Unlimited food, bottomless drinks, a perfect stretch of sand and endless entertainment, all-inclusive resorts are a fan-favorite vacation option for a reason. Often set in front of a paradisiacal background — whether it's in Mexico, the Caribbean or somewhere in Europe — it’s no surprise people turn to this beloved style of travel time and time again. From budget-friendly options to over-the-top luxury, all-inclusive properties span the gamut making them a perfect choice for nearly every type of traveler.
Those who haven’t stayed at an all-inclusive resort yet might wonder if the experience is truly worth the hype. And while many vacationers who’ve tried it would say “yes,” we’re outlining some key elements of the experience to help travelers decide for themselves.
How Do You Get To An All-Inclusive Resort?
People love all-inclusive vacations because they allow them to sit back and relax, knowing everything is covered and coordinated in advance. The same can be said for arrival and transportation from the airport as most all-inclusive stays kick off with either a shared or private transfer to the resort through a trusted company like Amstar DMC. Often arranged at the time of booking, vacationers can work with their travel advisor to secure airport transfers in advance or add the service themselves at any time.
While we always recommend working with a travel advisor to discuss and secure transportation details ahead of time, vacationers who want to wing it will find most airports have no shortage of taxis waiting in the wings. Similarly, in some destinations, public transportation like trains and buses are also available.
When travelers arrive at their all-inclusive resort of choice, their driver will unload their luggage and send them on their way. It’s not uncommon for resort staff to be waiting near the entrance where they might take guests’ bags or offer them a complimentary welcome drink or cool towel.
What Are the Rooms Like at An All-Inclusive Resort?
As we mentioned above, all-inclusive resorts cover a wide range as far as experience goes with some falling in value territory and others checking boxes that would classify them as extremely luxurious by most people’s standards. From overwater bungalows and massive suites to family-friendly accommodations and simple, yet comfortable rooms, there is so much variety depending on which hotel brand, destination and price range vacationers choose. At most properties, vacationers can pick between ocean and jungle view rooms, while some hotels boast patios with plunge pools and swim-out suites. Many all-inclusive properties have mini bars in their rooms, and everything inside is included in the baseline price of booking — including fun drinks like soda, juice, coffee and alcohol.
What Do You Do at An All-Inclusive Resort?
For many, the beaches and pools at all-inclusive resorts are the main appeal, and a large majority of guests spend their days soaking up the sunshine from the comfort of a lounger, sipping cocktails and blended drinks at swim-up bars, wading into the ocean surf and strolling the length of sandy shorelines. That being said, water-based activities aren’t typically the only thing all-inclusive properties have to offer. Instead, many have a barrage of onsite activities and amenities for visitors to enjoy including things like fitness classes and sport equipment rentals, relaxing spas, daily entertainment — typically featuring live music and shows — and more.
Guests hoping to book off-property excursions can usually do so onsite as many all-inclusive properties have a dedicated area where vacationers can meet with tour operators and transfer companies to arrange vetted adventures.
What Do You Eat at An All-Inclusive Resort?
One of the biggest perks of staying at an all-inclusive resort is knowing that everything you eat and drink is 100% covered. From meals at buffets and poolside cafes to snagging a cup of coffee for a quick pick-me-up or a boozy drink to get the party started, never having to think twice before stopping in for a bite or beverage is a true treat. Buffets are a big deal at these properties, and most have at least one, if not multiple, where guests can kick off their day with breakfast, fill up on lunch or enjoy a laid-back dinner. In addition to impressive, all-you-can-eat spreads, many resorts have a selection of onsite restaurants dedicated to different styles of cuisine — think Mexican, Japanese, American and Italian flavors.
While not always the case, guests may need to make reservations in advance for specialty restaurants at some properties, and they should look to their travel advisor, resort app or resort staff for guidance.
Do I Need To Tip at An All-Inclusive Resort?
While not required, it’s good etiquette to tip when staying at an all-inclusive resort. There’s no set amount guests “should” tip, but a good rule of thumb is $10 for transfers, a few dollars when eating at a buffet and $5 when dining at a specialty restaurant. Guests are likely to receive excellent service whether they tip or not at hotels owned by major brands but leaving a little cash as an added “thank you” is a great way to make sure the staff remembers you and goes the extra mile to ensure your stay is extra special.
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