Are all-inclusive resorts right for you?

Published 12:00 am Sunday, September 1, 2019

I recently returned from a five-day stay at the Riu Palace Pacifico, a resort in Nuevo Vallarta, Mexico. It was relaxing and a nice break from a more typically jampacked vacation schedule.

Because it is an all-inclusive resort, almost all the arrangements were made in advance, which left plenty of time for relaxation while my family was on the property.

The service was exceptional and the room was well-appointed and included a separate sitting area and a fully stocked minibar. On the stunning grounds were a private beach and enormous swimming pool with the requisite swim-up bar.

Entertainment was offered poolside during the day and every night in the lounge (think cruise-ship style). There were four a la carte restaurants to choose from.

All-inclusive resorts are rising in popularity. As beleaguered travelers grow weary of being nickel-and-dimed to death with checked-baggage fees, hidden resort costs and sky-high WiFi upgrades, it’s no wonder that many vacationers are embracing the all-inclusive model.

But is this type of travel right for you and your family? There are things to consider — both good and bad — before you book an all-inclusive vacation package.

VALUE

Pro: Generally all meals, drinks (including alcoholic beverages), entertainment and activities are included in the price. Tipping is also included at many resorts. This one-cost-covers-all approach may save you money.

Con: The quality of all-inclusive resorts vary significantly. You will not know for sure, in terms of quality, what you have paid for until you get there. Do research online, read reviews and seek recommendations from other travelers who have stayed at the resort before booking the trip. 

FOOD

Pro: You won’t go hungry! You’ll likely find snack bars and ice cream shops by the pool. Most resorts offer enormous buffet-style breakfasts, lunches and dinners, with live cooking stations. Typically several a la carte restaurants are available at a resort for table-service dining. Some on-site restaurants require reservations. 

It’s always mealtime somewhere on the property, making it easy for families who sometimes want to eat at nontraditional mealtimes.

Con: If you’re a foodie, you may not be satisfied with the quality of the food available. The food likely will be good, but not always great, and eating at the resort for several days can become tedious for some people. Check the reviews concerning dining carefully — you don’t want to be stuck with subpar food for an entire vacation.

AMENITIES

Pro: All-inclusive resorts often include everything from access to private beaches to supervised child care. That means you are not constantly doling out money for each service separately. 

Con: Don’t assume all-inclusive covers everything. Spa treatments, golf outings and motorized water sports may not be part of the package.

Also, resorts often are enormous in size and often crowded. Some resorts are narrowing their niche and offering adults-only stays, while some are more kid-centric. Read information on services offered in the package carefully before booking a stay.

Check for room availability in off-seasons. There are times when the weather is still fantastic but fewer people are likely to be staying at the resort.

CONVENIENCE

Pro: With a couple of keystrokes at the computer, you can plan and book your entire vacation, including airport transfers. Once there, an on-staff concierge can help secure tours and offer loads of local information. Everything you need is literally at your fingertips. Many people use the resort as the sole destination of their trip.

Con: All-inclusive resorts tend to be located away, sometimes far away, from city centers and popular attractions, making staying at one a bit more challenging for those who want to experience the culture of the destination.

BOTTOM LINE

As with any travel, there are always pros and cons. Your decision will ultimately rest on what type of experience you desire.

Tami Brooks is a freelance writer based in East Texas.