I got inspired to write this post because I was helping someone with a trip to Puerto Vallarta and she asked if her airport transfer would be able to take her to Costco to buy alcohol on the way to the resort. There was only two of them traveling together so I wondered why they would want more alcohol than what is included, so I asked her.
She told me that she didn’t realize it was included. That made me wonder how many other people don’t know. Plus, people often tell me they would like to go to an all inclusive resort anywhere in the USA. But, true all inclusive resorts do not exist in the states with the exception of Club Med Sandpiper Bay in Florida.
The Caribbean and Mexico are destinations where true all-inclusive resorts can be found. This means your resort vacations generally include unlimited meals, beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), taxes and tips, on-site activities, and entertainment, which vary by resort; most always include non-motorized water sports but an additional charge may be required for motorized sports. Not all resorts are the same but this is a good rule of thumb of what you can expect.
The advantage of this type of travel is that there are no surprises at the end of your stay. You know what you are paying for and you can travel with minimal cash. This makes it easy to budget! Because it is a one-stop shop, the cost is often cheaper than if you were paying as you go. Plus, it is convenient. Families with children love this type of travel! I once had someone tell me that he only wanted an all inclusive resort because when his kids are hungry, there is not time to be going to town and looking for a place to eat. At the resort, everything is convenient and the kids can eat anytime they want. Happy fed kids makes for a happy vacation!
The type of resort you choose is important. There are large resorts, so large you need a golf cart or shuttle to get around. Boutique style are easier to get around but will it have everything you need or want? There are resorts that are quite and romantic and there are party resorts. No matter what style you want, it can be found. When clients reach out to me I have a list of questions I ask about what they are looking for in a resort. I didn’t use to do this but I have learned a lot as all inclusive resort travel has been huge in 2021.
We also stayed at a beautiful resort in Puerto Vallarta earlier this year. I loved how modern and chic it was, but it was not the resort for me. Why? Because it had more of a party vibe with loud music at the pool. Not my scene at all. I would much rather stay at a quieter resort. Why did I stay there? Because it is one I book often and wanted to experience it so I can better help you. Fortunately, we only stayed there one night and at a completely different style resort the other night, which was more my scene. That is why it is important to ask these questions when choosing a resort.
Here are a few examples of resorts that other travel agents love for family travel:
Nickelodean Resort: There is a lot of fun to be had here, and they have connecting rooms.
Barcelo: The kids waterpark (photo above) it is sure to make a splash! Plus you can pay for admission to the Pirates Park.
Xcaret: Fun for the whole family! This resort is lovely and you have 8 parks to choose from! I’ve been to a few of the parks and it was one of my favorite Mexican vacations.
These resorts are in Mexico but there are also plenty of others on the Caribbean islands, although some islands are known for NOT having any, or very few, all inclusive resorts. There is a lot to consider when choosing a resort and I look forward to helping you!
