Have you ever taken a vacation at an all-inclusive resort? It’s all about enjoying luxurious surroundings, participating in resort activities, and eating/drinking as much as you’d like. The biggest decision you will make on a daily basis is whether to go to the beach or the pool. However, don’t go to a resort completely unprepared. Here are 10 ways to make the most of your all-inclusive resort vacation.
- Research Deals Online: Before you go, definitely do your research to find the best deals online. It’s always a good idea to bundle your air, hotel, activities, and ground transfers together to save money. Also, it is much easier to do it that way. The last thing you want to do when you arrive at the airport is worry about transferring to the resort, which could be a couple of hours away.
You also want to research the resort’s off season, which will be priced lower. Also, pay very close attention to the weather trends. For instance, hurricane season in the Atlantic happens between April and November, so you would need to decide if you want to run the risk of traveling to several Caribbean islands during those times.
- Research the Resort in Advance: Take a little bit of time and do your due diligence in reading up on the resort. Also, take the time to read the reviews on your hotel. You might find both positive and negative experiences, but more importantly, travelers will share their favorite aspects of the property. You can use these tips to your advantage to help plan your vacation. Also, be sure to go to the webpage of the hotel itself to read up on the various activities and amenities that are offered. You might discover that there’s a particular water sport you’d like to try, for instance. Learn about the restaurants on the resort and whether or not you need to make a reservation for the specialty ones.
- Pack Appropriately: You might be tempted to only pack a couple of bathing suits, tank tops, and shorts. However, you’ll need a few more outfits than that. Remember to pack some nicer clothing to wear in the evening, such as a sundress or a collared shirt. Don’t forget to bring a sweater or shawl for the evenings as it can get a little bit chilly outdoors, even in tropical climates. Having a raincoat or an umbrella on hand is also a good idea, because there’s always the chance it could rain.
- Bring Lots of Sunscreen: This tip may seem like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget. If you run out of sunscreen on the resort, you’ll likely have to pay a premium to replace it. The resorts will often overcharge for toiletries like sunblock. It’s best to bring more than what you think you will need. While you’re at it, don’t forget to bring some bug spray, too!
- Pack a First Aid Kit: Even though you may not participate in risky activities on the resort, it’s always a good idea to bring a first aid kit. Pack Advil or Motrin, Imodium, Pepto, and even Benedryl or Allegra. You never know what you might have an allergic reaction to while you are in an unfamiliar environment. The most common ailment at a resort is a gastrointestinal illness. By bringing Imodium or similar treatments for tummy troubles, you’ll feel better without ruining your tropical vacation.
- Gratuities (Tips) are Not Included: Unlike on cruise ships where gratuities may be automatically added to your bill, tips are at your own discretion at a resort. Plan ahead by bringing small bills to tip everyone who helps you, whether it’s at the bar, restaurant, or for the cleaning staff. Find out which currency is accepted at the resort (it isn’t always US dollars) and bring the local currency. It’s always a good idea to tip everyone who helps you. The staff at resorts don’t make a lot of money, and a tip can make a world of difference to their livelihoods.
- Bring Your Own Cup: One of the biggest all inclusive resort tips that frequent travelers suggest is bringing your own cup. The drinks at resorts normally come in small cups. By bringing your own cup, you’ll reduce your amount of trips to the bar, whether it’s for an alcoholic beverage or ice water. You will want to purchase an insulated cup, such as a Bubba cup, ahead of time. Your drinks will stay colder at the beach for longer, and you won’t waste your time by making several trips to the bar.
- Don’t Overindulge: With the benefits of all-inclusive pricing, you may be tempted to eat and drink everything in sight. However, you will only cause yourself to get sick and this is never a great option. Don’t eat too much. Don’t drink too much. Take everything in moderation and try not to waste food, as well. Enjoy everything because you’re on vacation. But, don’t overdo it!
- Leave the Resort: You are definitely there to enjoy a vacation on the beach, but it’s always a good idea to see more of the place you’re visiting. Leave the resort. See the natural surroundings and/or nearby cities. All-inclusive resorts generally don’t represent the country you’re visiting at all. By leaving the resort, you’ll get to learn something new, interact more with the people living there, and support the local economy.
- Relax! Out of everything on the list this one is probably the most important. Take the time to unwind away from the hustle and bustle of your everyday life. An all-inclusive resort is one of the best opportunities to rest and relax. Curl up with a good book on a lounger by the pool. Soak up the sun on the beach. Float around in the water without a care in the world. You are on vacation and should enjoy every single moment!
I hope these tips will help you as you prepare for your future vacations. KJC Travel specializes in all-inclusive vacations and would be honored to assist you at anytime.
