Food and drinks are sometimes the most dangerous pitfalls when going on vacation, and it's especially important when going on vacation with children. All-inclusive resorts, such as Sandals, include all food and beverages. In addition to grills on the beach and breakfast buffets, most resorts also feature gourmet restaurants with fine dining options featuring cuisine from around the globe. Drinks are also included; additionally, depending on the package of your vacation, your premium selection may be upgraded to top shelf selection.
Activities included at all-inclusive resorts, such as Excellence Playa Mujeres in northern Cancun, sometimes seem endless and often overwhelming to those simply wanting to relax on the beach. Regardless, there are always many options to choose from ranging from Spanish lessons to windsurfing to beach volleyball and nightly entertainment. Because there are so many activities to from which to choose, watch out for those activities that aren't included, such as motorized watersports like parasailing and jet skiing.
All-inclusive resorts also advertise included tax and gratuity for all of their packages; however, most reviewers will tell you to offer additional tips for heightened service even though it is technically already included. In addition, all-inclusive resorts often offer complimentary transfers from the airport to your resort and back. Additionally, if you purchase additional excursions, those transfers are also included. It is important to note that tips are generally not included for these transfers and are therefore expected of you to offer when embarking from each leg of your trip(s).
Services included at all-inclusive resorts may vary from resort to resort; however, room service seems to be the key difference from general hotels to all-inclusive packages. Room service is often offered 24 hours a day for breakfast, lunch, dinner and late night snacks. At resorts such as Excellence Playa Mujeres, drinks are also included in room service. Additionally, depending on your package, drinks and fully loaded mini refrigerators are not only included in your suite but refreshed daily and by request. In addition, concierge services and cleaning services are often included in these inclusive packages.
While the all-inclusive package seems like best possible option for vacation, there are a few pitfalls to consider. As mentioned before, just because gratuity is listed as included does not mean you should consider that good enough. Your experience will be even more enjoyable if you tip your server or bell-hop even a few dollars. Another common complaint is that all-inclusive food is not high in quality; though that often depends on both your resort and whether or not you are taking advantage of the gourmet restaurants instead of the 24 hour room service. Finally, be prepared to pack nice clothes for nightly dining and entertainment activities.
