Are you new to the all-inclusive resort scene in vacation destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean? Or just looking for ideas to keep your next trip fresh? Bundled hotel, food, drink, and entertainment prices can save you money and hassle to free you up so you can enjoy your beach resort vacation.Here’s how to get the most out of your all-inclusive resort stay.
Be a champion tipper
Learn your destination’s tipping policy promptly when you arrive. Sometimes all-inclusive really means all-inclusive, as in no tipping required, or accepted. If that’s the case, sit back and relax, and enjoy the pampering! If tipping is encouraged, then make sure you’re generous to the people who control the goods, i.e., bartender, wait staff, housekeeping, pool attendant; they’ll go out of their way to ensure you enjoy your stay.
Make dining reservations early
Most all-inclusive resorts have several dining options, from buffet to specialty spots. The nicer options fill up quickly, so be sure to lock in your reservations as soon as you can.
Order packaged food and drinks when possible
Occasionally, all-inclusive resorts will offer the cheaper, or watered-down items first, but will provide you with the better options when asked. For instance, you can have a bland, watery vodka soda, or you can ask for a bottle of corona, or a can of coke.
Take a complimentary picnic
Ask your resort restaurants if they will package food to-go for you: most will, some won’t. But if you ask nicely (and tip well) then there’s a great chance the hotel restaurant will pack food for you to take away to an off-resort location where you can enjoy a picnic at no extra charge. Yes, please!
Don’t see it? Ask!
Our biggest tip for getting the most out of your all-inclusive resort? Ask for what you want. Will you always get it? No, not always, but most reputable resorts want their guests to leave happy and spread the word about their great service. So if there’s something you want that you don’t see (extra towels, swimming goggles, a pack’n’play crib, toys, midnight snacks) then ask away, and see what happens!
