All Inclusive Hotels           

by Jane Onstott---
for Directory of Hotels.com

Why choose an all-inclusive (AI) resort over one with a European plan (EP, or room only)? Travelers who choose the AI option--- which typically includes food, beverages, activities, and entertainment---cite convenience and value among the top reasons. And let's not forget the unlimited food and drinks.

Compared to hiking the Himalayas, an all-inclusive vacation is almost effortless. It's not that you won't expend energy, rather that equipment and activities are easily accessible. At the beach (where most all-inclusives are located), you can use non-motorized equipment like kayaks, sailboards, and snorkel gear free of charge. Activities like diving, parasailing or fishing usually cost extra but are also easy to arrange. Study Spanish, Argentine tango, Pan-Asian cooking, or trapeze-flying: the sky's the limit when it comes to activities at today's all-inclusive resorts.

Save some energy for nighttime diversion: maybe a dinner show, folkloric dance presentation, or a major league game on a big-screen TV on the beach. Extroverts might join a limbo contest, open-mic night, or an “ice-breaker” designed to introduce you to other guests. Resorts constantly outdo themselves---and each other---in their attempt to create novel amusements.

Singles and couples may go for the sizzle, but all-inclusive vacations appeal to families, too. There are plenty of activities for parents, teens, and smaller fry to do together, but the young ones can have some autonomy, too. Enroll them in activities with children in their age groups; then let them hang out in the video salon or game room with new friends.

Many folks look forward to the free-flowing food and libations. Most AI accommodations offer at least one sit-down, reservation-only dinner per stay; breakfast and lunch may also be a la carte but the majority of resorts offer buffets. The best resorts serve delicious and varied dishes despite catering to hundreds if not thousands of guests per day; others unfortunately focus more on quantity than quality. Ask friends and acquaintances to recommend resorts whose kitchens consistently deliver variety and good food. Or visit chat rooms or web forums for recommendations and caveats.

Choosing a resort where the food meets your standards will save you money on outside dining (and taxis). But the occasional foray away from the resort can provide a peek at local culture as well as cuisine. You might ask the maitre‘d and concierge where they take their own families for a meal. Stress that you want good, simple, traditional food and local color as opposed to a repetition of the resort experience.

The majority of all-inclusive hotels are high-rises. But smaller, family-run, and unique properties may also offer all-inclusive packages or meal plans. Full American plan (FAP), with three meals included, or modified American plan (MAP; usually breakfast and dinner) generally don't include alcoholic beverages. Choose the MAP if you'll be off playing during the day--- windsurfing, mountain biking, hitting the slopes or just relaxing by the pool. A MAP also helps with overeating; you don't want to outgrow your resort wear before the trip's end.

Some all-inclusive hotels allow non-guests to purchase day or evening passes to sample their wares, so why not spend a day or two enjoying all an AI has to offer. Swim up to the bar, take surf lessons, practice your karaoke at night at the onsite disco. Food, beverages, activities and entertainment are usually included.

Club Med started the all-inclusive trend in the mid-1950s, and the industry hasn't looked back since. Prices depend on room amenities and season as well as the quality of food and drink and the number of activities offered. Bon vivants might inquire if liquor is premium quality or national brands only. If you enjoy spending time in your room, check whether a full menu is available through room service. There may be a limited choices and/or an additional charge for in-room service.

Sometimes you can get a better room rate by booking a week or 10 days as opposed to three or four nights. When comparing resorts, ask what services charges apply, if any, and if taxes and tips are included.

To find the most fabulous all inclusive hotels around the globe, search Directory of Hotels.com find the perfect hotel for your destination.