The Pros and Cons of All-Inclusive Resorts-Are They For You?

All-inclusive resorts often offer remarkable value and a hassle-free vacation.  There are many very fine all-inclusive resorts in various destinations in Mexico and the Caribbean. However there are things to consider. All inclusive-resorts are not for everyone and are not always the best choice in certain destinations. Here are our top pros and cons of all-inclusive resorts.

Value

• Pro: Generally all meals, alcoholic beverages, entertainment and activities are included. This allows you to be able to budget your vacation in advance so that you do not have a major surprise when you receive your credit card statement after the vacation. There are some exceptions however.  There are usually additional charges for some activities such as scuba diving, jet skiing or horseback riding.  You also pay for any spa appointments or tours/excursions that you book. At some resorts certain premium drinks or drink brands are extra.
• Con: The quality of all-inclusive resorts varies significantly. Many all-inclusive resorts focus on quantity over quality in terms of the food served.  While at the top all-inclusive resorts, the restaurants may be very good or even excellent, those at the less expensive resorts may be just adequate.

Options

• Pro: Many all-inclusive resorts have enough activities and food/bar options on site that most people may see no reason to leave. They offer much for people who want to chill out and read a book by the pool or on the beach as well as for both adults and children (if it is not an adults only resort) who want to remain active. Club Med resorts as an example offer every water sport activity imaginable as well as other attractions for thrill seekers including trapeze classes.
• Con: Unless you choose to leave the resort, you do not have the options that you have when you are in a standard hotel in the middle of a city. After a couple of days at an all-inclusive resort the restaurant and entertainment choices seem too restrictive and repetitive.

Reduced Stress vs. Authenticity

• Pro: Because everything is at the resort with you, there is reduced stress because you don’t need to travel anywhere. Many all-inclusive resorts are in a gated area and may have a private beach. If you are in city or on an island that has some poorer sections, you are likely to be in a safer, more upscale and remote area.
• Con: If you are in a city or on an island worth seeing, you are not really seeing it by staying at your resort. Curacao for example, one of our favorites destinations in the Caribbean has a couple of all inclusive resorts. However, if you stay at one of them and don’t venture out, you will miss all this wonderful island has to offer.

Conclusion

All-inclusive resorts can provide great value particularly those who like to drink and want a vacation without stress. There is a wide disparity in the quality and vibe at various resorts. There are gay weeks at standard all-inclusive resorts for men, those for women and for LGBT families as shown on our website.  It is important to have someone knowledgeable assist you in finding the resort that best suits you preferences.