyone anyway.
After you’ve tipped the porter, the check-in desk person, the maid, the bar staff, and the waiters, your vacation feels like it has doubled in price.
Or maybe it’s the Brit coming out in me – sure, we tip, but it isn’t as ingrained in our culture as it is in other places.