Reflecting on a busy winter season and just returning from a family vacation to Ixtapa, this blog hit me!
Many travelers overall just want to get out of the Minnesota winter for a week and enjoy the warm weather, the beach and a few cocktails. For most, an all inclusive vacation is their favorite way to travel. All inclusive means your meals, drinks and maybe even some activities are included in the resort's price to stay there. The "all inclusive" resorts vary quite a bit in what they offer in cocktails, services to even the extras that may or may not be included.
Hotels go by a Star Rating of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best. What does that all mean to the average person? Well, many people think it just means basic to fancy. However, when you stay at an all inclusive, this can mean more than just how plush the resort can be.
Here are a few differences in the typical all inclusive options. This can help you select the right resort for your vacation.
1. Meals - There are a few things to consider; yes, your meals are included. That being said, many all inclusive properties offer a buffet and ala carte dining. Some resorts put restrictions on how many times you can eat ala carte during your stay. Here are some things to consider when picking your next all inclusive. Are you a foodie? Do you enjoy fine dining and new kinds of foods or are you more traditional?
Lastly, each resort handles dining reservations differently. At some resorts, the
dining reservations are taken daily. While other resorts, they are required 2 to 3
days in advance or you do not have to make reservations at all.
dining reservations are taken daily. While other resorts, they are required 2 to 3
days in advance or you do not have to make reservations at all.
Tip: When you think of your meals and dining experience, what are your
expectations?
expectations?
2. Beverages/Alcohol - The brands are very different in Mexico and the Caribbean from the US alcohol brands. If it's only Bacardi you drink, you may find that your resort only offers their local rum.
Tip: When talking with your travel agent, let them know what is important to you concerning your beverages.
3. Services – Room Service is not a standard service at all resorts. Some resorts
offer room service at limited times such as breakfast only, 24 hours or only offers it to certain room categories.
offer room service at limited times such as breakfast only, 24 hours or only offers it to certain room categories.
Another service that comes to mind is pool or beach service: some resorts offer
both, one or none. For some, not having that service isn't a big deal as they know there is always a bar nearby!
both, one or none. For some, not having that service isn't a big deal as they know there is always a bar nearby!
The last service that comes to mind is small but makes a big difference is an in-
room mini bar. Not all hotels offer this service. Again, like many services, each
resort will restock differently (i.e. daily, only certain beverages, etc.).
room mini bar. Not all hotels offer this service. Again, like many services, each
resort will restock differently (i.e. daily, only certain beverages, etc.).
Tip: Think about what are your must have services!
Some upgraded and unlimited amenities will cost more money for your stay and then the next resort will surprise you! During our recent trip to Ixtapa, I knew the resort we were staying at was family friendly and affordable. I figured we would receive average beverages and services but much to my surprise, they were definitely above average.
I write this blog to educate you that not every all inclusive resort is made the same. So the next time you decide to go on vacation, remember, sometimes it is the little things that make a big difference!
From our family to yours we wish you many memorable vacations!
Dylan (11yr) Lauren (8yr) & Devin (13yr)
