Choosing the Right All-Inclusive

(7 Reviews)

Ellie Tieman

Tacoma, WA
Cruise Enthusiast and Leisure Travel Advisor

As a foodie at heart I love finding the best local cuisines and amazing people to share that experience with. I also love cruising to get a taste of unforgettable locations that I will eventually come back to explore in depth. I have been fortunat...

Some resorts offer private dining for honemooners

All inclusive resorts throughout Mexico and the Caribbean have become extremely popular for both honeymoons and destination weddings, but it should be known that they're not all created equal. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, so choosing the right all-inclusive resort for your style can be a complex equation. To get you started, we've broken down the basics for you here. So, take some time to discuss as a couple which of these are must-have feature, and then let me or another travel advisor guide you to your ideal all-inclusive resort. 


CLEANLINESS


In today’s world, cleanliness is a critical factor in choosing your resort. It’s important to feel safe and secure at your destination so that you can relax and enjoy your wedding or honeymoon for all it’s worth.Most resorts have recently upped their game when it comes to on site hygiene, implementing new health and safety protocols that include reduced capacity,touch less check-ins, frequent cleaning of public spaces and much more.


QUALITY


Just like any hotel, the star rating of an all-inclusive resort is a general indicator of the overall quality. Properties can range from moderate to deluxe to luxury. Thankfully, most resorts are typically impressive, since they want you to become a frequent visitor. So even the lower-rated properties are 10 times fancier than anything you’ll find next to an interstate. Just know, the higher rating the resort has, the better the food and drinks will be.


RESORT FORMAT


Most all-inclusive resorts fall into three categories: family-friendly, adults-only and couples-only. Family-friendly resorts cater to everyone, although some offer sections within the property that are restricted to adults. If you definitely do not want kids around on the honeymoon, check out the adults-only or couples-only options. The difference between those two: couples-only is more romantic, while adults-only caters more to partiers.


LATE-NIGHT ENTERTAINMENT


Some resorts really heat up after dark. If you are a social couple looking for after-dinner excitement, focus on a resort that offers theme nights, live music and stage shows. Your nightlife options can range from a quiet lobby bar to sports bars, karaoke lounges and full-scale nightclubs. Then again, some resorts keep the late-night revelry down, allowing you to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere more.


ONSITE EXTRAS


Some couples choose their resort based solely on whether or not it includes a spa and/or golf course.Spa treatments are almost always an additional cost, but the size and style of spa facilities vary significantly. If the idea of a relaxing day of pampering at the spa is on your agenda, it is good to know the options in advance so you can plan accordingly. As for golf, many of the deluxe and luxury all-inclusive resorts include golf green fees as part of the package. Some resorts even have their own on site courses designed by celebrity architects.


ACTIVITIES


Most resorts include dedicated staff who help facilitate and plan a variety of on site activities. Some resorts focus on active options (pool games, sand volleyball,yoga), while others center on educational or cultural activities (cooking classes, dance lessons, mixology).But almost all beachfront resorts offer water sports programs, ranging from non-motorized options like kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding and snorkeling to excursions like scuba diving and water skiing.


DINING


If you are a foodie, this should be your focus. Choices here range from basic buffet to gourmet. Forget about the total number of restaurants offered and focus on the variety and style of food. How many restaurants are buffet versus a la carte (menu), and what style of food is offered? Are reservations required? Is there a dress code? Is room service included? Do you have any special dietary restrictions? The more you know, the more you’ll enjoy night after night of decadent dining.


If you're looking for help to make your honeymoon dreams come true look no further. I am your girl and I'm happy to help. 

My Travel Albums

Sailing through the Mediterranean to Miami
21 Days on the new NCL Viva from Rome to Miami
Sailing through the Mediterranean to Miami Pt2
21 Days on the new NCL Viva from Rome to Miami
Adventures in New Zealand
Bungee Jumping. An experience of a Lifetime
See more travel stories
Return to my Cruise Enthusiast and Leisure Travel Advisor page
©  Travel Leaders Group