How to Choose the Right All-Inclusive: More Than Just a Package

All-inclusive resorts promise hassle-free vacations, with all the logistics taken care of. However, people often underestimate the importance of expert guidance when selecting their stay. There are many details to consider to ensure that the experience perfectly matches your tastes, needs, and budget. There are even possibilities you might not even know existed…

Whether you're travelling with your family, as a couple, in a group or solo, choosing the right hotel is crucial, even with an all-inclusive package! Here are our top tips for finding the resort that's 100% right for you.

1. Families with babies or young children

Comfort first! Travelling with a baby or toddler is a challenge, but many resorts are becoming increasingly accommodating. Here are some things to check with your Travel Professional before booking:

Location:

Find out how far your hotel is from the airport; sometimes hotel areas are more than an hour away by bus (airport transfer) and sometimes even more than two hours. Families often prefer hotels that are as close as possible to the airport, especially after a five-hour flight with young children and tired parents who are hungry.

Services and accessories for babies:

Bottle warmers, microwaves, and kettles available in rooms or common areas.
Mini refrigerator for storing milk, baby food, or snacks available in the room or on order.
Milk delivered to your room upon request (to be confirmed when booking).
Homemade baby food prepared by chefs (at buffets or specialty restaurants), without salt or additives, upon request.
Highchairs and children's tableware.
Cribs, strollers, booster seats, and baby bathtubs available on request (advance booking often required, subject to availability).

Adapted facilities:

Paddling pools and shallow swimming pools, often with natural shade. Are waterslides a must for your family?
Mini club with baby room, accessible to toddlers accompanied by a parent.
Shaded areas near the beach or pool for impromptu naps.

A little respite for parents:

Room with a private pool or pool access; handy for a quick dip while baby sleeps (don't forget the life jacket for when they’re awake!).
Kids Clubs: if you have children of different ages, check if there are different groups according to age, and therefore if siblings can be together during the activity. Also, keep in mind that parents are not always allowed to attend.
Private babysitting service ($) available at some hotels.
Quiet areas and spas for a few moments of relaxation during nap time.

2. Couples: romantic atmosphere and relaxation guaranteed

For couples, vacations are often synonymous with rest, time together, and memorable experiences. Here are the most sought-after criteria:

Adults-only hotels (18+): Many chains have properties or sections dedicated to adults only to avoid the noise of children and maintain a calm atmosphere conducive to romance. These can be found throughout popular all-inclusive destinations (Mexico, the Caribbean, etc.).
Romantic suites: look for a whirlpool/jacuzzi (in the room or on the balcony), a spacious private balcony with a privileged view (sea, lagoon, gardens), and a Balinese bed or outdoor shower for a touch of exoticism. A dedicated butler/concierge service is a plus for luxury suites.
À la carte restaurants with no reservations and/or unlimited dining: choose a hotel with a wide selection of restaurants serving quality food, which minimizes the stress of having to make reservations every day at a specific time. An unlimited, no-reservation-required option is ideal for enjoying a romantic dinner for two at your leisure.
Wellness services: couples' massages, spa treatments, and hydrotherapy circuits with steam baths, saunas, and cold pools (often an extra charge), yoga and meditation on the beach, and more.
Romance, birthday, or honeymoon packages: all-inclusive packages often include a bottle of sparkling wine, floral decorations, and breakfast in bed. Expect spa credits and professional photo shoots. A private dinner on the beach is an iconic experience, often available at an additional cost ($).
LGBTQ+ inclusive environment: This is a growing concern for many couples, and some resorts are taking a very clear stance on this issue. Ask your Travel Professional about resorts known for their warm welcome and inclusive atmosphere for everyone.

3. Groups of friends: activities, fiesta and flexibility

Travelling in a group is the perfect opportunity to share good times, have fun and explore without constraints. When choosing the ideal all-inclusive hotel, here's what to look for:

Hotels with a festive atmosphere: opt for hotels known for their energy. Look for establishments offering evening shows, DJs, beach or pool parties, as well as lively bars and theme nights. The goal is to make sure the party never stops!

Varied activities: To keep everyone happy, the hotel should offer a wide range of options. Think about water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkelling), group classes (dance, yoga, aqua aerobics), and group excursions organized to explore the destination.
Connecting rooms or spacious villas: perfect for keeping the gang together!
Group packages (often for 10 people or more): ask your Travel Professional about group packages, which may include attractive discounts, travel credits, or even a free room.
Snack bars and restaurants open late to satisfy late-night cravings.

4. Solo travel: safety, independence, and discovery

Travelling alone is also an opportunity to refocus, explore at your own pace, or meet new people. Feel free to ask your Travel Professional any questions you may have, especially if this is your first time travelling alone! To consider:

Solo options at no extra cost: Ask your Travel Professional about hotel chains or destinations (often Cuba) that don't charge single occupancy fees or offer a discount instead of charging the full double occupancy rate.
Health and wellness resorts: With health bars and a calendar of wellness-focused activities such as yoga and meditation, Pilates, dance, cycling, and more.
With a social atmosphere: This is key to avoiding isolation if you want to avoid it. Activities such as dance classes, cooking classes, games, or group excursions are excellent icebreakers. They allow you to meet other travellers with similar interests in a relaxed setting, without feeling alone among couples.
Safe and well-lit spaces: a must for peace of mind when travelling.
Reliable Wi-Fi: vital for connectivity! Whether it's to keep in touch with family, share travel photos, or even do a little remote work in an idyllic setting, high-performance, accessible Wi-Fi has become an essential convenience for the modern solo traveller.
Quiet pool and beach areas: ideal for relaxing in complete freedom.

A little overwhelmed by all the details to check or requests to make? That's perfectly normal. For us, it’s an expertise (that, and more)! Our Travel Professionals are here to guide you to the best all-inclusive option and take care of EVERYTHING from start to finish to ensure that all your needs are met.

What's more, booking with one of our Travel Professionals could give you access to certain added benefits, such as free early check-in or late check-out, specialty dinners, a bottle of sparkling wine in your room, and more, depending on our partners' offers!

Find out more, book what you love, and enjoy...

Contact your Travel Professional

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