How to make the most of an all-inclusive holiday
Convenient and cost-effective, an all-inclusive holiday provides peace of mind making it easy to unwind while you’re away. The resorts are always chock full of fun activities for adults and kids too, so you can be sure of an enjoyable experience as well as a relaxing one. Tempted to try it for your next getaway? Here’s how to make the most of this type of holiday.
Understand what’s included
When comparing all-inclusive holidays online, look carefully at what’s included in each package. This will vary between resort and provider, and understanding the different options will help you get the right holiday for you at the best price.
Sometimes all-inclusive refers to a meal plan above half-board, excluding drinks. At other venues, drinks are included too. Where you can eat depends on the resort: some limit all-inclusive holidaymakers to the buffet while others allow free rein in the restaurants. Certain activities may be complimentary or reduced too.
Consider available upgrades
Whatever main package you go for, you can consider available upgrades later down the line or during your trip to elevate your experience. This might include access to a wider variety of restaurants, adding alcoholic drinks or changing your room option.
Explore the resort activities
Take advantage of activities on offer at the resort to make your experience extra special. Beach resorts usually run a range of sea-based ventures led by a licenced water sports team, while in-land options such as ski resorts might have indoor sports venues like squash courts.
Utilise the kids’ facilities such as special swimming pools, teacher-led clubs and babysitting services if you’re travelling with children. This is guaranteed fun for them and gives you the chance for precious moments of peace where you can switch off – perhaps with a yoga session or a massage in the spa.
Add off-resort excursions
With everything at your fingertips, it might be tempting to stay onsite, but adding off-resort excursions to your itinerary will be rewarding. This enables you to explore more of the local culture and scenery, add diversity to your days and tire out little legs for a better night’s sleep.
Ski resorts in particular have a host of outdoor activities that will enrich your trip such as cross-country skiing, glacier hikes and dog-sledding. Summer holidays offer the chance for cycling trips, heritage city tours and visits to wonderful wildlife reserves.
Leave the itinerary flexible
Avoid the temptation to plan every detail of your holiday. It’s better to leave the itinerary flexible so you can design each day to suit your mood that morning rather than feeling forced to follow a pre-set itinerary. This is especially important when travelling with children whose moods can be unpredictable, particularly when tired after long journeys.
Having said that, consider booking your evening meals in advance if there are particular restaurants you want to try. Being on the all-inclusive package doesn’t guarantee you a table at every venue, and the smaller more sought-after options will fill up quickly.
