W
hen it comes to all-
inclusive resorts, we
assume they’re all
alike. Beverages flow freely
from bottles and taps, the
buffet is never less than five
feet away, and you can snorkel,
kayak or snooze on your beach
towel all day. However, no two
are the same.
Choosing the right all-
inclusive resort for your style
can be a complex equation. Do
you want one that has beach
access and a top-notch spa?
Do you want a large resort
with multiple restaurants or a
smaller place with just one or
two? To help you decide which
all-inclusive is right for you
and your budget, we’ve broken
down the basics.
QUALITY
Some resorts really heat up
after dark, so if you’re a social
couple looking to meet new
friends, focus on a resort
that hosts theme nights,
live music, stage shows and
dancing. Many resorts also
offer different types of bars for
mingling, ranging from sports
bars to full-scale nightclubs. 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 your honeymoon,
check out the adults-only or
couples-only options, like
Secrets or Le Blanc Resorts. 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.
Most resorts include a
variety of on-site activities. Pool or beach . . . or both! All-You-Can-Drink
Some resorts focus on active options
(pool games, sand volleyball, yoga),
while others focus on educational or
cultural activities (cooking classes,
dance lessons, mixology). Almost all
beachfront resorts offer watersports.
If you prefer to lay in the sand with the
sounds of the ocean waves crashing
beside you, but your fiancé(e) prefers
a long infinity pool with breathtaking
views, choose a resort with both.
Make sure you decide what matters
and what doesn’t to ensure you pick
the right place in the right location.
Every all-inclusive resort includes
an endless supply of beverages. At
moderate properties, your selection
will be limited, while you can have
your fill of top-shelf liquors, local
brews and a generous wine list at
luxury-focused properties.
STYLE ACTIVITIES