As an agent, I try to provide my clients with the best accommodations to fit their budget. My first love are all-inclusive packages. You may say, what are all-inclusive packages? Glad you asked.
All- inclusive packages typically are found in the Caribbean primarily. However, they are expanding world wide.
All-inclusive packages basically includes a resort, round-trip airfare, meals, beverages and drinks, transfers and some resort activities. The great thing about AI( all-inclusive) packages is that you can get the most bang for your buck. You can relax and enjoy yourself because you can eat and drink as much as you like. All have buffets as well as specialty restaurants. Most AI resorts have spas and additional activities which charges may be required.
It's important to note that AI resorts can often cater to certain clientele such as couples, families, singles, seniors, LGBT, etc.
Many AI resorts have VIP upgrades where you have access to butler service and amenities. Many AI resorts also offer promotions for weddings, vow renewals and wedding anniversaries.
Are all AI resorts equivalent? Absolutely NOT! In fact, some have horrible reviews, so it's great if you have a travel agent who specializes in AI packages to refer the best resorts for your budget and destination preferences. It's important to be financially realistic. Do not expect to get an amazing AI deal at a great resort for $600 per person. That's typically not practical and often when you see deals as such, it doesn't included everything which you think AI packages often include. It may not include round-trip transfers from that international airport to the resort or you may have to pay for wi-fi or specialty restaurants. Therefore, you may spend anywhere from $800-$3,000 per person but if you book it atleast 11 months in advance, you have sufficient time to stretch out your payments especially if booked through InfiNate Destinations.
Some destinations are more expensive for AI packages than others. For example, Mexico is typically the least expensive. However, Mexico has some of the most amazing AI resorts. Destinations such as Jamaica and the Dominican Republic also have great prices for AI packages.
Destinations such as Aruba, Turks and Caicos, Barbados, Antiqua, etc. are more expensive and have less AI resorts than Mexico, the DR and Jamaica.
At the end of the day...having a realistic budget for AI packages is important. If you want a relaxing vacation, then perhaps March and April isn't a good time to go as Spring Breakers may be the resorts. You must also take into consideration hurricane and/or rainy seasons for most Caribbean destinations.
I highly encourage my clients to go for the all-inclusive options. I customize packages based on my client's wishes. Excursions and additional activities may always be included into the packages so that once you pay for your package, you don't have to worry about spending additional money!
That's a win to me to not spend excessive money while on vacation after paying for accommodations...and YES...they are worth it!
I look foward to booking an amazing all-inclusive vacation for you!
~Natasha